Sometimes, when you travel to a particularly interesting location (like Brisbane, Australia!) you want to remember the trip. A great way to do this is with a tattoo. The good news is that there are a lot of terrific Brisbane tattoo parlours.

Whether you have ink on your body already or you are thinking about getting your first, we have some tips and suggestions to make sure you are happy with the experience.

First, we are going to look at some of the thing you want to consider before you decide to get a tattoo in Brisbane, Australia.

• Permanent – One of the biggest things you need to remember is that tattoos are permanent (for the most part – or at least expensive to remove these days with a laser!) Because of this, you should really think about whether a tattoo in Brisbane is for you.
• Quality – On the other hand, if you already have ink on your body and you are coming to Brisbane just for a special tattoo, it is a good idea to look around at all the tattoo parlours available so that you can choose one that fits the style of exactly what you want. Tattoo artists should be studied to make sure you like their work before you get it on your body.
• Price – Beyond quality, you want to make sure you do not pay too much for the tattoo either. To do this, make sure you do not fall for the tourist traps. Make your way off the beaten path so that you can find a tattoo parlour in Brisbane that really cares about art more than money and will work hard to make sure you are happy with your new tattoo.

If you are new to tattoos, there are other things you should really keep in mind – especially how much pain is going to be involved. You may want to start with something small so that you can mark your Brisbane visit and do not need to spend too much time getting the tattoo done. There is nothing worse than being on holiday and trying to heal from the pain of a tattoo. On the other hand, some people are all about this and look at it all as part of the grand adventure.

Next we are going to look at some of the actual Brisbane tattoo parlours that we think you should at least visit. When you go to two or more, you’re going to be able to compare them and choose a place where you feel comfortable that you are going to get just what you want at a price that is not too expensive.

Brisbane Tattoo Parlours

Here is a sampling of some of the recommended tattoo parlours in Brisabane. However, below we are going to go into Westside Tattoo a little more because we really think they are on top of their game and we really recommend them. However, these other Brisbane tattoo parlours are also worth checking out if you want some new ink.

• Ultimate Image Tattooing
• Skin Trix
• Creative Tattoo Art
• Old Skool Tattoo
• Beenleigh Tattoo & Piercing

As for one tattoo parlour in Brisbane that really stands out, we have to give mention to Westside Tattoo. For those who already have a lot of ink to those who are wanting their first tattoo – small or large – Westside Tattoo parlour in Brisbane, Australia is highly recommended for a variety of reasons. They are professional, friendly, and they do great work. What more do you need? Considering the artistry that is happening at this place, the rates are really reasonable.

Open from Tuesday to Saturday from  11am to 6pm they really have a nice studio that is clean yet still manages to retain that “tattoo parlour feel,” if you know what I mean. Here is a look at some of the tattoo artists they currently have on the team. You should note, however, that this list may change at a moment’s notice. The best thing to do is stop in and see them or call to make an appointment.

• Matt Cunnington
• Lily Collard
• Dan Bursell
• Ben Rorke
• Anna Day
• Aaron Bond
• Malika Rose
• Mitch Love
• M.J. Driver does Laser Removal of tattoos

If you are serious about getting a tattoo in Brisbane, Westside Tattoo is a really great choice. You shouldn’t stop yourself from exploring all the various tattoo parlours that are available in this part of Australia. We really believe you’re going to find something that vibes well with you – no matter your personality. With so many styles and flavors of places to get a tattoo in Brisbane, you are sure to find something that fits you personally.

Another one to check out is All Star Tattoos in Brisbane. Just be careful if you ask too much about Westside Tattoo in the Allstar Tattoos parlour! In all seriousness, the tattoo community in Brisbane is quite large actually. If you’re not from the area, you may want to spend a good part of your trip visiting all the different places to get some ink in the area. You just might be surprised that all you are able to find.

One of the best things about Brisbane is all the area has to offer – including tattoo parlours. If you are into ink or want to get your first, there are more than a handful of places you can go to get it done while you’re on vacation. And for those who are really into ink, you may want to think about traveling to Brisbane just for the experience of seeing all the talented artists who are in the area. Just be sure to make the time because there is quite a bit to see if you take your time and enjoy everything fully.

