embark - Queensland Rail

Longreach…YOU ARE HEREWhat to expect…Outback summers are hot but muchless humid than on the coast and morebearable. Most facilities and transportare air-conditioned. Storms and heavyrains can occur during summer andminor flooding can cause some townsto become cut off for a few days, butthis is all part of the adventure of theOutback. The most temperate weatheroccurs between the beginning of Apriland the end of October. Wearing abroad brimmed hat and sunscreen isrecommended for all seasons.Summer (Dec to Feb)Av Max 37°C Av Min 23°CRainfall 209mmAutumn (Mar to May)Av Max 31°C Av Min 16°CRainfall 131mmWinter (Jun to Aug)Av Max 24°C Av Min 08°CRainfall 49mmSpring (Sep to Nov)Av Max 33°C Av Min 16°CRainfall 54mmThe Suitcase Essentials…RRWide brimmed hat/sunglassesRRSunscreenRRRRRRRRSturdy and comfortable walkingshoesLight cool clothing for thewarmer daysJumper and long pants for thecooler nightsCamera to capture the stunningoutback sceneryThe best this region has to offer.Here are six experiences not to be missed:…a town named after the “long reach”of the Thomson River on which it issituated is located in Central WestQueensland; 1181km north westof Brisbane, and 700km west ofRockhampton.1. Qantas Founders Museum: The Qantas Founders Museum is a wonderful exampleof a community getting together to honour the achievements of a group of remarkablemen. The Founders of Q.A.N.T.A.S. not only established a company which grew tobecome internationally recognised as a leader in the field of world aviation, but alsomade an enormouscontribution tothe people livingin the isolatedcommunities of theAustralian Outbackby adapting anddeveloping thetechnology ofthe day to greateffect. The museumis home to adecommissionedQantas Boeing 747-200, and also holds the airline’s first jet, a Boeing 707-138.2. Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame: The museum, stunningly constructed fromtimber, stone and corrugated iron, is truly reminiscent of the outback. With its uniquedesign, the Hall of Fame stands comfortably amongst the rugged yet vibrant rurallandscape. Inside, the Centre’s five themed galleries proudly display the history behindsome of Australia’s greatest and bravest explorers, stock workers, pastoralists, andAborigines. Theexhibits are aneclectic mix ofobjects, images,touch screens,audiovisualpresentations andopen displays,allowing visitorsto interpret theoutback story intheir own uniqueway.

3. Cobb & Co. Stage Coach Ride: Gallop along an outback dirttrack in a fully-laden Cobb & Co. Stage Coach on the multi-awardwinningKinnon & Co. experience. Retrace the steps of Cobb &Co. by travelling on the original mail route between Longreachand Windorah enjoying the unique history of Cobb & Co. andLongreach.Did you know?In some very remote areas, changestations were known to serve passengersprickly pear jam and stewed galah!4. Thomson River Cruises: More than just a river cruise!Watch the sun set while cruising on the historic Thomson BellePaddlewheeler or the recently refurbished Thomson PrincessRiverboat. Afterwards, on the banks, enjoy The Starlight’sSpectacular Dinner Show and bush poetry around the campfire.5. Camden Park Station Sunset Tour: Learn the stories ofCamden Park Station with your host from the Walker family.In the late afternoon light discover the features of the homestead,the old shearing shed and artesian bore complex. As the sunsets over the vast open Mitchell grass plains, enjoy the warmhospitality of the Walker family, while taking in 360 degree viewsof the flowing artesian bore.6. Longreach School of Distance Education: The LongreachSchool of Distance Education or ‘School of the Air’ is one of thelargest classrooms in the world. Experience first hand a ‘School ofthe Air’ lesson in progress. Find out how education is delivered inthe bush.Getting there.The Spirit of the Outback travels between Brisbane and Longreach twice a week.For more information or package details on holidays to the outback, visitqueenslandrailtravel.com.au or call 1800 627 655For those wanting even more outback.Visit Winton.Located 178km south east of Longreach, Winton is a popular day trip orovernight tourist attraction for many Longreach visitors.Here’s why...Australian Age of Dinosaurs: Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum of Natural History is home to theworld’s largest collection of Australian dinosaur fossils, including some of Australia’s most famous such asAustralovenator (Banjo) and Diamantinasaurus (Matilda).Waltzing Matilda Centre: Sing along with one of Australia’s favourite sons: John Williamson as he performsone of his most loved songs; Waltzing Matilda. While Waltzing Matilda is being played, the BillabongTheatrette comes to life with the light show. Many a tear has been dropped during this heart tugging show.Photos courtesy of Tourism Queenslandembark5

Spiritof the OutbackNothing stirs theimagination quite like thethought of a journey to theoutback of Queensland to thetowns and places immortalisedin story and song.What better way to experience theselegendary destinations than by rail onthe Spirit of the Outback, where you cansee the landscape up close and take thetime to admire its untamed beauty.Enjoy 24 hours of relaxed pleasure thattransports you over 1,300 kilometresfrom Brisbane to Longreach, gateway tothe Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame,the Qantas Founders Museum and theOutback Heritage Centre.First Class Single or Twin SleepingBerths:All meals are included in the fare for a FirstClass single or twin sleeping berth, whilethese guests will also be given exclusiveaccess to the restaurant and loungecars. Your First Class outback experiencewouldn’t be complete without authenticdining, and you’ll find true Queenslandtucker in the dining car. Also get to knowyour fellow travellers, and perhaps a localor two, in the Lounge Car which offers afull selection of drinks and refreshments.First Class guests on the Spirit of theOutback also receive a vanity double packproduced right here in Queensland. Thepack includes a combination of men’s andwomen’s products with a focus on organicand sustainable production.First Class guests can also request theuse of an Entertainment Tablet for usewhile on board, containing a selection ofrecently released movies.Spirit of the Outback features:• Club Car providing light refreshments,confectionery and beverages foreconomy class guests• Economy Class Triple Sleeper andSeating• First Class Twin and Single Sleeperincluding all meals and exclusiveaccess to restaurant and loungecarriages• Motorail facilities can be booked totake your car along and extend theadventureDeparts Brisbane Tue 6.25pmand Sat 1.10pm, arriving inLongreach the next day.Departs Longreach Mon and Thu7.15am, arriving in Brisbane thenext morning.

