Australian Traveller Readers' Choice Awards terms and conditions

Terms and conditions of entry for the Australian Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards.

In addition to the general terms and conditions of entry for Australian Traveller Media competitions and giveaways, these are the terms and conditions for each of the prizes in the Australian Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards.

By entering, I agree to have my personal information shared with all the major prize suppliers and handled by the major prize suppliers in accordance with their respective privacy policies. By opting in, I consent to receiving marketing communications from each major prize supplier.

Please note: you will not be able to choose which prize you win. The winners will be announced in issue 108 (on sale from 3 November 2025).

You only need to enter the giveaway once.

Skip to the terms and conditions for each below.

Intrepid Travel

Australian Traveller x Intrepid – Best of Tasmania’s Tarkine & Cradle

Mountain (PZKT) Terms & Conditions

The winner will win two (2) spaces on the 6-day Best of Tasmania’s Tarkine & Cradle
Mountain (PZKT) tour.
This prize must be redeemed against a new booking by 31 October 2026 and is available
for travel departing before 14 December 2026.
The winner must contact Intrepid Travel (sales@intrepidtravel.com 1300 255 485)
directly to book the prize, quoting the promo code received at the time of winning.
A minimum of four (4) customers must be confirmed on the Intrepid Travel trip for the
prize winner booking to be confirmed on their requested date.
The following blackout periods apply to travel: 14 Dec 2025 – 15 Jan 2026 & 14 Dec 2026
- 31 Dec 2027.
This prize is provided on a twin-shared basis and is subject to availability and
confirmation by Intrepid Travel at the time of booking.
Any request to change to a different Intrepid Travel trip is at the discretion of Intrepid
Travel and is not guaranteed.
If the chosen departure does not operate for any reason or the trip is discontinued
Intrepid Travel will offer an equivalent Vietnam trip of same value to the prize winner.
This prize applies to the land element of trip only and cannot be redeemed against
flights, accommodation, meals, domestic transfers, travel insurance, single supplement
payment, activities, spending money or local payments/kittys not covered by the
The prize, or any unused portion of the prize, is not exchangeable or transferable,
cannot be extended, and cannot be taken as cash if the prize is not fulfilled.
Once booked, any changes made to the prize winner booking may incur a cancellation
fee or amendment fee, at the cost of the winner.
The total prize is valued at up to $6,430AUD. Prize value is based on high season
2025/2026 trip departures. The prize value may fluctuate based on trip availability.
Except as set out expressly above, Intrepid Travel’s Booking Conditions apply.

JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa

Vouchers are only redeemable at JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa.
Bookings are subject to availability. Blackout dates apply.
The total voucher amount must be redeemed in one transaction only
Vouchers are digital and paperless. A physical voucher is not available unless you print it yourself.
Vouchers sales are final, non refundable, non transferable and non replaceable if lost, stolen or destroyed. Any unused parts of this voucher cannot be transferred or redeemed for cash. It will be forfeited.
Vouchers are to be used only for personal gifting and cannot be used for promotional or commercial awards and/or purposes. JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa reserves the right to cancel or refund any unauthorized use of vouchers.
Vouchers cannot be redeemed online through Marriott.com or any 3rd party website.

Pair’d Margaret River

The prize includes a 3-night stay for two adults at Smiths Beach Resort in the Margaret River Region from 21–24 November 2025, a selection of festival event tickets, return flights to Busselton from major Australian airports, and official Pair’d festival merchandise.
Entrants must be 18 years or older.
Flights will be arranged from most major Australian airports. If regional flight paths are unavailable or difficult to coordinate, travel arrangements will be discussed with the winner.
The prize is valid only for the specified dates: 21–24 November 2025.
Blackout period: 22 December 2025 to 15 January 2026.
The prize is non-transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash.
All bookings are subject to availability.
Accommodation policies apply and must be adhered to by the prize winner and their guest. Please include blackout dates, transfer policy, etc
The winner agrees to all third-party terms and conditions, including those of the accommodation provider, airline, and festival organisers.
If the winner is unable to attend or redeem the prize on the specified dates, the prize will be forfeited and no alternative offered.
The winner must comply with all Pair’d Margaret River Region event terms and any local regulations in place at the time of travel and attendance.

Kingfisher Bay Resort

This voucher is valid until 14th December 2026.
This voucher is subject to availability at the time of booking and cannot be taken during Australian school holiday periods, public holidays, or long weekends.
Hotel accommodation and additional voucher inclusion upgrades are available at own expense unless stated above and subject to availability at time of booking.
This voucher is not valid with any other offer, is not transferable or redeemable for cash and must be taken intact. If lost or misplaced, vouchers will not be replaced.
Inclusion(s) not utilised, is non-refundable. Monetary value of the inclusions cannot be used for any upgrades or in replacement of services not included in the voucher.
The recipient of this voucher cannot on-sell or auction the prize for any monetary benefit. Kingfisher Bay Resort reserves the right to revoke the validity of the voucher, if such an incident occurs.
Any alterations to travel plans may incur a rebooking fee.
Kingfisher Bay Resort may, without notice to the holder of this voucher, substitute any services or the mode of carriage to carry the passenger.
Kingfisher Bay Resort may, without notice to the holder of this voucher, cancel any services without penalty, if services offered in this voucher are no longer offered as a product at time of redemption or they are cancelled due to circumstances outside of their control for example, but not limited to inclement weather.
Food, beverages, and incidental expenses will be at the expense of the holder of this voucher unless otherwise stated, please be aware not all restaurants are open year-round.
Please keep your voucher for presentation to reception staff on check-in.