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If you are looking for some great deals on travel to or attractions in Brisbane, Australia, you have come to the right place! We are going to take a closer look at some of the great values you can find in the area, allowing you to get more for your money when you visit.  Whether you have been there before or this will be your first visit, we have useful information that is going to help you.

Finding Brisbane Deals

When you are planning to go to Brisbane, Australia and want to stay a while and enjoy as much as you can, finding the best deals in the area is important. First we are going to give you some ideas and suggestions on how to make sure you find the best deal possible.

• Look Often – You may think that browsing the Internet for an hour or so makes you an expert at finding deals online, but you really need to put the time and effort into making sure you find the best deals out there.
• Look Online – One of the ways you can do this is to search online at least a couple times a week until you get closer to your trip.  One thing you want to watch out for is whether the deal is going to be valid when you are actually in Brisbane.
• Look Offline – While most of the Brisbane deals you are going to find will be online, there may be some that you can find in the local newspaper or other sources once you get to the area.  This doesn’t always work out, but you may be surprised at what you are able to find.

There are other steps to finding great deals for travel to Brisbane and entertainment once you get there, but these three should get you headed in the right direction.

Using Brisbane Deals

After you find deals that appeal to you, the next step is to make sure that you understand the terms and conditions so that you can actually use the Brisbane deals to your advantage. Different coupons and offers will have different stipulations that you need to meet, but in most cases you are going to find that you do not have to do a lot of work or jump through hoops to get the savings. The main thing you need to do is look around for deals and know how to effectively work them into your vacation and travel plans.

Holiday Deals Brisbane

Another thing to consider is whether you can find some holiday deals in Brisbane. These are just for special times of the year, but no matter the holiday there is a good chance you are going to be able to save some money. The trick to finding these types of deals is to look ahead – before the holiday rush happens. You may want to look for deals either just before or just after the holidays as well so that you can save some money.

Special deals in Brisbane

There are also many special deals in Brisbane that you can find if you look closely. These may not be as easy to find most of the time, but they can end up saving you quite a bit of money. From savings on accommodations to savings on restaurants and entertainment, there are a great many special deals in Brisbane, Australia.

Restaurant deals in Brisbane

Everyone needs to eat. The good news is that there are quite a few restaurants in Brisbane. The very good news is that there are many different restaurant deals in Brisbane you can get if you just know where to look. Whether it is a certain percentage off your bill or even a buy one dinner get another free, if you take advantage of all the great restaurant deals, you’re going to be able to save a lot of money.

Saving With Deals in Brisbane

Now that you know a little more about the types of deals available in Brisbane, Australia, we are going to go over some tips and suggestions for making sure you find the absolute best deals for eating while you’re in the area. Without any further ado, here are some ways to make sure you save the most – without hassles.

• Look Early – The first thing you need to do is make sure you are looking before your big trip to Brisbane. This sounds like common sense – and it is – but you might be surprised at how many people wait till the last minute and end up finding no great deals.
• Look Often – You also want to make sure you do not give up on your first search attempt. If you are going to be going to Brisbane in a month or two, that gives you 4 to 8 times to search for deals if you only do it once a week. With this much searching, you’re sure to find some terrific savings.
• Network – Another way to find great deals is to network with other people that are searching for deals. Whether you do this online with people you don’t know or you work with friends and family, when you put a team together to look for Brisbane deals, you’re going to find a lot more.
• Clip – Even if you are not going to be using them right away, if you come across any Brisbane deals in your day to day life, it is a good idea to clip them out and save them in a special envelope or folder so you know where they are when you do need them.

There are other things you need to do, of course, but this list should get you started. When you are looking for great deals in Brisbane, Australia, the good news is that you do not need to look too far. In fact, now that you’re done reading this, it would be a great time to start surfing and searching the Internet for some deals for your big trip.

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If you like adventure and excitement, you are going to love all that Brisbane, Australia has to offer. We are going to take a look at just two of the many exciting and fun adventures you can have in the area. Both are going to appeal to a wide range of people.

Riverlife Adventure Centre

First on the list is the Riverlife Adventure Centre in Brisbane. Located conveniently at River Tce Kangaroo Point by the Naval Stores area, the Riverlife Adventure Centre has been around since 2005. Since that time, many people have enjoyed all the great activities they offer.

Even if you do not want to get in or on the water, they have a lot of land-based activities that they offer. For most, however, the river adventures are the reason to come to the RAC in Brisbane.They offer group kayak lessons for affordable rates, or you can hire your own trainer before you head out on the river.

