Visit Gay Australia

21/02/2025

DashWu Steading is offering a post-mardi gras, chill-out package!

In addition to our usual welcome and breakfast packs, we’ll provide a bottle of red or white wine from our neighbour award-winning Kate Hill Wines and a 5% discount on your booking until mid-March. Use the coupon code: CHILL_OUT

https://www.dashwusteading.com.au

20/02/2025

From city lights to starlit nights 🌟 Take your Mardi Gras celebration beyond Sydney! Where the spirit of pride meets the heart of the Yarra Valley. Be fierce, be free, be you - with a view that’ll take your breath away.

🌈 🎉 Wishing you all a very happy and safe Mardi Gras! 🌈 🎉

xx Rebecca and the team at Kangaroo Ridge Retreat

📍 Healesville - Yarra Valley, Victoria

ℹ️ Kangaroo Ridge Retreat is a luxurious escape in the heart of the Yarra Valley where nature and indulgence intertwine. Our private retreats are perfectly positioned to capture breathtaking views across the valley, where kangaroos graze freely at dawn and dusk against a backdrop of rolling hills and vineyards. Each contemporary villa features floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing the outside world to become your living artwork, while offering complete privacy and comfort.

🌹Designed for romantic getaways for two (or one if you don’t wish to share), our retreats combine modern luxury with sustainable practices. Soak in a private spa bath, unwind on a secluded deck, or warm up by the fireplace while watching the valley’s ever-changing canvas. Just an hour from Melbourne, yet worlds away from the everyday, Kangaroo Ridge Retreat provides an intimate sanctuary to reconnect, celebrate, and, free to just be. Here, luxury isn’t just about amenities – it’s about creating moments that become cherished memories.

https://www.kangarooridge.com.au

20/02/2025

CELEBRATE GOOD CLIMBS, COME ON! 🌈 🌉

14 FEBRUARY – 2 MARCH 2025

This Mardi Gras, take your celebration to the next level! Whether you're with your partner, friends, or family, experience the thrill of climbing to the Summit of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge. At 134 metres above the Harbour, you'll be treated to panoramic views and a feeling of achievement like no other.

🌈 Climb anytime during the Sydney Gay and Le***an Mardi Gras Festival (14 February to 2 March), from dawn to night. Wear a rainbow hankie (optional) and be FREE TO BE at the top of Sydney’s most iconic landmark.

https://www.bridgeclimb.com/climbs-prices/whats-on/celebrate-mardi-gras
If you’re a Sydneysider, you could score $50 cashback! Find out more about this and other special offers at BridgeClimb Sydney at https://www.bridgeclimb.com/climbs-prices/deals-and-discounts
***anmardigras

18/02/2025

Thank you to everyone who visited the Visit Gay Australia booth on Sunday at the Sydney Gay and Le***an Mardi Gras Fair Day.

Thousands of dollars worth of travel prizes and goodies won by so many who had a go on our famous rainbow spinning wheel. Winners of the major prizes will be announced in our March newsletter.

Thank you to our valued members who provided such awesome travel prizes and product discounts.

Head to visitgayaustralia.com.au to join our monthly newsletter for discounts, event details and heaps more!

13/02/2025

Sydney Gay and Le***an Mardi Gras Fair Day is happening this Sunday 16th February from 10:00 to 21:00 at Victoria Park, Corner of Parramatta and City Road, Sydney (Gadigal Land).

Come by the Visit Gay Australia / Gay and Le***an Tourism booth for your chance to WIN great prizes from our valued members!

Have a go on our rainbow spinning wheel and enter for your chance to WIN:

🌈 $800 voucher to put towards a stay at Kangaroo Ridge Retreat

🌈 Two tickets to the Euphoria Social and Tim Lai GALA & People’s Choice Awards

🌈 Overnight stay at ADGE Hotel Sydney

🌈 Overnight stay at Montville Misty View Cottages

🌈 4 x adult tickets to come to Scenic World Blue Mountains

PLUS: Awesome discounts and offers from our members, Ocean Rafting, Wings Sailing Charters Whitsundays, The Reef House Adults Retreat Palm Cove, Sequoia Adelaide Hills, Mount Lofty House, Lizard Island, Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat, Coastal Cruises Mooloolaba - Premium Stillwater Cruising

And much more......thousands of $ in prizes, every visitor to our booth gets a prize! Don’t miss your chance to get lucky!

