Golden Beaches to Country Music

Morning: Start your day exploring leafy South Bank, where you can stroll by the river, relax at a café, or dip your feet in Australia’s only street beach. Don’t miss a ride on the Giant Observation Wheel for sweeping city views.

Afternoon:  Head to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary to cuddle a koala and meet Australia’s native wildlife. Or, take the family to the Australia Zoo, home to the famous Irwin family, for a fun and educational afternoon.

Evening: Return to South Bank to unwind with dinner by the river or enjoy a leisurely evening walk as the city lights reflect on the water.

Campsite recommendation: Brisbane North Holiday Stays. 1432 Gympie Rd, Aspley QLD 4034. Powered Site.

Image: Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Morning: Start your day with a refreshing swim at one of the Gold Coast’s pristine patrolled beaches, soaking up the sunshine and coastal views.

Afternoon: Explore Pacific Fair, the region’s premier shopping complex, or enjoy the fun and excitement of nearby theme parks like Movie World, Sea World, Dreamworld, or Wet ‘n’ Wild.

Evening: Unwind at Broadbeach or Surfers Paradise, and finish the day with dinner and entertainment at Jupiter’s Casino or a relaxing seaside stroll.

Campsite recommendation: NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Resort, Gold Coast, 117 Brisbane Rd, Biggera Waters QLD 4216. Powered Site.

Morning: Start your day soaking up the natural beauty of Byron Bay. Take a surf lesson or relax on one of its white sandy beaches under the warm coastal sun.

Afternoon: Get a bird’s-eye view of the region with Byron Bay Ballooning, or unwind at one of the town’s renowned wellness centres for a rejuvenating treatment.

Evening: Explore the iconic Byron Bay Lighthouse at sunset, then snorkel in the crystal-clear waters where you might spot sea turtles gliding by.

Campsite recommendation: Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay, Unit 5/37 Broken Head Rd, Byron Bay NSW 2481. Powered Site.

Images: Byron Bay Lighthouse

Morning: Start with a harbour stroll, then visit The Forest Sky Pier at Sealy Lookout for stunning mountain and coastline views.

Afternoon: Grab a photo at the Big Banana, then see dolphins at Dolphin Marine Magic or browse the Bellingen Markets for local food and music.

Evening: Unwind by the harbour, enjoying dinner and sunset views over the water before heading back to your campsite for the evening to rest.

Campsite recommendation: BIG4 Park Beach Holiday Park, 1 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450. Powered Site.

Morning: Start your day in Tamworth, Australia’s country music capital, with a visit to the Big Golden Guitar Tourist Centre.

Afternoon: Explore the Walk a Country Mile Museum to discover Tamworth’s musical heritage, then enjoy a picnic at the Tamworth Regional Botanic Gardens.

Evening: Relax in town and take in Tamworth’s country charm, with local dining or live music to end your day.

Campsite recommendation: Tamworth Holiday Park, 612/628 Goonoo Goonoo Rd, Tamworth NSW 2340. Powered Site.

Image: The Big Golden Guitar Tourist Centre

Morning: Start your day walking around the scenic port area, watching giant freight ships enter the harbour and enjoying the coastal views.

Afternoon: Visit Darby Street’s galleries and shops, or catch a performance at the Art Deco Civic Centre. Don’t miss a tour of Fort Scratchley Historic Site to learn about Newcastle’s rich history.

Evening: Dine at one of Newcastle’s cosmopolitan restaurants, soaking up the city’s vibrant nightlife and harbour atmosphere.

Campsite recommendation: NRMA Stockton Beach Holiday Park, 3 Pitt St, Stockton NSW 2295. Powered Site.

Morning: Begin your day with a cruise on Sydney Harbour, gliding past the Harbour Bridge and Opera House to take in Sydney’s most iconic sights.

Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at Manly or Bondi Beach, soaking up the surf culture, then enjoy a meal at The Rocks or a whale-watching cruise from the harbour. Make sure to return your campervan to the branch before 3.30!

Image: Sydney Harbour Bridge