Slightly Famous on the Fraser Coast

Hervey Bay doesn't just attract thousands of visitors each year, it's also attracted it's fair share of celebrities throughout it's time too! 

Drawn to the town's charm, great looks and superb personality, Hervey Bay is now home to a lineup of Australian musicians such as Guy Sebastian - Winner of the first ever Australian Idol - and Adam Brand, one of our best known country singers.

And if you're into sport more than music you might recognise the name Nathan Hauritz, the Australian off-spin cricketer, who started his cricketing career with the Hervey Bay Junior Cricketing Association. 

If you're a movie buff you won't just recognise celebrities, but some of Hervey Bay's most obvious landmarks in some movies as well. Fraser Island has been home to two films; Eliza Fraser (1976) which highlights Fraser Island's history, and Jilted (1987) the romantic comedy based around a Fraser Island resort.

More recently, the region has spurred the filming of Fools Gold (2008) starring Matthew McConaughey and Kate Hudson, with Kate bringing (her then boyfriend) Owen Wilson to take some time out and holiday in Hervey Bay. During their time filming, Matthew & Kate were even spotted drinking in one of Hervey Bay's backpacker bars - a real treat for the guests!

And lets not forget to mention the movie Subdivision (2009), which was not only filmed in Hervey Bay but was remarkably close to home on plot topic which focused on the change a community goes through when big city developers come into the region! Cast members were very relaxed, joining in on yoga classes at the gym, shopping locally and heading to Hervey Bay's many cafes for breakfast.

So next time you visit Hervey Bay, keep your eyes open and your autograph books close at hand. You never know who you might see!



   

Travelling Solo on the East Coast

New friends are made every day on a Palace Adventures tour!

Many travellers along the East Coast are travelling solo, with Australia one of the safest destinations in the world to do so. Travelling solo can be one of the most rewarding ways to truly explore and make the most of your holiday. Not only do you have the flexibility to go where you want and do what you want, but people travelling alone are also more likely to immerse themselves in local cultures, meet new people and try new things.

The reason being, people travelling alone don't have the 'safety bubble' of the companionship of their friends. They don't travel with the same views, and they don't have the the strain of friendship arguments when differences arrive regarding travel plans. Solo travellers have the ultimate freedom ... but sometimes the ultimate sacrifice to make as well!

While travelling alone can be a scary thought and sometimes can feel quite lonely, it is a fantastic way to grow as a person. Travel is the ultimate confidence booster and a fun way to build new independent skills. Who knew what you were capable of until you tried? Travelling Australia is not only just a great adventure, but it's a great journey of self discovery too. Thousands of travellers every year embark on a holiday on their own - there's no reason you shouldn't too!

Here are some of the top travel tips for Solo Travellers in Australia:

• Stay in a hostel. Hostels are communal and will attract travellers from all walks of life. 
• Take a journal. You'll want to remember everything and won't have anyone to remind you!
• Join a tour group. They're a great way to meet people you immediately have something in common with.
• Avoid romantic destinations, or attractions encouraging groups of people.
• Carry a book. It's a great way to look busy in uncomfortable situations or when trying to avoid unwanted conversation with someone.
• Utilise hostel and touring safe/lockers for valuables when you haven't got anyone to watch your belongings. 
• Use common sense. If you wouldn't do it at home, don't do it when you're away!
• Get to know local cultures so you won't be misunderstood.
• Familiarise yourself with popular travel agencies or information sources for advice you can trust. 
• Don't be afraid to ask. Nobody cares if you ask a silly question and you'll never forgive yourself if you miss a great opportunity or don't fully understand something because you were too embarrassed to find out more.

More Information:

Your home country may provide helpful government websites and resources for travel, but in Australia it's useful to check Smart Traveller for travel advice, tips and helpful checklists for your journey.