The Iglu Guide | Blog
9 things to do in Australia this Autumn
Australia is well known for having year-round sunshine, with autumn often voted the most favourite season of all. For students who don’t enjoy the intense heat that summer can bring, or the winter chill that sometimes bites, autumn time is the perfect seasonal in-betweener. You’ll still get to enjoy those warm sunny days for a good while yet so it’s an attractive time of year to get out and about. Here’s 9 autumn treats every student shouldn’t miss!
1. Explore The Great Barrier Reef
There’s no leaving Australia without visiting the national jewel that is the Great Barrier Reef. One of the seven wonders of the natural world and the largest living organism on earth, there’s over 3,000 reefs and 900 islands that stretch from the tip of Cape York down to Queensland’s Bundaberg. And by visiting and investing in the local area, you’ll singlehandedly contribute to the healthy conservation of this precious ecosystem. Travelling in autumn also avoids the storms and humidity that summer can bring. Instead, you’ll enjoy some drier milder weather as we move into the winter months – and cleverly miss out on those holiday crowds that flock to the area come wintertime. The waters are still plenty warm enough for the ultimate in tropical swimming, and with box jellyfish season finishing up by April, it’s completely safe to sample the crystal-clear waters and check out the extraordinary array of marine life living just beneath the surface. Look out for manta rays, reef sharks, colourful fish, sea turtles, whales and many more incredible creatures that call this reef home.
2. Check out the Byron Bay Bluesfest
Showcasing music from around the world on the Easter long weekend, Bluesfest is a family friendly escape just 15 minutes out from the beautiful shores of Byron Bay. Pitch up your tent for the duration and take advantage of the incredible line-up on offer, featuring artists like Gang of Youths, Elvis Costello, The Doobie Brothers and the Counting Crows, as well as an intimate acoustic session from none other than Beck. Soak up the homegrown talent with Tash Sultana, Xavier Rudd and King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard to name but a few. With food, drink, market stalls and merch on offer all weekend, this is the perfect way to spend the Easter break. Don’t forget to take a dive into the tropical waters of Byron Bay in between sets. Tickets available now.
3. The Sydney Royal Easter Show
Quintessentially Australian, The Sydney Royal Easter Show is Australia’s largest event with over 820,000 eager bunnies heading to the Sydney Olympic Showgrounds every year. Proudly celebrating all things Australian, the Easter Show brings us 12 days of non-stop entertainment with experiences on show for everyone to enjoy. From animal encounters and sheepdog trials to woodcutting tournaments and carnival rides, it’s a fun day out whatever your interests. And the fun doesn’t stop when the lights go down. Head to the main arena and check out the Drone Show with its spectacular display of lights and movements, as technology interplays with art in the night sky. And don’t miss the Thunder of a Thousand Hooves before the impressive firework display that ends the night. Book now for this unmissable autumn event.
4. Anzac Day, April 25th
A National Day of Remembrance to commemorate Australian and New Zealand servicemen who served in Gallipoli during the First World War, Anzac Day is one of the most meaningful events in the autumnal calendar. It is observed across the entire country with a national service held at Canberra’s Australian War Memorial and is a strong reminder of what it truly means to be Australian. The day begins for many with a traditional dawn service, where a lone bugler plays a haunting and evocative rendition of the Last Post. This is followed by two minutes silence before enjoying a breakfast. It’s not uncommon to see a traditional Anzac march that honours the fallen soldiers. Another popular Anzac tradition is the ‘two-up’ gambling game, something that is only legally permitted on this day. Think ‘heads or tails’ with some gambling and extra rules, and you’re not far off. Finish up the day with a delicious Anzac cookie, a one-time bread replacement that has become a true Aussie pantry staple.
5. Vivid Sydney
As autumn comes to a close, the nights draw in and the temperature drops, it’s the perfect time to see Sydney come to life and light. Between May 26-June 17, this annual festival of light, music and ideas celebrates all things creative. Every year, it transforms the city in ways unimaginable – whether it’s the longest continuous lightwalk, 3D projections that transform iconic city buildings like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, or live music shows that pop up in unexpected places. Vivid Sydney sets out to challenge the norm with artists, musicians and thinkers that push boundaries and start conversations. The 2023 Festival is all about moving forwards and maintaining momentum, celebrating the diversity of Sydney in all its natural wonder with an experience that affects both the heart and mind. Fortunately for students, much of the festival can be accessed for free, with some ticketed events available.
6. Catch an AFL match
Nothing says autumnal Aussie sport quite like AFL, and with a season that runs from March through to September it’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in true Australian sporting culture. AFL is the most watched and played sport in the country today. It has God-like status in places like Victoria, where not supporting a local team is akin to being stateless. If you’re new to the area, or new to the sport, pick your players and stick tight to them. It gives you endless coffee-counter conversations, complete local kudos and makes the game time a whole lot more interesting. With plenty of matches to choose from, digital tickets are available right here. Confused about the rules? Here’s everything you need to know before you go.
7. Enjoy the Royal Botanic Gardens
Exploring Australia’s botanic gardens is a great way to get some exercise and come out smelling of roses. With plenty to choose from in major locations like Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, this peaceful escape is the perfect antidote to city living and student stress. Enjoy free exhibits and educational workshops as you discover plants and trees from all over the world. Inhale the fresh air, observe the natural beauty – and don’t rush home.
8. Extend your summer at the Gold Coast
Who said summer was over? Up on the Gold Coast, the warm days and balmy nights continue well into the autumn season making it the perfect destination for sun-seeking students. Just 90 minutes south of Brisbane, this beautiful stretch of beaches and turquoise waters will keep that summer feeling going all year long. Enjoy swimming, surfing, sailing and more, or simply set up camp and watch the world go by. Check out the famous Surfer’s Paradise before heading back to your student accommodation.
9. Melbourne Food and Wine Festival
One of the world’s leading food and wine events, this Melbourne festival is a true highlight on the Australian autumnal calendar. Featuring a star-studded line-up of top international chefs alongside the very best of local talent, this two-week celebration is a foodie paradise between March 24-Apr 2. Celebrity Sausage takes the humble Aussie sausage to a whole new level, while the Baker’s Dozen showcases some of the best in limited edition treats. Don’t miss out on this jam-packed program of events and remember, all roads lead to Federation Square where cocktails, fine wines and culinary delights await at the Festival Bar.
