Queensland is good to go! The best Sunshine State getaways

There was a sigh of relief and a big cheer from Aussies this week when Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced the opening of the Sunshine State’s border to both New South Wales and Victoria at the beginning of December after months of closure due to the coronavirus outbreak.

From December 1, residents in greater Sydney will join others from NSW in being allowed to travel across the border into Queensland without quarantining, along with those from throughout Victoria. Speaking about her decision in a press conference recently, the Premier praised residents in the two states for abiding by the rules and getting through tough lockdown periods to help stop the spread of Covid-19.

“We know how tough this has been on families,” she said. “This is a great day. It’s exciting news. Queensland is good to go. We absolutely want to see our tourism industry continue to flourish and prosper.”

Shortly after the announcement was made, flights were being booked left, right and centre as excited Aussies prepared to jet off interstate to see their families and friends or simply relish their newfound freedom. Some plan to holiday as soon as possible, while others are looking forward to getaways in the new year after the busy festive season.

If you’re keen to explore Queensland, it’s your lucky day because Travel at 60 has a range of incredible holidays on offer, from quick and easy stays to longer getaways where you can really escape the realities of everyday life and recharge. You can view all Queensland deals here, or read on to discover some of our favourites.

Lady Elliot Island escape

Lady Elliot Island is located on the southern tip of Australia’s iconic Great Barrier Reef, about 80 kilometres north-east of Bundaberg and just north of Fraser Island. It’s regarded as one of the best diving and snorkelling locations on the Great Barrier Reef and is renowned for its abundance of turtles, manta rays, reef sharks and the entire cast of Finding Nemo.

Right now, there’s an incredible deal where you can stay five nights on the island and pay for only four. As part of the package, you’ll have use of snorkel equipment so you can explore the water surrounding the island (and a lesson if required), go on a guided reef walk (at low tide), enjoy a combined glass bottom boat and guided snorkel tour, and – if you’re travelling between November and April – a guided turtle nesting and hatchling tour.

The main goal is to provide guests with life-changing moments and world-class experiences through natural encounters, both above and under the water. Scenic flights to Lady Elliot Island depart daily from the Gold Coast, Brisbane (Redcliffe), Hervey Bay/Fraser Coast and Bundaberg.

Mooloolaba luxury stay

After a stressful and sometimes uncertain year, we all deserve to treat ourselves with a little luxury. And you can do just that at the Sunshine Coast’s 5-star oceanfront boutique resort in Mooloolaba. Situated directly opposite Mooloolaba beach, the accommodation is absolutely to die for, with a small movie theatre, heated pool, steam room and sauna all available for guests.

Meanwhile, outside the resort you’ll be in the ideal location to explore the town, with crystal-clear water and a sandy-white beach practically at your doorstep, a stretch of boutiques only a short distance away and plenty of fantastic restaurants to discover. Seafood lovers will be in heaven in this beautiful town, especially at the Parkyn Parade seafood precinct. It’s a working port and the best spot to source the freshest seafood in the region.

If this has you interested, click here to learn more about the two-night resort stay offered by Travel at 60.

Great Barrier Reef expedition

The Great Barrier Reef is by far the most well-known attraction in the Sunshine State, and for good reason, with beautiful sea life and coral creating a picture-perfect display. And what better way to experience its true beauty than on an expedition cruise.

Next month, two amazing seven-night adventures will depart from Cairns, taking passengers beyond the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef to discover abundant marine life, ancient cultures, seabirds and solitude. Here, you may spot sea turtles surfing in ocean currents and find Nemo nestled among the coral gardens as you swim, dive and snorkel at far-flung Osprey, Escape and Ribbon reefs.

Meanwhile onboard you’ll be accompanied by expert guides who can teach you all about the reef and what makes it so fascinating, while enjoying freshly prepared small-batch cuisine featuring the best local ingredients, along with quality local beers and wines. With an intimate atmosphere and renowned Australian hospitality, you’ll quickly feel at home onboard the ship.

Granite Belt mini getaway

If you love a good glass of wine, a getaway to the Granite Belt region is an absolute must. It’s a popular tourist destination for Aussies and overseas travellers, and best known for its beautiful scenery, delicious local produce and exceptional wineries.

For a quick and easy getaway, Travel at 60 is offering a two-night stay at the Granite Belt Retreat and Brewery, just five minutes from the gorgeous town of Stanthorpe. Set on 12 hectares (30 acres) of natural bushland, this country estate features 20 cedar cabins, a microbrewery and a bar and restaurant – truly the perfect place to relax and unwind.

During the day, why not venture to the nearby Jamworks and sample the delicious jams, preserves and real fruit ice-creams that are made on site? After a feed, you can burn off some energy at the spectacular Girraween National Park, with its prehistoric granite rocks, natural rock pools and unique wildlife. For dinner, there’s local produce aplenty at The Barrel Room Restaurant. Then, on your way back towards Brisbane, don’t forget to call into Aloomba Lavender, a stunning open lavender farm set on a 1619-hectare (4000-acre) cattle property.