What's On In Your State This April - Australian Traveller

Here’s where to get your groove on this month.

April is always a welcome time of the year for me – the last of summer’s heat has been sucked up by autumn’s arrival and I can finally retrieve the knitted cardigans and fluffy slippers from the back of my wardrobe. I truly love it when the days start getting a little shorter, the air a little crisper, the coffee a little warmer. But the ability to get out of bed in the morning? That starts getting a LOT harder.

If you can relate, don’t stress. After consulting Australia’s annual events calendar, I’ve collated an incredible line-up of events across the country that will have you jumping out of bed like Grandpa Joe in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Shall we?

Taylah’s top picks of the month:

Best foodie event: TrailGraze, north-west Tasmania (11–13 April)
Best music event: SALT Festival on the Eyre Peninsula, SA (8–27 April)
Best cultural event: Boorloo Heritage Festival in Perth, WA (1–30 April)
Best outdoor event: Bathe in Cinema on the Mornington Peninsula, Vic (3–24 April)
Best arts event: Archibald Regional Tour in Alice Springs, NT (from 24 April)

Upcoming events to keep on your radar:

Tasting Australia in South Australia (2–11 May)
Blues on Broadbeach on the Gold Coast, Qld (15–18 May)
Melbourne Design Week in Melbourne, Vic (15–25 May)
Vivid Sydney in Sydney, NSW (23 May – 14 June)
Dark Mofo in Hobart, Tas (5–21 June)

NSW | Vic | Qld | Tas | WA | SA | NT | ACT

What’s on in NSW in April

ORANGE FOOD WEEK
ORANGE
UNTIL 6 APRIL

Orange Food Week in Orange, NSW — Delight in the seasonal flavours of regional Orange.

Orange Food Week is packed with as much flavour as the regional NSW town can manage in 10 days, with nearly 50 events showcasing the region’s best seasonal produce and cool-climate wines. The theme for 2025 is Elevate Your Plate, brought to life with languid long lunches, hands-on masterclasses, guided tours and exclusive wine tastings. The program’s purpose is to highlight the importance of sustainable farming, all while spotlighting locally sourced produce, too.

NOCTURNAL
BLUE MOUNTAINS
3 APRIL – 11 MAY

Scenic World, Blue Mountains, NSW — Ride the Scenic Railway as the sun sets across the mountains. (Image: Scenic World)

As daylight fades quicker and temperatures begin to drop, Scenic World extends its hours for Nocturnal . On select days across two months, the Scenic Railway, Cableway and Skyway stay open after dark, allowing guests to experience the Blue Mountains like never before. Down on the forest floor, the Scenic Walkway also comes alive with holograms, light installations and ambient soundscapes that will enchant the whole family. Tickets are available to book now, starting at $54.90 for adults and $40.90 for children.

MAYBE COCKTAIL FESTIVAL
SYDNEY
7–13 APRIL

Maybe Cocktail Festival in Sydney, NSW — Sip your way around the world at Sydney’s Maybe Cocktail Festival.

For one week this month, the Maybe Cocktail Festival is bringing some of the world’s finest mixologists to Australian shores. With 20 international bars – seven of which appeared on The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024 list – taking up residency across the city, Sydney’s bar scene is set to explode. London’s Connaught Bar will call Dean & Nancy’s on 22 home, while Seoul’s Zest will be at Prefecture 48 and Cochinchina out of Buenos Aires at Maybe Sammy, plus so much more. We’ll cheers to that!

NEWCASTLE FOOD MONTH
NEWCASTLE
1–30 APRIL

Back for its fifth rendition, Newcastle Food Month will blow your tastebuds out of the water by bringing forth the creative talent of Newcastle’s burgeoning culinary scene. The month-long event boasts a plentiful program inclusive of all foodies, from tastings with local winemakers and dinners at hatted restaurants to expert-guided masterclasses and high teas with all the trimmings. With 70 feature events and 80 participating venues, hungry bellies are sure to be satiated.

