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BEACHES

The Gold Coast a favourite family destination with protected waterways and rock pools for safe swimming, white sandy beaches for long walks and a huge choice of attractions - catch a wave, learn how to surf or just build a sandcastle at the many beaches running along the Gold Coast. Some of the more popular beaches are Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads, Currumbin and Coolangatta. With nine times more waterways and canals than Venice - be prepared to enjoy some on-water fun with sunset cruises, sailing, jetski rides or fishing.

Just remember - if you plan to enjoy a swim, please swim between the flags.

HINTERLAND

Head inland for a contrasting experience. Visit hinterland areas such as Tambourine Mountain or get the sense of rural lifestyle at places such as Beaudesert. The Gold Coast has some of the most diverse flora and fauna areas in Australia with World Heritage Listed rainforests near the New South Wales border. Walk amongst ancient Antarctic Beech trees, wonder at spectacular Springbrook waterfalls or head to Tamborine or Lamington National Parks. You can view delicate glow worms or see pretty marsupials pademelons.

THEME PARKS

For those thirsting for more fun in the sun, why not check out the famous theme parks while you are in Queensland? Great discounts apply if booking tickets online.

Movieworld - www.movieworld.com.au
Visit Warner Bros. Movie World on Australia's Gold Coast - where movie magic happens every day! As the only Australian movie related theme park, you will experience a fun-filled, Gold Coast theme park family adventure with all the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. Meet your favourite stars and enjoy all the behind-the-scenes action, comedy stunts and exhilarating rides, shows and attractions!

Wet'n'Wild - www.wetnwild.com.au
Wet'n'Wild Water World is Australia's largest water theme park. Enjoy all the fun and excitement of the world's latest slides, pools and attractions. Experience a day of 'splashtacular' fun for the whole family.

Seaworld - www.seaworld.com.au
Experience the awesome Polar Bear Shores, the strength displayed in Shark Bay, the grace in Dolphin Cove and the Quest for the Golden Seal. Then marvel at reef sharks, stingrays and giant gropers at Reef Discovery, and laugh as they meet their favourite toon characters at Cartoon Network Cartoon Beach. Make contact with marine life wonders and experience a whole world of amazing rides, shows and attractions!

Dreamworld - www.dreamworld.com.au
Home of Big Brother, the amazing Tiger Island and Cyclone, the tallest high speed coaster in the Southern Hemisphere! 13 Storey's high! Dreamworld is a venue not to be missed.

Paradise Country - www.paradisecountry.com.au
Paradise Country is set on 40 acres of picturesque countryside and is the most tranquil setting you'll find for any activity. Watch the Australian farm come to life when you experience Farm Tour or Nature Walks. Or for some real bush excitement, why not join the Drover's Campfire Experience which features a campfire dinner and lots of other entertainment under the stars.

Australia Zoo - www.australiazoo.com.au
Australia Zoo, home of the world famous Crocodile Hunter, Steve Urwin, is approximately 2 hours north of the Gold Coast. Australia Zoo is also home to over 750 animals on over 50 acres. Daily demonstrations take on a whole new dimension when the keepers interact with the wildlife, from giant Snakes to hungry Crocodiles. Whether you would like to see the Otters catching their own fish, or meet them up close and personal, plan on spending the entire day to experience all the full-on action and adventure!

SHOPPING

The Gold Coast houses some of Australia's largest shopping precincts. One of the largest, Pacific Fair, is a short distance from the conference venue. Or you could visit Harbourtown, The Oasis, Surfers Paradise, Marina Mirage and Runaway Bay Shopping Centre on the coast or head to the hinterland to craft stores and art galleries.

DINING OUT

Choose from more than 500 restaurants: fresh seafood, authentic ethnic cuisine or Queensland style. You're sure to find a culinary answer to all your needs. Broadbeach offers diners beautiful options for meals or you could travel a short distance to any of the other dining precincts along the coast including Main Beach, The Spit, Chevron Island, Surfers Paradise, Burleigh Heads and Coolangatta.

TEMPERATURE

Australia's climate is one the driest on earth, which ensures temperate conditions all year round. The Gold Coast experiences a minimum average temperature of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum average temperature of 21°C (70°F) in July.

GOLF

Queensland is blessed with a sub tropical climate, which means that golf can be played all year round. Some of the best courses in the country are here. Check out these websites for details.

For more information on events and exciting things to do during your stay on the Gold Coast, check out www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au