'Time for Australia to be at the table': space industry opens up for students

A handful of Sydney students spoke to NASA's acting administrator Robert Lightfoot and CSIRO's chief executive Larry Marshall about the possibilities for Australian students following this week's announcement that the country will establish a domestic space agency.
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NSW police officer crashes into parked car, refuses breath test before arrest

An off-duty police officer has been charged with mid-range drink driving, following a crash in Sydney's North West on Saturday morning.
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Woman dies after stabbing in western Sydney home

A 30-year-old woman has died after she was stabbed in a western Sydney home in the early hours of Saturday morning.
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Girl, 2, found unresponsive on Hawkesbury riverbank

A child is in a critical condition after a near drowning in a river in north-west Sydney.
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Sydney Architecture Festival launches audio tour of brutalist landmarks

Architect Glenn Harper is one of the few public admirers of Sydney's off-maligned concrete heritage. Sadly for Mr Harper, his favourite example of brutalism in Sydney, the "bold and heroic" building formerly known as the Bidura Children's Court is under threat of demolition.
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NSW Bar releases smallest list of silk appointments in 24 years

A Crown prosecutor, a high-powered commercial litigator and two barristers who assisted the Trade Union Royal Commission are among a select group of Sydney barristers elevated this year to the prized rank of senior counsel.
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60 years ago today, Sydney's tram era came to an end

This story was first published in The Sydney Morning Herald on September 29, 1957
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Leo Schofield takes aim at SSO for failure to support same sex marriage

Leading arts figure Leo Schofield has lashed out at the Sydney Symphony Orchestra's board for failing to support marriage equality publicly.
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Sydney Dance Company gets overhaul as Walsh Bay Arts precinct redevelopment begins

The Sydney Dance Company on Thursday will announce a $7 million-plus refurbishment, including the creation of a new public performance space with Harbour Bridge views called the Neilson Studio.
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University of Sydney turns to crowdfunding to save its 'uni 2 beyond' initiative

An initiative at the University of Sydney aimed at helping those with intellectual disabilities has turned to the public for help.
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Bus driver convicted, placed on good behaviour bond for M5 near-miss

A school bus driver has been disqualified from driving for two years after a frightening near-miss with a semi-trailer on Sydney's M5 motorway nearly four months ago.
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Sydney Harbour Tunnel closed after crash between truck and car

Long delays are expected after a truck and car crash in the Sydney Harbour Tunnel.
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Email trail reveals costly U-turn on property lease by NSW transport chiefs

Senior NSW transport bureaucrats switched within two weeks from advising against extending a lease on RailCorp-owned land in Sydney's inner west to drawing up an agreement to lengthen it by 20 years, internal documents and emails show.
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Sydney Water employee Reem Yelda claiming discrimination after unwittingly posing for 'lubricate' poster

Reem Yelda was happy to be the poster girl for workplace safety. When she saw the poster, she broke down.
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Four arrested, cocaine found in car as police break up northern beaches drug ring

Four men have been arrested after more than two kilograms of cocaine with a street value of $1 million was allegedly been found hidden in a car on Sydney's northern beaches.
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Man, 35, arrested over Milperra hit-and-run that killed teenager Natascha Gadd

The driver who allegedly killed Sydney teenager Natascha Gadd in a hit-and-run was on a suspended license when he hit the promising soccer player, police say.
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Dramatic vision emerges of four men arrested over string of daylight armed robberies

​Four Sydney men are behind bars accused of staging a string of daylight armed robberies targeting armoured trucks.
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'Damning error' on form was made by public servant, not murder-accused husband, court told

A so-called damning error on a pension application form was made by a public servant not by a bouncer now accused of murdering his wife 20 years ago, a Sydney jury has been told.
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First metro trains arrive for new $8.3 billion line to Sydney's north west

The first metro train for Sydney's $8.3 billion Metro Northwest metro line has arrived and will be tested over the coming months as the start of services loom in 2019.
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Joel Woszatka, accused of murdering his mother, mentally incapable of consenting to forensic exam: court

A Sydney man accused of murdering his mother last week is mentally incapable of consenting to a police application for a forensic sample, a magistrate has been told.
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Record dry spell sends Sydney's water use soaring

Sydneysiders are turning on the sprinklers to save their withering parks and gardens amid temperature spikes and the city's driest spell in more than a century.
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Investigation launched into flight chaos caused by air traffic control outage

An investigation has been launched into an air traffic control outage at Sydney Airport that caused major disruptions for thousands of passengers after more than 340 flights were delayed or cancelled.
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Brochures 25 Sep 17

THIS week’s Brochures of the Week is brought to you by Wendy Wu Tours. If your firm is releasing a new brochure you’d like to make the industry aware of, send a brief description summarising its features and itineraries, including a PDF of the front cover, and contact details to brochures@traveldaily.com.au.

Wendy Wu Tours – China 2018/19Wendy Wu Tours’ 2018-19 China brochure includes 35 Classic Tours, Immerse Yourself and Deluxe Collection group tours covering China, Tibet, Nepal, Mongolia and Central Asia. Included are award-winning perennial favourites plus three new Epic Journeys including Epic Dreams, an overland journey across Tibet, Trans-Mongolian Journey, a rail adventure from Beijing to Ulaanbaatar and Ancient Lands of Central Asia, a voyage through five of the ‘Stans’. Added to this is a comprehensive variety of independent Private Tours, bespoke Tailor-Made Holidays and flexible Asia Stopovers.

Wendy Wu Tours – Southeast Asia 2018/19Formerly known as Vietnam, Wendy Wu Tours’ 2018-19 Southeast Asia brochure is brimming with inspiring journeys. Tours range from the discerning Deluxe Collection to active and experiential Immerse Yourself tours, plus Private Tours, Tailor-Made Holidays, Asia Stopovers and Southeast Asia river cruising options also included. With a new Classic Tour to Borneo, plus four new Immerse Yourself tours to Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar, this brochure highlights all the must-do and see locations of Southeast Asia.

Wendy Wu Tours – India 2018/19From the Himalayan peaks to the blue Indian Ocean, Wendy Wu Tours’ 2018-19 India brochure covers all touring needs across the vast subcontinent. The new 14-day Inspiring India showcases India at its most colourful. There are also two new Immerse Yourself tours to Nepal and Kerala. For those wishing to break up their journey, take an Asia stopover, and a great range of Private Tours and Tailor-made Holidays covers independent travellers.

Wendy Wu Tours – Japan 2018/19The visually stunning Japan brochure from Wendy Wu Tours offers three Classic Tour itineraries to the iconic sights of Japan and one Immerse Yourself tour with cultural and experiential touring. There is also a new South Korea extension and China extension to complement adventures in Japan, plus a range of Private Tours and Tailor-Made Holidays to Japan, South Korea and Taiwan for those wishing to embrace independence.

Wendy Wu Tours – Immerse Yourself 2018/19The range of Immerse Yourself tours from Wendy Wu Tours aims to help travellers dive into authentic, cultural Asia. Expertly designed, experiential and active, the tours travel to China, Tibet, Japan, Southeast Asia, India, Nepal, Mongolia and Central Asia. Tick off the big sights, but get off the beaten track in smaller groups, with more freedom. From trekking on the Great Wall, to hiking across rice terraces, staying in Ger camps and overlanding Epic Journeys — the choices are endless!

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Window Seat 25 Sep 17

AS IF the price of airport parking wasn’t high enough already, a UK man has added another cost to the mix after becoming fed up with travellers leaving their cars outside his Liverpool home.

Neil Junglas has made the news in the UK after wrapping a car with an entire industrial-sized roll of cling film after its owners took advantage of free parking in his street while they went on holidays.

Junglas, who lives about 4km from Liverpool’s John Lennon Airport, says he saw the owners park outside and then transfer their luggage to a taxi for the rest of their trip.

“I work at Costco so I went and bought a big roll of cling-film from there,” he told Metro.

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Hainan inaugurates Brisbane

HAINAN Airlines commenced operations on its new twice weekly Shenzhen-Brisbane route last week with the inaugural A330 service landing in BNE on Fri.

It is the first direct flight between the two international hubs, who established a sister-city relationship in 1992.

MEANWHILE, Brisbane Airport has signed a new sister-airport agreement with Chongqing Airport in China.

The partnership will see the two airports share expertise on operational, commercial and tourism market development.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed during Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk’s recent trip to China.

Currently there are no direct flights between Brisbane and Chongqing.