Here’s one of our popular outback holidays . . .…Longreach and Winton Heritage PassCommemorate that originalspirit of adventure and thevisionaries who etched theirnames into history, with ajourney to Longreach. Bygonedays come alive at the AustralianStockman’s Hall of Fame andexploring the unique heritageof Winton. Gallop through thecountryside with an exclusiveCobb & Co. stage coach ride, theonly one of its kind in Australia,before being immersed in thestory of a local legend and cattleduffer, Captain Starlight.Departs Tuesdays from Brisbaneonboard the Spirit of the Outback.Inclusions• Return First Class Twin Sleeperfrom Brisbane to Longreachonboard the Spirit of the Outback• 5 nights in a self contained lodge atKinnon & Co. Outback Lodges• Longreach Town Tour• Entry to Australian Stockman’s Hallof Fame, Outback Stockman’s Showand lunch• Kinnon & Co. Gallop through thescrub on a Cobb & Co. Stage Coachand Starlight’s Spectacular Live Show• Thomson River Sunset Cruiseonboard the Thomson BellePaddlewheeler, including campfire dinner and bush poetry• Australian Age of Dinosaursguided tour of collection roomand laboratory• Waltzing Matilda Centreincluding lunch• Winton Heritage tour• Qantas Founders Museumincluding a guided tour of the747 and 707 jets8 days from$2099per adultex Brisbaneembark7

MasterClassOutbackThis exclusive venture away on an outback journey of foodiediscovery joined by celebrity chef Andrew Mirosch is sure totempt your taste buds as you indulge in fresh Queenslandproduce, desirable creations all with the perfect selectionof Sirromet wine whilst you take in some of the iconic thesights and vast backdrops of the outback panorama.Itinerary.DAY ONE: Tuesday 9th July 2013Join celebrity chef Andrew Mirosch for aunique experience offering a gastronomicaffair as you travel from Brisbane toLongreach in First Class sleeper cabinsonboard the Spirit of the Outback. Sitback and enjoy the relaxation of thejourney taking in the passing sceneryof the Glasshouse Mountains andSunshine Coast hinterland renownedfor local produce farms as you minglewith fellow passengers. This evening asthe train continues along you’ll enjoy adegustation dinner specially designed byBrisbane born food hero Andrew Miroschand accompanying wines hand matchedby the Chief Winemaker Adam Chapmanfrom Sirromet Winery. Overnight: onboardthe Spirit of the Outback.DAY TWO: Wednesday 10th July 2013As you awake, take in the changingscenery from your panoramic cabinwindow of the natural landscapes ofQueensland’s outback. Join your fellowtravellers for breakfast in the Tuckerboxrestaurant followed by some relaxingmingling in the lounge car to work upyour lunch appetite. Andrew Miroschprepares a country lunch onboard thejourney before your evening arrival intoLongreach. Tonight you’ll be taken intoaviation history as you are treated to adining experience in the Qantas FoundersMuseum.Overnight: Longreach Motor Inn.DAY THREE: Thursday 11th July 2013Today you’re off to explore the outbacksights of Kinnon & Co. StarlightSpectacular, Cobb & Co. Tour and oldtime photos before heading to theAustralian Stockman’s Hall of Fame fora leisurely afternoon of outback culturaldiscovery. Tonight enjoy your MasterClassinteractive cooking demonstration anddinner at the Australian Stockman’s Hallof Fame where you can get up close andpersonal to Andrew Mirosch. Get involvedand learn the art of creating some of hisdelicious recipes, all complemented byaccompanied matching Sirromet Wines.Overnight: Longreach Motor Inn.Outback Gourmet MasterClass4 days from$2079 * per adultex BrisbaneDAY FOUR: Friday 12th July 2013Your last morning in the outback is spentuncovering the natural treasures at the1922 Qantas hangar including a close upinsider’s view of the 707 & 747 aircraftbefore boarding your Qantaslink flightback to Brisbane.For more information visitqueenslandrailtravel.com.auor call 1300 139 812.*Prices per person twin share. Celebrity chef issubject to change. Minimum numbers requiredfor this package to operate. Conditions apply,ask your travel agent for details when booking.

Here’s a teaser of what culinary delights you can expect onboard the MasterClass Tours:Thai Red Curry of Gympie Redclaw Tails (Serves 4)30ml vegetable oil250ml chicken stock16 Cherax Park live red claw or red claw tail meat green4 whole red chillies split seeds removed1 tbs fish sauce1 tbs palm sugar300ml coconut milk⅓ cup Thai basil leaves½ cup coriander leaves reserving some for garnishThai red curry paste1 spanish onion chopped3 cloves garlic1 stem lemongrass chopped (the white part only)½ bunch coriander2 tbs chopped galangal1 tbs roasted cardamom seeds1 tbs roasted cumin seeds1 kaffir lime leaf5 dried red chillies soaked in hot water till soft, thensqueeze to release oils1 tbs shrimp paste1 tbs saltMethod:1. For curry paste: place all ingredients into a foodprocessor and blend until smooth.2. Heat oil in a large wok over medium-high heat. Addall of the red curry paste and cook, stirring for 5minutes until aromatic.3. Add stock and stir until curry paste has dissolved.Add chillies, fish sauce, palm sugar, coconut milkand stir well. Simmer for 10 minutes.4. Add red claw tails.5. Stir in basil and coriander leaves, reservingsome for garnish.6. Serve with rice if desired and garnish withreserved coriander.Wine selection:2012 Sirromet classic selection Unwooded ChardonnayDid you know?Sirromet is Queensland’s most highlyawarded winery with over 630 National& International wine awards.Executive Chef, Andrew Miroschof Restaurant Lurleen’s, SirrometWinery has 30 years of industry experienceand a very impressive collection of awards.Andrew is well-known to locals and fine food fansthroughout Australia and has developed a regionalmenu – using fresh, local seafood, prime meats andcomplementing each dish with organic producesourced primarily from within the Redlands district.embark9

