100 Greatest Holidays of Australia: The Panel

We gathered 20 of the most in-the-know, well-travelled people in the country to bring you the ‘100 Greatest Holidays of Australia‘.

Jen Pinkerton

Specialties: NT, indigenous culture, wilderness, eco-travel
Darwin-based journalist Jen Pinkerton has worked in the features department for Prevention, was a reporter for The Canberra Times and won an Australian Food Media Award in 2010. A regular contributor for Australian Traveller, Jen lectures in writing at Charles Darwin University and runs workshops at the Northern Territory Writers’ Centre. Any travel that involves the Top End and indigenous culture has her heart.

Max Anderson

Specialties: Luxury, gourmet travel, SA
Max Anderson is the editor of Adelaide Hills Magazine and writes for publications including Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and The Guardian. He is the former editor of Ansett’s in-flight magazine, Panorama, and deputy editor of the travel section of The Sunday Times. He has won a number of awards including AITO British Travel Journalist of the Year and two North American Travel Journalist Awards.

Sue Gough Henly

Specialties: Gourmet travel, indigenous culture, luxury, adventure
Award-winning travel writer and photographer for more than 25 years, Victorian Sue Gough Henly has written for The New York Times, Travel & Leisure, The Guardian and many major Australian publications, including Australian Traveller and International Traveller. She is the author of Australia’s Best Places travel app, and has been a book editor in New York and Seattle.

Georgia Rickard

Specialties: The outback, long weekends, city stays, adventure
Author, producer and Australian Traveller editor was a lifestyle journalist prior to joining the team two years ago. Before living and breathing Australian travel, she contributed to Cosmopolitan UK, GQ, Sunday magazine, Sydney Morning Herald, and the Sunday Telegraph. Her work has been syndicated globally and she is a radio regular. You can see her speaking about Australian travel on SKY News.

Inger Vandyke

Specialties: Islands, marine, wildlife, beaches
Photojournalist and eco tourism pioneer Inger Vandyke has contributed her images and stories to over 20 publications including Australian Geographic and National Geographic. Growing up on the Great Barrier Reef, her passion lies in island and marine conservation. She has led photography and natural history trips in Australia and has been involved in the establishment of Christmas and Cocos (Keeling) Islands as destinations.

Andrew Bain

Specialties: Cycling, hiking, Tassie
An expert on all things adventure and outdoors, Hobart-based travel writer Andrew Bain is the author of Lonely Planet guidebooks Walking in Australia and Cycling Australia and was awarded the Australian Society of Travel Writers’ Best Australian Story in 2010 and 2013. He has cycled from Cairns to Cape York, hiked the Larapinta Trail, the Overland Track, and traversed the Cape to Cape Track many times.

Catriona Rowntree

Specialties: Where do we begin?
With more than 18 years as a travel reporter for Channel Nine’s Getaway, Catriona Rowntree is an authority on all things travel. Previous to that, she worked as a researcher for BRW, in various newspapers, on radio and other TV programs such as Wonder World!. Now based in rural Victoria, she has penned two books including Catriona’s Australia: 100 of My Favourite Aussie Locations, and blogs on her website.

Tom Neal Tacker

Specialties: Gourmet travel, eco travel, Victoria
Tom Neal Tacker serves on the Advisory Board of the Australian Festival of Travel Writing and is a frequent guest speaker for Australia’s Travel Writing Festival and Melbourne’s International Writer’s Festival. He has edited and contributed to several books including Gourmet Touring Around Australia and Red Dust & Wanderlust and is editor of online magazine nakedhungrytraveller.com.au, which is all about ‘honestly naked’ travel writing.

Louise Goldsbury

Specialties: Cruising, luxury, hotels
Named Best Travel Writer at the 2013 National Travel Industry Awards, Sydney-based Louise Goldsbury has been a journalist for 20 years. Louise is the editor of Travel Daily Cruise Update, a regular contributor to Sydney’s Sun Herald as well as Australian Traveller and International Traveller. This cruise aficionado takes around 10 cruises a year and writes about it on her website cruiseylife.com.

Peter ‘Spida’ Everitt

Specialties: Camping, beaches, adventure
Host of travel television program The Great Australian Doorstep, Peter ‘Spida’ Everitt is probably best known for his 16 years on the footy field, but his new gig sees him travelling the country by 4WD, caravan, tent and motorhome. He is based on the Gold Coast, hosting the morning breakfast show on Gold FM, is the face of Coleman Australia’s Bigfoot camping range and launched fishing e-magazine XXXX Anglers in 2013.

Christine Salins

Specialties: Gourmet travel, ACT
Editor of the Food and Wine section in The Canberra Times for eight years, Christine Salins is a highly respected restaurant reviewer and judge, regular wine columnist and travel writer and has been a journalist for over 30 years. She runs her website foodwinetravel.com.au, where she shares her food and travel stories and recipes. During her participation in this panel, she also relocated to Queensland – busy!