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Aussies explore Vancouver

FOUR Australian agents were chosen out of over 900 applicants for the Vancouver Specialist Famil earlier this month.

Joining four agents from the UK and four from Germany, the team of 12 embarked on the famil on 11 Sep and stayed at Pinnacle Hotel Waterfront and Sutton Place Hotel.

The trip tied in hotel inspections with sightseeing and activities, including breakfast with the bears on Grouse Mountain, visiting the Capilano Suspension bridge and a sightseeing tour through Westend and English Bay.

Participants took in 360 degree views at Vancouver lookout and experienced Flyover Canada, a flight simulation ride that creates a flying experience with wind, mist and smells flying through different parts of Canada, before taking to the air with a 60 minute flight with Harbour Air Seaplanes.

Vancouver Aquarium put on a show for the agents, including a specialist showcase and the opportunity to watch a seal show and engage with some of the creatures.

Agents worked up an appetite with a bike ride around Stanley Park (pictured), before heading to Granville Island for a Vancouver Foodie Tour.

The famil finished with a farewell dinner at The Westin & a jetboat water tour to Granite Falls with Vancouver Water Adventures.

The above photo was sent to TD by TravelManagers’ personal travel manager (PTM) Michelle Kingston, who was on the famil.

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Packed in BA, Shangri-La famil

BRITISH Airways hosted a group of BCD consultants and account managers in Singapore on a famil earlier this month, held in conjunction with Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts.

The group flew Club World (Business) class on British Airways and stayed two nights at Shangri-La Hotel Singapore and one night at the recently renovated Hotel Jen Orchardgateway.

Once in the Lion City, the group visited four Shangri-La properties, the Singapore Flyer and also took in Gardens by the Bay including the Skyway.

Pictured taking in the scenery while on the Singapore Flyer are, back row from left: Jeremy Sargent, Selina Lawrence, Jacqueline Ellem, Geeta Kalra & Matthew Pomeroy from BCD.

Pictured front are Jill Dunlop, Shangari-La; Melissa Lau, British Airways; Sandy Lee, BCD; Marnie Cleveland, BCD and Conrad Gabriel, BCD.

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AA FULL PAGE

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UK Turkey security

BRITISH aviation authorities have confirmed large phones, laptops, tablets can now be taken on board on all UK bound flights from select Turkey and Tunisia international airports.

Airports include Antalya, Bodrum, Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen and Izmir in Turkey and Tunis-Carthage int’l in Tunisia.

The relaxing of the ban follows UK’s decision in Mar (TD 22 Mar) to restrict the use of large devices from select North Africa and Middle East airport.

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WS/HX codesharing

CANADA’S WestJet and Hong Kong Airlines have announced a codeshare agreement between the two airlines.

The move will see the airlines put the “WS” and “HX” flight code on each other’s flights.

WS and HK will be connect through Hong Kong Airline’s HKG to Vancouver service.

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Grossi Italy journey

THE Leading Hotels of the World has teamed up with Guy Grossi for an expedition across Italy’s gastronomic regions in 2018.

The 10-day Culinary Journey offering in May & Aug will includes stops in Florence, Bologna, Tuscany and Milan.

Guests will explore the history, culture and cuisine of each stop.

The size of the tour group is limited to 20 people.

Prices for the tour start at $19,995 per person twin share.

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Airbnb Milan trips

AIRBNB has launched its “Trips” offering in Milan, with over 60 experiences available to book.

Offerings include areas of fashion, design, food, and exclusive art galleries.

Milan joins Rome and Florence which already have the Airbnb Trips product.

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TD breaking news – Travellers Choice reveals TripADeal partnership

OTA to sell via Travellers Choice stores.

Travellers Choice has announced a deal with online travel agency TripADeal, allowing its members to sell TripADeal packages through stores nationally.

The partnership will see Travellers Choice members act as fulfilment partners for TripADeal, offering its full range of holiday packages as well as an additional selection of products that will be exclusive to the independent agency group.

Customers will be able to book and pay for TripADeal packages in Travellers Choice stores from 09 Oct.

“Travellers Choice and TripADeal are creating a new business model in which offline and online enterprises combine their respective strengths to generate new business rather than continually competing to shift customers from one channel to another,” said Travellers Choice managing director Christian Hunter.

See today’s Travel Daily for more details.

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Police officer faces court for allegedly filming sex with colleague on Snapchat

An off-duty Sydney police officer filmed himself having sex with a colleague on Snapchat, according to court documents.
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Sydney Airport flights grounded by air traffic control outage

An outage at Sydney Airport air traffic control has grounded flights in and out of the country's largest airport.
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Splitting construction of WestConnex's third stage panned as sales tactic

Separating construction of road tunnels for the third stage of WestConnex from an underground spaghetti junction at Rozelle in Sydney's inner west is designed to "de-risk the project" ahead of a sale to large investors, the City of Sydney claims.
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The fight is heating up to save Sydney Harbour's grand old dames

Most days the Lady Herron ferry passes the Sydney Opera House en route to its signature destination of the Taronga Park Zoo, the ferry driver toots the horn. Regulars on the ferry service joke the driver is saying hello to the Opera House CEO Louise Herron, whose great aunt was the Governor's wife for whom the ferry is named.
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Sydney father charged after allegedly leaving son in car on scorching day

A Yagoona father is due to appear in court after he allegedly left his young son in a car and his toddler at home.
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Sydney sweats through hottest September night as weather records tumble

Much of NSW would have felt like they spooned a hot water bottle last night.
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Sydney duo slapped with biggest ever fine for tobacco offences

Two Sydney tobacconist owners have been slapped with a record $72,000 fine for selling cigarettes in packages without health warnings.
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Same-sex marriage protesters clash - exchange verbal blows only

Protesters and counter-protesters have come face to face in Sydney as the debate surrounding the Australian Marriage Law Postal Survey continues.
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'Very nasty': Bushfire conditions as bad as 2013 blazes but three weeks earlier

As temperatures climb on another early-season total fire ban day for much of NSW, the latest fuel moisture maps show the region around Sydney is at least as dry as during big bushfires in 2013 - but three weeks earlier in the year.
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Harbourside rent overhaul delivers relief for Point Piper, pain for Panania

Sydney's most exclusive harbourside mansions including in Malcolm Turnbull's Point Piper suburb have had their rents for jetties and boat houses slashed by up to $15,000 a year, while the government collects more rent from south-western suburbs such as Peakhurst, internal government documents show.
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Sydney University staff and management reach agreement after six-month impasse

University of Sydney management and staff unions have reached an agreement over pay and conditions.
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Brazen Sydney heist as man allegedly steals five-carat diamond from Cerrone store

A cool customer allegedly swiped a five-carat diamond by swapping it for a stone of lesser value.
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Three men arrested for allegedly using cloned credit cards at ATMs in Sydney

Three men have been arrested for allegedly using cloned credit cards to steal cash from ATMs in Sydney.
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From Syria to Sydney's beaches where migrants are fatally drowning in large numbers

Syrian refugee Alaa (Alan) Alnseer, 23, has pulled the injured out of bombed buildings in war-torn Damascus, but after his first experience of rough surf he wants to stop drownings on NSW's most dangerous patrolled beach.
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Sydney weather: 'Exceptional heat' forecast as rainfall records under threat

Temperatures are forecast to soar into the 30s in Sydney, in what could be the city's driest September in 130 years.
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Industry Appointments 21 Sep 17

Air New Zealand has announced Nick Judd will become Chief Strategy, Networks and Alliances Officer from 02 Oct. Judd is currently Group General Manager Commerical. The airline has also appointed Jeff McDowall to replace Rob McDonald as Chief Finanical Officer. McDonald will leave Air New Zealand at the end of the year.

Wayan Warta has been appointed General Manager of Prime Biz Kuta Hotel in Bali. Warta’s experience has seen him lead the opening of Amadea Resort and Villa’s since 2011.

Next Hotels has welcomed Marcus Dudley as General Manager of the soon-to-open Sage Ringwood, Melbourne. Dudley has over 25 years’ experience in the industry and was most recently GM at Movenpick Hotels & Resorts in Doha.

Tom Wolber has replaced Edie Rodriguez as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Crystal Cruises. Wolber joined Crystal from a 28-year stint at The Walt Disney Company.

Express Travel Group State Manager Vic/Tas Vito Romeo has announced his departure from the retail group after more than 4.5 years. His final day with ETG will be 28 Sep.