Don’t gamblewith your life atlevel crossingsQueensland Rail’s Crosses campaign which launched in 2012 is a stark reminderto the public to stay safe at level crossings.queenslandrail.com.au/crossings

Last year, there were 400 near misses onthe Queensland Rail network, 226 of whichoccurred in south-east Queensland and174 in regional Queensland. The differencebetween a near miss and a fatality can bea fraction of a second. In some cases it isonly luck that has saved a life.In June last year Queensland Raillaunched a hard-hitting public educationcampaign drawing attention to thedangers and consequences of takingrisks at level crossings. The crosses in theadvertisements represent near missesthat have occurred at level crossings, andhighlight the fact the outcome of thosenear misses could have been dramaticallydifferent – and potentially disastrous.A train moving at just 60 or 80 km/h cantake kilometres to stop. The train can’tswerve to avoid motorists and if there’s acollision, the car, truck or pedestrian willcome off second best.The message is clear – all level crossingshave some form of protection, includingboom gates, flashing lights or signageand it is not only an offence to ignore levelcrossing protection, but it is simply notworth gambling with your life.Queensland Rail’s Community Engagementteam interacts with thousands of peopleevery year in community groups, atshopping centres, events and shows suchas the Ekka, educating the communityabout the very real danger in ignoring levelcrossing warnings. Last financial year theteam saw over 140,000 students in schoolsacross Queensland, highlighting theimportance of being smart around tracksand trains.Community Engagement Officers hopethat the students will not only personallyheed the warnings, but will take theinformation home to their families as well.A train moving at just60 or 80 km/h can takekilometres to stopCentral and North Queensland residentshad the opportunity for an up-close lookat rail safety in June and July last year,when the Community Engagement teambrought a smashed car display to fiveshows around the region. While the vehicleitself had not been involved in a levelcrossing collision, it was a graphic warningof the typical result of a train striking acar, and a stark reminder to locals not toignore signs, lights or boom gates at levelcrossings.Before you take a risk around levelcrossings or railway lines, take the timeto think about the consequences. Don’tgamble with your life at level crossings.embark11

The Fraser Coast...where nature comes aliveStunningly diverse, the Fraser Coast is a gateway to Fraser Island wheretowering rainforests, pristine freshwater streams and talc-white sandcontrast with blue-green lakes and coloured sand cliffs. Developed over800,000 years, the world’s largest sand island provides sanctuary for some350 species of birds, wallabies, possums, echidnas and Australia’s purestdingoes.The Fraser Coast’s protected waters offHervey Bay offer a natural playground forthousands of the majestic creatures and thebest up-close and personal whale watchingencounters in the world. It is also home todwarf minke, false killer, southern right andmany other whale species as well as raredolphins, dugongs and six of the world’s sevenspecies of marine turtles.Located between Fraser Island and themainland is the Great Sandy Strait featuringmarine and coastal wetlands, turquoisewaters, native woodlands, rainforest and astunning coastline of white sandy beaches.Fishing, boating, camping, bushwalking andbird watching are all perfect ways to enjoy thetranquility of the charming coastal hamlets.The destination’s splendour is not confined tothe coast, with an array of hinterland hideawaysadding to the magic and a joy to exploreoffering historical buildings, arts and crafts,country pubs, home-made macadamia treats,rolling hills of sugar cane and pineapple farms;along with great camping and fishing.Uniting the iconic natural wonders of theWorld Heritage-listed Fraser Island andGreat Barrier Reef, the Fraser Coast offersan unbeatable mix of eco and lifestyleexperiences.PLAY.Hervey Bay Seafood Festival –11 August 2013The Hervey Bay Seafood Festival celebratesthe variety and abundance of fabulous wildcatch seafood from the pristine waters of theGreat Sandy and Fraser Island region. Thisannual festival is the ultimate seafood escapefor a weekend on the wild side with seafoodfor every occasion, capturing a breathtakingarray of seafood dishes headlined by the worldfamous Hervey Bay scallop. Relax with friendson the lawn under the shady trees and takein the sweeping views of the bay with a strollalong the breakwater.Photos courtesy of Tourism Queensland

STAY.Kingfisher Bay ResortWorld Heritage-listed Fraser Island is a rareand beautiful holiday destination wherethe island’s untamed wilderness and ruggednatural charm entices but also provides arelaxing atmosphere from your base at thebeautiful, eco-friendly Kingfisher Bay Resort.This stunning property, complete with mirrorlakes and waterholes, blends seamlesslywith the island’s sensitive ecologicalsystems. Savour the flavour of bush tucker atKingfisher’s signature restaurant Seabelle.Ramada Hervey BaySituated by the Marina, the 4.5 star RamadaHervey Bay provides the ideal location toenjoy all the natural wonders of the sunnyFraser Coast. Studio rooms and suites allhave balconies or courtyards with mostoverlooking the impressive 42-metreswimming and spa pool. Dine at SmokeyJoe’s Café to enjoy Ramada’s signature Tasteof the Bays Seafood Platter.EAT.The Pavilion by the PierCharming and magical this beautifullydesigned venue is simple and elegant offeringan intimate dinner or boutique reception, withtailor-made menu’s to suit. The Pavilion by thePier is ideally set for those memorable photoswith delicious cuisine. With a premier locationof absolute beachfront overlooking the oceanand within walking distance to a selection ofaccommodation options, no other venue onthe Fraser Coast offers so much.Readers BonusOne lucky Embark reader will be inwith a chance to win a 2 night getawayto the Fraser Coast thanks to RamadaHervey Bay.** 2 nights in a Suite at Ramada HerveyBay PLUS enjoy the signature Taste ofthe Bays Seafood Platter, and a bottle ofOyster Bay wine at Smokey Joe’s Café.To enter and for all terms and conditions,visit: www.queenslandrailtravel.com.auGETTING THERE.Hervey Bay Gourmet MasterClassSet off for a culinary adventure thatbrings together superb food anda scenic destination. The pristinewaters of the Fraser Coast produce anabundant catch and the Hervey BaySeafood Festival celebrates it all withstalls, displays, demonstrations andAustralia’s biggest seafood picnic!Inclusions• Return Business Seat from Brisbaneto Maryborough West onboard theTilt Train with coach connections fromMaryborough West to Hervey Bay• 3 nights in a Studio Room at RamadaHervey Bay• Discover Kingfisher Bay Resort FraserIsland with a Bush Tucker Lunch atSeabelle with Fraser Explorer Tours• MasterClass interactive cookingdemonstration and dinner at ThePavilion by the Pier accompanied bymatching Sirromet Wines• Hervey Bay Seafood Festival & Taste ofthe Bay Long Lunch• Hosted by celebrity executive chefAndrew MiroschDeparts Friday 9 Aug 2013from $1299ppTerms and conditions: price per person twin share,subject to availability with minimum numbers requiredfor this tour to operate.For more information visitqueenslandrailtravel.com.auor call 1300 139 812embark13