Suzanne Medway AM

Specialties: Eco tourism, wilderness
President of the Wildlife Preservation Society, Suzanne Medway has been given the remarkable honour of Member of the Order of Australia in 2013. She is also editor of the society’s quarterly magazine, and three books Conserving Australia’s Wildlife, Conservation Victories and Battles Yet to Win and 100 Years of Saving Australia’s Wildlife, as well as having previously worked for the Observer in London.

Keith Austin

Specialties: Gourmet travel, weekends, luxury
Sydney-based Keith Austin has been a journalist for more than 35 years working as the travel editor, features writer, chief sub, reviewer and columnist for Sydney Morning Herald. He was editor of four editions of Good Food’s Pub Food Guide for NSW, has worked for many other publications including The Sunday Times, Readers’ Digest, Good Weekend and The Guardian, and written two young adult books and edited two cookbooks.

Fiona Harper

Specialties: Adventure, boating, luxury, Queensland
Fiona Harper is a freelance travel writer and photographer whose articles have been published in many magazines, newspapers and websites globally, including Foxtel Travel Channel, CNN Travel and REX’s in-flight magazine. This Cairns-based girl is widely travelled – she’s travelled Queensland by mountain bike, motor bike, foot, air, road and sea, and also has her own blog, travelboatinglifestyle.com.

Craig Tansley

Specialties: Adventure, luxury, remote travel
For the past 17 years, Melbourne-based travel journalist Craig Tansley has written for many prestigious titles including Sydney Morning Herald, Financial Review and the Sunday Times in London, not to mention been a regular contributor to Australian Traveller and International Traveller . Spending about six months on the road every year, this travel buff’s speciality is high-end adventure and remote travel.

Fleur Bainger

Specialties: WA, wilderness (especially the Kimberley), gourmet travel
Feature and food writer for the Sunday Times Magazine, Fleur Bainger has also worked on travel podcasts for Lonely Planet and has written for Outback Magazine, OUTthere Magazine, The Australian’s Travel and Indulgence, Cruise Passenger, Qantas’ Travel Insider and Australian Traveller. She has been a presenter and reporter on numerous radio programs on the ABC and a news journalist at Nova.

Lee Atkinson

Specialties: Road trips, wilderness, NSW, the outback
Lee Atkinson has been writing about travel for 23 years as former editor of magazine The Open Road, author of several books such as Australia’s Best National Parks, On the Road: 40 great driving holidays in Australia and Frommers guidebook Sydney Free & Dirt Cheap. She is a life member and past president of the Australian Society of Travel Writers and contributes to many publications including The Sun Herald.

Brent Wallace

Specialties: Luxe travel, hotels, resorts
If you ever need some advice on how to travel in style, Brent Wallace is the man to talk to. He is the director of multiple Australian travel companies including travel agency Fairlights and the co-founder and General Manager of Riche Hotels & Resorts, a luxury travel tour operator collaborating with the most spectacular and stylish hotels and resorts across the world. He also writes his own travel blog, wheresbrentbeen.com.

Daniel Scott

Specialties: Road trips, family travel, spas
Award-winning travel writer Daniel Scott won the accolade of Australian Travel Writer of the Year 2011 and was listed as a finalist in 2013 for the Kennedy Journalism Awards for Outstanding Travel Writing. He is currently a regular contributor to Wall Street Journal, Fairfax Media, Telegraph Media Group, CEO Magazine and Australian Traveller. He is also the creator and tutor of a travel journalism course at the British College of Journalism and Morris Media.

Kerry Heaney

Specialties: Gourmet travel, Qld, camping
Kerry Heaney is president of the Australian Travel Writer’s Association and writes regularly for Escape Travel, Jetstar Magazine, Where Magazine, Get Up & Go, Selector Food Wine Travel and Tiger Tales. She edited Go Camping Australia magazine for more than 10 years and is ranked number seven in the Top 100 Australian Food Social Media Influencers. Her blog chronicles her food and travel experiences: eatdrinkandbekerry.blogspot.com.au.

MORE: See the full ‘100 Greatest Holidays of Australia‘ list

In recent years, Ballarat has emerged as one of Victoria’s most dynamic and daring cities. And, this spring, two unexpected creative showcases will take over the town.

No matter the season, it’s always a good time to visit Ballarat – but spring might be the most ideal. The weather is warmer, the skies are clearer, the flowers across its botanical landscapes are in bloom. And events in Ballarat transform the city into a playground of creativity.

This year, Ballarat will welcome both new and returning artistic events, best paired with a jaunt through the city’s eclectic array of things to eat, drink and explore. Here’s how to spend a spring weekend in this cool cultural hub.

The events

Two of the most exciting events hitting Ballarat this spring are the 2025 Ballarat International Foto Biennale and the inaugural edition of Sunnyside, a captivating and immersive art extravaganza.

Ballarat International Foto Biennale

Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply curious, the Ballarat International Foto Biennale is a must. The event permeates the entire city, with works by over 360 local and international photographers adorning over 100 buildings, businesses, streets and public spaces.

This year marks the 11th chapter and will centre on ‘Lifeforce’ – a theme that’s all about humanity and connection. Among the many talents on show, the headline artist is Campbell Addy, a British-Ghanaian creative who explores roots and identity. Be sure to visit before it ends in 2025 on 19 October.