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Window Seat 21 Sep 17

PIRATES took over the New Zealand city of New Plymouth over the weekend, a few days ahead of International Talk Like a Pirate Day on Tue.

More than 100 swashbucklers took to the streets for a pub crawl, invading 10 destinations in the city centre, according to a Stuff.co report.

It’s not just crazy Kiwis getting involved, with Fantasea Cruising this week decking out a fleet of water taxis and vessels with crew dressed like pirates.

“Ahoy me hearties! The Fantasea Cruising crew will use any excuse to have some fun whilst delivering our signature Sydney Harbour cruising experiences,” said Fantasea Cruising acting chief executive officer Wendy Harch.

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HTA’s top 5 growth strategies

HAWAII Tourism Oceania (HTA) Oceania has revealed that it will focus on five key strategies in 2018 to help grow the region’s visitor numbers to Hawaii.

“Australia is a very mature market for Hawaii so we have to continually reinvent ourselves as a destination”, said HTA country manager Australia Kerri Anderson at the 2017 Global Tourism Summit yesterday.

An increase in consumer branding and PR will include a stronger integrated marketing focus, major campaign pushes, increased social and TV focus and targeted messaging.

“TV continues to be a key decision maker in raising awareness and inspiration to Hawaii and we plan on doing more of this next year,” said Anderson.

HTA will continue to work on cooperative initiatives with both travel and non-travel partners, aiming to encourage multi-island travel, increase combined investment into integrated campaigns and drive shoulder season bookings.

“The travel agent is by no means dead in our market and we’ll continue to invest time into our trade education strategy, which will also include a new Hawaii rewards program for agents,” Anderson revealed.

Social and online will continue to play an important role in promoting Hawaii with plans to incorporate major digital campaigns and fan growth initiatives, as well as promote ‘Hawaii advocates’ through user generated content and social listening.

Next year will also see a focus on sports, edu-tourism, romance and luxury as part of HTA’s festivals, events and niche markets strategy.

In the meetings, conventions and incentives space, HTA says it will look to customise ‘only in Hawaii’ experiences for the Oceania market, as well as increase partnerships, sales calls and events and target new businesses including corporates and professional associations.

“Part of our emphasis for the next year is to bring more of Hawaii into Australia, so our market can expect to see more activity around the ‘Month of Lei’ promotions and Hawaii pop-up stores,” said Anderson.

Pictured at the Global Tourism Summit yesterday is HTA’s Oceania Team: Charis Ricafuente, Darragh Walshe and Kerri Anderson.

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Luxperience 2017 bonanza

LUXPERIENCE put on a dazzling awards night at Doltone House Darling Island earlier this week for 450 attendees from the global luxury travel sector.

The awards recognise the development and promotion of some of the finest products and operators in the industry.

Luxury Travel Advisors, United Kingdom took home the Luxperience 2017 Inspiring Award, while the Meaningful Award was granted to Shinta Mani Hotels, Cambodia, the Connections Award to Local Eyes Sydney, Australia and Destination Award to Beverley Hills Conventions and Visitors Bureau, USA.

Luxperience organisers have also announced dates for next year’s event – 16 to 19 Sep 2018 – with the venue to be revealed at a later date.

Award winners are pictured with Helen Logas.

Image credit: Camera Creations.

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Tempo escorts agents to India

TEMPO Holidays recently escorted an agent famil to India to experience the diversity and cultural wonders of the country.

The group started their trip in Delhi before visiting the Taj Mahal and a sightseeing tour of Agra.

There was also time to experience Jaipur, which included an excursion to Amber Fort and Jodhpur, before rapping up the jam-packed trip in Udaipur.

Pictured: Breeanna Fuller, Tempo; Fionna Oakley, Flight Centre Eastland; Michelle Deunhouwer, Helloworld Mackay; Jillian Carmody, Leongatha Travel and Cruise; Amy Telford, RAA Travel Adelaide; Gina-Marie, Salas Our Vacation Centre; Linda Osborne-Maguire, RACT Travel Rosny; Louise Kinkead, Flight Centre Kotara; Carla-Ann Marno, MTA; & Chandni Chothani, Tempo.

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QF Dreamliner exits paint shop

THE 615th Boeing Dreamliner and first Qantas 787-9 has rolled out of the aircraft manufacturer’s paint shop overnight donning Qantas’ updated livery (pictured).

Taking four days, the jet had over 250 litres of paint applied, including the new Flying Kangaroo colours.

Over the next few days, further tests will be conducted on the 787-9’s aircraft engines, electrical systems & other components before it takes to the skies for Boeing flight certifications.

QF pilots will have a chance to get behind the controls shortly before taking delivery in Oct.

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Meriton, Deliveroo

MERITON Hotels has partnered with Deliveroo to provide guests new room service options.

All rooms will have a Deliveroo menu, with guests calling reception to place their order.

Meriton will place the order and pay on the guest’s behalf, with the cost being added to the final room bill.

The service is available at select Sydney and Brisbane properties.

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Seatfrog upgrade

SEATFROG has partnered with Virgin Trains to offer auctions for rail upgrades.

The Australian mobile bidding platform will allow passengers to bid for First class upgrades right up until departure.

Auctions for First class seats open two-and-a-half hours before departure and cost as little as 5.

Some services will also have an instant “upgrade now” option.

The free application can be downloaded from the Apple and Android app stores.

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Hypercoaster debut

WARNER Bros Movieworld on the Gold Coast has debuted its DC Rivals Hypercoaster ahead of its official opening tomorrow.

The hypercoaster can travel up to speeds of 115kph over the 1.4km circuit.

Thrill-seekers can also opt to travel backwards for an added adrenalin rush.

Movieworld will hold an opening Cocktail event tonight.

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Canada super hot

AUSTRALIANS continue to hit Canada in record droves with 46,877 arrivals in Jul.

Visitors from Australia grew 3.19% from 45,429 in Jul 2016.

Year-to-date, the figures from Australia are up 17.05% to 207,823, compared to 177,558 arrivals in 2016.

British Columbia remains the largest entry point into Canada for Australians, making up 70% of all visitation.

Ontario had the next highest percentage of Australian arrivals.

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Atinae Afamiliona jailed for six years for machete attack on wife

​A Sydney man who attacked his wife with a machete, severing several of her fingers and "de-gloving" her hand, has been jailed for at least six years.
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$220 million per kilometre: Sydney to Newcastle rail line rejig to burn cash

Cabinet was told the benefits of replacing rail with light rail were low as half the costs, leaked document reveals.
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Sydney Open: the secrets of what really goes on behind closed doors

Underground. Overground. Wandering around the highest towers in Sydney or paddling through dank, disused railway tunnels in borrowed (possibly the wrong size) wellies. We can't get enough of it.
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'Like an episode of Utopia': Cultural icons caught in dramatic rebranding exercise by NSW government

Some of the state's best-loved destinations, including the Sydney Opera House and Taronga Zoo, have been blindsided by an order to dump their distinctive branding and adopt the NSW Government Waratah as their logo.
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Solicitor, pair posing as physiotherapists arrested over Sydney insurance scam

A Middle Eastern crime gang is suspected of carrying out $11 million worth of insurance fraud involving staged car accidents and faked injuries.
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Police ordered to pay legal costs as rape charges against two boys, 12, dropped

Two boys who were accused of raping a six-year-old girl at a school on Sydney's northern beaches have had their charges withdrawn, and have been awarded thousands of dollars in legal costs.
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Accommodation Updates 20 Sep 17

WELCOME to Accommodation Updates, Travel Daily’s Wed feature. If your property has undergone some recent changes you would like to make the industry aware of, send a brief description with an image to accomupdates@traveldaily.com.au.

Following an extensive enhancement, Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire will introduce its new restaurant Wild Carrot on Fri. The venue will offer country views through floor-to-ceiling windows and feature an open kitchen. A private dining area seating up to 25 guests will be available & an outdoor terrace. The library has also been redone.

Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach, which opened in Jul, is introducing a selection of dining and drinking options. Cafe Makase is inspired by Balinese street food and Pottery Cafe offers local specialty coffees, teas and chocolate. There’s also a cocktail bar called the Tree Bar and pool bar Cave Pool Lounge.

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Window Seat 20 Sep 17

THERE would be no getting sand out of cracks and crevices at this hostel.

The world’s first ever sand hostel has opened on the Gold Coast, offering a grand total of two accommodation spaces – an eight-bed dorm and one private double room.

The tourism stunt, sculpted by “Sandman” Dennis Masoud, was organised by Gold Coast Tourism and Hostelworld.

