SE Queensland

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South-east Queensland has a wide range of attractions to suit all tastes, from city life in Brisbane to the popular beaches of the Gold and Sunshine Coasts and the surrounding islands. Below are some popular student destinations:
 

Surfing at North Stradbroke Island

Some of the best beaches in south-east Queensland can be found at Point Lookout on North Stradbroke Island. The beaches at Point Lookout offer challenges for both the beginner and experienced surfer, as well as beautiful scenery and a rich marine life. Diving and fishing is popular and you may spot a dolphin or two. During winter, you can enjoy lunch at the hilltop watching the whales pass by on their way to Hervey Bay.

Getting there: Most people reach the island by taking a bus or train to Cleveland in Brisbane's east and then catching a water taxi or ferry to the island. There is a bus service on the island that will take you to Point Lookout. The journey will take two to three hours, depending on how you travel.

Whale-watching at Hervey Bay

Hervey Bay is a three and one-half to four-hour drive from Brisbane. During August and September, this town turns into the "whale watch capital of the world". A trip among the humpback whales is indeed an experience of a lifetime. These animals weigh 45 tonnes and are 15 metres long, making them true giants.

Getting there: Most people travel to Hervey Bay by car. The Bruce Highway cuts through this region, making the town easily accessible. Regular bus services are also available from Brisbane to Hervey Bay.

Abseiling at Picnic Point

Picnic Point, close to Toowoomba, provides an excellent opportunity for an action-packed weekend. Toowoomba is the gateway to the Great Dividing Range and the Darling Downs area, where you can visit national parks and sample the traditional Australian lifestyle. Why not combine abseiling with camping in a rainforest or try horseback riding at one of the country homesteads?

Getting there: Most people go by car to Toowoomba, which is a two-hour drive west from Brisbane. There are also regular bus services between Brisbane and Toowoomba.
Abseiling and rock climbing can also be enjoyed at Kangaroo Point in Brisbane' s inner city.