Prancing Horse

Valid for 12 months, from 01/01/2026.
Bookings are subject to availability. The prize is non-transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash.
The winner of this competition agrees to adhere to all third-party terms and conditions when claiming and using the prize package.
Eligible drivers must be at least 30 years of age and possess a complete and valid driver licence. Comprehensive vehicle insurance and cover for third party property damage is included on the provision that a maximum ‘at-fault’ insurance excess of $20,000 applies to each driver individually. A security deposit or bond is not required. Conditions Apply*

Star RV

Travel Dates: 04 July 2025 – 04 July 2026 (subject to availability).
Vehicle Type:
Length of Hire: 7-day rental (inclusive of pick-up and drop-off days).
Prize Valuation: Based on peak season pricing (1–7 Feb 2026), for travel from Star RV Christchurch. Rates are accurate as of 4 July 2025.
Blackout Dates:
- New Zealand:
  - 01 Jan – 26 Jan 2025
  - 12 Apr – 27 Apr 2025
  - 28 Jun – 13 Jul 2025
  - 20 Sep – 05 Oct 2025
  - 20 Dec 2025 – 26 Jan 2026
- Australia:
  - 01 Jan – 02 Feb 2025
  - 05 Apr – 27 Apr 2025
  - 28 Jun – 20 Jul 2025
  - 20 Sep – 12 Oct 2025
  - 13 Dec 2025 – 01 Feb 2026
- Booking Conditions:
  - Subject to availability.
  - Minimum hire periods and one-way fees may apply.
  - Valid for pick-up and drop-off from any Star RV branch in Australia or New Zealand. Cross-country hires are not permitted.
  - Flights not included.
- Inclusions:
  - Basic Risk Taker excess reduction cover
  - Unlimited kilometres
  - 24-hour roadside assistance
  - Camping chairs and table
- Redemption:
  - Voucher must be presented at time of booking and provided at vehicle pick-up.
  - Bookings must be made via our Reservations Team.
- General Conditions:
  - Non-transferable and not redeemable for cash.
  - Cannot be split across multiple hires.
  - No refund will be issued for unused portions.
  - Not valid in conjunction with any other Star RV promotion, offer, or discount.
  - Standard Star RV terms and conditions apply.

Lancemore

Block out dates apply. Not available injunction with any other offer.

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Room reservations are subject to availability.
The Gift voucher is valid for 6-months from the date of issue
Gift voucher may not be exchanged for cash or other hotel services.
Not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions or on the eve of and on Public Holidays or any festive promotional days and blackout dates.
No resales are allowed. Voucher is only valid for one-time use.
Please refer to the gift voucher when making your advance booking and present the voucher at the reception or restaurant upon your arrival.
Validity is as specified and shall not be extended.
The hotel reserves the right to substitute a suitable replacement should the offer be unavailable. · The hotel will not be responsible for the loss of this gift voucher.
For inquiries, please email fsy.reservations@fullertonhotels.com. Minimum 3-working-day notice is required.

Glenayr Farm

Available mid-week and not during school holidays. Valid one year from date of Auction
Please note that the $500 cleaning fee is not included and is the responsibility of the winner

Wildlife Retreat at Taronga

Valid until 31 October 2026
Bookings are subject to availability
The prize is non-transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash
Blackout periods apply 20Dec25-27Jan26; 14Feb26, 03Apr26-07Apr26, 26Apr26,
Prize inclusions are strictly as described. Any additional costs, such as food and beverage, mini-bar usage, or supplementary zoo expenses, will be the sole responsibility of the winner.
The winner of this competition agrees to adhere to all third-party terms and conditions when claiming and using the prize package

There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.

The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.

If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.

Where to stay

The Westin Melbourne

Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.

Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.

Where to eat and drink

1. Allegro

Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.

The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.

2. Lobby Lounge

the westin melbourne lobby lounge — Step into the Lobby Lounge.

Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge .

The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.

For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea . You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.

3. Other places to dine

diners at supernormal melbourne — There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet , the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.

Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.

Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.

While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.

Things to do

1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces

a bridge across yarra river — Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.

A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.

2. Browse the boutique galleries

two women looking at an exhibition in the national gallery of victoria — See the collections of NGV. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Independent art galleries are practically synonymous with Melbourne, and many of them are conveniently situated in the city centre. You can easily hop between Flinders Lane Gallery , Arc One Gallery , Outre Gallery , Caves Gallery , Gallery Funaki and D’Lan Contemporary , allowing you to experience the city’s vibrant art scene in a single day.

If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria . The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.

3. Catch some live music

live music at the cherry bar in melbourne — Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.

Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement , Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar , or larger ones, such as The Toff , Forum and Palais Theatre , for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.

4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG

three punters in big hats at the melbourne cricket ground — Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)

The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.

Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.

5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre

the inside steps of melbourne's regent theatre — Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.

Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.

Whatever draws you to Melbourne, The Westin Melbourne is at the centre of it all. Start preparing for an adventure at marriott.com.

Australian Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards terms and conditions