Hostelworld is touting the flakey creation as the “ultimate dream hostel”, but unfortunately the construction will only be open to the public until Fri.

Like any good hostel, the venue comes with a beachfront bar, but perhaps without the ability to easily hose off vomit.

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APT, Magellan barrelling along…

MAGELLAN Travel Group members and suppliers were treated to a sumptuous dining experience at the Sandalford Winery estate in the Swan Valley in Perth last week.

The night was made possible courtesy of APT which for the past six years has hosted dinners for conference attendees.

Before the feasting began, Susan Haberle, commercial manager for APT, praised Magellan members for their support, highlighting a new commercial arrangement with the group.

Haberle demonstrated the degree to which APT collaborates with agents in sharing consumer data to drive sales saying “we have data on your local area that can tell you where your APT and Travelmarvel clients are, what they read, what cinema they go to, how they like their coffee.

“It drills down so much into the granular and we can use that information to work with you on your sales and marketing plans.”

APT ran an incentive for Magellan agents at the start of the new financial year with 16 agencies taking home $1,000 each in marketing funds for achieving sales targets.

Pictured from left is APT Group coo Debra Fox, Magellan commercial & operations manager David Stafford, APT commerical manager Susan Haberle and Magellan managing director Andrew Macfarlane.

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10 years of TM, DriveAway pact

DRIVEAWAY Holidays recently celebrated its decade long partnership with TravelManagers by presenting the network with a Partnership Award.

The accolade also recognised the well above average year-on-year growth in sales made by the group over the past decade.

“TravelManagers is privileged to have exceptional, strong and effective relationships with key suppliers such as DriveAway Holidays at both national and state levels,” said TravelManagers’ executive gm Michael Gazal.

Blake Wiggins, bdm NSW & ACT, DriveAway Holidays, is pictured right presenting Gazal and Sandra Reucker with the 10-year partnership award.

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Aussies hanging loose in Oahu!

THE Australian and NZ travel trade contingent attending the 2017 Global Tourism Summit last night joined almost 50 Hawaiian suppliers for a Welcome & Networking reception.

Hosted at the DoubleTree by Hilton Alana in the Penthouse Suite, Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) country managers Kerri Anderson (Australia) and Darragh Walshe (NZ) welcomed the 20 Aussie and Kiwi delegates over ‘Mahalo’ drinks.

“Everyone has played a significant part in the Australian and NZ markets…you’ve started to make a difference in the marketplace and created those relationships which are very important to us,” said Walshe.

The recently renovated DoubleTree by Hilton Alana is ideal for business travellers, located at the entrance to Waikiki and a short stroll to The Hawaii Convention Center, Ala Moana Center and Waikiki beach.

The property opened its new Trees Restaurant & Bar this year and features a 24-hour fitness centre, heated pool, herb garden and 10 meeting rooms accommodating up to 200 guests.

Pictured above back row is: Eric Armenti, Doubletree by Hilton; Kerri Anderson, Hawaii Tourism Oceania; Michael Wilding, Doubletree by Hilton; JoAnn Erban, Roberts Hawaii and Casey Ballao, Speedi Shuttle.

Middle row: Clinton Yamashita, Doubletree by Hilton; Jennifer Cabasag, Queen Kapiolani; Judy Atha, Mastercard Travel Solutions; Charis Ricafuente, HTA; Valerie Okamoto, Hilton Hawaiian Village; Josephine Tedrowe, Doubletree by Hilton and Jacqui Walshe, The Walshe Group.

Front row: Andrew Yell, Excite Holidays and June Pagdilao, Hawaiian Hotels & Resorts.

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Air Canada crowns champions

AIR Canada was on hand as the major sponsor to present the winning team the iconic Goodall Cup at the recent Australian Ice Hockey League Grand Final.

Taking place at O’Brien Group Arena in Melbourne, the match was contested by Canberra Brave and Melbourne Ice who won the cup.

Air Canada will start flights to Hockey mad Canada and Vancouver from MEL on 03 Dec.

Pictured: AC sales manager – Leisure Rick Pomery and Melbourne Ice captain Lliam Webster.

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TravelCube agents in a spin

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Crystal Ballroom application

STAGE 1 of the development application for InterContinental Sydney’s proposed $200m Crystal Ballroom (pictured) and hotel upgrade, exclusively revealed by Travel Daily (TD 22 Nov 16), has gone on exhibition to the public.

The 916m2 ballroom will have a capacity of 900 seated guests.

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LEGO vr attractions

LEGOLAND Malaysia will introduce a virtual reality roller coaster ride later this year, which is set to be replicated at sister LEOGLAND properties in Florida and Germany.

The Great Lego Race will transform three existing “Project X” roller coasters into an exciting, high-octane experience.

Wearing VR headsets, guests will race against brick-built contraptions made by Pharoah, Surfer Girl and Pirate Captain, experiencing an environment where everything surrounding them is made of Lego bricks.

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FM on Hahn Air

SHANGHAI Airlines has become the latest airline to partner with Hahn Air.

Tickets for Shanghai Airlines can now be issued to customers via standard GDS ticketing process.

The airline flies to a number of destinations from SHA including HKG, HND, ICN and BKK.

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Sydney weather: 'Quite hot' conditions this weekend as NSW records in play

As Sydney temperatures climb into the 30s, 'quite hot' conditions will put NSW records in play.
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AY Germany boost

FINNAIR is increasing capacity into Germany to meet demand, including a new fourth daily service to Berlin.

The additional Berlin flight will begin on 25 Mar.

Furthermore the German capital will also be served with larger aircraft during the European winter season.

The Finnish airline recently announced that it would start flying daily to Stuttgart from 23 April (TD 04 Sep).

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Western Sydney University staff to strike over pay and conditions

Western Sydney University staff will strike for 3½ hours on Wednesday over stalled negotiations on their pay and conditions.
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Jess Miller becomes youngest deputy lord mayor of City of Sydney

Environmentalist Jess Miller has become Sydney's new deputy lord mayor of the City of Sydney, following a vote which pitted rival factions against one another.
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Knife pulled in Dulwich Hill heist of $1100 Kanye West 'Yeezy' sneakers

A high-end sneaker deal has gone awry for a young man who elected to conduct the transaction in a Sydney park.
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The 'ghost' candidate no one saw, elected to North Sydney council

There were no corflutes, no campaign materials, no local policies, no how-to-vote cards, and apart from their names on the ballot paper, seemingly no candidates anywhere to be seen.
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Government deciding on level of fines for trucks that fail to use NorthConnex

Trucks will face stiff fines for using Pennant Hills Road in northern Sydney instead of the NorthConnex tunnel under construction between the M1 and M2 motorways.
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Lady (Mary) Fairfax was Sydney's grand hostess

Battling the ravages of time and aged well into her late 80s, Lady (Mary) Fairfax continued to play the role of grand hostess inside her equally grand harbourside pile Fairwater, though the once famed parties became more infrequent.
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Brochures 18 Sep 17

WELCOME to Brochures of the Week, Travel Daily’s Monday feature.

If your firm is releasing a new brochure of which you’d like to make the industry aware, send a brief description summarising its features and itineraries, including a PDF of the front cover, and contact details to

brochures@traveldaily.com.au.

Tempo Holidays – Worldwide 2018/19Tempo Holidays has kicked off the release of its 2018/19 programs by introducing a Worldwide brochure. The inaugural edition samples the operator’s offering, including “the best of” Latin America, India & Subcontinent, East Africa, the Middle East and Europe. It features new product in India such as a tiger spotting tour and Charming Kerala Spicelands independent tour. In Latin America, there’s new Amazon cruises, packages with stays in an Amazon ecolodge and packages to explore southern Chile’s lakes and volcanoes.

Busabout – Europe 2018/19The 2018/19 brochure from Busabout, HAGGiS and Shamrocker Adventures has a new look, with 95% of the program designed using user-generated content. New stops through Portugal and Spain have been added to Busabout’s travel network, along with a trip to Bologna, four new Europe Winter & Festive itineraries, nine more Adventures, and a fresh Winter Music Festival itinerary. New additions include the two-day Croatian Adventure visiting Plitvice National Park and Krka National Park. The operator is guaranteeing departures on all trips.

Trafalgar – Europe and Britain 2018Trafalgar’s latest Europe and Britain program packs in a range of new additions with all 2018 Discoveries departures guaranteed to depart. New to 2018 are the 11-day Wonders of Italy, six-day Madrid Explorer, nine-day Great Iberian Cities, nine-day Best of Norway and six-day Berlin Explorer. Itineraries are split into eight travel styles, including Country Explorer, Discoveries, Regional Explorer & At Leisure.

