Capturing the Eyre Peninsula: A GoPro adventure

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From swimming with sea lions to shucking fresh oysters, the Eyre Peninsula is an intoxicating blend of natural beauty, thrilling activities and delicious flavours. We captured the entire adventure on the GoPro Hero 12.

Day one

From Adelaide, it’s a short flight to Port Lincoln Airport where you’ll embark on a scenic flight with Lincoln Air Charter. Soar over the expansive coastline and soak up the natural beauty of Lincoln National Park and the rural landscape of the southern Eyre Peninsula.

GoPro tip: Use the handler attachment to capture the view from above.

Lincoln Air Charter flight over Eyre Peninsula
Embark on a scenic flight with Lincoln Air Charter. (Image: Anita Jokovich)

Venture northwest to Oyster Farm Tours in Coffin Bay , where you can harvest oysters straight from the ocean. Slip into waterproof waders and make your way to the semi-submerged saltwater pavilion where you’ll shuck your own oysters while sipping on a South Australian riesling, all while soaking in the stunning surroundings.

GoPro tip: Attach the bite mount to capture all the hands-free shucking action.

FRESHLY PICKED OYSTERS from Oyster Farm Tours in Coffin Bay
Harvest oysters straight from the ocean. (Image: Anita Jokovich)

Next stop is Yarnbala, a pristine piece of bushland in Coffin Bay owned by Kane Slater and his family who host nature-based experiences. One of South Australia’s last remaining grassy low sheoak woodlands, this area is now critically endangered. Kane’s desire to share this tranquil haven led to the creation of a thoughtfully designed central gathering area around a fire pit, crafted from locally sourced natural and recycled materials. Experiences include a guided tour, foraging for bush tucker and live performances of the didgeridoo and lap steel guitar. Enjoy with woodfired pizzas and drinks such as local gin, wine and craft beer. A magical experience.

GoPro tip: Capture the live music hands-free by using the attached tripod while you sip on a Yarnbala signature G&T made with Green Ant Gin.

Retreat to the comfort of Port Lincoln Hotel , a four-star resort boasting panoramic views of Boston Bay. It’s the perfect pit stop to unwind and relax, allowing you to recharge for the next day’s activities.

Yarnbala live performance
Watch live performances at Yarnbala. (Image: Anita Jokovich)

GoPro tip: Charge up your GoPro for the next day while editing and downloading images to social media.

Day two

Day two promises the highlight of the Port Lincoln experience: swimming with playful sea lions, affectionally known as the ‘puppies of the ocean’. It’s a 90-minute boat trip from Port Lincoln to Blythe Island, where sea lions can usually be seen basking on the shore. While regulations require visitors to maintain a distance of 50 metres, these curious creatures often approach with excitement. During the hour-long swim, you are likely to encounter about a dozen sea lions, whose enthusiasm will grow as you engage with them in play.

GoPro tip: The GoPro is waterproof to 10 metres and built for rugged conditions. Its hydrophobic lens keeps underwater shots crystal clear, so you can capture footage of these magical sea creatures.

Sea lion in the Eyre Peninsula
Swim with playful sea lions. (Image: Anita Jokovich)

Fuel up at L’Anse French Cafe , known for its flaky French pastries, before embarking on your next adventure.

Make your way to Mikkira Station , a picturesque picnic and camping ground that’s home to a large colony of koalas. Take a stroll through the property to spot koalas in their natural habitat and, if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of baby joeys nestled in their mothers’ pouches. Indulge in a picnic provided by Australian Coastal Safaris as the sun sets.

GoPro tip: Once the sun has set, you can capture light trails in the night sky with night-lapse videos.

Koala in tree at Mikkira Station in the Eyre Peninsula
Mikkira Station is home to a large colony of koalas. (Image: Anita Jokovich)

On your last day, experience a 4WD and sandboarding adventure with Australian Coastal Safaris in Lincoln National Park. Enjoy the exhilarating thrill of speeding down the dunes on a sandboard or as a passenger four-wheel-driving on the dunes. Capture footage of the towering sand formations and shimmering waters, all while keeping an eye out for native wildlife. With luck, you might even catch a glimpse of an emu roaming the sandy landscape!

GoPro tip: Use HyperSmooth 6.0 and AutoBoost to keep your videos stable when filming your adventurous pursuits. There’s also a built-in Horizon Lock so you can keep the shot level even when your camera is rotating and moving.

Sand dunes in Port Lincoln
Enjoy the exhilarating thrill of speeding down the dunes. (Image: Anita Jokovich)

After tasting the freshest seafood at the Fresh Fish Place , get ready for an e-biking adventure – the perfect way to explore the coastline without exerting too much effort. Set out from Australian Coastal Safaris and make your way to the marina, located about five kilometres from the town centre. The cycle route traces the coast along the picturesque Parnkalla Trail .

GoPro tip: Consider the chest mount accessory to film video while you’re riding your bike for added safety.

Sand dunes and ocean in Port Lincoln, Eyre Peninsula
Take in the stunning views with your GoPro. (Image: Anita Jokovich)

Designed to capture high-quality photos and videos, the GoPro Hero 12 has advanced features such as image stabilisation and enhanced image quality. Download the GoPro Quik app as a tool for editing and sharing footage on the go.

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Two immersive art experiences are coming to this Vic town in spring

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

Ballarat International Foto Biennale, events in Ballarat
Discover powerful stories through the lens at Ballarat International Foto Biennale. (Image: Astrid Mulder)

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

The colourful entrance to Sunnyside, one of the newest highlights of Events in Ballarat.
Explore 17 days of bold art at Sunnyside. (Image: Nice To Meet You Again, Morag Myerscough 2023. Photographer: Gareth Gardner)

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.