See you there! 🌈

Welcome to the official Visit Gay Australia page for Industry members & friends! It is the

13/02/2025

The Noosa Chocolate Factory officially opened its newly expanded Adelaide Street store and cafe last night, providing an enhanced experience for chocolate and coffee lovers in the heart of Brisbane’s city centre. The much-anticipated launch follows an extensive renovation and expansion that will provide a greater offering to chocolate lovers and introduces an inviting dine-in space for customers to enjoy.

Located at 156 Adelaide Street, opposite Queens Plaza, the revamped store opening marks a significant milestone in Noosa Chocolate Factory’s commitment to delivering high-quality, handmade chocolate and premium coffee to Brisbane’s city workers and visitors.

The updated store features a larger retail space to accommodate a broader range of chocolates and confectionery, along with a fresh, contemporary design that reflects the brand’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Customers can now enjoy an enhanced experience, whether grabbing their favorite chocolate treat on the go or sitting down to savor a perfectly brewed coffee.

The store at 156 Adelaide Street, Brisbane, is open seven days a week.

Visit Gay Australia attended the event thanks to the team at The Comms. People + The Noosa Chocolate Factory 🍫

https://noosachocolatefactory.com.au/

12/02/2025

SAVE THE DATE for Leeton Rainbow Pride Collective Inc.

GET READY TO UNLEASH YOUR RAINBOW SPIRIT 🌈

Because the Leeton Pride Festival is back in action from June 13-15, 2025! It's a fabulous fiesta of diversity and resilience in the q***r community. Over three glorious days, you’ll be dazzled by vibrant parades, fun parties, and jaw-dropping performances, all in a friendly space where love takes center stage! So grab your pink cowboy hat and save the date for this epic celebration of unity and acceptance—it's going to be unforgettable!

https://leetonpride.org.au/

11/02/2025

New theatre work ‘SLAY’, devised by a group of young q***r women will be presented at Theatre Works Explosives Factory in March 2025.

‘SLAY’ follows four le***an friends who are made suspects of their neighbour Courtney Fairfield’s disappearance and dragged into the middle of the political firing line made by extremist group SLAM (Society of Le***ans Against Men). It is a modern-day horror-comedy taking inspiration from films like ‘Bodies, Bodies, Bodies’, ‘BOTTOMS’, ‘Jennifer’s Body’ and ‘But, I’m a Cheerleader’.

Through the lens of horror, the story explores the now very real danger of online extremism and polarisation specially to women and minority groups. ‘SLAY’ directly responds to the rise of figures like Andrew Tate and Jordan Peterson, the recent re-appointment of Trump as president in the States, and the all-time high of femicide Australia is facing. Director Steph Lee explains that ‘the work flips the language we see used against women and q***r people to try to expose the statements that are held up as ‘truths’ by extreme right-wing influencers’.

‘SLAY’ is directed by Steph Lee with costume design by Louisa Fitzgerald, and set and lighting design by Tom Vulcan, the trio behind the ‘vigorous indie revival’ (The Age) of Declan Greene’s ‘HOME ECONOMICS’ for Midsumma 2024. Pushing their aesthetic further, this work will also play with a horror-inspired sound design by Jack Burmeister and media inspired AV elements design by Alyssa Jayde Clay to capture the bombarding nature of the online. Devising the piece is a group of talented young q***r females: Sarah Iman, Jackie van Lierop, Raven Rogers-Wright, and Anita Mei La Terra.

While the show covers some quite intense topics, it also leans into the camp of old-school horror and the juxtaposition of humour and darkness. This group of emerging theatre-markers will not be holding back as they make a modern horror aimed to haunt long after the curtain falls, and the audience resumes their doom scrolling.

*Photo credit: Steven Mitchell Wright*

https://www.theatreworks.org.au/2025/slay

10/02/2025

Wings Sailing Charters Whitsundays offers unforgettable sailing tours & charters experience in the stunning Whitsundays departing Airlie Beach QLD.

The Whitsunday Island region is known for its tropical pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life, Wings Sailing offers a Whitsunday Islands Sail, SUP & Snorkel Half Day Tour, Airlie Beach BYO Sunset Sail in Style Cruise, Private Skippered Holiday Charters & Specialised Event Charters. Wings III, a luxurious 60ft adventure catamaran featuring three levels, including a top sundeck, foredeck whirlpool bath, and shaded back deck areas. This custom-built, air-conditioned vessel ensures a premium sailing adventure with smaller passenger numbers with personalized service.