Le Boat – 2018Le Boat’s 60-page brochure introduces a new route in Canada – the company’s first cruising destination outside Europe. Le Boat is also relocating its North American headquarters to Smiths Falls, Ontario ahead of the 2018 launch of a fleet of 16 vessels designed for multi-day outings along the Rideau Canal. Two new boat models designed for larger groups will be introduced.

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Today’s issue of TD is coming to you from Maui, courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Authority and Hawaiian Airlines. 18 Sep 17

Australian travel trade partners have enjoyed the weekend in Maui ahead of tomorrow’s Global Tourism Summit opening in Honolulu.

Consistently taking out ‘Best Island in the World’ honours, Maui offers something for everyone including an array of land, sea and air activities; world-class shopping & award-winning cuisine.

This morning Aussie delegates will visit Maui Ocean Center – The Hawaiian Aquarium, featuring over 60 exhibits and voted one of Maui’s top rated family attractions.

A stop at Ali’I Kula Lavender on the slopes of Mauna Haleakala will showcase over 45 varieties of lavender, most of which blossom all year round.

This afternoon delegates will enjoy a tasting and guided tour at MauiWine, located on ‘Ulupalakua Ranch.

And the final stop today will be at the Maui Ocean Vodka Organic Farm & Distillery where the only vodka in the world is powered by the sun, earth and ocean.

Maui also boasts a range of accom options to suit all tastes and budgets, with Aussie delegates sampling the Royal Lahaina Resort and Grand Wailea over the weekend.

More in tomorrow’s issue of TD.

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Today’s issue of TD is coming to you from Kennebunkport, Maine, courtesy of Discover New England and Avis. 18 Sep 17

KENNEBUNKPORT, Maine is a popular US holiday spot, with one of its many attractions being “The Clam Shack” which boasts the best lobster rolls in the USA.

Regular visitors include former US presidents George Bush and George W Bush who have a family compound here, while the region has a host of picture-perfect vistas, beautiful beaches and stunning waterways.

Maine numberplates showcase the state’s highly appropriate “Vacationland” nickname, with many other popular spots including Camden, Rockland and Portland featuring rocky coastlines and scenic lighthouses.

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Window Seat 18 Sep 17

EMIRATES have proven they know how to have a good time, celebrating 15 years of flying to Mauritius this year with a spectacular sand sculpture.

The airline enlisted the help of a local artist called Sanjay Jhowry to build a sand sculpture of an A380 on Flic en Flac beach on the western part of the island of Mauritius.

It took the artist and his assistant 48 hours of sculpting to finish the seven-metre long sand aircraft.

A timelapse video of the masterpiece coming together has been posted on Emirates’ Facebook page – CLICK HERE.

The work of art is pictured, complete with some intrigued bystanders taking in its beauty.

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The entries are rolling in for this month’s competition, offering readers a chance to win a trip to New Caledonia thanks to Aircalin & New Caledonia Tourism.

ONE lucky winner will receive return Economy class flights from SYD, BNE or MEL and four nights in a one bedroom apartment including daily buffet breakfast at the beautiful Ramada Noumea.

The Travel Daily team has been enjoying the entries which highlight something “typically New Caledonian”.

Entries for the competition close at the end of the month.

CLICK HERE to enter.

The post The entries are rolling in for this month’s competition, offering readers a chance to win a trip to New Caledonia thanks to Aircalin & New Caledonia Tourism. appeared first on Travel Daily.

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Pip Minchington from FCM dyed the hair of her friend’s 15-year-old daughter to match the “beautiful emerald waters of New Caleondia”.

The post Pip Minchington from FCM dyed the hair of her friend’s 15-year-old daughter to match the “beautiful emerald waters of New Caleondia”. appeared first on Travel Daily.

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Short and sweet: David Phillips from Travel Counsellors in Melbourne attached a photo of a beer and crackers.

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Above: Cheryl Ryan from 123 Travel Conferences in Buderim is hoping to relive the dream in New Caledonia by attaching her favourite photo from the beautiful island nation.

“LOVE the islands and drinking coconuts,” she said in her entry.

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New Cal comp going off

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Magellan celebrates in style

THE 2017 Magellan Travel Group conference reached a crescendo last Fri with a lavish gala dinner and awards event held at Perth’s Crown Towers.

Guests were welcomed by an elder from the Wadjuk Noongar people, the traditional custodians of the land, before Gavin Tollman, global ceo of Trafalgar, addressed the audience with an impassioned story about commitment to service excellence.

Co-sponsor for the evening, Qantas, provided a host of prizes before the awards commenced with Etihad Airways generously providing seven Magellan award winners with business class tickets to Dublin in time for St. Patrick’s Day next year.

Winners on the night were Ash Fabiani from Travel Experience.com.au and Chelsey Secker from Angas Travel, Christine Keighley from Complete Travel Services, Laura Noccioli from Travelrite International, Brooke McClune from World Corporate Travel and Fiona Caffrey from Travel Sense.

There was a fitting tribute to retiring Magellan co-founder Kevin Dale in front of the largest ever gathering of attendees with Sydney’s Hyatt Regency announced as the venue for the 2018 conference coinciding with the groups 10th anniversary.

Pictured above from left: Andrew Macfarlane managing director Magellan, Andrew Jones chairman Magellan, Kevin Dale co-founder Magellan, Trevor Jones co-founder Magellan.

Inset from left: Rachel Harding director of sales Trafalgar, Andrew Macfarlane managing director Magellan and Matt Cameron-Smith md Australia, Trafalgar.

For more images from the event, see TD’s FACEBOOK page.

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Arrest in Avalon after police find woman dead

A woman's body has been found in Avalon on Sydney's northern beaches and a man has been arrested nearby.
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Car on train tracks at Sydney station leaves morning commuters waiting at the platform

Morning commuters have been left waiting at the platform after a car crashed onto the railway in Toongabbie in Sydney's north-west, causing lengthy delays.
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Michael and Fadi Ibrahim to face court over 'drug ring'

Two brothers of Kings Cross nightclub figure John Ibrahim will face a Sydney court over their alleged role in an international drug-smuggling conspiracy.
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NSW government contractors accused of trying to slash workers' pay and conditions

Private contractors building the Sydney Metro Northwest accused of trying to slash the pay and conditions of tradespeople using a controversial pay agreement.
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One dead, one injured after car hits power pole in Londonderry

A man has died and a second man has sustained multiple injuries after a car hit a power pole in Sydney's north-west.
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Sydney lawyer sets Guinness World Record for running marathon in a suit

If running a 42-kilometre marathon sounds difficult enough, imagine doing it dressed in a three-piece suit.
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Fishermen look for help from above as fishing season begins

Dick Bagnato still remembers the day his fishing boat nearly crashed into Sydney Heads. He believes he survived that day thanks to the Madonna.
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'Vote no' sign written in sky above Sydney ahead of Yes launch for same-sex marriage survey

Campaigners against marriage equality have upped the ante, apparently employing a skywriter.
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German caught with 396 capsules among 45 charged with drug offences at Defqon. 1 festival in Sydney

Police charged 45 people with drug offences at Defqon.1 music festival in Sydney's west.
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Harbour Bridge closed for running festival

Motorists are being reminded the Harbour Bridge is closed for the morning as thousands hit the pavement for the Sydney Running Festival.
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Woman charged after man stabbed in Penrith

A 37-year-old man remains in a critical condition after a stabbing at a home in Sydney's west.
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Man critical after western Sydney fire

A 75-year-old man is in a critical condition in Concord Hospital following a fire at a home in Leumeah.
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Ivan Mauger speedway champ's collection to be auctioned by Bonhams

What Jack Brabham was to Formula One, so Ivan Mauger✓ was to motorcycle speedway racing. You name it, he won it. Six times world champion, three times world Long track Champion, twice Australasian champion in 1997 and 1981 and four times champ in New Zealand, his home country. No wonder he was voted Millennium Man of Speedway and selected to carry the Olympic Torch at the Sydney Games. He also received an OBE and MBE.
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Lou Lewis apologises for criticising doctor John O'Neill in Green v Mundine boxing match

Sydney GP who criticised the official doctor at the Danny Green and Anthony Mundine boxing contest has apologised.
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Vehicle 'black box' could shed light on fiery Sydney Nissan GT-R crash

Crash investigators hope a vehicle "black box" will reveal what caused a fiery car crash in Sydney's CBD in which three people burned to death.
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Travel Specials 15 Sep 17

WELCOME to Travel Specials, Travel Daily’s Friday feature. If your firm has released a travel special you’d like to make the industry aware of, send the details to specials@traveldaily.com.au.