Once you rent a kayak and get on the water, you’re going to be able to enjoy Brisbane from an entirely new angle. This new viewpoint is one of the many reasons that those who seek adventure love coming to Brisbane for holiday – even if it is just a day or two on a long weekend.

And if you like history and culture, be sure to check out the performances from members of the Nunukul, Yuggera, Yugimbir and Nugi tribes. The aboriginal songs and dances are well known in the area and are a delight to see. There is a fee to see the performances, but it is well worth the money for children and adults.

Urban Climb

Our next stop in Brisbane for those who are adventurous is Urban Climb, where you can climb a rock wall – indoors. So no matter what the weather outside decides to do, you can get your adventure without getting too wet! Located at unit 2, 220 Montague Rd West End, Urban Climb has quite a bit to offer thrill seekers.

Heralded as the world’s friendliest Rock Climbing Gym, it is a “gem” in many different ways. From the low prices (for children, adults, and groups or families) to the extra special service you get while at Urban Climb, you’re going to be impressed by what they offer.

One of the best things about Urban Climb is that they have something for everyone. Whether you are just in Brisbane visiting and have never went rock climbing before or you are a seasoned veteran at indoor rock climbing and you want to see the walls that Urban Climb has to offer, they are definitely recommended.

Conveniently located in central Brisbane, Australia, Urban Climb has the fun and adventure of the outdoors inside and with safety features that will keep everyone happy and safe. When it comes to climbing indoor rock walls in Brisbane, Urban Climb is a leader in many ways. We really recommend you check them out.

Adventure in Brisbane

As you can see with just these two examples, Brisbane, Australia has a lot of adventure and excitement to offer all types of people. Keep browsing the site to learn even more about this area and be sure to bookmark us and check back often.

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There are quite a few interesting places on this planet to visit, but we really think that spending time in Brisbane, Australia is special for many different reasons. We are going to take a look at some of these below as we show you why so many people are choosing Brisbane for a destination.

• Restaurants -If you enjoy eating out and like a variety of cuisines, then you are going to love what Brisbane, Australia has to offer when it comes to food. From fine dining to great lunches with a beer and burger, there is something for everyone in Brisbane.
• Shopping – Another great thing to do in Brisbane, Australia  is to go shopping. With a wide variety of shops, there is truly something for every type of person. Whether you want to spend a little or a lot, Brisbane’s many shops are one of the big reasons many people like traveling to the area.
• Entertainment – From nightlife to entertainment and shows during the day, Brisbane is bustling with things to do for entertainment. No matter what you are into, you are sure to find something to keep you busy when you’re in the area.

When it comes to things to do in Brisbane, Australia, we think you are going to want to spend a lot of time. The good news is that there are quite a few different activities you can enjoy. No matter your age or your background or what you want out of life, we think spending time in Brisbane can help with a lot of your problems. When it comes to getting away and relaxing, this part of Australia has quite a bit to offer.

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Been to Brisbane lately? One of the nicest places in Australia, Brisbane offers a multitude of activities that will keep every tourist or traveler entertained. Most importantly, at the end of the day, relaxation is never hard to find. Below are 10 of the most popular hotels according to guest reviews (in no particular order):

Emporium Hotel in Brisbane is a luxury boutique hotel and, as such, is one of the most expensive of its kind in the area. At the entrance you’ll be star-struck with the posh and grandeur of its exterior; once inside, their elegant facilities, gracious staff and spacious rooms will continue to impress you.

Also exhibiting opulence and class is the Sofitel Brisbane Central. This luxury hotel is a favorite among travelers because it is located above Central Station, which makes it so convenient for guests to go to different parts of Brisbane and back.

Novotel Brisbane Airport is a classy and stylish place with a truly modern feel. As suggested by its name, this is the only airport hotel located within the airport district. It’s a one stop shop – the best place for conferences and conventions, and guests who are participating in these events.

If you prefer a more homely feel to complement your stay in Brisbane, Chester’s Boutique Hotel is just the place for you. This 10-room hotel will definitely not make you feel crowded, and the spacious and fashionably designed suites instantly give you room to breathe!

Want a taste of royalty? Royal On the Park will suit you just fine. With great views of the City Botanical Gardens to the south and Brisbane River to the east, it’s like living in a castle, with all the modern amenities within reach.