ROYAL EASTER SHOW
SYDNEY
11–22 APRIL

Sydney Royal Easter Show in Sydney — The Royal Easter Show is the perfect family day out. (Image: Destination NSW)

Held annually at Sydney Olympic Park, the Royal Easter Show is a highlight on the calendars of Sydneysiders. Beginning in 1823, it’s a true celebration of Australian culture, from rural traditions to modern-day fun. With a specific focus on agricultural programs, competitions, education and youth, The Easter Show is the perfect family day out. Step right up for hands-on animal experiences, entertainment, food stalls, rides, showbags and more.

HANDA OPERA FESTIVAL
MILLTHORPE
18–20 APRIL

The inaugural Handa Opera at Millthorpe is bringing the titular world-class music genre to the Central West this Easter long weekend. The three-day festival will feature a mix of open rehearsals, concerts and recitals, as well as in conversations with some of opera’s finest singers and musicians. Fill in the gaps with a visit to nearby Orange – with plenty of fun things to see and do, it’s the perfect place to pass the time between events.

GRIFFITH EASTER PARTY
GRIFFITH
17–20 APRIL

Griffith Easter Party in Griffith, NSW — Cheers to the long weekend at the Griffith Easter Party.

Another regional community celebrating Easter this month is Griffith, which paints the streets pastel for its annual Easter Party . Across four days, locals and visitors alike are invited to enjoy everything from local markets and live music to family-friendly picnics and Easter egg hunts. It also aligns with the end of the region’s grape vintage, so be sure to pop by the surrounding cellar doors to get a taste.

What’s on in Victoria in April

MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL
MELBOURNE
UNTIL 20 APRIL

Melbourne International Comedy Festival in Victoria — Join the laughs at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

The lights of the Victorian capital shine a little bit brighter when the Melbourne International Comedy Festival takes over the city each year. Regarded as one of Melbourne’s most-loved events, everyone gets a good dose of laughter as comedians hit stages across the CBD and further afield. Celebrate the joyful, the inspiring and the silly with a line-up of acts that veer from the visceral to the satirical, including Joel Creasey, Elaine Crombie, Tommy Little, Luke McGregor, Urzila Carlson and more.

MACEDON RANGES AUTUMN FESTIVAL
MACEDON
1–30 APRIL

Macedon in Victoria — Watch the trees change colour in Macedon.

There’s more to autumn in Macedon than its famous oak-lined Honour Ave and heritage gardens of Mt Macedon, and it can be found at the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival . Explore the cosy program as changing colours wash the landscape marmalade, from farmers’ markets that celebrate the season’s bounty to guided walking tours through the town’s historic streets. With so much to see and do, it’s got to be up there with some of the best autumn festivals around Australia.

BALLARAT MARATHON
BALLARAT
26–27 APRIL

Ballarat Marathon in Victoria — Run through the historic CBD of Ballarat.

Break your PB at the Ballarat Marathon this April as it returns to the historic town for a second year running. This two-day event is designed to celebrate Ballarat’s rich sporting and cultural history, as well as encourage the community to come together and #RunTheRat. There are plenty of races to choose from, ranging in length and difficulty. From five kilometres through the CBD to a full marathon that soaks up the sights of the region, there’s something for all abilities!

MAKERS & SHAKERS MARKET
MELBOURNE
5–6 APRIL

Makers & Shakers Market in Melbourne, Vic — Meet over 175 independent makers and shakers leading market stalls.

The biggest Makers & Shakers Market to date arrives in Melbourne this month, with a record-breaking 175 independent crafters and designers setting up shop in Carlton’s Royal Exhibition Building. Browse stalls touting 100 per cent Australian-made products, including everything from fashion and food to homewares and artwork. There will also be creative workshops to participate in, vinyl DJ-sets to listen to and a live mural painting to watch.