Tempo Holidays and Swiss Tourism has agent earlybird deals on Swiss rail packages including up to $400 off with Tempo’s free upgrade to First class on select itineraries between Apr and Jun 2018. Call 1300 362 844.

Guests can save up to $500 per couple when booking a seven-day Great Ocean Road & Kangaroo Island Escape Guided Holiday with AAT Kings between 21 Oct and 02 Dec. Call 1300 556 100 to book.

Book a Jetstar flight to Japan and return home for free on select Starter fares between 19 Nov and 09 Jul. Sales ends 20 Sep. CLICK for more info.

Niccolo Chongqing in Southwest China has a special opening offer of CNY818 (AU$156) plus service charge and tax. CLICK HERE to book.

For today only, Hawaiian Airlines has return airfares to Hawaii from $799 ex SYD or $899 ex BNE. Travel between 27 Jun – 16 Jul . CLICK for more.

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CAPA Insights 15 Sep 17

CAPA Centre for Aviation today offers its latest exclusive infographic, presenting insight from its own data and external sources.

Tourism Research Australia announced the results of its International Visitor Survey for the year ending Jun, reporting international visitor spending finally topped the $40 billion mark.

Almost all markets assisted with the increase, except the UK which saw a 2.6% decrease as a result of a number of factors including the less-than-impressive performance of the pound.

Visitors from China increased by 9.5% year-on-year, but is the increase the result of targeted marketing or purely organic as the volume of China tourists increases? Keep an eye out for next week’s CAPA Insights for more details.

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Window Seat 15 Sep 17

MATTEL has put an end to many heated debates, confirming words like “arvo”, “crikey”, “biffo” and “shonky” are acceptable in Scrabble.

The toy company has launched its first country-specific version of Scrabble, Aussie Scrabble, and Jetstar has thrown its support behind the move by decorating one of its Airbus A320s with Aussie Scrabble livery and scrabble lingo inside and out (pictured).

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FCM ponders a smart future

ARTIFICIAL intelligence dominated discussion on the future of corporate travel at FCM Travel Solutions’ recent Sydney education event.

More than 100 corporate travel buyers attended FCM’s national flagship education event, FCM Illuminate, which showcased the future of corporate travel through innovation and technology.

FCM general manager Australia James Kavanagh said corporate customers wanted a similar experience and engagement to their leisure bookings, and that this would be powered by technology and innovation.

“They are demanding a new experience and we will see more use of smart data and machines continuing to understand humans, which will shape our interactions as voice search usage begins to accelerate,” he said.

“Generation Y and Z travellers are continually shifting to more user-friendly and open programs.

“The industry is responding to that and introducing chatbot technology to interact with travellers in a more meaningful and anticipatory way.”

The event also included a preview presentation on FCM’s upcoming chatbot Sam (Smart Assistant for Mobile).

Pictured during an Illuminate panel session are James Kavanagh, FCM Travel Solutions; Rob Sharp, acting group executive Virgin Australia; Rachael Argaman, ceo TFE Hotels; Jason Toothman, vice president Sabre and Andrew Flannery, head of corporate, FCTG.

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Tourism is Trump-proof

FORMER Deputy PM Kim Beazley was the keynote speaker at the Magellan conference this year, enlightening the 300 strong audience on his take on relations between Australia and the US.

The Ambassador to the US between 2010 and 2016 spoke of the importance of further trade and tourism links with the US, remarking that it was “largely Trump-proof” because “it’s a relationship which is run by people other than politicians and political leaders.”

Beazley quipped on his extensive political career that “the only portfolio I didn’t hold was Tourism and that was because all of my bosses decided I was not allowed to have nice things.”

He is pictured (left) with Andrew Macfarlane, managing director of Magellan Travel Group.

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Fairmont Seoul

ACCORHOTELS has announced plans to open Fairmont Ambassador Seoul in the Korean capital in 2020.

The hotel will be part of an integrated development by Parc 1 comprising a retail mall and two office towers.

There will be 326 rooms including a rooftop terrace and pool, plus a conference centre.

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Flexicar MEL, CBR

FLEXICAR has installed eight Flexicar pods at Melbourne Airport and two Flexicar pods at Canberra Airport, providing travellers with alternative to taxis and public transport.

The car sharing service allows members to book vehicles from one hour to five days.

Flexicar pods are located at Hertz rental offices at the airport.

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OzAsia Festival

THE Philippine Department of Tourism will support OzAsia Festival for the first time.

OzAsia is an international art festival, focused on Asia and will take place in Adelaide from 21 Sep to 08 Oct.

Filipino Enrique de Dios will headline the Lucky Dumpling Market event on 23 and 24 Sep.

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UNWTO appoints

HE ZURAB Pololikashvili has been elected to the role of Secretary General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) for a three year term from 2018.

Pololikashvili was previously the resident representative of Georgia at the UNWTO and Georgia’s Ambassador to Spain.

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TNQ trip planner

TOURISM Port Douglas and Daintree has launched its website, visitportdouglasdaintree.com, offering an itinerary planner designed to make travel easier.

The planner includes optimised listings, blog opportunities and links direct to booking pages.

There are also links to food and drink, activities, accommodation, romance, shopping, special offers, transport and more.

MEANWHILE, the $54m Cairns Aquarium & Reef Research Centre will open on Mon after six years of construction.

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Sydney Airport chaos continues after wild weather caused flight cancellations

Up to 30 domestic flights have been cancelled today after wild weather played havoc at Sydney Airport.
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Coach charged on Sydney's northern beaches for allegedly grooming teenage boy

Police will allege in court the man met the boy, then aged 15, at an interstate sports event.
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Strong winds cause about 70 flight cancellations and delays at Sydney Airport

About 70 flights were cancelled while 90-minute delays hampered some travellers.
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Sydney sonographer Samir Ishak jailed for indecent assaults

A Sydney specialist who repeatedly indecently touched his patients' breasts and genitals during ultrasounds has been jailed for a minimum of three years.
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Industry Appointments 14 Sep 17

WELCOME to Industry Appointments, Travel Daily’s Thursday feature which has the latest job appointments from across the industry. If you have just appointed someone to a new position and would like to update the industry email appointments@traveldaily.com.au.

Wendy Wu Tours has named Maral Karboushian as State Manager for NSW. Karboushian was previously State Sales Manager WA/NT for Excite holidays.

Anthony Hayes has jumped ship from Fantasea Cruising to SeaLink Travel Group as the firm’s Chief Operating Officer. Hayes will work to enhance synergies and build closer relationships with the trade.

Amiana on the Bay will welcome Alexander Voegl as the property’s General Manager. Austrian-born Voegl brings 20 years of experience to the role and recently worked at L’alyana Ninh Van Bay in Vietnam.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has been named as Patron of Business Events Sydney’s Ambassador Program. In her role, Berejiklian will support the efforts of Ambassadors in the program.

Avani Hotels & Resorts has appointed Alejandro Bernabe as Vice President Operations of Avani Hotels & Resorts. Bernabe joined the company in Jan.

Jason Westbury will be the Vice Chairman of the World Tourism Alliance. In his role with the new non-government organisation, Westbury will work to foster commercial exchange for all involved in the travel & tourism industry around the world.

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Window Seat 14 Sep 17

TRAFALGAR’S top sellers were the first to be introduced to a noun the guided holiday specialists coined at its grand soiree in Sydney on Tue night.

During his presentation to 100+ travel agents, Trafalgar ceo Gavin Tollman displayed a slide with a term for clients who shop around, earning laughter from attendees, being ‘Ask Hole’.

And it’s meaning, “A customer who asks for all your ideas and advice. Then takes your quote and books it online.”

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Air Vanuatu dressed up for FC

AIR Vanuatu recently took 67 Flight Centre professionals to the “Land of Smiles” for its ‘Western Wonder’ region team leader conference.

Highlights from the trip included an afternoon of activities with Vanuatu’s own Rio Olympic athletes, a progressive gala dinner and workshop sessions.

The national carrier also surprised delegates with t-shirts as a momento for the trip, which were presented to them once they boarded the plane.