Guests can choose between the Whitsunday Island Sail SUP & Snorkel half day tour, Airlie Beach BYO Sunset Sail Tour and Private Skippered Holidays or specialized events for birthdays, hens & bucks gatherings, elopements, wedding ceremonies, romantic getaways and 2-8 day liveaboard experiences.

The sailing catamaran is ideal for small, medium and large groups offering premium comfort all inclusive catering with all in-water activities included. With a professional skipper boasting over 30 years of experience and attentive hosts, all guest needs are met onboard every tour and charter.

The Whitsunday Island Sail SUP & Snorkel half day tour includes snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking, allowing guests to explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter a variety of marine life for a shorter day on the water but still enjoying a yacht sailing experience.

https://wings.com.au/whitsunday-islands-sail-snorkel-and-sup-tour/

Airlie Beach BYO Sunset Sail in Style- 2 hour cruise
Experience the only BYO Sunset Cruise in Airlie Beach, Sail in style on this custom-built holiday adventure catamaran, spacious decks for relaxation with beautiful Whitsunday Island & Airlie Beach views as your backdrop. The choice is yours to bring your preferred drinks onboard. Whether it be that exquisite bottle of champagne, unique lager, fancy UDL or non alcoholic spritz & juice- indulge with what you decide to bring on board.

https://wings.com.au/airlie-beach-sunset-sail-in-style-cruise/

Overnight holiday experiences guests can visit iconic destinations such as Whitehaven Beach, known for its pristine silica sand, and Hill Inlet, which offers breathtaking views of swirling sands and turquoise waters. Tailored private charter times & multiple locations to suit your group's needs for your yacht holiday of a lifetime!

https://wings.com.au/overnight-private-charters/

Enter promo code LGBTQ to receive 20% off for our Whitsunday Island Sail SUP & Snorkel Tour.

07/02/2025

In Melbourne this weekend? 🌈

Victoria’s Pride 2025 Announces Melbourne’s Best Free Summer Street Party!

Sunday 9 February 2025, 12PM – 9PM

Gertrude and Smith Street Precinct

Stay updated by visiting the Victoria’s Pride web page for updates:

www.midsumma.org.au/vicpride

07/02/2025

Welcome to our newest member, Mantra Nelson Bay

Set in beautiful Nelson Bay, only two and a half hours from Sydney, Mantra Nelson Bay is a relaxed holiday resort featuring apartment style accommodation with a central location.

Mantra Nelson Bay’s 110 apartments are spread across three buildings all nestled around a central lagoon pool with cascading waterfall and children’s water fountain area.
Mantra Nelson Bay’s accommodation offers a selection of self-contained two and three bedroom apartments and penthouses, all within walking distance of everything Nelson Bay has to offer including a 27-hole golf course and a variety of amenities and activities.

https://www.mantranelsonbay.com.au/

06/02/2025

Welcome to our newest member, Grand Mercure Apartments Magnetic Island

A mere 50 metres from the Magnetic Island Ferry Terminal in Nelly Bay, Grand Mercure Apartments Magnetic Island, situated on the oceanfront is located amongst the world heritage listed Great Barrier Reef, a truly spectacular location awaits. The hotel offers fully self-contained apartments, with resort, ocean or magnificent Coral Sea oceanfront views. The property features car hire, undercover parking, ocean front and rooftop swimming pools, outdoor heated whirlpool bath, gymnasium, guest BBQ and tour desk.

https://www.athotelgroup.com/magnetic-island/

05/02/2025

For a limited time, embark on an unforgettable journey with Oceania Cruises’ exclusive Your World by Choice Sale and enjoy up to 25% off select sailings plus your choice of one: 🚢

Unlimited Wine, Beer and Spirits OR a Shipboard Credit up to USD $1,000.

Best of all, you can take advantage of Oceania Cruises' new value promise, Your World Included™, which provides a rich selection of always included amenities, such as Gratuities, Gourmet Speciality

Restaurants, Unlimited WiFi, plus so much more!

Don't miss the opportunity to elevate your next journey with Oceania Cruises.

https://www.oceaniacruises.com/special-offers/your-world-choice

04/02/2025

Iconic Lizard Island, the sole Relais & Chateux property in Australia, is offering a new Stay 4 Pay 3 offer to entice guests to experience this luxury island getaway, located in a pristine part of the Great Barrier Reef.

Book a minimum of 4 nights by 31 March for stays between 10 March to 30 June 2025 and receive your 4th night compliments of Lizard Island.

Stay in your choice of an Ocean View Plunge Pool Villa, a Beachfront Suite, The Pavilion or The Villa and experience the magic of Autumn in the Far North.