Quality Hotel The Inchcolm presents a delightful mix of old and new. While the rooms, facilities and staff all display sophistication, they retain an air of old-fashioned hospitality and charm. The cage lift, itself a remnant of the early 1930’s, is being used to this day.

Who hasn’t heard of the Marriott chain of hotels? The Brisbane Marriott Hotel is everything a five star hotel should be. The magnificent architecture and interior design – from its marble bathrooms to the contemporary décor – speaks volumes of its high standards.

Best Western Plus Sudima Suites is one of the newer hotels in Brisbane, and that’s the advantage it has over all the others in the vicinity. Guests get to enjoy tastefully furnished rooms and accommodating staff who are eager to please.

Wellington Apartment Hotel boasts of its quiet simplicity and remarkably friendly staff. Rooms are cozy and the amenities more than make up for your needs. It is located a bit outside of the CBD, which allows for total relaxation and, at the same time, the freedom of choosing when and how often to visit the city.

Hilton Brisbane Hotel is located right smack in the center of Brisbane, and if you’re lucky you can get a room with a view of the city in all its glory. Despite the changing times, guests will find that The Hilton has kept up and continued the tradition of excellence.

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When it comes to finding accommodations in Brisbane, there are a few things you need to think about. We are going to take a quick look at some of the different types of places you can stay and enjoy the area.

• Cheap Brisbane Hotels – No matter how long you are going to be staying in Brisbane, if you want to save some money, finding the cheapest hotel is a good way to save some money. However, we do not think it is a good idea to go on price alone. Even at the lower priced hotels there is a lot of difference in how nice the accommodations are going to be.
• Luxury Hotels in Brisbane – On the other hand, if money is no option and you simply want the best, there are a few great five star hotels in Brisbane that will really blow your mind. From the way the look on the outside and in the lobby to how warm and comforting their rooms are, luxury hotels are the way to go if you want the best.
• Unique Accommodations in Brisbane – In between the least and most expensive hotels and accommodations in Brisbane, there are a lot of unique places to stay. From small to large, depending on what your heart desires, there is sure to be something to suit your needs if you want something a little different.

No matter what type of traveling experience you want while staying in Brisbane, Australia, knowing what type of accommodations you want before you start looking for a place to stay is highly recommended. When you do a little research and homework beforehand, you are going to find that you will be able to get a lot more for your money. Whether you want something simple and cost efficient or something luxurious and lavish, there are many Brisbane accommodations that should suit you perfectly.

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Tee off with our guide to golf. There are golf courses in Brisbane that cater for players of any skill level or budget (even kids who want to have a go at mini golf). So it doesn’t matter if you’re a social player or an aspiring pro there will be a public course, private club, driving range or putt putt course to challenge you.

Our directory has contact details for many iseekgolf.com.

This website is packed with information on local Brisbane clubs, plus golf courses around Australia and the world.

Remember, public courses tend to be cheaper and more relaxed about dress regulations while the prestigious or resort courses can have restricted playing times and high green fees but more facilities and level of service. Private courses need you to be a member (often an expensive and long-term option) or to be signed in by a current member to play a round.

The majority of courses have hire clubs, buggies and carts available. Ask about these when you book your game.

Popular Brisbane golf courses

Victoria Park Golf Complex

Victoria Park is an 18-hole public course is close to the heart of Brisbane with stunning views of the Brisbane city skyline. It’s a beautiful course, quite hilly in parts so a motorised buggy is recommended if you don’t want a demanding walk. Most of the fairways are fairly short and straight and well suited to beginners while the greens are in very good shape.

This golf course is owned and run by classes for womentoo.

There is a pro-shop offering lessons and golf clinics, an 18 hole putt-putt course and the Caddyshack café.

Nudgee Golf Course

Nudgee Golf Course is a championship 36 hole course with an open design. It is challenging enough for top golfers but still accessible to beginners. It can get crowded and busy and you will need to book in advance. There are often competition days when public play is limited.

Nudgee College Golf Club

Nudgee College Golf Club is a very casual and cheap course of nine holes that welcomes non-members. Don’t expect first class facilities or greens but it’s a good course for beginners as it isn’t crowded and has relaxed dress standards. Call to check if hire clubs are available.

