General Information

Pre and Post Conference Tours

ONE DAY HUNTER VALLEY WINE TASTING TOUR - $145 per person

The Hunter Valley, 150 kilometres north of Sydney, is one of the oldest and best wine-growing regions in Australia. On your journey, travel through Sydney’s northern suburbs and National Parks, stopping for a morning tea of Aussie lamingtons. Visiting fi ve or more of the fi nest Hunter wineries you’ll enjoy cellar-door tastings and insights from well-educated staff . Stop for a special champagne tasting at Peterson’s Champagne House, before a gourmet lunch surrounded by vineyards. No wine-tasting would be complete without cheese, so you’ll also visit the Hunter Valley Cheese Company and take in a special private presentation of fi ve traditional handmade cheeses. As the day ends ‘special treats’ await you at the Hunter Valley Chocolate Shop (a great place to buy gifts for friends at home), before a leisurely trip back to Sydney.
Includes pick-up and drop-off from conference hotels.

Tour departure dates:

Departure Dates of Tour:
Saturday 7 July 2007, 8:00am – 6:30pm
Sunday 15 July 2007, 8:00am – 6:30pm

3 NIGHT REEF TOUR - $2930.00 per person twin share
(land only, does not include flight costs)

After disembarking from your flight you will be met with a Launch Transfer ready to take you across part of the beautiful Great Barrier Reef to the luxury Hayman Island. Once there, you will be checked into your 5 star Palm Superior Room for the next three nights. Wake up to a full breakfast each morning which is also included in your package along with use of all non-motorised watercraft including: catamarans, windsurfers & paddle skis; or just laze the days away soaking up the sun by the stunning pool.

On any one of the three days that you’re on the Island you will be able to spend a full day on a Great Barrier Reef snorkelling trip. The snorkelling trip includes snorkelling equipment, a buffet lunch, beverages of house wine, beer, juices & soft drinks, morning & afternoon teas, reserved seating in the captain’s lounge on the mid deck, priority bookings for subsea semi-submersible rides and glass bottom boat and a presentation by a marine biologist in the underwater viewing chamber.

On the final day you will be met by a return Launch transfer ready to take you back across the Great Barrier Reef to your return flights.

Departure Dates of Tour:

Wednesday 4 July 2007 – Saturday 7 July 2007
Sunday 15 July 2007 – Wednesday 18 July 2007

4 NIGHT ROCK TOUR - $2226.00 per person twin share
(land only, does not include flight costs)

After disembarking from your flight in Ayers Rock you will be met by a coach ready to transfer you to Desert Gardens Hotel. Once there you will be checked into your 4.5 star Queen Room for the next four nights. Wake up to a continental breakfast each morning which is also included in your package.

On any one of the four days that you’re in Ayers Rock you will be able to attend a 5 hour Uluru Sunrise and Base tour; enjoy a cup of tea or coffee as you witness the suns first rays strike uluru (Ayers Rock). Join a guided walk to the waterhole at Mutijulu, see ancient painted caves and learn of the regions geology and flora. Tour the base of Uluru , visit the Kantju Gorge, a sacred waterhole, old hunting ground and the cultural centre.

On any one of the remaining evening’s that you’re in Ayers Rock you will be able to attend a 4 hour Sounds of Silence Tour. Sounds of Silence is a truly unique outback experience of the best of the Red Centre. You will eat beautifully prepared food under the outback sky. A special location is chosen to where guests are escorted shortly before sunset. A didgeridoo echoes across the desert as you enjoy champagne and canapés. While the sun sets, and well into the starlit night, you feast on array of the Northern Territory’s culinary delights. A must to do while in Ayers Rock.

On the final day you will be met by a coach ready to take you back to Ayers Rock airport to meet your return flight.

Departure Dates of Tour:
Tuesday 3 July 2007 – Saturday 7 July 2007
Sunday 15 July 2007 – Thursday 19 July 2007

 

7 NIGHT ROCK AND REEF TOUR - $5156.00 per person twin share
(land only, does not include flight costs)

After disembarking from your flight in Ayers Rock you will be met by a coach ready to transfer you to Desert Gardens Hotel. Once there you will be checked into your 4.5 star Queen Room for the next four nights. Wake up to a continental breakfast each morning which is also included in your package.