Commercial mgr, Australia Paul Forbes said “as the retail group are a strategic partner of Air Vanuatu it was a fantastic opportunity to showcase what Vanuatu has to offer as a holiday destination and encourage Flight Centre agents to keep the destination top of mind when selling the South Pacific.”

Some of the delegates are pictured donning their new tops aboard NF’s Boeing 737.

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Agents explore Viviers with Viking

VIKING Cruises recently hosted 17 travel agents from Australia and New Zealand on board Viking Heimdal and Viking Delling to experience the popular eight-day Lyon & Provence itinerary.

The agents sampled some of the beautiful scenery and sites between Avignon and Lyon throughout Aug.

During the familiarisation, the two different groups enjoyed excursions to historical Roman landmarks of the Arles amphitheatre and the Pont du Gard aqueduct.

The agents tapped into their inner van Gogh at an Arles painting class and Avignon’s Palace of the Popes.

Back on board their Viking ship, they experienced its Culture Curriculum program.

Pictured in Viviers in Southern France: Andrew, Michelle, Rita, Debbie, Libby and Mindi.

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Magellan welcomes new members

MAGELLAN’S board yesterday gave an official welcome to 10 new members at a cocktail reception ahead of the group’s 2017 conference in Perth.

Having joined over the past year, the new members have come at a time of significant growth at Magellan.

Managing director Andrew Macfarlane said, “there are great things ahead for these members with Magellan, a niche, $1 billion group of 130 of the best agencies in the land”.

After yesterday’s welcome reception, members and suppliers today converged at the Crystal Club room of Crown Towers Perth for the official conference opening which was sponsored by Qantas Holidays and Tourism WA.

The 15th floor venue overlooks Perth’s city skyline and provided a stunning backdrop as the sun set and attendees mingled.

CLICK HERE for a selection of photos from the night.

Earlier in the day, delegates played a round of golf courtesy of Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, while others joined a walking and eating tour of Perth offered by Hyatt Hotels & Resorts.

The conference runs until tomorrow with a mix of sessions, networking and entertainment.

Pictured are members of Magellan’s board: Carl Buerckner, Penny Spencer, Andrew Macfarlane, Trevor Jones and Andrew Jones.

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AA FULL PAGE

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QR adds Cardiff

QATAR Airways will fly to Cardiff in Wales from Doha from 01 May.

The new daily service will operate with a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which has 22 Business and 232 Economy class seats.

Cardiff will be Qatar Airways’ fifth destination in the UK.

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Irma bypasses thl

TOURISM Holidays Limited (thl) has advised that there was no impact to its customers, team, RVs or sites in Florida in the wake of Hurricane Irma.

In a statement to the NZX, chairman Rob Campbell said there had been no negative impact from Irma due to it being the shoulder season and their property occurring minor damage.

“We are working with a few businesses to establish whether we can assist with temporary accommodation,” he said.

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AA Havana fury

AMERICAN Airlines is calling on authorities to disqualify JetBlue and Southwest Airlines from gaining any additional US-Havana frequencies after failing to provide recent traffic & load data.

According to an AA counsel, JetBlue did not provide any data required in its submission, while Southwest only submitted information from Feb.

The airline said by both rivals failing to disclose information, it provided an unfair advantage to compliant airlines after additional capacity on the route.

AA lodged an application on 12 Sep for 10 weekly frequencies between Miami and Havana.

This involves a daily service, plus three extra weekend flights.

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WA tourist study

TOURISM WA has undertaken research to better understand visitor experiences in the state.

The Visitor Experience and Expectations Research (VEER) 2016-17 reported that 99% of all tourists to WA were satisfied with trips, while Aboriginal tourism in WA was a great interest at 78%.

However only 21% of visitors took part in Aboriginal offerings.

The report also explored whether their trip to Western Australia was value for money, if they would recommend it to a friend and what their motivations and interests in the state where.

Nearly 20% of all tourists to Western Australia rated their holiday as “extremely poor” value for money.

Tourism WA surveyed 400 interstate and int’l visitors as part of the research, who stayed more than two nights.

The report can be viewed – HERE.

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SYD lauds Emirates

EMIRATES’ plan to launch a fourth daily frequency to Sydney from Dubai starting 25 Mar (TD yesterday) has been welcomed by Sydney Airport managing director and ceo Kerrie Mather, who referred to DXB as “such an important hub”.

“An additional A380 service provides even greater connectivity for our customers, making it easier to travel to Sydney from locations including Europe and North Africa,” Mather said.

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Sydney Zoo nod

THE NSW Government has given developers of a new $28m zoo in Sydney’s western suburbs the green light to proceed.

Sydney Zoo will be located on 16.5 hectares of land within the Western Sydney Parklands, near Blacktown (TD 15 Dec 15).

The attraction will feature up to 60 enclosures for about 200 animal species.

Nearby Featherdale Wildlife Park, which has welcomed 11.5m visitors over the past 43 years, was opposed to elements of the project, however it was rebuted by the NSW Government.

“The commission has found that the risk and severity of potential impacts to Featherdale and the socially beneficial programs that it offers do not warrant refusal of the Sydney Zoo project,” the NSW Planning Assessment Commission stated earlier this month.

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Wolgan mates rate

EMIRATES One&Only Wolgan Valley has unveiled an exclusive travel industry deal, priced from $575 per person twin share, per night (mid-week), based on a two-night minimum stay.

The promotion is available for stays between 01 Oct and 30 Nov, with a surcharge of $100 for visits that include a Fri or Sat.

Prices include meals, drinks & more – see page eight for more.

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MH KKs 787 plan

BOEING has confirmed inking a Memorandum of Understanding with Malaysia Airlines to buy 16 aircraft, consisting of eight 787-9 Dreamliners (TD yesterday) by converting eight of its existing order of 737 MAX jets, along with eight extra 737 MAX 8s.

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QF expands Osaka

QANTAS’ new seasonal Sydney/Osaka service which starts in Dec will be expanded to operate on a year-round basis following a “strong response” from 26 Mar.

The route will operate thrice weekly using two-class Airbus A330 aircraft.

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Scenic last-chance

SCENIC is offering a last-chance opportunity to secure its 2018 European river cruises with a series of special offers, including a fly free deal on select departures, Business class fares from $3,995 and early payment discounts.

The offers end 30 Sep – see today’s cover page for details.

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ASIC prying timeshares

AUSTRALIA’S corporate regulator is preparing to tighten consumer protections around the timeshare industry after a string of complaints about the sector’s value and sales practices.

The ABC’s 7.30 Report last night aired consumer accusations of misleading conduct and poor investment returns, and said the Australian Securities and Investment Commission was planning to increase regulation of timeshare schemes.

The program focussed on the sales practices of Classic Holidays and the experience of a Sydney couple who were charged a $21,000 membership fee.

They had been approached at a shopping centre and invited to a sales seminar in 2014, yet had not taken a holiday since.

“What people find when they arrive at these seminars is that they are subject to very high pressure sales tactics and they feel a lot of pressure to sign up to what is essentially a very poor value product,” Katherine Temple of the Consumer Action Law Centre told the 7.30 Report.

The program also spoke to investors in the Ramada Phillip Island Resort who said they had not received any income in the five years since the property was taken over by Wyndham.

Classic Holidays and Wyndham were approached for comment on the program, though had not responded at time of publication.

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World Tourism Alliance debut

THE World Tourism Alliance was launched in Chengdu, China this week during the United Nations World Tourism Organisation’s 22nd General Assembly, bringing together representatives from 137 countries including Australia.

Initiated by China, the organisation was founded by the chairman of the China National Tourism Administration, Li Jinzao and aims to push the global tourism industry forward and further facilitate cooperation around the globe.

Headquartered in Beijing, the WTA is a “comprehensive, non-government and non-profit international tourism organisation,” Jinzao said.

The WTA is comprised of 89 founding members (60% of which are outside China), spanning tourism associations, enterprises, research institutes & other fields.

The alliance will be led during its first term by chairman Duan Qiang, with AFTA’s Jayson Westbury taking the role of vice chairman (TD Tue).

Duan said “Following the vision of ‘better tourism, better world’, and the objective of promoting development and poverty alleviation, the alliance aims to enhance international exchanges and cooperation in the global tourism community”.

Speaking about the World Tourism Alliance this week, the Premier of State Council of the People’s Republic of China, Li Keqiang, said the Chinese govt was ready to pay close attention to, and greatly support, the growth of the alliance.