Indooroopilly

Indooroopilly is one of Brisbane’s most established and prestigious courses and would have to be rated among Brisbane’s best. This 36-hole championship rated course is located alongside the Brisbane River. Visitors and social groups can play the course Sunday to Friday. Note: there are strict dress regulations and you can hire buggies, clubs and shoes. Green fees are from $40 for a weekday game of 18 holes.

Brookwater

In Brisbane’s west, Brookwater is one of Australia’s best public courses. This first class course was designed by Greg Norman and is very challenging, even for experienced players. Allow plenty of time and bring spare balls. A unique feature of this course is the way it is integrated into a beautiful bushland setting. The service and facilities are of a very high standard and the greens are superb. Green fees for this premium, professional golf experience is at the high end but are well worth it. Get there early and have a practice hit on the driving range.

St Lucia Golf Links

Please note: St Lucia Golf Links reopened on 10 February 2011, with nine holes. Work is continuning on the remaining holes following the recent Brisbane floods.

St Lucia Golf Links is a public course is a pleasure to play and well suited for beginners or a casual game. The course has a pretty relaxed atmosphere. The cost is very reasonable and value for money is very good – check with the pro-shop for mid-week specials. Memberships not required. The greens are generally well maintained with a few rough patches on a couple of the fairways. The course has a good mix of short and long fairways and most are quite wide which allows for the odd slice shot. One of the features is the creek winding though the course adding an interesting obstacle. Can be busy on weekends.

Golf top tip: Finish your round in the relaxed ambience of the open-air café, which has commanding views of the golf course.

Wynnum Golf Course

On a relatively small patch of land in a residential area, Wynnum Golf Course is popular with social players and those in the local community. Classified as a hard easy course, the green fees are reasonably priced. In summer, Wynnum Golf Course has the advantage of cool Moreton Bay breezes but unfortunately no water views. It’s a good option for a game of golf on Brisbane’s eastside.

Pacific Golf Club

Pacific Golf Club at Carindale is a challenging course with reasonable fees for social players. There’s also a nine-hole par three course, perfect for beginners and younger players too.

Northlakes Resort Golf Club

Voted one of the top 25 public access courses in Australia by Golf Australia magazine in 2005, the Northlakes Resort Golf Club is a par 72 Championship resort course specifically designed to “provide a challenge to shot making without being a torturous test of golf”.

Golf lessons

If you are an absolute beginner in the sport of golf, do a little research into the etiquette and basic rules of the game, as explained by the Australian Golf Union.

Contact any golf course to ask about golf lessons with their resident professionals. They will offer a range of individual sessions and group lessons.

Interested in teaching your child golf? Take a look at the resources of the Australian Golf Union, which has a program called Go Go Golf. There are child-friendly games, teaching tips, special balls and clubs too.

If the kids get really good they could attend Kelvin Grove State College, which is a school of excellence for golf.

Local golf tournaments & golf events

iseekgolf.com also provides details of the professional tournaments scheduled in South East Queensland

Golf practice (driving) ranges

See our directory for a list of local driving ranges.

• Victoria Park Golf course and driving range is a fantastic all-weather, floodlit range, with 76 bays.

Chris from Sunnybank says:“…it’s great ’cause it’s really relaxed, has a lovely outlook and is close to the city. It’s also open til late on weeknights and is licensed which means you can turn it into a cheap social night out. We go every Thursday night and hit a few balls, have a couple of drinks and hang out with mates.”

• Oxley Golf Range has mini golf too.
• Golf Mania at Manly West has computerised tees (which means no bending down!) plus there’s mini golf for fun
• Tee Time Driving Range at Acacia Ridge

See our directory for places to play putt-putt.

Other useful golfing links

• Queensland Golf Union
• Golfing basics
• Women’s Golf Australia
• Women’s Golf Queensland
• Queensland Amputee Golf Association
• Sporting Wheelies and Disabled Association – runs golf competitions and lessons
• Queensland Golf
• Australian Open
• PGA Tour
• Organising a corporate golf day? Golf select can help
• Sportal Golf Forum
• Fox Sports

Photo by:  http://www.flickr.com/photos/aivo2010/4998480294/in/photostream/

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Walking. It’s simple, cheap and can be done by anyone, anywhere. In Brisbane we are spoilt for choice with hundreds of walking tracks and a thriving, organised recreational program called ‘gonewalking’. We are also lucky enough to have bushwalking options within the city or just a short drive away.