On any one of the four days that you’re in Ayers Rock you will be able to attend a 5 hour Uluru Sunrise and Base tour; enjoy a cup of tea or coffee as you witness the suns first rays strike uluru (Ayers Rock). Join a guided walk to the waterhole at Mutijulu, see ancient painted caves and learn of the regions geology and flora. Tour the base of Uluru , visit the Kantju Gorge, a sacred waterhole, old hunting ground and the cultural centre.

On any one of the remaining evening’s that you’re in Ayers Rock you will be able to attend a 4 hour Sounds of Silence Tour. Sounds of Silence is a truly unique outback experience of the best of the Red Centre. You will eat beautifully prepared food under the outback sky. A special location is chosen to where guests are escorted shortly before sunset. A didgeridoo echoes across the desert as you enjoy champagne and canapés. While the sun sets, and well into the starlit night, you feast on array of the Northern Territory’s culinary delights. A must to do while in Ayers Rock.

On the final day you will be met by a coach ready to take you back to Ayers Rock airport to meet your flight.

After disembarking from your flight you will be met with a Launch Transfer ready to take you across part of the beautiful Great Barrier Reef to the luxury Hayman Island. Once there, you will be checked into your 5 star Palm Superior Room for the next three nights. Wake up to a full breakfast each morning which is also included in your package along with use of all non-motorised watercraft including: catamarans, windsurfers & paddle skis; or just laze the days away soaking up the sun by the stunning pool.

On any one of the three days that you’re on the Island you will be able to spend a full day on a Great Barrier Reef snorkelling trip. The snorkelling trip includes snorkelling equipment, a buffet lunch, beverages of house wine, beer, juices & soft drinks, morning & afternoon teas, reserved seating in the captain’s lounge on the mid deck, priority bookings for subsea semi-submersible rides and glass bottom boat and a presentation by a marine biologist in the underwater viewing chamber.

On the final day you will be met by a return Launch transfer ready to take you back across the Great Barrier Reef to your return flights.

Departure Dates of Tour:
Saturday 30 June 2007 – Saturday 7 July 2007
Sunday 15 July 2007 – Monday 23 July 2007

 

TOUR BOOKING TERMS AND CONDITIONS

• All tours are subject to availability at time of booking
• Full payment is due at time of booking for all tours.
• Some tours require minimum numbers to operate (The Sydney Skywalk Tour and the Sydney Bridge Climb Tour price is also subject to change). If these numbers are not achieved, an alternative program will be offered or a complete refund made. Certain tours will also have limited space, which will be allocated strictly in order of receipt of bookings. If these tours do not suit your interests or travel schedule, we would be happy to assist in designing a tailored itinerary to meet your requirements.
• Pre & Post Tours do not include items of a personal nature such as laundry, telephone calls and mini bar costs. Pre & Post tours do not include international or domestic airfares (unless specified).
• Spencer Travel, Sydney Wilderness Tours, Qantas Holidays & Tribal Warrior Association reserve the right to alter, amend or cancel any tour for any reason including safety, wet weather or road conditions

 

CANCELLATION POLICY

The following cancellation policies apply:
(b) Day Tours - Tours cancelled within 7 days of tour departure date are non-refundable.
(a) Pre & Post Tours - 50% of all monies paid will be forfeited if cancelled within 30 days of the tour departure date. 100% of all monies paid will be forfeited if cancelled within 7 days prior to scheduled departure date.

 

HOW TO BOOK

Please complete the Tours Section of the online Registration Form - please click here

 

CONTACT INFORMATION

For bookings or enquiries please contact Amanda Paki at Spencer Travel.
Phone: +61 2 9281 5477
Email: amanda@spencertravel.com.au

About Sydney

Considered the gateway city to Australia, Sydney is memorable far beyond its iconic landmarks of the Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House. A one of Australia’s oldest, largest and most beautiful cities, Sydney is surrounded by one of the most beautiful harbours in the world and a coastline sprinkled with golden beaches.