UNEARTHED FESTIVAL
THE PYRENEES
5 APRIL

Pyrenees Unearthed Festival in Victoria — Sample a variety of wines from across the Pyrenees.

Discover one of Victoria’s hidden wine regions at the Pyrenees Unearthed Festival , where talent winemakers come together to showcase their award-winning tipples along the scenic Avoca River Flat. Guests can also indulge in top-notch regional produce across more than 35 market stalls, as well as live music and even a wine auction. Whether you’re a fan of rich sparkling, bold reds or crisp whites – all oenophiles are catered for.

GABS FESTIVAL
MELBOURNE
4–5 APRIL

GABS Festival in Melbourne, Vic — Sample beers from over 100 local and international breweries.

The Great Australian Beer SpecTAPular (GABS) is a hophead’s dream – a two-day festival showcasing the best beers from across the country. Over 100 breweries and distilleries are bringing 120 exclusive brews to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, from peanut butter stouts to sour gummy bear IPAs. There will also be live music, circus acts, gourmet food trucks, competitions, masterclasses and more to keep you entertained between sips.

BATHE IN CINEMA
MORNINGTON PENINSULA
3–24 APRIL

Bathe In Cinema at Peninsula Hot Springs, Vic — Catch one of Wes Anderson’s classic films this month.

Welcome the cooler weather the right way at one of Australia’s best natural spa baths. Peninsula Hot Springs is hosting its Bathe In Cinema , where guests can relax in its geothermal waters while catching a feature flick. This year’s program centres around eccentric American filmmaker Wes Anderson, with movies like The Grand Budapest Hotel, Fantastic Mr. Fox, Isle of the Dogs and Moonrise Kingdom all screening over the month of April.

What’s on in Queensland in April

WEDGWOOD EXHIBITION
TOWNSVILLE
FROM 6 APRIL

Perc Tucker Regional Gallery in Townsville, Qld — See Wedgwood at the Perc Tucker Regional Gallery. (Image: Townsville City Council)

In an Australian first, a carefully curated collection of Wedgwood ceramics will feature at Perc Tucker Regional Gallery in Townsville, North Queensland’s capital of culture. On loan from London’s Victoria & Albert Museum, Wedgwood: Artists and Industry is an exclusive exhibition featuring over 100 objects. It details more than 200 years of history and creativity behind the fine china, porcelain and luxury accessories manufacturer from the UK.

TOUR DE BRISBANE
BRISBANE
13 APRIL

Biking in Brisbane, QLD — See the best of Brissy by bike. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

To close out the Brisbane Cycling Festival, the Tour de Brisbane is your last opportunity to grab a helmet and hit the pedals. For one day only, over 110 kilometres of roadways are closed across the city, with all levels of ability welcome to join. There are a variety of different courses to participate in, from competitive courses for keen cyclists to relaxed Sunday rides for teams. With so many K’s to cover, this epic ride is one of the coolest ways to experience Brisbane.

OUTBACK RIVER LIGHTS FESTIVAL
CUNNAMULLA
11–13 APRIL

Outback River Lights Festival in Cunnamulla, Queensland — Don’t miss the amazing annual lantern parade.

Yes – you can even welcome autumn’s arrival in Outback Queensland – the Outback River Lights Festival just puts its own spin on it. This annual three-day event in Cunnamulla celebrates the spirit of community and local outback life with everything from workshops and competitions to live performances and cultural experiences. Whether you dine under the stars at a long-table dinner, join a bush tucker cooking class, take a fire-twirling workshop or simply admire fireworks over the Warrego River – you’re in for an autumnal treat.

ROCKYNATS 05
ROCKHAMPTON
4–6 APRIL

The aptly named Rockynats car festival is returning to Rockhampton this year, and it’s shaping up to be the best yet. Known as Queensland’s largest car and bike festival, it’s the perfect place for rev heads to get together and burn some rubber. This year’s red-hot program offers plenty of high-octane thrills, from burnout comps and street drags to big truck displays and live music shows.