Always be mindful of your personal safety when walking alone.

Gonewalking

Gonewalking is a free Brisbane City Council Active and Healthy Lifestyle program. There are dozens of walks held across Brisbane every week. All walks are planned and conducted by trained volunteer Gonewalking organisers and your safety is assured.

You can choose from:

• Health and fitness walk – brisk walks (around 5km) that may include some hills
• Parents with prams walk – leisure walks usually on flat ground
• Garden/parkland walk – leisure walks exploring Brisbane’s parks
• Bush walk – bushland walks with some uphill climbing
• Leisure walk – slower, less strenuous walks
• Heritage walk – walks to learn about Brisbane’s past
• Shopping centre walk – out-of-hours walks inside air-conditioned shopping centres

These walks are rated slow, medium and fast to suit everyone’s ability. As a guide, one-hour slow walks usually cover about 3.6km; medium walks about 5.4km and fast walks about 6.6km.

Call 07 3403 8888 for more details.

Bushwalking groups

See our directory for some of Brisbane’s bushwalking groups.

Other bushwalking websites:

Bushwalkers of Southern Queensland

This website has information on the club’s services, membership details, bushwalking locations and trip details. Read about the aims of the club, club activities and the difficulty levels of different walks.

The Queensland Bushwalkers Club

On this website find information about membership costs, activities and the club’s history. View the club calendar, newsletters and bushwalking articles.

Plus try bushwalking within the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

Other walks

BrisbaneCityWalk

Spend a couple of hours along the BrisbaneCityWalk discovering Brisbane city’s heritage, architecture and interesting spots. You’ll visit beautiful shopping arcades, stroll through parkland and across bridges. Even locals will learn something new.

• See a full wrap up of other guided and self-guided walking tours around Brisbane.

Heart Foundation Walking

The Heart Foundation delivers Heart Foundation Walking – a network of free community-based walking groups across Queensland.

10,000 Steps Brisbane

This program is all about starting positive changes in your life and increasing your physical activity. 10,000 steps is the recommended daily step goal for an adult.

Photo by:  http://www.flickr.com/photos/bram_souffreau/400746683/

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It’s downright un-Australian to not have a tipple on the Melbourne Cup. Even those of us who know nothing whatsoever about horse racing or jockeys reckon we can pick the winner of the big race.

Do you base your hot bet on the colours of the jockey’s outfits (called ‘silks’) or the quirky name of the horse or simply back the favourite? Even if you’ve never gambled before, it’s really easy to have a bet in the Melbourne Cup.

Melbourne Cup sweep

Beginners can’t go wrong with being part of a sweep. Office sweeps are common and if you go to any Melbourne Cup function then you’ll probably have the chance to be part of the sweep.

Basically, up to 24 people put in the required amount, usually $2 or $5. Then ‘your’ horse is selected by pulling its name out from the list of all horses in the race. There’s no betting skill involved but it’s a certainty that the pooled money will then be given as prizes to whoever was lucky enough to draw out 1st, 2nd and 3rd place-getters. Sometimes whoever drew the last horse might get there bet back for winning ‘the wooden spoon’. So, coming last is better than running 4th! People often enter sweeps for their kids or partners and will buy a few entries.

Placing a bet

TAB agencies will open from 8am on Cup Day. You can also place your Cup bets on the day before (Monday) if you want to avoid the queues. When Melbourne Cup day rolls around you’ll find extra TAB agencies set up in busy places, such as the Queen Street Mall. The number of punters for this one race is incredible. Agencies are very busy from lunchtime until the start of the race (2pm Queensland time) so it’s a good idea to put your bets on as early as possible. Extra staff will be on hand to help you out if needed. You’ll find the list of race horses and their jockeys in TAB agencies, online and in newspapers.

You can place bets to win in various ways. There is:

For a win

Nice and simple. You bet your horse will win the race. The minimum bet for this bet type (in Queensland) is one dollar.

For a place

You bet that your horse will finish 1st, 2nd or 3rd. Obviously three horses (or more if there is a dead-heat) finish in the placings so the dividends (i.e. the amount that you collect for your bet) is less.The minimum bet for this bet type (in Queensland) is one dollar.