A vibrant city, renowned for its scenic beauty and cosmopolitan lifestyle, Sydney offers delegates the chance to experience the high life at a slow pace. From fine dining on the Harbour’s edge, bush walks that uncover secluded bays and breathtaking views, sailing around the Harbour, weekend markets in the Historic Rocks precinct or visiting one of Sydney’s 70 beaches, Sydney has something for everyone.

The stunning Sydney Opera House provides the perfect backdrop for photos on Sydney’s Harbour and is classified as one of the cultural hubs of Sydney, offering an extensive selection of dance, theatre, drama, opera and concerts to delegates.

Delegates will also have the opportunity to view one of Australia’s most photographed attractions, the Sydney Harbour Bridge. As the world’s largest steel arch bridge, the bridge is one of Sydney’s natural icons allowing delegates to experience the world’s finest harbour and views of the city.

About Australia

Endless miles of unspoilt beaches, tropical rainforests, mountain ranges and vast deserts makes Australia one of the natural wonders of the world, and the Conference offers you the chance to head “Down Under” to see what this amazing country has to offer. Where else can you climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge, see penguins on parade, be part of a camel trek, pat a koala and swim with dolphins but in a land full of powerful experiences just waiting to be discovered.

Australia’s varied culture is reflected in each of its capital cities. Each city has its own distinct history and own sense of charm, combining to create something for everyone.

Adelaide
Nestled between the sea and the hills, Adelaide is an elegant city of wide streets, original colonial buildings and parklands. It has preserved its heritage and links with the past and offers delegates a wealth of experiences whether you wish to stay in the city, by the sea or in the surrounding suburbs. Famous for its wineries, a short 15 minute drive from the heart of the city will have you indulging in the birthplace of Australia’s most famous wine, Grange.

Brisbane
As Queensland’s vibrant capital city, Brisbane is famous for its great weather and cultural scene and the centre point for a region rich in beaches, rivers, rainforest and mountain experiences. Brisbane offers the best collection of food, arts, entertainment and sporting events all with a relaxed sub-tropical flair.

Gold Coast
42kms of sun-drenched beaches, World Heritage Listed Rainforests, renowned theme parks, shopping and nightlife – the Gold Coast has everything! Spend your days shopping at some of Australia’s largest shopping precincts, take a swim in the warm blue waters of the Indian Ocean or sample the fine food on offer at over 500 restaurants.

Cairns
Cairns is located in the heart of Tropical North Queensland and offers delegates the perfect gateway to experience the natural wonders of the north, including World Heritage Listed rainforests and a gateway to the famous Great Barrier Reef.

Great Barrier Reef
The World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef is a site of astounding beauty and interest. Housing the world’s largest collection of coral reefs, the Great Barrier Reef offers a holiday destination for every type of traveler from budget accommodation to 5 star luxury resorts. Delegates can camp on Hinchinbrook Island or hire their own yacht to sail into the sunset through the magical waters of Far North Queensland.

Canberra
Canberra is Australia’s capital city, home to our Nation and less than 3 hours from Sydney. Canberra highlights the essence of Australia’s culture, history and lifestyle evident through its famous attractions including Australian War Memorial, National Gallery of Australia, Old Parliament House, Parliament House and the Australian National Botanical Gardens. A great destination for food lovers, Canberra offers over 300 restaurants, cafes and pubs showcasing local produce and wines.

Darwin
Darwin is a vibrant, tropical capital city perched on a deepwater port, offering a blend of cosmopolitan and city pleasures against lush scenery. It also acts as a gateway to other attractions, including Kakadu National Park, a scene of spectacular terrain and a wealth of Aboriginal culture.

