Sydney

TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence

Golden Chain Sea Breeze Resort Exmouth

 EARNS 2013 TRIPADVISOR CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE

Honored as a Top Performing Sea Breeze Resort as Reviewed by Travelers on the

World’s Largest Travel Site

 

Exmouth, Western Australia– 22nd, March, 2013 – Golden Chain Sea Breeze Resort, Serviced Selfcontained Stuidos, today announced that it has received a TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence Award. The accolade, which honors hospitality excellence, is given only to establishments that consistently achieve outstanding traveler reviews on TripAdvisor, and is extended to qualifying businesses worldwide. Only the top-performing 10 percent of businesses listed on TripAdvisor receive this prestigious award.

 

To qualify for a Certificate of Excellence, businesses must maintain an overall rating of four or higher, out of a possible five, as reviewed by travelers on TripAdvisor, and must have been listed on TripAdvisor for at least 12 months. Additional criteria include the volume of reviews received within the last 12 months.

 

“Golden Chain Sea Breeze Resort” is pleased to receive a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence,” said Axel Passeck, Managing Director of the Sea Breeze Resort, Exmouth. “We strive to offer our customers the best possible and memorable Ningaloo experience and this award is evidence that our hard work is translating into positive reviews on TripAdvisor.”

 

“TripAdvisor is delighted to celebrate the success of businesses around the globe, from Sydney to Chicago, Sao Paulo to Rome, which are consistently offering TripAdvisor travelers a great customer experience,” said Alison Copus, Vice President of Marketing for TripAdvisor for Business. “The Certificate of Excellence award provides top performing establishments around the world the recognition they deserve, based on feedback from those who matter most – their customers.”

About Golden Chain Sea Breeze Resort:

The Sea Breeze Resort Exmouth, just celebrated it’s 15th Business anniversary in April and is still owner operated by the founders Axel and Eske Passeck. 2013 is fast becoming a big year for the resort, with the biggest upgrade in the history of the business from 3.5 Star to 4 Star AAA Rating, this Award and the best season ever so far! Their 28 Studios range from Executive, Deluxe and Standard. The Resort is unique, as it is the first and only resort in the world inside an active Naval Base! Not much to look at from the outside and against all odds, this resort is unique which ever way you look at it. It is the former US Navy Chief Petty Officers Quarters of the H.E Holt Naval Base in Exmouth, which was saved from demolition by the Passeck Family and turned into accommodation in 1998. Starting from it’s “strange” location via original American fittings and 110V power, to the light switches being upside down…. this place is different and has had a very important part of history….. It really needs to be experienced to be believed and appreciated… The motto is: “like staying with friends” and “ we will take care of you” so you can see, customer service and satisfaction comes first at the Golden Chain Sea Breeze Resort Exmouth.

 

Stars unite for Slim Dusty Bash

As proud foundation donors for the Slim Dusty Centre,

Golden Chain would like to promote the “Slim Dusty Bash”Slim Dusty

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the passing of iconic Australian country music legend SLIM DUSTY and industry friends aren’t letting it pass without recognizing the milestone and assisting in bringing the multi-award winning artist’s dream to life.

On what would have been his 86th birthday, artists such as LEE KERNAGHAN, KASEY CHAMBERS & SHANE NICHOLSON, THE McCLYMONTS, ADAM HARVEY, THE WOLFE BROTHERS and THE ADAM ECKERSLEY BAND will come together on THURSDAY JUNE 13 to perform at a special charity event in aid of raising funds for Slim’s final legacy, THE SLIM DUSTY CENTRE located in Kempsey, NSW.

The SLIM DUSTY birthday bash will be held at ROOTY HILL RSL on the 13th JUNE 2013 and hosted by recognized radio identity RAY HADLEY OAM. The special gala event will not only contain memorable one off performances by some of the biggest names of the genre but will also provide those attending with a once in a lifetime experiences to mingle with the stars.

Corporate tables are available with Platinum Tables of 8 receiving a guitar signed by all the artists performing plus other legendary Australian artists who are unable to be there on the night but who are supporting the ongoing program to assist the Slim Dusty Foundation. In addition to the guitar, each person at the table will receive an autographed album from each of the artists with some of the artists on the bill visiting tables throughout the night. There are also Gold Tables that provide other special benefits and rewards. An auction of priceless items will also be presented at the event.

