Hi Brendan, My husband and I are traveling 10/18-11/3 to Austrailia. We have 2 daughters 11 and 8 that are coming. We will be in sydney 4 days for a conference....what else do you suggest. Were thinking of Dunk Island for 2days and Daintree & Kuranda. What else??? Thanks. Tish

Margaret- we just stayed in Surfers/mermaid beach at the diamond sands resort. Nothing fancy, but very clean, had a lovely pool and bar-b-ques and a 2 bedroom/ 2 bath with lanai was only $AUS110 per night! It is 2 blocks from the water. As it is on the main road, ask for a room behind the pool. ours was very quiet.

We have just been to NSW and Tasmania 2 weeks ago. Although it is their winter, the weather was mild, sort of like the winter in Los Angeles. We spend a few days in Hunter Valley and Port Stephens. Hunter Valley is like Napa Valley in California but not as crowded and much less expensive. Stop at the tourist office and they have many info on accomodations and places to eat. Don't forget to try their Sticky Dates Pudding with ice cream at the Hermitage. Same with Port Stephens. Go on a fishing charter. Tasmania is very nice. We have only been there 3 times always during their winter. We rented a car and drove around the island. Three weeks would be best to absorb all there is to offer on the island. The best place for hiking,fishing and just relaxing at very reasonable price. If you fly to Launceston depart from Hobart or vice versa. You have to rent a car and drive around the island(one major road and you won't get lost). if you go west from from Launceston you can visit the wineries. My recommendation for a place to stay is Piermont in Swansea. Those stone cottages are just great and have their ownn private beaches, swimming pool, a stream for kyaking, fishing, tennis court, bike riding. Everything is provided. Around 75.00 -100.00 for 2 - 4 person. I have stayed 3 separate times and just love it. Down the road from them there is a Japanese restaurant (Kabuki) for lunch or dinner. Although you can cook dinner in the cottages. Breakfast stuff is provided each morning. Port Arthur is worth a stop over for a visit. Strahan is a lovely fishing village but the drive their is a bit winding(be careful) there are many sites to visit on the way their. Lake St. Claire and Craddle Mountain are also worth your while and their are lodges you can stay. Rose