Darwin is closer to Asia than Sydney, so it has the vigour and diversity you would expect of a city that is home to 50 ethnic groups. Along with Aboriginal culture, these influences help mould a unique restaurant, market and cultural scene

The region surrounding Darwin has some 20 national parks and reserves - some famous, like Kakadu National Park, and some hidden treasures, just as rich in dramatic beauty, wildlife and Aboriginal culture. Coburg Marine Park, Umbrawarra Gorge, Butterfly Gorge or Tjuwaliyn Hot Springs are just some.

Uluru
Uluru is one of Australia’s most recognisable natural icons standing 348 metres tall in the deep centre of Australia. The power of the ancient spirit of Uluru will overwhelm you as you stand at the base, explore the perimeter and understand how Uluru has become a treasured icon to the local Aboriginal people, but also one of the great wonders of the world. At the end of the day as the sun goes down on the majestic icon, you can choose to stay in five star luxury resort or pitch a tent and camp.

Melbourne
Melbourne, the cultural capital of Australia, is known for the good things in life - fashion, food, entertainment and sport. The capital of Victoria and Australia's second-largest metropolis is a city of style, of Victorian architecture, trams, theatres, art galleries, leafy gardens, inner-city excitement, and the beach Melbourne is a city for everyone with chic fashion stores, buzzing laneway cafes and bars, botanic gardens to sports stadiums.

Federation Square in the heart of Melbourne was conceived as a tribute to the first 100 years of Australian nationhood and now combines art, architecture, hospitality and stunning views of Melbourne’s riverside and cityscape into one location – a perfect starting point to explore all Melbourne has to offer.

Great Ocean Road
One of the world's most spectacular coastal drives, the Great Ocean Road winds along beside quiet bays, pounding surf beaches, tranquil rainforests, caves, gorges and blowholes. Stretching for some 106 kilometers, the route takes in the world famous Twelve Apostles, the starkly beautiful columns of rock set in the ocean. The route allows you to explore historic shipwreck sites and an abundance of wildlife

Perth
Perth, and nearby Fremantle, are among the most pleasant cities to visit in Australia. Blessed with great weather and fabulous beaches, these cosmopolitan cities boast top-class restaurants and attractions. Perth offers the essential ingredients one needs for a relaxing holiday. Kings Park occupies 400 hectares overlooking the city of Perth and the Swan River, only a few minutes from the centre of Perth offering an idyllic escape from the hustle of inner city life.

Rottnest Island is the perfect location for a marine holiday and offers delegates sparkling white beaches, crystal clear bays and coral fringed beaches. The island does not permit motorized vehicles, so enjoy the tranquility of getting around by foot or pushbike! Fremantle, a vibrant rich port city at the mouth of the Swan River, has been recognised as the best preserved example of a 19th century port streetscape in the world.

Fremantle is home to Western Australia’s largest collection of heritage listed buildings, many of which contain museums, offices, art galleries and shops.

Sydney
Sunny, sexy and sophisticated, Sydney is the gateway city to Australia. Sydney is memorable far beyond its iconic landmarks of the Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House. A vibrant city, renowned for its scenic beauty and cosmopolitan lifestyle, Sydney offers delegates the chance to experience the high life at a slow pace. From fine dining on the Harbour’s edge, bush walks that uncover secluded bays and breathtaking views, sailing around the Harbour, weekend markets in the Historic Rocks precinct or visiting one of Sydney’s 70 beaches,

Sydney has something for everyone. As one of Australia’s oldest, largest and most beautiful cities, Sydney is surrounded by one of the most beautiful harbours in the world and a coastline sprinkled with golden beaches.

Blue Mountains
On Sydney’s doorstop, the Blue Mountains is one of the most spectacular wilderness parks in Australia. These richly forested hills offer cliff top views across gum tree valleys and craggy outcrops, superb bushwalking, scenic drives and adventure activities Reaching over one million hectares, the Blue Mountains are an inspiring mix of rainforest canyons, tall forests, and home to some of Australia’s most breathtaking landscapes. Must see locations include The Three Sisters, Echo Point, Wentworth Falls and Jenolan Caves.