TheBIGGESTShow on EarthBy Celeste MitchellWitnessing majestic humpback whalesas they play in Hervey Bay should be oneveryone’s bucket list.I’ve heard the stories. The onesthat say Hervey Bay is the bestplace in the world to have aclose encounter with humpbackwhales. How they literally nudgethe boats. And also what anemotional experience it can be.But it’s more than just a tale.The reality of the experience isbeyond anything you could everimagine, and at least one of mytravel companions is alreadyconsidering a career change tobecome a whale watch operator.The naming of the boat That’s Awesomemust have been the biggest no-brainerin history. I have to stop myself fromclaiming “that’s awesome” every timea whale rolls its magnificent bodyalongside the boat and pops up to sayhello for embarrassment at having suchan obviously limited dialect when itcomes to expressing emotion.Heading out three times daily, Brian andJill Perry’s speedy vessel gets you out tothe whales quickly and with only a smallgroup on board we’re as close as you canget to the action.We’re encouraged to wave, clap andcheer to attract the whales’ attentionand I don’t know if it’s due to all thewhooping and cheering from oneparticular male passenger on board, butthey really do stop and pay attention.At one point we have four amazinghumpbacks gliding and waving theirway around the boat as we run from sideto side with feeble attempts to snap awinning photo.The whales get so close in fact, thatThat’s Awesome bears a scratch downone side from the barnacles on a whale’spectoral fin.Photos courtesy of Tourism Queensland

The whale viewing season runsapproximately June to Novemberand there are a great range oftours available. For weekend breaksand more package informationcontact a Queensland Rail TravelCentre, call 1800 627 655 or visitqueenslandrailtravel.com.auYou can’t help but feel privileged tobe able to share some time with thesegentle giants of the sea – like you’vegot an exclusive backstage pass to theirworld stage. It’s true that whales arespotted all along the Australian eastcoast, but it’s here in Hervey Bay wherethey take time out to relax and play, andteach their new calves the moves.From July to November, the bay isdefinitely the place to be to witnessthousands of beautiful humpback whalesas they make their 10,000km migrationand put on a show not to be missed.Hervey Bay may run at a more relaxedpace, but it’s got all the elements youneed for a perfect seaside getaway –gorgeous sunny days, a walkway thatmeanders its way along the kilometersof coastline, just calling for you totake a walk with friends or hire a nattyfour-seater bike to cruise along in, andperhaps more surprisingly, incrediblefood.Eight-month-old hotspot, CoastRestaurant and Bar, is most certainlythe place to be if you’re looking for thebest meal of your life. Positioned on theesplanade, Coast fuses views across thecalm waters of the bay with a relaxedfront deck, slick bar and intimate diningroom.Designed to share between two tofour people, the slow roasted lambshoulder with relish is to die for andtheir cocktail list has me wishing I wasa local so I could slowly work my wayright through it.Perhaps my friend isn’t so silly to considera swift career change after all.For more information go towww.queensland.com/whalesembark15

Getting Queenslandback on track afterthe wild weatherTrack damage - North BundabergRepairing track and overhead lines - North BundabergBridge approach repaired - North Bundaberg17embark

North Coast LineOn the North Coast Line, which runs fromBrisbane to Cairns, many sites betweenBrisbane and Gladstone sustainedsignificant damage including tracks washedaway, loss of overhead power and damageto signalling and other equipment.Queensland Rail progressively openedsections of the rail line to passenger andfreight trains as they were repaired.In less than two weeks after the disastrouslong weekend, the line was open todiesel trains between Brisbane andCairns allowing much needed groceries,household and building supplies to getthrough to the north.Extensive damage to overhead powerlineswas repaired by the middle of February,permitting electric train services to resumebetween Brisbane and Rockhampton.Western LineQueensland Rail’s biggest recoverychallenge was repairing damage to the railnetwork along the Toowoomba range.A land slip that closed the Western linebetween the stations of Spring Bluff andBallard was similar in size and scale tothose which closed the range in 2011.It was some days before vehicle accesswas possible to the base of the recoverysite, to allow engineers to complete theirsurveys in order make decisions on how totackle repairs.As well as damage to the tracks at SpringBluff, about 10 kilometres of track wasdamaged on the Western Line to the southwest, in isolated locations scattered overhundreds of kilometres.Queensland Rail resources had to bedistributed between repairing flooddamagedtrack around Glenmorgan,Thallon and Laidley, and tackling thedamage at Spring Bluff.Necessary repairs included stabilising thearea around the land slip, replacementof train lines, testing track and signals,checking whether rail bridges have beendamaged, and removing the debris andmud from the tracks.Construction company Thiess wascontracted to work with Queensland Railcrews on repairing the line at Spring Bluff,building on the successful collaboration of2011.Mr Benstead said Queensland Rail wasable to carry out the recovery work toresume its vital services in an efficient,timely and safe manner.“Our experience and efficiency plays animportant role in helping Queenslanders toresume their lives after natural disasters.”To help those affected by the recent flooding, donate to the Queensland Floods Appeal 2013by visiting www.redcross.org.au or by calling 1800 811 700.embark19