Each way

This bet type combines the win bet and place bet described above. If your horse wins the race you collect the win dividend plus the place dividend. If your horse runs 2nd or 3rd you collect the place dividend only.You’ve covered yourself by taking a gamble ‘each way’. A one dollar bet each way will cost you two dollars (one dollar for your win bet and one dollar for your place bet).

Quinella

You bet on who the first and second place getters will be, in any order.

Trifecta

You must select which horses will come in 1st, 2nd and 3rd – in that order. If the one you think will come second actually comes first, you won’t win the trifecta. You can also ‘box’ three runners (or more) in the race to run the trifecta – which means you get the trifecta if your three runners are 1st, 2nd and 3rd in any order. Confused? Just ask for assistance at the TAB if you need a hand. This is a very difficult but extremely lucrative way to win.

Mystery bet

The best bet for those of us who have no idea. Simply pay a dollar or two (or however much you are prepared to gamble) and ask for a mystery bet. The TAB computer will randomly select your horse or horses (depending on what you ask for). If you’re no expert then perhaps a computer’s guess is as good as your own!

Enjoy the race, whether you back a winner or not!

Photo by: http://www.flickr.com/photos/charliebrewer/291188573/

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Brisbane is home to numerous sporting venues for all organised sports. Our guide to major sports venues in the Brisbane region provides you with some helpful information about four of the biggest:

Suncorp Stadium

Suncorp Stadium was redeveloped on the site of the old cauldron, Lang Park, in 2003. It seats 52,500 people and in addition to being the spiritual home of State of Originand other international and local sporting events.

Where is it?

Suncorp Stadium is located in Milton. Pedestrians can enter the stadium from Milton Road, Castlemaine Street or Caxton Street. See a map of the area.

How do I get there?

If you’re driving, don’t forget that the area surrounding Suncorp Stadium has a fifteen-minute (P15-min) parking time limit restriction that applies inside the designated Traffic Area in all streets from 12 noon to 10pm.

This map shows the areas with parking restrictions:

View Suncorp Stadium Restricted Parking Zone in a larger map

Public transport is the way to go. Ticket holders are entitled to free travel on all regular network wide Brisbane Transport bus and QR city train services on the day of the event. Free shuttle buses will run from the city and South Bank before and after Suncorp Stadium games. Use TransLink to plan your journey.

An elevated walkway gives pedestrians access to Milton Rail Station and a 12 bay bus station offers shuttle services to the CBD for events.

Where can I buy tickets? And what about seating?

Tickets can be purchased online at Ticketek. Check out the seating plan.

There are seats and facilities to assist people with a disability and 75 per cent of seats are covered by the roof. Because of the design of the stadium, almost all seats have a great view of the playing field. Seats in the front row are only five metres from the action.

Is food and drink available?

There are more than 50 food and drink outlets inside the stadium.

You are welcome to bring homemade food (eg. sandwiches) as long as they aren’t packed in prohibited containers (ie. glass). You can’t bring in food that you’ve bought from take-away outlets. If you’ve got questions about what you can and can’t take into the stadium, read the stadium’s FAQs.

And after the game?

You can head out to the dozen or so bars and restaurants in Caxton Street, Paddington. There are more food options in Park Road, Milton and there is a major take-away chain just next door to the stadium in Milton Road.

For more information visit the Suncorp Stadium website.

The Gabba

Formally known as the Brisbane Cricket Ground but called ‘The Gabba’ by everyone, this venue is the spiritual home of cricket in Queensland. During the summer months, the Gabba hosts the Queensland Bulls and the Australian cricket team. In winter, the Gabba becomes the home of aussie rules in Brisbaneand is the home ground to the Brisbane Lions Football Club.

Where is it?

The Gabba is located between Vulture and Stanley Streets, Woolloongabba. Hence, the Vulture Street end and the Stanley Street end referred to in cricket commentary.

See a map of the area.

How do I get there?

There isn’t much parking close by as there are parking restrictions in the Gabba zone. See this map for the restricted parking zone:

View The Gabba Restricted Parking Zone in a larger map

TransLink provides full public transport information for Gabba matches.

Where can I buy tickets? And what about seating?

Tickets for AFL matches are available from Ticketek three weeks before the game. Book early as Brisbane Lions games are extremely popular and often sell out.

Tickets for international cricket matches are available from ticketmaster7.