COOLY CLASSIC
GOLD COAST
12–13 APRIL

Cooly Classic on the Gold Coast, Qld — Dive into the Cooly Classic on the Gold Coast.

Dive into the Cooly Classic this April, where aquanauts from across Australia take to the waves at some of the Gold Coast’s best beaches to compete. Everyone is welcome to choose from four different distances that cater to all abilities – one, two, three and five kilometres. It’s a great opportunity for one last swim before autumn well and truly arrives, with plenty of prizes to be won.

What’s on in Tasmania in April

TRAILGAZE
NORTH-WEST TASMANIA
11–13 APRIL

TrailGraze in Tasmania - Meander Valley Vineyard event — Taste the best of Tassie with TrailGraze. (Image: Jasper Da Seymour)

Many food festivals pale in comparison to TrailGraze . Following along Tassie’s iconic Tasting Trail in its stunning north-west region, the three-day feast is a celebration of the state’s unique food bowl. It offers locals and tourists alike the opportunity to truly taste Tasmania, from wine and cheese to seafood and confectionery. The program also includes behind-the-scenes tours, exclusive events, family-friendly activities and a one-night-only dinner with some very special guests.

ECOFEST
ULVERSTONE
5–6 APRIL

Known as Tasmania’s biggest festival of sustainability, Ecofest is returning to Camp Clayton in Ulverstone this year to celebrate all things green. Established by the North West Environment Centre, the festival is now in its ninth year. And in 2025, it will run across two days for the first time ever, with market stalls, food trucks, workshops and more. This year’s theme is Random Acts of gREen, which encourages attendees to REthink REsources and inspire REmarkable changes.

NUTOPIA
LILYDALE
1 APRIL

Nutopia in Lilydale, South Australia — The harvest festival is held on a stunning organic hazelnut farm.

Named after John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s imaginary country from the ’70s, Nutopia is a local harvest festival at an organic hazelnut orchard and dreamy farm stay. The cultural celebration invites you to savour the past and taste the future across the weekend; harvest hazelnuts, go foraging, dress up, play games, do yoga, eat good food and enjoy live performances. You can even make a night of it and camp out under the stars.

LITFEST
HOBART
3–12 APRIL

Litfest in Hobart, Tasmania — Bookworms will love Hobart’s Litfest.

To celebrate Hobart‘s designation as a UNESCO City of Literature, Litfest is spotlighting Tasmania’s finest writers this month at the Salamanca Arts Centre. Bookworms will be dog-earing the program left, right and centre, with engaging panels, book launches, interactive workshops and intimate readings all promised. Don’t miss local authors and publishers at the Independent Book Fair, where you may just find your next favourite read.

What’s on in Western Australia in April

SHORE LEAVE FESTIVAL
GERALDTON
23–27 APRIL

Abrolhos Long Table Lunch on East Wallabi Island, WA — Don’t miss the iconic Abrolhos Long Table Lunch. (Image: West Beach Studio)

All roads lead to Geraldton this April for the Shore Leave Festival , known across Western Australia as the ultimate celebration of seafood. The location of the festival in the state’s midwest is just as important as the produce, with everything from the crayfish to the cocktails produced in the region. This year’s program is jam-packed with events. Think farm tours, cook-offs, seafood markets and the iconic Abrolhos Long Table Lunch , a rare dining experience on East Wallabi Island.

BOORLOO HERITAGE FESTIVAL
PERTH
1–30 APRIL

the building exterior of WA Museum Boola Bardip — Gain insight into WA’s rich history at Boola Bardip. (Image: Tourism Western Australia/@aeroture_au)

To pay respect to its past, the Boorloo Heritage Festival is back for another year of history-fuelled fun across the city. Throughout the month, a variety of events will celebrate the built, natural and cultural heritage of the WA capital, from exhibitions, talks and performances to workshops, walks and tours. Each event will unfold at one of Perth’s iconic landmarks, including Kings Park, the State Library of WA and WA Museum Boola Bardip.