MasterClassStep behind the lensA biography of wilderness and landscape photographer Geoff Murray;host of the Queensland Rail Travel Picture Perfect MasterClassI began photography as a commercialactivity about 20 years ago, initiallyselling images to Tasmanian Tourism.I gradually built up a good clientbase amongst book and calendarpublishers over the next few years.My aim is to present the landscape in thebest way possible without introducingfalseness. I live in Tasmania, a virtualphotographer’s paradise with stunningmountain and coastal scenery as well asbeautiful and unusual vegetation thathas strong links to the vegetation ofGondwanaland.Sometimes photographing Tasmania’swilderness is like viewing a prehistoriclandscape. I try to show what is at stakein the hope that people will realise what islost if we allow logging and mining to gounchecked.Tchupala Falls, Wooroonooran National Park,North QueenslandI began my photographic career witha Nikon film SLR. I then moved on to amedium format camera in the search forbetter quality images, initially using aMamiya 7 rangefinder camera and then aHorseman 6x9 view camera. View camerasare fairly rare in the photographic world;the best description is the sort of camerathat used to be featured in old westernmovies where the photographer uses adark cloth over his head. The camera has aconcertina type bellows and looks very oldfashioned but they have unique qualitiesthat allow exceptional control of depth offield. The photographer also has an imagethat he/she looks at that is both upsidedown and back to front so it takes a littlegetting used to.Once digital SLR’s had progressed tothe point where they could producehigh quality prints of a reasonable size(20”x30”) I retired the Horseman andpurchased a Nikon digital DSLR which iswhat I now use.I have photographed landscapes inseveral countries with the most stunninglocations being Arctic Norway, Alaska, theAmerican mid-west and Greenland. I havealso visited and photographed Iceland,England, Scotland, Wales and Irelandas well the Canadian Rockies and NewZealand. I am returning to Greenland,the most stunning landscape I have everseen, directly after this rail journey. Whata contrast!My style of photography has beeninfluenced by other Tasmanianwilderness photographers, including PeterDombrovskis, the finest of them all, whounfortunately passed away some yearsago while photographing the Tasmanianwilderness.I usually find a prominent, visuallysatisfying foreground and make it thefeature of the image with the backgroundbalancing it, although it doesn’t alwayswork and a lot of images find themselvesin the round bin!I feel you should keep your photographsas simple as possible but at the same timeOld disused hop drying kiln and tulips in theDerwent Valleypresent an image with impact. A commonmethod of doing this is to use a wide anglelens hyperfocally focused.The exposure and sharpness should becorrect, and the image content suitableand well composed.The most important factor of all is topractice being self critical. Poor qualityimages should be discarded. Photographyis a powerful tool for conveyinginformation, mood and feelings and itshould be used as well as possible.

Boulder beach at Lighthouse Bay, South Bruny IslandPicture Perfect MasterClassPack your camera and set off on the ultimate photographer’s excursion.Under the guidance of wilderness and landscape photographer GeoffMurray, you’ll be visiting some of the most photogenic spots in thetropical north, including Wallaman Falls and Paluma Range. You maybe lucky to see and snap a platypus, cassowary and other rainforestanimals in their natural habitat. Then visit the picturesque Town of1770 where you can explore the Great Barrier Reef and ride acrossdeserted sands onboard the pink amphibious LARC!Inclusions• One-way Economy Seat from Brisbane to Townsville with Virgin Australia• One-way Queenslander Class Twin Sleeper from Townsville to Miriam Valeonboard The Sunlander• One-way Business Seat from Miriam Vale to Brisbane onboard the Tilt Train• 2 nights in a Rustic Room^ at Hidden Valley Cabins• 2 nights in a Beach Home at Sandcastles 1770 Motel and Resort• Photographic touring of Wallaman Falls, Paluma Range, and surrounds ofHidden Valley• Photographic touring of the beachside Town of 1770 and Agnes Water withDiscover 1770 Tours• Full day LARC! Paradise Tour with 1770 LARC! Tours• Selected meals included• Hosted by Geoff Murray,wilderness and landscapephotographerDeparts: Brisbane Sunday18 Aug 20136 days from$2559per adultex Brisbane* Prices are per person twin share. Celebrity photographer on this departure is subject to change. ^ Rustic Room has share facilities, other roomtypes available. Minimum numbers required for this package to operate. Conditions apply, ask your travel agent for details when booking.Japanese Maple in the Japanese Garden in Autumn,Tasmanian Royal Botanical Gardensembark21

Making its journeyintoThehistorySunlanderturns 60From December 1924, when the railline to Cairns was opened, a steamhauled non air-conditioned trainprovided the service until 1935 whena new train called the SunshineExpress was introduced.The appearance of the carriages washighlighted with the use of varnishedexternal timbers. Internally, extensiveuse was made of natural Queenslandtimbers, to enhance the appeal ofthe carriages. Comforts for thatperiod included electric fans, electriclighting, and leather upholsteredseating with accommodationincluding sleeping berths for Firstand Second Class passengers andseating only carriages. The newDining Cars that were built for thetrain allowed passengers to dineonboard in 1930s comfort.It was the year of QueenElizabeth’s coronation; SirEdmund Hillary’s scaling ofMt. Everest and The Sunlanderpassenger train. It commencedon 4th June 1953 this new airconditionedtrain was hauledby a diesel locomotive andby eliminating the need tochange steam locomotives every 300kmsdue to the limited amount of coal theycould carry, the transit time to Cairns wasreduced from 45 to 41¼ hours. The seatsin the sitting cars were reclinable allowingan opportunity for sleeping or relaxing.The steel carriages provided a muchsmoother ride and the air-conditioningproved a popular means of transport inQueensland’s climate. Each of the carriageshad chilled water fountain dispensers,and onboard showers, a new luxury fortravellers who previously had to endurelong days being covered in coal dust withlimited washing facilities on the train.The Sunlander has made the journeyfrom Queensland’s tropical capital ofBrisbane to friendly Cairns for sixty years.This overnight journey weaves alongQueensland’s east coastline, providingviews of ever-changing natural scenery,such as the craggy, volcanic peaks of theGlasshouse Mountains to vast sugar caneplantations. The 1,031 mile (1,681km)journey, which meanders along theQueensland Coast to the Great BarrierReef and Daintree wilderness, takesapproximately 31 hours to complete.