Non-corporate tickets are also available at $120 each as well as other ticketing options on offer. Tickets for the event are on sale from 8th May 2013 by calling (02) 9625 5500 or logging onto http://rootyhillrsl.com.au

The event will be linked to multiple clubs around NSW & QLD via a new system called Clubs Network Live. All licensed clubs are invited to participate. This will enable people from all over Australia to join in on the night and clubs can run their own events and receive a live feed from Rooty Hill RSL Club to put up on the big screen in their auditoriums. They will be able to participate in the auction live from their site. Interested clubs are asked to visit www.clubslive.net,au for more information or contact Ben Kelly on 02 9660 6969 or ben@clubslive.net.au

This is essentially one of the most intimate events ever offered to country music fans and supporters of SLIM DUSTY, a night of special highlights that won’t be repeated. The SLIM DUSTY Birthday Bash event will be linked to multiple clubs around NSW & QLD via a new system called Clubs Network Live. All licensed clubs across NSW and QLD will be invited to participate and will enable people from all over Australia to join in on the night and clubs can run their own events and receive a live feed from Rooty Hill RSL Club to put up on the big screen in their auditoriums. They will be able to participate in the auction live from their site.

All funds raised from the night will go to fulfilling one of the final dreams of the man and a legacy of his work, THE SLIM DUSTY CENTRE in his birth town, Kempsey NSW. Fans and supporters can demonstrate their support and donate to the project through the following link:

http://slimdustycentre.com.au

The Slim Dusty Centre is a unique community project with national significance, primarily developed as a living museum, governed by a Trust Fund and designed to showcase over 60 years of recording, performing and touring by Slim Dusty and preserving the valuable Dusty Family collection gathered from Australia throughout his lifetime.

Slim Dusty’s life was legendary, he sang about the country he loved, its people, their way of life. He became an icon with his ability to stay in touch with his audience year after year and develop respect from a nation that considered themselves a mate.

things you ‘must do’ competition

The winning entry for our April things you ‘must do’ E-newsletter competition is  Ray Smith who will receive $200 in Golden Chain gift certificates to use at any Golden Chain property in Australia.

His entry is below.

“A great adventure all Australians must undertake at least once in their life is to travel the incredible Nullabor Plain on the trek between Port Augusta and Norseman.

Since making this journey in 1961 I have watched the mountain of iron gradually shrink to the level of the highway at Iron Knob. On that first trip we ran into and killed a giraffe between I the Knob and Ceduna. On the spur of the moment giraffe was what we called this previously unknown animal, in reality a wombat.

Today a visit to the Head of the Bight, near Nullabor Roadhouse, during the whale migration season can be rewarded with sightings of mothers and offspring frolicking in the ocean at the base of the cliff. What an exciting occasion it is when ten or more whales are below the viewing platform.

The number of trees on the Nullabour Plain has not increased above zero over the intervening period between my first trip and 2012 across this sensational area.

Discovering the original town of Eucla beneath sandhills is a lesson on control of feral animals. Rabbits migrating across Australia denuded this arid area of vegetation creating the condition right for movement of sand.

We always keep our eyes peeled for Western Wedgetail Eagle, wombats and camels. On our last crossing for the first time we saw a herd of camels with a big bull camel protectively guarding his women from our car load of excited observers.

Golfers can play a game on the longest golf course in the world with holes at towns and locations between Kalgoorlie-Boulder, WA, and Ceduna, SA.

Will we make the journey again. Definitely, possibly in 2014.”

Ray Smith

Take a Tour of Northern NSW

Northern Rivers

Stretching from the mighty Clarence River up to Tweed Heads on the Queensland border and out to the foothills of the Great Divide, the Northern Rivers region of NSW offers a wealth of diverse holiday experiences.
In this one compact region, you’ll discover the endless stretch of Pacific Coast beaches that gave birth to the Australian surfing legend; lush rolling countryside dotted with quaint and quirky townships; rugged cattle country; mystical rainforests; and deep river gorges disappearing up into the mountains.
Whether your idea of the perfect holiday is lazing on a sun-drenched beach, bushwalking through pristine rainforests, tootling through picture-postcard scenery along winding country roads, hunting for antiques and quirky treasures at sleepy villages and country markets, or pampering the spirit with a relaxing regime of massages and therapies … you’ll be more than spoiled for choice in the Northern Rivers region.

New England North West

Whatever the season you’ll find something to delight you in New England North West. Come here to enjoy the cool summers in the tablelands, the glorious colours of autumn, romantic fireside dinners in winter or the clear, fresh air in spring. You won’t be disappointed.
Visit Tamworth or venture further afield to Moree, Narrabri and other farming centres – each has its own appeal. Away from the bigger centres, there are National Parks and wide stretches of farmland to explore. There are also excellent fishing and fossicking opportunities throughout the region. But wherever you go, rest assured a warm country welcome awaits you.
Choose from farm stays, cabins or comfortable motels. Farm stays provide a complete family holiday, with a chance to ride horses, meet the animals or help with farm chores. For a holiday that can expand your horizons, look no further.

Weekend Getaway Ideas

Thinking about a weekend getaway? Here’s some ideas!

 

Fleurieu Peninsula, SA

Stunning natural scenery, four separate wine districts, 250km of coastline, fresh food producers, whale watching, surfing and more! All within a 1 hours drive from Adelaide.