JAMBA NYINAYI FESTIVAL
NINGALOO
18–20 APRIL

Jamba Nyinayi Festival near Ningaloo, WA — Experience the magic of Ningaloo at Jamba Nyinayi Festival.

In the Baiyungu language of Nyinggulu Country, jamba nyinayi means ‘sit for a while’, and that’s exactly what you’re invited to do at the eponymous festival on WA’s colourful coast. Connect with others at fire-side sessions by the sea. Camp out under the stars. Participate in myriad meaningful cultural experiences. All at the Baiyungu Aboriginal Corporation’s Cardabia Station, where the magic of Ningaloo is never far from sight.

What’s on in South Australia in April

SALT FESTIVAL
EYRE PENINSULA
18–27 APRIL

SALT Festival on the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia — Experience intimate shows from local artists. (Image: Mikaela Frick Photography)

On South Australia’s stunning Eyre Peninsula, ideas, innovation and art are all celebrated annually at SALT Festival . Since its inauguration in 2017, it has become a platform for artists and creators to come together, share opinions and make connections. The 2025 program is as exciting as ever, with so much to get your creativity and imagination fired up. From art exhibitions and workshops to live music and light installations, there’s something for everyone at SALT.

GATHER ROUND
ADELAIDE
18–21 APRIL

Adelaide Oval in Adelaide, SA — Experience an AFL game at Adelaide Oval. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Footy fans love Gather Round , one of the biggest events on Adelaide‘s annual sporting calendar. Held across the Easter long weekend, nine games of AFL between 18 teams unfold across the capital, including at the iconic Adelaide Oval. Guests can also check out the Maccas Footy Festival – a hub of food, entertainment and free activities. Whether you’re a St Kilda supporter or Essendon enthusiast, you’re in for a crackin’ good time.

SA AUTUMN GARDEN FESTIVAL
CLARE
6 APRIL

Costa Georgiadis at the SA Autumn Garden Festival — Attendees can look forward to seeing Aussie favourite Costa Georgiadis.

One of the best things about autumn is watching our natural landscape transform – which is why the SA Autumn Garden Festival is such a hit every year. Known as South Australia’s first-ever gardening festival, it welcomes green thumbs of all abilities to learn about garden care in the cooler months. This year, master the art of growing irises, join a backyard bee-keeping demo, take part in a fermentation workshop, and even hear from Gardening Australia’s Costa Georgiadis!

What’s on in the Northern Territory in April

PARRTJIMA – FESTIVAL OF LIGHT
ALICE SPRINGS
4–13 APRIL

Crowds enjoying Grounded at Parrtjima — Parrtjima is the only festival of its kind in Australia. (Image: Parrtjima)

The only Aboriginal festival of its kind, Parrtjima – A Festival in Light is celebrating its 10th anniversary in Arrente Country this year. A must on Alice Springs/Mparntwe‘s autumnal calendar, the free 10-night festival is set to blow its guests out of the water with nightly projections against the 300-million-year-old MacDonnell Ranges. A few 2025 program highlights include the Buy Blak Market, a meandering six-metre-high puppet and the first open-air performance by the Darwin Symphony Orchestra.

THAILAND GRAND FESTIVAL
DARWIN
26 APRIL

Experience authentic Thai culture in the heart of the NT this April at the Thailand Grand Festival . This free festival is all about sharing traditional Thai knowledge through crafting, weaving and traditional dress. Attendees can look forward to a variety of family-friendly activities, including games, food, boxing tournaments, a chilli-eating challenge, a street parade and a Som Tam show.