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MTG TTV up $42 million

DESPITE challenges facing the travel industry in the past year such as terrorism in Europe and the UK, as well as deflation in airline prices dropping yield, Magellan Travel Group posted Total Transaction Value of $925m for FY17, up $42m on FY16.

Announcing the result at the 2017 annual conference this morning, md Andrew Macfarlane said MTG reported profit of $8.7 million, down slightly on FY16.

Macfarlane said that costs had increased and this was “owing to planned investments on new resources delivered and deployed on vital areas of the business to support growth.”

Magellan was strengthened over the past 12 months with 10 new members and an extra seven outlets joining the group, “giving us a network of 130 agents around the country,” he said.

With the addition of these new members, Macfarlane said TTV for FY18 would eclipse the $1 billion mark for the first time.

MEANWHILE, Magellan Travel Group co-founder Kevin Dale was lauded at the annual conference in Perth this morning, having stepped down from the board.

Founding Gippsland Travel in 1975, Dale had held various chair positions throughout his career including ATAC, and is the current chairman of Cruiseco.

Macfarlane will take Dale’s place on the board having purchased the founding units & now having “skin in the game,” he declared.

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Magellan Signature pact

MAGELLAN Travel Group has announced a partnership with US-based Signature Travel Network, offering its Australian members access to more than 1,000 luxury hotels, resorts, lodges and spas.

The deal connects Magellan with Signature’s International Affiliates program which also gives customers exclusive privileges at hotels and taps into a network of nearly 100 destination specialists in 113 countries.

At the group’s 2017 conference in Perth this morning, Magellan managing director Andrew McFarlane said Signature’s benefits would be offered within the existing member fee.

“This makes Magellan an even better choice than ever for Australia’s leading independent agents,” McFarlane said.

“No longer will they need to pay to be part of a buying group, then pay again to participate in an expensive luxury affinity program.

“Magellan will be a one-stop-shop for both,” he said.

Signature Travel Network is a member-owned cooperative based in California, with more than 200 member agencies.

It previously said it would target Australia for expansion and last year signed with Magellan member Platinum Travel Corporation (TD 23 Jun 16).

Today’s deal is understood to have stemmed from the Platinum pact, which has been deemed a “significant success” by execs.

See more on p2, p3 and p5.

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Dozens of flights cancelled, delayed at Sydney Airport due to gusty winds

Up to 70 flights have been cancelled in and out of Sydney airport as strong winds buffet the runways.
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Man charged after allegedly starting Berowra bushfire on 33-degree day

A man has been charged after allegedly starting a bushfire in Sydney on a 33-degree day.
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Wealth is up but ABS warns more than 400,000 Sydneysiders are 'over-indebted'

The typical over-indebted household in Sydney is carrying $765,400 in property loans.
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Sydney weather: 'Extreme' heat lifts fire threat, puts records in play

A hot and windy day is lifting fire risks to extreme in parts of Sydney and elsewhere in the state in a burst of early season summer-like weather.
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Northern beaches model Bree Keller identified as third Sydney crash victim

A 22-year-old Northern Beaches woman has been identified as the final victim to have died in a fiery car crash over the weekend.
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Australia-first early intervention program for young people with eating disorders

Siena's family paid $250,000 for to send her to a US eating disorder clinic. Now a Sydney program is offering young patients the same treatment for a low fee.
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'Grave': New study finds significant impacts of coal mining in Sydney catchment

An independent study has found unexpected valley bulging and fractures reaching the surface above a major coal mine in the greater Sydney catchment, prompting WaterNSW to seek greater scrutiny of future mining applications.
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Fluffy, the beached great white shark, set free off Sydney coast

A baby great white shark nicknamed "Fluffy" that washed ashore like Ariel in The Little Mermaid on Monday has been released back into the ocean.
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Measles alert issued in South Eastern Sydney after infected person visits shops, eateries

A person infected with measles has sparked a local warning after taking a trip to a shopping centre, eating at two restaurants and travelling on two trains .
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Students sit first Catholic schools selective test

Isabelle De Gioia, 12, is among the first group of year 6 students to sit the test to get into newly-created selective streams at Sydney's Catholic high schools.
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Police still yet to formally identify woman killed in fiery Sydney CBD crash

Police will need to use DNA or dental records to formally identify a woman who burnt to death in a fiery high-speed car crash in Sydney's CBD over the weekend.
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Window Seat 12 Sep 17

HAVE you felt lonely in a hotel room and didn’t know what to do with yourself?

A Belgian hotel is offering pet fish to ease your solitude.

The Hotel Charleroi Airport puts a sign in every room saying “Alone in your room and want company? Rent-a-fish.”

Clients staying at the property can then request a pet fish from 3.50 a night.

Hotel manager David Dillen told The Independent the property rents a few fish a week to its lonely guests.

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Venice coming to Dubai

KLEINDIENST Group has revealed plans to build a “Floating Venice” – a partially underwater luxury resort – at Dubai’s offshore island project, The World.

The floating resort will have a capacity of up to 3,000 guests daily, with 414 cabins, restaurants and recreation over four decks, one of which is underwater.

Gondolas imported from Venice will transport guests to their cabins through winding canals, or alternatively travellers can take a stroll through canal side walkways and bridges.

The resort also plans to host festivals such as Carnivale di Venezia, Binnale di Venezia and Festa del Rendentore, which aim to recreate the Venetian spirit.

Construction is scheduled to begin in 2018 with completion by the fourth quarter of 2020.

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Rugged up with 50 Degrees

SEVERAL agents are being treated to a famil hosted by Consolidated Travel, Finnair and 50 Degrees North to Estonia.

Agents are sampling the product they would be selling to their clients back home, with a trip highlight for many being witnessing the Aurora Borealis over two nights.

Pictured are Rhett Martini, Martini Travel; Tracey Williams, Bayview Travel; Lex Noller, Noller & Turner Travel Associates; Anna Goffage, Terrace Travel; Devin Hunt, The Adventure Traveller and Lisa Amara, Finnair.

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TM’s record show and tell

THE TravelManagers 10th conference held in Darwin last week set a series of records, including for the largest “Show and Tell”, with over 60 brands participating in the session.

Next year’s event promises to be a whopper, with many PTMs already excited to be heading to Hawaii for the network’s 11th annual conference.

Pictured above are Kerrie Juric, Qld PTM hearing the latest from Lynne Clarke, MSC Cruises, while Michael Morrissy and Vicki Spencer from Allianz Worldwide Partners are inset.

The Qantas team are right: John Issaakidis, Anthony Deur and Marco Webb-Butler.

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CA adds PEK/ATH

AIR China will commence operations between Beijing and Athens from 30 Sep.

The route will be served with Airbus A330-200 aircraft and operate twice a week on Wed and Sat.

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iExpedition system

IEXPEDITION has debuted a specialised booking system for Polar cruises.

The iExpedition.com website will bring together more than 600 expedition departures to Antarctica and the Arctic under one roof.

Travellers will also be able to customise and filter their search based on time to suit their needs.

More in today’s Cruise Weekly.

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NZICC appoints

THE New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) has appointed Brooke Campbell from Melbourne and Kenneth Pereira from Wellington to the venue as sales managers.

Campbell will start on 13 Sep, while Pereira begins next month.

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EY website upgrade

ETIHAD Guest will be conducting website maintenance between 16 and 18 Sep.

During this time the Etihad Guest Program website will be temporarily unavailable and no flight redemptions or cabin upgrades will be processed.

The planned maintenance is part of a future systems upgrade, which takes place in a few weeks.

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Whits $7m funding

TOURISM Whitsundays has welcomed $7 million in funding from the State and Federal Governments to help the tourism sector recover from TC Debbie.

Of the $7m, $4.5m will go to infrastructure projects located in the Whitsunday Islands, Bowen and Lake Proserpine.

An additional $2 million of the money will go into the Tourism Recovery Fund and $500,000 will fund coral propagation research and coral gardening.

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Classification Board permits Sydney festival to show movie depicting children killing a toddler

The director of the Sydney Underground Film Festival could not watch one of the movies he included in the program.
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AB sheds Caribbean

BANKRUPT airberlin will end all of its routes to the Caribbean from 25 Sep because of cuts to its to long-haul fleet.

The oneworld carrier’s network included flights from Dusseldorf to Curacao in the Dutch Antilles, Cancun, Havana and Varadero.

AB will also close its long-haul ops from Berlin Tegal, which involves ending TXL to SFO and LAX from 01 Oct.

airberlin has previously announced that it would end services to Abu Dhabi (TD 05 Sep).

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