Tickets to domestic cricket matches can be bought from the Gabba box office on the day of play.

Is food and drink available?

There are almost 50 food outlets and bars at the Gabba.

Don’t take any items which are regarded as offensive or which can be used as a projectile. You can’t take your own alcohol, seats, stools or musical instruments. Be prepared for your bags to be searched – you may be denied entry to the grounds if you refuse.

See the Gabba’s conditions of entry for more information.

And after the game?

Celebrate or commiserate (depending upon the result) at the hotels and restaurants nearby on Main Street (heading towards the Story Bridge) – this is where you’ll find major take-away places too. Or you can walk west along Stanley Street and find a selection of pubs, take-aways and restaurants. South Bank, with dozens of dining places, is a 15-minute walk away.

For more information visit The Gabba website.

Skilled Park Stadium

Location

Stadium Drive, Robina (near Robina train station and the Robina transport hub)

Skilled Park is the home of the Gold Coast Titans.

Seating

27,000 maximum capacity

Public transport

Train and bus services will service the stadium before and after events at Skilled Park.

Patrons in possession of a pre-purchased event ticket will be able to travel to and from Skilled Park for free. Detailed information is available from Translink.

What’s allowed inside?

Like most stadiums, glass, open drink containers and loud hailers are banned. Food from commercial outlets (ie take away foods) can’t be brought into the stadium area. Bags and backpacks may be searched.

See the detailed conditions of entry for more information.

Accessibility

Disabled seating and toilet facilities are provided.

For more information visit the Skilled Park website.

Queensland Tennis Centre

The Brisbane International Tennis Tournament. There are 23 international standard courts including clay, grass and hard-court surfaces.

Where is it?

190 King Arthur Terrace, Tennyson – right alongside the Brisbane River.

How do I get there?

Car parking is not available during the Brisbane International Tennis Tournament. Ticketholders can take the free Queensland Rail service to Yeerongpilly Station, then walk (about 1km) to the Tennis Centre (a shuttle bus is available on request for people requiring assistance – ph. 3120 7930).

Seating information

Pat Rafter Arena is the international standard centre court at the Tennis Centre. Seating capacity is 5,500.

Is food and drink available?

A canteen sells soft drinks, confectionary, snacks, ice cream and coffee. Strings Café overlooks the river and offers a range of cakes and light meals (6.30am to 7pm daily).

Further info

Visit the Queensland Tennis Centre website.

The Sleeman Sports Complex

The Sleeman Sports Complex is comprised of a number of venues, including:

• the Chandler Aquatic Centre, an indoor aquatic centre including a 50 metre Olympic pool and 25 metre diving pool with platforms and diving boards;
• the Chandler Arena, an indoor multi-sports arena;
• the Chandler Velodrome;
• a 1500 seat capacity theatre;
• a gymnastics training hall; and a
• water fun park.

The Chandler Arena is an 1,800 seat sports arena hosting indoor soccer, volleyball and badminton.

The Sleeman Sports Complex is often abuzz with activity as it is home to more than 20 local, state and national sporting clubs and associations.

Where is it?

The Sleeman Sports Complex is located on the corner of Old Cleveland and Tilley Roads, Chandler. See a map of the area. It is two minutes drive from the Gateway Arterial Freeway, 17 kilometres south of Brisbane city.

How do I get there?

There are 2,000 car parking spaces on site. See a map of the parking areas.

There is also a taxi rank.

Bus is the best public transport option. Find which bus route by using the journey planner from TransLink.

Seating

The indoor Chandler Arena has grandstand style seating for 1,800 people.

The Velodrome can seat 3,500 for cycling events and 4,300 people can see diving and swimming action at the Aquatic Centre.

Is food and drink available?

All Sleeman Sports Complex venues have a kiosk. Only the corporate areas are licensed.

You are allowed to bring food and non-alcoholic drinks to the venue but commercial take-away meals are discouraged. Allowances for eskies and other food containers depend upon the type of event.

See the detailed conditions of entry for more information.

And after the game?

The restaurants and eateries next to Carindale Shopping Centre, approximately five minutes drive away, are the closest facilities for a meal before or after an event at the Sleeman Sports Complex.

For more information visit the Sleeman Sports Complex website.

Photo by: http://www.flickr.com/photos/acousticdimensions/6499649103/

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