HITLIST Our favourite tenGuy SebastianBrisbane Conventionand Exhibition Centre12 April 2013Australia’s most successful male artist, GuySebastian, is heading back on the road this Aprilfor his ‘Get Along’ tour. After nine successfulyears, Guy has earned a place in Australian musichistory as the Australian male artist with the mostnumber one singles.Make sure you get along to Guy Sebastian ... this isa show you don’t want to miss!Pre-purchase your tickets from TicketCentral atCentral station and travel on Queensland Railservices to South Brisbane station.Oklahoma!Concert Hall, QPAC18 – 20 April 2013In the early part of the lastcentury, Richard Rodgersand Oscar Hammerstein IIcollaborated for the first timeon a ground-breaking new“book musical” that went on to change the world.Their work revolutionized Broadway, establisheda new theatrical art form and confirmed Rodgersand Hammerstein as the fathers of the modernmusical. Now, to celebrate the 70th Anniversaryof Rodgers and Hammerstein’s original Broadwayproduction, Harvest Rain brings the enduringclassic OKLAHOMA! to the QPAC stage in an allnewproduction that is not to be missed!Paniyiri Greek FestivalMusgrave Park & the Greek Club18 – 19 May 2013Paniyiri Greek Festival will be held on SaturdayMay 18 and Sunday May 19 this year, makingit the longest running cultural festival inQueensland and the longest running Greekfestival in Australia!In Musgrave Park more than 30 food stalls willshowcase the tastes, recipes and secrets of foodfrom all corners of Greece. On the main stage,famous Greek dances such as the Zorba, Sirto,Kalamatiano and Sousta will be performed tomusic played on traditional Greek instrumentsincluding the bouzouki, tarabuka, lira and laout.Travel on Queensland Rail services to SouthBank or South Brisbane station.Nitro Circus Live!1300SMILES Stadium,Townsville25 May 2013Fresh from a string of sell-out showsacross the USA, Europe, Australia andNew Zealand, the Nitro Circus Livecrew will be bringing its incrediblemix of death defying stunts, mindblowingtricks and crazy antics backto 1300SMILES Stadium, in a showlike nothing you’ve ever experiencedbefore.Jump onboard The Sunlanderor Cairns Tilt to Townsvilleand experience all of theaction. Call QueenslandRail Travel on1800 872 467 formore information.Pre-purchase your tickets from TicketCentral atCentral station and travel on Queensland Railservices to South Brisbane station.Netball: QueenslandFirebirds V Waikato Bayof Plenty MagicGold Coast Convention andExhibition Centre26 May 2013Watch the Mission Queensland Firebirds take onthe defending ANZ Championship premiers, theWaikato/BOP Magic, in their first Gold Coast homematch for 2013.Sunday 26 May 2013 - Match starts at 2:20pmTravel on Queensland Rail services to Nerangstation for a bus connection. For furtherinformation on buses, please visit translink.com.au

Charters Towers Country Music FestivalCharters Towers3 – 5 May 2013Since 1978, this festival has grown to become one ofAustralia’s largest Country Music Festivals; and this year’s lineupwill not disappoint. Featuring Australia’s leading Country Musicartists and hosting one of Australia’s BIGGEST Country MusicTalent Search competitions, the Charters Towers Country MusicFestival is not to be missed!Jump onboard The Sunlander or Cairns Tilt to Townsville and join the Inlander fromTownsville to Charters Towers. Call Queensland Rail Travel on 1800 872 467 for moreinformation.Queensland Reds V MelbourneRebelsSuncorp Stadium1 June 2013The St.George Queensland Reds take on theMelbourne Rebels in the annual Indigenous Match.Get there early as the Reds celebrate Indigenousculture and see the Queensland team secure theirplace in the Super Rugby finals.Saturday 1 June 2013 - Kick off at 7:40pmPre-purchase your tickets from TicketCentral atCentral station and travel free on Queensland Railservices to Roma Street or Milton station.Queensland Caravanning andCamping ShowRNA Showgrounds5 – 11 June 2013Showcasing the latest for holidaymakers and roadtravellers, the show continues to be staged at Brisbane’siconic RNA Showgrounds in areas unaffected by the currentredevelopment.Reflecting the continued popularity of touring holidays across couples, families and retirees,the show will cater for the budget camper through to the deluxe motorhome devotee.The show will feature nearly 300 exhibitors showcasing the latest innovations, services, anddestinations, along with informative and entertaining seminars and displays.Travel on Queensland Rail services to Fortitude Valley or Bowen Hills station.State of Origin– Game 2Suncorp Stadium26 June 2013Bolshoi BalletLyric Theatre, QPACLe Corsaire: 30 May – 5 June 2013The Bright Stream: 7 – 9 June 2013The Bolshoi Ballet season comprises of 12performances in QPAC’s Lyric Theatre from30 May to 9 June. The company will presenttwo works never before seen in Australia, thespectacular 19th Century classic Le Corsaireand The Bright Stream, the first revival since1935 of the light-hearted celebration of sovietcollectivism.Pre-purchase your tickets from TicketCentral atCentral station and travel on Queensland Railservices to South Brisbane station.Cheer on theQueensland Maroonsas they take on New South Wales in the secondgame of the 2013 State of Origin Series atSuncorp Stadium on Wednesday 26 June. Will2013 see Queensland’s eighth consecutiveState of Origin series victory?Pre-purchase your tickets from TicketCentral atCentral station and travel free on QueenslandRail services to Roma Street or Milton station.embark25