Sunnyside

Sunnyside is making its debut this year, introducing a brand-new celebration of colour, creativity and community to Ballarat. The 17-day celebration, from 6 to 23 November, will feature immersive installations and experiences, talks, a vibrant opening night gala, and workshops covering everything from crochet to neon block printing.

Internationally acclaimed London-based artist Morag Myerscough will lead the celebration and convert Ballarat’s historic Mining Exchange – a gold rush era trading hall – and the city’s streets into a multi-sensory art spectacle.

While you’re there

Don’t miss out on everything else Ballarat has to offer. Here’s where to eat, drink, see and stay in the city.

Where to eat

Vibrant Latin American dishes at Pancho, adding flavour to Events in Ballarat. — Savour bold Latin American dishes at Pancho. (Image: Einwick)

For daytime dining, you’re spoiled for choice. Johnny Alloo does contemporary cafe fare in a warm and inviting space, while Hydrant Food Hall is a popular pick for breakfast and lunch classics. Eclectic Tastes makes seasonal dishes that incorporate plenty of local produce, giving you a great opportunity to taste the region’s flavours.

At night, head to Roy Hammond for delicious cocktails and contemporary Asian-inspired eats or Pancho for vibrant (and very good) Latin American food in fun surrounds. At Hop Temple, you’ll find an incredible selection of craft beers (more than 200, to be exact) and punchy pub fare, or you can head slightly out of town for tasty bistro classics at the historic and character-filled Buninyong Hotel .

In the mood for something fancy? Visit one of Ballarat’s many hatted restaurants, like Babae (produce-driven fine dining inspired by regional Victoria), Mr Jones (modern Asian by a chef with a Michelin pedigree) and Underbar (an ultra-exclusive spot doing ultra-refined tasting menus).

Where to drink

Food and wine tastings at Blue Pyrenees Estate, a refined experience beyond Events in Ballarat. — Relax over wine at Blue Pyrenees Estate. (Image: Visit Victoria)

No matter your poison, you’ll find a venue to suit in Ballarat. Aunty Jacks is a local institution, serving a generous line-up of beers made in the on-site brewery. Renard is perfect for a pre-dinner drink or nightcap, with a menu that spans creative signature cocktails, locally produced wines and Australian spirits.

Try some of Ballarat’s finest creations at one of its many boutique distilleries, including Grainery Lane and Itinerant Spirits. The former specialises in gin and vodka, while the latter offers gin, vodka and craft whiskey. Buy a bottle from either as a memento of your trip.

You can also venture a little further afield to one of the area’s renowned wineries and cellar doors. There are 25 scattered around the Pyrenees (Ballarat’s very own surrounding wine region), including Dalwhinnie, Summerfield and Blue Pyrenees Estate. Eastern Peake – a family-owned winery led by Young Gun of Wine 2025, Owen Latta – is also a must-visit.

What to see

A koala eating eucalyptus leaves at Ballarat Wildlife Park. — Meet a koala at Ballarat Wildlife Park. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If you’ve got time to spare after the thrill of the spring festivities, there’s lots to see and do. More art can be found in the city’s streets and laneways, with local street artists transforming the walls with impressive murals and installations.

Ballarat is equally renowned for its heritage architecture, much of which flourished during the gold rush. Notable buildings include Ballarat Town Hall, Her Majesty’s Theatre and Craig’s Royal Hotel, all located centrally and within walking distance of one another.

Travelling with kids? Head to Sovereign Hill for a living-history adventure or Ballarat Wildlife Park to meet koalas, reptiles and free-roaming kangaroos.

Where to stay

An elegant suite at Hotel Vera, offering boutique comfort. — Enjoy all-out luxury at Hotel Vera. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If you’re venturing to the city by train and want to stay somewhere central, Quest Ballarat Station is an excellent pick. The modern serviced apartments are situated just 250m from the station and a short stroll from downtown Ballarat, making coming, going and exploring the city incredibly easy. There’s also an on-site gym, barbecue area and accessible rooms available.

For a touch of French luxe in regional Victoria, The Provincial Hotel is a standout choice, with gorgeously appointed rooms and suites in a restored heritage-listed building. The hotel is also conveniently located on Lydiard Street, which is lined with grand historic architecture.

If you’re after something truly luxe, book a few nights at Hotel Vera. The exclusive collection of only seven suites presents all-out opulence: think lush linens, designer furniture, works by notable artists and gilded touches. It also happens to house fine-dining favourite Babae, making it an optimal stay if you’re keen to try the restaurant.

Getting there

aerial of hop lane in ballarat — Turn your Ballarat visit into a memorable weekend. (Image: Einwick)

One of the best things about Ballarat is its proximity to Melbourne. It’s only 90 minutes away by car – an easy journey down the Western Freeway – or can be easily reached by rail. The train from Southern Cross to Ballarat Station takes less than 90 minutes and drops you right in the centre of town.

Start planning your stay at visitballarat.com.au.