Flipping out for Heron Island

ISLAND life is easy on Heron Island where the birds are chirpy and the turtles take it slow, writes Tamara Mclean after a helicopter ride in.

• World destinations: Queensland travel guide

King of the mountain

NEWS.com.au travel reporter and ski novice Lee Taylor reaches new heights during the mountain to mountain challenge through Perisher Valley.

• Ski 2008: Complete ski season coverage

Over the top in Melbourne

CAROLYNE Jasinski goes over the side of a Melbourne backpackers to try out an edgy tourist attraction: rap jumping.

• World destinations: Melbourne travel guide

Dazzling cuttlefish courtship

UNDER disco lights, the annual courtship of the giant cuttlefish draws the snorkelling crowds to the waters of Whyalla.

• World destinations: South Australia travel guide

Dream island for explorers

AT any time of year, WA's Rottnest Island seems to deliver the goods, whether it's on a day trip, a weekend escape or a longer beach holiday.

In awe of Kakadu's splendours

SPARKLING waterfalls, shady gorges and fresh barramundi on the barbecue: Ian Haberfield can't get enough of Kakadu's riches.

Wineglass of wilderness

A TREK into an unspoilt corner of Tasmanian wilderness leaves Mike Smith spellbound, but a gourmet lunch with unbeatable views helps him recover.

Ultimate wedding destinations

FROM secluded beaches to ice beds covered in reindeer skins – walk down the aisle in paradise at these ultimate wedding destinations.

• Pictures: ultimate wedding destinations