AUSTRALIAN WINE AND WINERIES
BOOKER INFORMATION
Australia is one of the most beautiful and diverse wine-producing countries in the world, producing a vast array of classic and boundary-pushing wines. There are exciting wine regions to be found right across the country. Here’s a snapshot of the most popular Aussie wine regions, from the rolling hills of the Barossa Valley, to the turquoise waters of Margaret River, to the pristine wilderness of Tasmania.
AUSTRALIAN FOOD
Aussie cuisine is a delightful blend of diverse influences, reflecting the country’s multicultural population and its unique environment. Some traditional Australian dishes and ingredients:
Aussie Meat Pie: This savoury pie, synonymous with Australia’s identity, features minced meat, onions, gravy, mushrooms, and a special sauce. You’ll find pie shops across the country serving these delicious handheld treats.
Barramundi: Known as the “large-scaled river fish,” barramundi is often fried or grilled. Queensland is renowned for its excellent barramundi.
Vegemite: A quintessential Australian spread, Vegemite is made from leftover brewers’ yeast extract. It’s typically enjoyed on toast for breakfast, lunch, or a quick snack. Think of it as Australia’s version of Marmite.
Barbecued Snags: Aussies love a good barbecue! Barbecued snags (sausages) made from beef or pork are seasoned with spices and sauces. Mashed potatoes and fried onions complete the experience.
Chiko Roll: A convenient on-the-go snack, the Chiko Roll is a dough strip filled with beef, cabbage, onions, and carrot. Originally inspired by Chinese spring rolls, Australians put their own twist on it.
Witchetty Grub: A traditional food from Aboriginal culture, witchetty grubs are native to Australia. These protein-rich larvae are a unique culinary experience.
Aside from these dishes, Australians enjoy a variety of fresh vegetables, dairy products, and an abundance of seafood due to their vast coastline. So, whether you’re savouring a meat pie or relishing a plate of barramundi, Australian cuisine offers a delightful journey for your taste buds!
And for the chocolate lover….
Tim Tam: Since the 2000s Arnott’s has released many variations of the Australian favourite however nothing replaces the original malted biscuit separated by a light hard chocolate cream filling and coated with a thin layer of textured chocolate. The biscuit was created in 1958 when Ian Norris visited the UK where he found the Penguin biscuit and decided to try to “make a better one”. We will let you decide which you think is best!
other useful information
TIPPING
When eating out, tipping in Australia is not expected. Instead, a service charge will normally be added to your bill. The service charge will usually be declared on the menu if you’re in a cafe or restaurant, for example, and is paid directly to the company rather than to an individual member of staff.
Even if it’s not customary to tip in Australia, a little extra is always appreciated as a thank you for exceptional service.
TAP WATER
Overall, tap water in Australia is safe to drink. If you are travelling in rural areas or in areas with different water quality standards, it is always a good idea to check the local water quality and to follow any guidelines provided by local authorities, and to have sufficient supplies especially during hot weather and if travelling in remote regions.
DRINKING AND SMOKING IN AUSTRALIA
You must be 18 or older to buy alcohol or to drink alcohol in a licensed venue. You’re breaking the law if you drive and your blood alcohol concentration equal to or more than 0.05. It’s illegal to sell alcohol to anyone under 18 or to someone who is already drunk. There are some areas where you can’t drink alcohol and rules vary between each state or territory.
Due to licencing laws most supermarkets in Australia do not sell alcohol. Beer and wine is generally purchased at liquor stores and pubs.
You must be 18 or over to purchase tobacco and cigarettes. In all states and territories, it’s illegal to smoke in enclosed public places and it is also illegal to smoke in a car when a minor is inside. A minor is someone under the age of 16, 17 or 18, depending on the state or territory you are in.
From 01 January 2024 the Australian Government banned the importation of disposable vapes into Australia. Disposable vapes are e-cigarette devices that cannot be recharged or reused. Vapes containing nicotine can only be supplied through a pharmacy with a prescription.