South West, WA

Experience towering old growth forests, walk for kilometres along white sandy beaches and taste world famous wine. Australia’s South West stretches from coast to country, offering some of the most varied tourist experiences in Western Australia. There’s action and adventure for the thrill-seeker, stunning scenery and wildlife for nature-lovers, sensational food and rich local history.

Great Ocean Road, VIC

The Great Ocean Road region hugs Victoria’s rugged south west coast and offers visitors one of Australia’s most spectacular coastal drives.  See the Twelve Apostles, stunning beaches and rainforests and discover the rich maritime heritage of the towns along the way.

Gippsland, VIC

The Gippsland is gourmet country, dotted with wineries, cheese makers, farmers’ markets, and fruit and berry farms. You can indulge in some bush walking, fishing, sightseeing, snow skiing, boating and fine dining.

South Coast, NSW

A wonderful natural environment where you will find pristine beaches with the whitest sand in the world, rugged headlands from where you can watch whales on their southern migration, forests, several national parks and many beautiful rivers.

Mid North Coast, NSW

The Mid North Coast has 17 state forests, 5 lake systems, 11 major rivers and more than 300 km of beaches with many small tourist towns nestled between the larger regional towns such as Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour. Activities include, surfing, fishing, 4WDriving, bush walking or simply lazing about in the sun.

Sunshine Coast, QLD

There is something for everyone at the Sunshine Coast. Great surf beaches, safe swimming spots for the kids, many popular restaurants and attractions such as Underwater World, Australia Zoo, Eumundi Markets and the Ettamoga Pub. Try the nearby Hinterland region for picturesque scenery, arts and craft and country markets.

Things you must do in – Adelaide SA.

South Australia -

In 20 minutes you can be out of Adelaide and heading towards the many wineries of South Australia including the Barossa Valley, Mclaren Vale and Langhorne Creek regions. Catch the southern wright whales on their winter migration to Encounter Bay. In the south-east of the state visit the rugged coasts, beautiful beaches, lush pastures, pine forests, ancient subterranean caves, sinkholes, lakes and extinct volcanoes. Stay with Golden Chain and don’t miss out on anything that is worthwhile seeing.

Adelaide…
is one of the best planned cities of the world and plays host to a variety of festivals revolving around the arts, wine, sports and ethnic heritage. Enjoy its beautiful Victorian and Edwardian homes and public buildings.

Things you “must do”

  • Take your chances at the Adelaide casino.
  • Ride the historic tram to Glenelg beach.
  • Drink a toast to some of the best wineries in the Barossa.
  • Stay underground at Cooper Pedy (it’s cool).
  • Hop over to Kangaroo Island for some fantastic fishing.
  • Solve the Mt Gambier mystery of the Blue Lake.
  • Enjoy the renowned seafood eateries on the Fleurieu Peninsular.
  • Go ‘over the hill’ in the Flinders Ranges Port Augusta.
  • For those brave enough to swim with the Great White Sharks, go cage diving in Port Lincoln.
  • Pat Bob the railway dog at Peterborough.

Golden Chain Motels Gets Guest Motoring

 

One lucky motel guest will win a Nissan Micra in the inaugural Golden Chain Motels Heart of the Country competition superdraw.

The Heart of the Country competition encourages people to explore this great country of ours and stay at the many Golden Chain Motels along the way.  To qualify guests must stay 3 nights at a Golden Chain Motel and have their entry form verified by one of our motels each night they stay.  The prize of 14 nights accommodation and $1,400 spending money is drawn every 2 months culminating with the car superdraw every 6 months.

General Manager, Nicci Carter, of Golden Chain Motels said, “All entries in the competition over the past 6 months go into the super draw.  The draw will be held at 4.00pm on Thursday, 28 March 2013 at our Head Office in River Street, Ballina and we are very excited to be able to reward our loyal customers with the opportunity to win a new Nissan Micra.”

“Golden Chain Motels can be found in more locations than any other motel group – you will find us from far north Queensland to Tasmania, from Western Australia to Norfolk Island and even Vanuatu in the Pacific.  Our owners are owner operators, dedicated to giving you service with a smile and being there when you need them to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.” Mrs Carter said.

Photos and video of the draw will be available on Golden Chain Motels website www.goldenchain.com.au and Facebook page after the draw.  For further information please contact Nicci Carter on 02 6681 1328 or 0418 501 008.

Summer Holiday Ideas

Summer is that time of the year in Australia where we connect with our friends, family and loved ones and take time out to relax and revive the spirit in preparation for the new year ahead.

If you are after some inspiration for your next summer holiday, read on….