Hunter Valley
Only two hours north of Sydney the Hunter Valley offers an array of experiences that extend far beyond fine wine. Boasting over 80 wineries and cellar doors, the Hunter Valley is offers romantic retreats, quality eateries and gorgeous farming country. The Hunter is a visual feast for lovers of contemporary and traditional art and craft, with numerous galleries full on antiques, arts and beautifully crafted pieces. Add on a dolphin cruise, a World Heritage National Park and historic settlements and you can't go wrong.

Tasmania
Tasmania is Australia’s only island state and is known as the “Apple Isle”. Separated from mainland Australia by the 240km stretch of Bass Strait and encircled by the Southern Ocean, Tasman Sea and Bass Strait, Tasmania is an island of dramatic coastlines, rugged mountains and sparkling highland lakes.

Over one third of the state is reserved by a network of National Parks and the Tasmanian wilderness world heritage area. Tasmania offers you wilderness beaches, deep dark caves waiting to be explored, a combination of wilderness, art and culture, food and wine. River cruises, self-drive expeditions and historic towns make for an adventure paradise.

General

Banks
Banks in Australia are open from 0930 to 1600 Monday to Thursday and 0930 to 1730 on Friday.  Select banks are open on Saturday; however, all banks are closed on Sunday.  Automatic Teller Machines (ATM) facilities are located at a variety of outlets throughout Australia.

The closest ATM to the Convention Centre is located in the Harbourside Shopping Centre.  The closest banks are located in Haymarket, a short walk from the Convention Centre.

Climate
July is part of Sydney’s winter season and temperatures on average will be 16¡C (60.8¡F) during the day and 10¡C (50¡F) during the evenings.

Currency
Australian currency is decimal with units being dollars and cents.  All major credit cards are accepted throughout Australia.

Exchange rates can be viewed through the following link:  http://www.xe.com/ucc/

Currency exchange facilities are located at international airports and throughout Sydney’s central business district.  The closest currency exchange to the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre is located within walking distance at the Harbourside Shopping Centre at Darling Harbour.

Duty Free
Australia has a duty free quota per person of 2.25 litres of alcohol, 250 cigarettes and dutiable goods up to the value of A$900.  Duty Free stores are located at International Airports and throughout Sydney’s central business district.

Electricity
Australian electricity supply is 240 volts, 50Hz.  Appliance connection is via a flat 3-pin plug of unique design to Australia.  Most hotels provide 110-volt outlets for shavers; however, adaptors can be purchased for 110v appliances as well as adaptors for 220v appliances with differing plug types.

Health Insurance
The Conference Organisers strongly recommend that delegates take out insurance policies to cover medical and travel policies.  Please consult your travel agent prior to your departure to ensure you have the correct cover.

Internet Access
Wireless internet is available in the Convention Centre and cards will be available for purchase form the Registration Desk at a cost of $22 per 24 hours. Please note that hotels in Australia typically charge $20 - $30 per day for wireless access.

Language
English is spoken throughout Australia and will be the official language for the Conference.

Local Time
Local time in Sydney during July is Greenwich Mean Time plus 10 hours.

Mobile Phones
Analogue mobile phones will not work in Australia as it operates on a digital network.  Mobile phones can be hired from telecommunication outlets in the central business district if required.

Parking
Parking is available at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre car park.  The car park entry is located on Darling Drive, underneath the Exhibition Centre.  The car park has direct access to the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre as well as the many entertainment and attractions of Darling Harbour.  Opening hours for the car park are:

Monday – Thursday	6am to 1am the following day
Friday	Open 24 hours from 6am
Saturday	Open 24 hours
Sunday	Closes at 1am Monday morning
Day rates for parking are:	0 -1 Hours	A$6.00
	1 – 2 Hours	A$12.00
	2 – 3 Hours	A$18.00
	3 – 4 Hours	A$22.00
	4 + Hours	A$25.00
Evening rates for parking are:	0 -1 Hours	A$6.00
	1 – 2 Hours	A$12.00
	2 + Hours	A$18.00

Entry must be after 5pm and exit must be before 9am the next day for evening rates to apply.