ARCHIBALD REGIONAL TOUR
ALICE SPRINGS
FROM 24 APRIL

The 2024 Archibald Prize exhibition at AGNSW — It will be the first time the exhibition visits the NT. (Image: AGNSW/Penny Clay)

Art enthusiasts should beeline for The Araluen Arts Centre in Alice Springs to catch the touring exhibition for 2024’s Archibald Prize . It’s a history-making moment for the Northern Territory, marking the first time the collection of acclaimed artworks has visited the state. Territorians will have the opportunity to see all of the finalist pieces from 2024, including the winner, a portrait of author and conservationist Tim Winton by Laura Jones.

What’s on in the ACT in April

ETHEL CARRICK | ANNE DANGAR
CANBERRA
UNTIL 27 APRIL

Ethel Carrick, installation view, National Gallery of Australia, Kamberri/Canberra, 2024

As part of a global movement aimed at increasing women’s representation in art, the National Gallery of Australia’s Know My Name project spotlights Australian female artists and their contributions to the country’s cultural fabric. Under the initiative, Ethel Carrick | Anne Dangar presents 140 individually distinct yet simultaneously remarkable works of art by both women, casting new light on their lives and legacies. See the remarkable exhibition before it ends this month.

NATIONAL FOLK FESTIVAL
CANBERRA
17–21 APRIL

The Folk Festival in Canberra — Music, culture and good times all combine across five days. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Music, culture and good times all combine at the National Folk Festival in Canberra. The five-day concert brings together members of the community and beyond to celebrate folk culture while supporting local musicians and businesses. This year’s lineup spans music, spoken word, dance and circus, as well as workshops, talks and family-friendly activities.

ANZAC DAY SERVICE
CANBERRA
25 APRIL

ANZAC Day at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, ACT — Pay your respects at an ANZAC Day Service with the Australian War Memorial.

The heart of Anzac Day commemorations is at the Australian War Memorial, where visitors can take a moment to reflect and honour the service of current and former Australian Defence Force members who have served in all wars, conflicts and operations. Attend the solemn Dawn Service to mark the anniversary of the Gallipoli Landings. Then gather in support of the servicemen and women at the National Commemorative Service, including the RSL ACT Veterans’ March.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.

Here’s where to get your groove on this month.

Taylah’s top picks of the month:

Upcoming events to keep on your radar:

What’s on in NSW in April

ORANGE FOOD WEEK ORANGE UNTIL 6 APRIL

NOCTURNAL BLUE MOUNTAINS 3 APRIL – 11 MAY

MAYBE COCKTAIL FESTIVAL SYDNEY 7–13 APRIL

NEWCASTLE FOOD MONTH NEWCASTLE 1–30 APRIL

ROYAL EASTER SHOW SYDNEY 11–22 APRIL

HANDA OPERA FESTIVAL MILLTHORPE 18–20 APRIL

GRIFFITH EASTER PARTY GRIFFITH 17–20 APRIL

What’s on in Victoria in April

MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL MELBOURNE UNTIL 20 APRIL

MACEDON RANGES AUTUMN FESTIVAL MACEDON 1–30 APRIL

BALLARAT MARATHON BALLARAT 26–27 APRIL

MAKERS & SHAKERS MARKET MELBOURNE 5–6 APRIL

UNEARTHED FESTIVAL THE PYRENEES 5 APRIL

GABS FESTIVAL MELBOURNE 4–5 APRIL

BATHE IN CINEMA MORNINGTON PENINSULA 3–24 APRIL

What’s on in Queensland in April

WEDGWOOD EXHIBITION TOWNSVILLE FROM 6 APRIL

TOUR DE BRISBANE BRISBANE 13 APRIL

OUTBACK RIVER LIGHTS FESTIVAL CUNNAMULLA 11–13 APRIL

ROCKYNATS 05 ROCKHAMPTON 4–6 APRIL

COOLY CLASSIC GOLD COAST 12–13 APRIL

What’s on in Tasmania in April

TRAILGAZE NORTH-WEST TASMANIA 11–13 APRIL

ECOFEST ULVERSTONE 5–6 APRIL

NUTOPIA LILYDALE 1 APRIL

LITFEST HOBART 3–12 APRIL