What's News - Australia

'Crocodile Hunter' Steve Irwin Dies at 44 - 4 September 2006
A courtesy note to inform that from 31 March 2007, the Australian Government will introduce enhanced security screening measures to limit the amount of liquids, aerosols and gels that can be taken through the security screening point for passengers who are flying to and from Australia.
Carry on Baggage Restrictions
• All liquids, aerosols and gels must be carried in containers of no greater than 100ml/3.3oz capacity (approximately 100gm in weight).
• All containers must fit comfortably in a transparent, re-sealable plastic bag.
• The plastic bag must be no greater than 1 liter in capacity with a total outer edge measurement of no larger than 80cm.
• There is a limit of one plastic bag per passenger.
• The plastic bag must be removed from carry on baggage and presented to security personnel at the checkpoint for inspection and separate x-ray screening.
• Containers larger than 100ml will not be accepted, even if only partially filled.

'Crocodile Hunter' Steve Irwin Dies at 44 - 4 September 2006
Steve Irwin, the hugely popular Australian television personality and conservationist known as the "Crocodile Hunter," was killed by a stingray while filming off the Great Barrier Reef. He was 44. Irwin was at Batt Reef, off the remote coast of northeastern Queensland state, shooting a segment for a series called "Ocean's Deadliest" when he swam too close to one of the animals, which have a poisonous barb on their tails. Our thoughts are with his family.

"So Where the Bloody Hell Are You?" Advertising Campaign
Tourism Australia has launched a new international tourism campaign, which issues a uniquely Australian invitation to prospective travelers to experience Australia first hand ? 'So Where the Bloody Hell Are You?' This Campaign is a blend of vision, honesty and courage - it is brave on purpose. The campaign conveys that Experiences are the currency of the global traveler and aims to create immediacy and make Australia the next vacation of consumers.

Everyone loves Australia
US arrivals into Australia for 2006 numbered 433,329 - a 3% increase on 2004, and the first yearly growth witnessed since 9/11.

Latest Restaurant Recommendations 2007
Everyone has varying tastes and budgets where restaurants are concerned.  At Aspire we endeavor to offer a selection of new and highly recommended eateries.

Adelaide

The Melting Pot - Offers modern French food and an outstanding wine list in an intimate, relaxed atmosphere.  Newest chic restaurant in Adelaide and has garnered rave reviews - website

Brisbane

Ristorante Fellini - Located across from Palazzo Versace is this fine dining refstaurant serving classic Italian cuisine. Newest restaurant in the Percuoco family list of successful restaurants - website

Cairns

Nautilus Restaurant - Elegant dining based on modern Australian cuisine with a hint of Asian flavors using the finest fresh local produce set in a totally outdoor environment - totally unique and extremely beautiful - website

Melbourne

Tjanabi - Tjanabi provides diners with a true "Taste of Australia", drawing upon quality Australian produce and new workings of old Australian favourites. The menu includes flavours drawn from native plants, fruits and berries, matched with quality Australian game meats, seafood and regional produce. - website

Sydney

Rockpool - An established favorite, fine dining serving high quality Australian produce with an Asian influence with a focus on seafood.  Wonderful atmosphere and location - website Aria - Located in the heart of Circular Quay, a contemporary Australian menu inspired by a passion for savoring the finest seasonal produce.  Set price offered for lunch, pre theater and supper - website Icebergs Just opened and currently THE place to be, the new Icebergs restaurant has million dollar views out to sea and along Bondi Beach and delicious food to match. Book early and if you can't get in, have a drink at the groovy 70s inspired bar instead. Tetsuya's Routinely voted the best restaurant in Sydney, Australia and possibly Asia Pacific. If you are food lover, this is the temple you must visit but it's very expensive and you will need to book well ahead. Tetsuya's new location now has the site matching the stunning calibre of the food. - website MG Garage This unlikely theme restaurant (your table is likely be situated among stunning MG's of all styles and ages, all for sale), actually has fantastic food. The vegetarian is as good as the mainstream and everything is done with great care, style and thought. Service is also great. Guillaume @ Bennelong, Opera House How can you beat a beautiful spot that is part of the Sydney's best-known landmark? It looks over the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House as well as Circular Quay where you can watch the ferries come in. Great bar, too, for a drink and/or light meal before or after a performance at the Opera House. - website Le Kiosk, Shelly Beach, Manly Take the ferry over, walk to Shelly Beach for a great seafood lunch at Le Kiosk and ferry back. They also do fantastic fish and chips to take away and eat on the beach if you'd like a less expensive option. Hugo's at Bondi Beach Great, unusual food, great drinks, amazing view over Bondi Beach, very trendy - the beautiful people love it. It's consistently good but small, so best to book.