Sunshine Coast QLD

The Sunshine coast  is a great destination for a quick weekend getaway or a complete holiday experience. It includes well known places such as the beautiful Noosa Heads, Maroochydore, Mooloolaba, Caloundra and the Glasshouse Mountains. You will find a myriad of beaches, waterways, rain forests, markets, restaurants and other attractions to fill your day with activities. If you are looking for something special for the kids you can have the ultimate wildlife experience at Steve Erwin’s Australia Zoo.

Victor Harbour SA

A popular holiday destination only 80km south of Adelaide, there is more to do here than watch whales in winter. You can experience some family fun at Greenhills Adventure Park, take a horse drawn tram along the 600m causeway to Granite Island where you can indulge in some penguin spotting or catch a wave at some of the best surf beaches in South Australia. For a taste of yesteryear you can board the Cockle Steam Train and take in some of the most picturesque coastal scenery on the Fleurieu Peninsula. If you are staying for a while you will find other attractions nearby such as the mouth of the Murray and the Mclaren Vales wineries.

Sapphire Coast NSW

From Bermagui to the NSW/VIC border. The sapphire coast is a nature lovers paradise with many deserted beaches, cool rainforests, rivers, lakes and mountains. Although a popular destination, you will find it is not exploited like many tourist regions allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty, cultural diversity and fine food and wine offered by local producers. The game fishing at Bermagui, made popular by world renown shark expert Zane Grey, heats up in January, with charters available to help you catch the one that you will be talking about for years to come.

Barossa Valley SA

A one hour drive north of Adelaide and you will be in one of the top 10 wine destinations in the world according to trip advisor and one of the top places in the world to visit according to the New York Times in 2008. Imagine sipping a Shiraz made from one of the oldest Shiraz vines in the world on a balmy summers evening while enjoying world class food made from local ingredients. If your after some live entertainment, then South Australia’s premier outdoor event, Barossa under the Stars, is on in January with Sting the main attraction for 2013!

Coffs Harbour NSW

Family friendly fun is what Coffs Harbour is all about. Attractions include water sports, adventure sports, sight seeing and other outdoor activities.You will find an F1 go kart centre, you can go rock wall climbing, spend the day canoeing, tackle a military obstacle course, learn to surf, go bushwalking, go rafting, go fishing,  take a tag along 4WD tour etc etc. In between all that you may wish to visit the famous Big Banana with fun rides, tours, shows and recreational facilities or pat a dolphin at the Pet Porpoise pool in town with shows on throughout the day.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thing you must do in – Sydney, NSW

Sydney – presents a constant variety of things to experience: genuine hospitality; a colourful history and a contemporary lifestyle. Enjoy its beautiful harbour and many world renown attractions including The Rocks, Chinese Gardens, Bondi Beach and the Opera House.

New South Wales boasts a picturesque coastal strip, alternating between expansive golden beaches, lush rainforests and dense wilderness. Visit the spectacular panoramas of the Blue Mountains and Mt Kosciuszko and west of the ranges visit the rich grazing lands and expansive crops and beyond the magnificent outback – Discover the great outdoors of this great state.

Things you “must do

  • Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge
  • Visit Taronga Park Zoo
  • Surf at Bondi
  • Ride a Camel in Port Macquarie
  • Indulge yourself at the Chocolate and Liquorice factory at Junee.
  • Enjoy the Dolphins in numbers at Byron Bay and Ballina.
  • Partake in a tipple at the Hunter Valley Wineries.
  • Sing along at the Tamworth Country Music Festival.
  • Tour the underground Silver mines at Broken Hill.
  • Ski at Thredbo.
  • Go stargazing at Parkes.

 

 

 

Discover Hervey Bay

3.5 hours north of Brisbane is the sea side town of Hervey Bay.  Although regarded as the whale watching capital of Australia, there is much more to see and do here.  With a sub tropical climate, safe stinger free sheltered waters and over 40 beaches, Hervey Bay is an adventure playground just waiting to be explored.

From here you will find easy access to the world heritage listed Fraser Island, the worlds largest sand island and Lady Elliot Island the first coral cay on the great barrier reef where you can swim with the wonderful sea life from tiny coral fish and turtles to giant Manta Rays.

If fishing is your thing, then you will find Garfish to Marlin and everything in between in these waters.  Amateurs and professionals alike are drawn to this area to seek out a trophy catch from the estuaries, dams and endless deep blue sea.  Jump on board a charter, take out your tinny or fish from the one kilometre long Urangan Pier.

Central to Hervey Bay is the Esplanade running along the waters edge where you will find restaurants, cafes, picnic areas and playgrounds for the kids.  The new Wetside Water Park on the foreshore is free and will keep the kids entertained for hours.

The nearby town of Maryborough is steeped in the history and Queensland architecture of what was once one of Australia’s largest and busiest ports.  Walk the beautifully preserved colonial streets or visit the Portside heritage precinct.  You may even wish to take a ride on a steam train.