FUNRating:Fill the grid so that everycolumn, every row andevery 3x3 box contains thedigits 1 to 9.15 8 38 6 9 2 56 1 9 51 9 4 8 67 4 2 32 7 3 4 66 1 79Rating:Fill the grid so that everycolumn, every row andevery 3x3 box contains thedigits 1 to 9.81 3 2 7 53 5 8 9 27 3 6 5 81 3 9 49 5 4 1 75 7 6 4 98 6 1 9 32Novice 0529© Lovatts PuzzlesSpot thedifferenceCan you spotthe eightdifferencesbetween thesetwo pictures?FINDAWORD 7 2 9 4 5 3 8 1 6 - Solar System4 5 6 1 8 2 7 9 3Find 1all 8 the 3 6words 9 7 2 listed 4 5 hidden in the grid of letters. They can be8 6 2 3 7 1 9 5 4found5 3in1straight9 4 8 6lines2 7up, down, forwards, backwards or evendiagonally. The leftover letters will reveal the mystery answer.9 7 4 2 6 5 1 3 82 1 7 8 3 4 5 6 96 4 8 5 1 9 3 7 23 9 5 7 2 6 4 8 1ASTEROIDAURORABINOCULARSCOMETEARTHELLIPSEJUPITERMERCURYNEPTUNEOBSERVATORYORBITPLANETPTOLEMYRED GIANTSEDNATELESCOPEWHITE DWARFSpot the DifferenceYFYMELOTPCTNovice 0766© Lovatts PuzzlesCan you spot the eight differences between these two pictures?RREAUSAFCTEUAOSNSpot D Athe T ODifferenceG B S UNPOFEPSOLUTIONCWRTEMITNORDAEEPNLACEESRVATELSMTTOIRRUPE7 4 2 6 9 5 3 1 89 1 8 3 4 2 6 7 53 5 6 7 8 1 4 9 24 2 7 9 3 6 5 8 11 8 3 5 2 7 9 6 46 9 5 4 1 8 7 2 35 7 1 2 6 3 8 4 98 6 4 1 5 9 2 3 72 3 9 8 7 4 1 5 6GINIRPETNLRHHDEUUSHEEWEOREAJBTSRALCONIBOCan you spot the eight differences between these two pictures?© Lovatts Puzzles© Lovatts Puzzles© Lovatts PuzzlesSpot The Difference - CartoonspotDiff056_Mime.eps© Lovatts Puzzles

M embQRI LifestyleershipBenefits of Being a Member of QRI– Save Up to $3,000 Per Year!QRI Lifestyle has been establishedfor 119 years and was originallyfounded by Queensland Railemployees. Over the years QRILifestyle has evolved to becomeits own not for profit entity.From grocery discount savings to fuelsavings, accommodation options andmore, you can save up to $3,000 peryear by simply being a member! QRILifestyle also has funeral cover optionsfor members who are eligible. Thereis something for everyone with diningdeals for the whole family, discountedtheme park tickets, movie ticketsand show tickets, as well as membercompetitions all year round.QRI Lifestyle is currently running a“refer a member” promotion and forall referred members the referredmember wins a $10 Gift Card as atoken of appreciation for introducinga member to the QRI Lifestyle family.For more information on the benefitsof QRI Lifestyle and how you canSAVE! money for your whole family,visit the QRI Lifestyle websitewww.qri.com.au or call 07 3036 0888.JOIN! SAVE! & ENJOY! EveryDay With QRI Lifestyle...Helping Members Live MoreFor Less!We look forward to you joining QRILifestyle. We have approximately8,000 members around Queenslandand plenty of benefits to enjoy all yearround. Join today and save tomorrow!YOUR CHANCE TO WIN!Win a week long Queensland escape to rememberthanks to QRI Lifestyle, Queensland Rail’s EmployeeBenefits Partner.“Helping Members Live More for Less”QRI Lifestyle has three wonderful locations for you to choosefrom! Whether you fancy a getaway holiday to Coolum Beach onthe beautiful Sunshine Coast, a snorkelling holiday at MagneticIsland or a relaxing break at Yeppoon, all of our accommodationoptions are perfect for a family holiday...just what the doctor ordered! To help make this happen, QRI haspartnered with Queensland Rail’s Embark magazine to give onelucky reader the chance to WIN! What are you waiting for?Enter today!Visit www.qri.com.au to enter or email marketing@qri.com.au.All you have to do is tell us in 25 words of less why you deserveto WIN a Queensland Escape to Remember!Entries close 4:30pm EST, 1 July 2013.Imagine getting up each day and taking everything in yourstride - not having to watch the clock and worry about deadlines!Some fun in the sun and taking the time to relax and unwind isembark29

