Australian Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards terms and conditions

Editor Editor
hero media
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 Australian Traveller Media. By opting in, I consent to receiving marketing communications from each of the prize suppliers and handled by the prize suppliers in accordance with their respective privacy policies.

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 | JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa | Pair’d Margaret River | Kingfisher Bay Resort | Prancing Horse | Star RV | Lancemore | The Fullerton Hotel Sydney | Glenayr Farm | Taronga Zoo

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.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

AI Prompt

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.

Weekly travel news, experiences
insider tips, offers, and more.

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
Editor

Editor

View profile and articles
Jetstar Aircraft departing Adelaide
Australia

Jetstar to cover the cost of your return flight across 80 routes – for the next 48 hours only

Fares start at $64, and with cost-of-living still biting, the timing couldn't be better.

Read more
Sake restaurant
Australia

Where to take your mum out on Mother’s Day in 2026

Show gratitude to the best woman in your life with a heartfelt meal.

Read more
Qantas planes sitting together at airport
Australia

Which Qantas flights have been cut? Inside the airline’s extended schedule changes

Qantas has extended its domestic flight cuts for another three months and doubled down on Europe as Middle East conflict sends jet fuel costs soaring. 

Read more
GourMay Festival
Australia

What’s on around Australia in May 2026

Make May your best month yet with these epic events around the country.

Read more
hero media

The tastiest new players on Newcastle’s dining scene you need to try

    Carla Grossetti Carla Grossetti
    Continue
    Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

    When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

    aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw
    Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

    Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

    1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

    pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle
    Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

    Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB, the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

    Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

    Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe.

    2. Destination dining

    Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw
    Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

    Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca, which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

    One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie, the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

    Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

    3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

    people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths
    Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

    What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

    Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach. Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen, which is open from 6am.

    Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse.

    You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach, where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

    Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

    4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

    couple eating at Flotilla newcastle
    Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

    In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

    Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

    Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

    5. Newcastle nightlife

    Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw
    Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

    As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

    If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne, Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s.

    Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.