Public Transport
Sydney’s public transport system allows easy travel for delegates between their hotel and the conference venue or around Sydney’s central business district.  Delegates can secure savings on travel throughout the city by purchasing a Day Tripper pass which allows travel on train, bus or ferry from A$15.

Darling Harbour is linked with Sydney’s central business district through a regular monorail and light rail service.  Services depart every 10 – 15 minutes for the Light Rail and cost A$2.90 per trip.  Services for the monorail depart every 3 – 5 minutes and cost A$4.00 per trip.

Taxis can be booked in advance through hotel concierge or hailed from the street. 

Restaurants
Sydney is one of the most eclectic food capitals in the world.  Combining its fresh food produce, creative chefs and multicultural flair, Sydney prides itself on being a world class food destination.  King Street Wharf, Cockle Bay and Darling Harbour are areas within walking distance from the conference venue that provide an array of cuisines.  For dinner with a view, Circular Quay, home to the famous Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House also have an extensive selection of restaurants to cater for all tastes.

Shopping
Shops are open from 0900 to 0530 Monday to Friday with late night shopping until 2100 on Thursday evenings.  Shops are open from 0900 to 1700 on Saturdays and from 1000 to 1600 on Sundays.

The closest shop to the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre is the Harbourside Shopping Centre at Darling Harbour.  Here you will find a range of retail and souvenir outlets as well as services including chemist, currency exchange, Internet Café and Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs).

Taxes
A Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 10% is included in all consumer goods in Australia.  The 10% is included in the retail price advertised.

Tipping
Tipping is not standard practice in Australia but is welcomed when the service exceeds expectation.  It is recommended to tip 5 – 10% in bars, cafes and restaurants.

Transfers
The conference does not provide any transfers from the airport to the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre or the Conference hotels.  Each delegate must make their own transport arrangements to the Conference.  The following costs are provided as estimates for travel from the airport to Sydney’s central business district.

Airport Shuttle Bus       A$15 to $A20
Taxi                            A$25 to A$35
Train                           A$8 to A$15

Weather
July is Winter in Australia. The average temperature in the week 8 - 14 July will be:
Day: 17° C
Evening: 7.0° C

Click here to view the average weather during the week of the Conferences

Visas

All visitors (with the exception of New Zealand citizens travelling on a New Zealand passport) require a visa to enter Australia. International visitors attending the conference should, in most instances, apply for a short stay business visitor visa (subclass 456).

Many delegates request a letter of invitation from the conference to assist in obtaining a visa. This process has changed, and when applying for a visa, you no longer require a letter of invitation. When you register yourself for the conference, your details will be passed onto your relevant Australian Mission Overseas. When you start the application for a visa, your registration for the conference must already be submitted. Please note that registration for the conference does not guarantee a visa as each visa applicant will be required to meet normal Australian Entry Requirements before a visa can be granted. If you have any enquiries, we would refer you to their website www.immi.gov.au. Please ensure you leave plenty of time for visa applications to be processed – this can take several weeks and sometimes longer.

Main banner captions:

image 1: 'Distribution of detached white-dwarf–white-dwarf binaries in our galaxy as a function of the gravitational wave frequency and chirp mass.' from Simulation of the white dwarf–white dwarf galactic background in the LISA data Jeffrey A Edlund, Massimo Tinto, Andrzej Królak, and Gijs Nelemans 2005 Class. Quantum Grav. 22 S913-S926

image 2: 'A three-dimensional visualization of the mesh including the excised region and the refinement around the particle.', from A toy model for testing finite element methods to simulate extreme-mass-ratio binary systems Carlos F Sopuerta, Pengtao Sun Pablo Laguna and Jinchao Xu 2006 Class. Quantum Grav. 23 251-285

image 3: 'Scalar gravitational field > at time t = 140M (n = 30 000).', from A toy model for testing finite element methods to simulate extreme-mass-ratio binary systems Carlos F Sopuerta, Pengtao Sun Pablo Laguna and Jinchao Xu 2006 Class. Quantum Grav. 23 251-285