Supporting those whosupport our communityQueensland Rail is proud to supportour top five charity partners, three ofwhich have recently changed afteremployee consultation.beyondblue, Guide Dogs Queensland, andthe Starlight Children’s Foundation will jointwo of our existing charity partners,The Prince Charles Hospital Foundationand Cancer Council Queensland.beyondblue works to address issuesassociated with depression and anxietyrelated disorders in Australia.Guide Dogs Queensland helps to equip,empower and educate vision impairedQueenslanders of all ages. Guide Dogs arealready an important community partnerwith Queensland Rail and work with us tocontinue to improve access to our stationsand facilities for the vision impaired.Finally, the Starlight Children’s Foundationbrightens the lives of seriously ill andhospitalised children and their families,throughout Queensland and Australia.Queensland Rail is excited to partner withthese amazing non-profit groups for thenext three years.Here’s some insight in to the incrediblework carried out by the StarlightChildren’s Foundation:Bella’s StoryRhonda and Alex had done all the regularpre-natal checks before the birth of theirfirst child Bella and were expecting ahealthy baby.Understandably the young couple wasstunned when Bella was born and shewasn’t breathing. The doctors immediatelyhooked her up to machines and raced herin an ambulance to the Royal Children’sHospital (RCH).“They were talkingabout a tracheostomy, agastrostomy, a jejunostomy...all I knew is that I had adaughter and they weregoing to do a lot of work onher.” – AlexBella, now 10 years old, has spent much ofher young life in hospital, particularly herfirst three years when the family actuallylived at the hospital. She has had morethan 50 surgeries, and has had to livemost of her life witha tracheostomy (atube inserted in herneck to help Bellabreathe).The StarlightExpress Room hasbeen integral tothe family andtheir ability tocope. “Bella lovesbeing in a happyplace differentfrom thehospital world,where she doesn’t have to think aboutbeing prodded or poked.”Bella’s favourite things to do in theStarlight Express Room are singing anddancing, and she loves doing the craft.Bella also relies on Captain Starlight tohelp distract her while she endures painfulneedles and breathing tests.“Bella was a person that wecouldn’t leave on her ownunless she was with someonetrained to look after her.The important thing wasthat Captain Starlight wouldentertain her and we couldjust sit and drop back and gooff into our own place for alittle while, and for me that’swhat I needed at that time.”– AlexThe Starlight Express Room has beena second home for the whole family,including younger sister Katherine as wellas mum and dad, allowing them all anescape from the stress of hospital life.“Being in hospital there are a lot ofawful memories, so it’s nice to have thememories of Starlight and the funny thingshappening in the Starlight Express Roomand just watching the kids be happy. Wecan’t wait to see the new Starlight ExpressRoom at the new RCH, we hear it’s going tobe even bigger and better than ever!”– RhondaVisit queenslandrail.com.auand select the Community andEvents tab to keep updated aboutsupporting our charity partners.Or visit www.starlight.org.au tosupport the Starlight Children’sFoundation.Bella with Captain Starlight

Thursday IslandCairnsQLDBrisbaneLizard IslandCape YorkPeninsulaCooktownCoral SeaBurketownKarumbaNormantonCroydonKurandaForsaythCairnsGreat Barrier ReefMagnetic IslandTownsvilleMount IsaCloncurryProserpineQUEENSLANDWhitsunday IslandsAirlie BeachMackayPacific OceanWintonLongreachEmeraldRockhamptonYeppoonGreat Keppel IslandHeron IslandGladstoneBirdsvilleWindorahCharlevilleMitchellRomaBundabergMaryboroughLady Elliot IslandFraser IslandHervey BayQuilpieCunnamullaThargomindahToowoombaStanthorpeGympieSunshine CoastBrisbaneGold Coast31embark

Holidays by DesignBook & pay before June 30 toreceive $100 off per person*Queensland Rail Travel designs intriguing itineraries based aroundunique events, fascinating destinations and special interests.Outback Gourmet MasterClassVenture on an outback journey of foodie discovery in great companyonboard the Spirit of the Outback taking in some of the iconic sights ofLongreach. Hosted by celebrity chef Andrew Mirosch.Hervey Bay Gourmet MasterClassSet off on a culinary adventure that brings together superb food and thescenic coastal destinations of Hervey Bay & Fraser Island. Enjoy dinner withhost Andrew Mirosch and Adam Chapman, Sirromet’s Chief Winemaker.Picture Perfect MasterClassSet off on the ultimate photographer’s excursion under the guidance ofexpert photographer Geoff Murray and take in the unparalleled splendourof Queensland’s tropical north.Dinosaur DiscoveryExplore history in a way most people will never experience and journeyon Spirit of the Outback to Queensland’s west embarking on an outbackdinosaur discovery.Authentic Outback ExperienceExperience Queensland’s authentic country outback hospitality on this fiveday rural farm stay. Experience the down to earth pleasures of life on theland at Bonus Downs homestead.Fishing the Tropical NorthIt’s the ultimate experience for any keen angler. Travel to one of the mostexciting fishing spots in North Queensland with Creek to Coast presenterand professional fisherman, Andrew Mirosch.North Queensland Gourmet MasterClassTake a foodie heaven experience to some of the unique treasures of thenorth. Enjoy degustation dinners and interactive cooking demonstrationson a journey hosted by celebrity chef Andrew Mirosch.Whitsunday Gourmet MasterClassOn this gastronomic getaway to the Whitsundays you’ll enjoyexquisite cuisine, fascinating touring and picturesque surroundings.Hosted by celebrity chef Dominique Rizzo.Departs Brisbane Tues 9 Jul 20134 days from $2079 # per adultDeparts Brisbane Fri 9 Aug 20134 days from $1299 # per adultDeparts Brisbane Sun 18 Aug 20136 days from $2559 # per adultDeparts Brisbane Sat 19 Jul, 30 Aug 20135 days from $1775 # per adultDeparts Brisbane Tues 18 Jun, 3 Sep 20135 days from $969 # per adultDeparts Brisbane Sat 14 Sep 20135 days from $2069 # per adultDeparts Brisbane Thurs 17 Oct 20134 days from $2279 # per adultDeparts Brisbane Thurs 14 Nov 20134 days from $2119 # per adult# Prices per person twin share. Celebrity hosts subject to change. Minimum numbers required for these packages to operate. Conditions apply, ask your travel agent for details when booking.*Offer on sale and to be booked and deposited by 31st March 2013. Valid for travel from 1st April 2013 – 31st March 2014. Regular cancellation and rebooking policies apply.For more information on the great packages featured in this edition of EmbarkDiscover and book all your Holidays by Design packagesor any Queensland Rail Travel packages please call 1800 627 655, visitqueenslandrailtravel.com.auat queenslandrailtravel.com.auor see your localor calltravel1800centre.627 655