This offer also includes all meals, non-alcoholic and selected alcoholic beverages, beach picnics, use of motorised dinghies and much more.

Further details available at https://www.lizardisland.com.au/packages-and-special-offers/

03/02/2025

Mardi Gras Fever is in Full Swing at ADGE! 🌈✨

We can’t get enough of the Mardi Gras celebrations, so we’re keeping the party going and giving you another chance to win! 🎉

Win 4 Q***r Screen Tickets for yourself and your Mardi Gras crew!

How to Enter:
💖 Like this post
🌈 Follow and ***rscreen
🎭 Tag your Mardi Gras crew in the comments (each tag = an extra entry!)
📢 Share this post with your story and tag us for a bonus entry

Hurry—entries close on 9th February! The winner announced on our Instagram page.

Let’s celebrate Mardi Gras in style! 💃🎊

03/02/2025

Boat Harbour Jetty B&B is an adult only accommodation overlooking the harbour in the quiet coastal township of Port Albert, Gippsland.

Studio accommodations are modern & spacious, designed for optimal comfort combined with panoramic views.

Room rate includes gourmet continental breakfast daily along with complimentary refreshments and other treats.

Use promotional code GALTA to receive a discount of all direct bookings, for stays until December 2026.

Boat Harbour Jetty B&B have received their second consecutive TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Award along with their fourth consecutive Booking.com Travellers Choice Award!

And are a qualifying finalist at the upcoming Australian Tourism Awards in March (category Hosted Accommodation).

https://portalbertboatharbourjettybnb.mydirectstay.com/

02/02/2025

Spoil your loved one this valentine's day with an exclusive private picnic TastyTours package.

Includes a distillery tasting session and cocktail at Sunshine & Sons followed by a private and very romantic picnic in the vineyard at Dingo Creek Vineyard.

Full details at https://www.tastytours.com.au/valentinesday

30/01/2025

As Valentine’s Day approaches LOVE is in the air and its competition time at Ridgemill Estate


We’re giving away a 2-night weekend stay for 2 people in one of our luxurious studio style cabins!

🌈 You'll be spoilt with a continental breakfast basket daily

🌈 Bottle of ridgemill estate Ellie Sparkling Chardonnay chilled in your room on arrival

🌈 Complimentary wine tasting in our cellar door with 10% discount on wine purchases

Stay dates: Friday 14 and Saturday 15 February 2025 (only)


PLUS we'll send you off for a morning tea date for 2 at a mystery location (choose between Saturday 15 or Sunday 16 February)

HOW TO ENTER:

Purchase ANY 6 BOTTLES of ridgemill estate wine (buy online or in our cellar door)

You’ll automatically go in the draw!

Opens 5:00 PM Monday, 20 January – Closes 5:00PM Thursday, 6 February 2025

The winner will be notified directly and announced via ridgemill estate social media channels Facebook & Instagram on Friday, 7 February 2025.


TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

Competition closes 5:00PM Thursday, 6 February 2025

You can enter as many times as you like!

The prize is not redeemable for cash, credit, or swaps and must be redeemed for stay dates: Friday 14 and Saturday 15 February 2025.


IF YOU ARE THE WINNER:

You’ll first receive a private message or telephone call from ridgemill estate.

ridgemill estate will then post on social media platforms FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM announcing you as the winner.


OUR TIPS FOR WINES WE THINK YOU'LL LOVE!


2022 CABERNET SAUVIGNON $28:00

An elegant red with bright acidity.

What guests are saying: "I'm surprised how light and juicy it is!" "I didn't know a Cab Sav could be so elegant and juicy." "I was looking for a Pinot Noir but was pleasantly surprised how perfect this Cab was for my palate."



2022 ELLIE SPARKLING CHARDONNAY $38:00

Summer in a bottle — fresh and vibrant!

What guests are saying: " It's just like a Granite Belt granny smith apple!" " I'm glad they talked me into trying this!"



2023 'STRAY DOG' SHIRAZ, CHARDONNAY $23:00

Light, refreshing and free of complications.

What guests are saying: "Is there a better way to enjoy life?" "I'm going to enjoy this in a bucket of ice after I finish the gardening" "Oh Shiraz and Chardonnay! No wonder they called it THAT!"



BROWSE OUR FULL RANGE HERE :

https://www.ridgemillestate.com/wines

FULL DETAILS OF THE COMPETITION HERE:
https://www.ridgemillestate.com/valentines-day-love-and-mystery-date-getaway-competition

GOOD LUCK!!