Brisbane to Sydney - Bethel Trip

Throughout our adventure, we'll marvel at beautiful landscapes and appreciate Jehovah's creation. We'll enjoy fellowship, participate in spiritual programs, and engage in experiences that will make this holiday not only fun but also spiritually uplifting.

Below, you'll find the itinerary for this exciting bus tour. If you're interested in joining us, please fill in the form to join the waiting list and secure your spot on this fun journey.

Tour Dates: Early-Mid January 2025 (Exact Dates TBC)
Length of Tour: 9 Days
Estimated Cost: $200-$250AUD ($150-$170USD) per day
Cost Includes: Accomodation, Coach, Activities

Some meals will be included with the accomodation, others will be an additional expense. There will be opportunity for additional activities that can also be booked at an additional cost.

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Day 1

7:00am - Depart Brisbane and make our way to Newcastle
8:30am - Stop at Cubby Bakehouse for food and Coffee
3:30pm - Late lunch at Forster
6:30pm - Arrive at Newcastle - TBC Accomodation

Day 2

8:00am - Depart Newcastle
10:00am - Hawkesbury River Cruise
3:00pm - Arrive at Sydney Accomodation

Day 3

9:00am - Set off for the Blue Mountains
10:30am - Arrive at Wentworth Falls for a short hike
1:00pm - Lunch in Katoomba
2:30pm - Extra activities or shop in town
6:00pm - Three Sisters Lookout and short walk
9:00pm - Arrive back at Sydney Accomodation

Day 4

9:00am - Depart accomodation for morning Bethel Tour

Free afternoon for shoppinng, touring or relaxing

Day 5

9:00am - Leave from accomodation

Free day in Sydney City to tour and shop, with multiple drop offs throughout the city.

Enjoy dinner at a nice restaurant or a Harbour Dinner Cruise.

8:00pm - Regroup and head back to accomodation

Day 6

9:00am - Leave accomodation for scenic drive through Kangaroo Valley
10:30am - Arrive in Bowral for Morning Tea
1:00pm - Visit a Distillery/Winery for Lunch

A coastal drive back to Sydney stopping for photo opportunities on the way back.

5:00pm - Arrive back at accomodation

Day 7

8:00am - Leave Sydney
11:00am - Arrive in Hunter Valley where we'll visit Wineries, Chocolateers and Cheese Makers
6:30pm - Arrive at accomodation in Tamworth

Day 8

9:00am - Leave Tamworth
1:00pm - Lunch in Tenterfield
6:00pm - Arrive back in Brisbane

Day 1 - Brisbane to Newcastle

Embarking on our exciting bus tour holiday from Brisbane to Sydney, we’ll break up the 8-hour journey with two delightful stops. First, we'll indulge in delicious treats and scenic views at the beloved Cubby Bakehouse. By mid-afternoon, we’ll arrive at the picturesque Santa Barbara Picnic Area for an early BBQ dinner, with the chance to spot migrating whales. Along the way, we’ll enjoy fellowship, engaging interviews, and possibly a movie to keep the fun rolling, before reaching Newcastle for our overnight stay.

Kick off your adventure with a delicious bang! We'll make a pit stop at the ever-popular, top-rated Cubby Bakehouse, where you can savor mouthwatering treats and soak in stunning views before embarking on our exciting bus journey. Bon appétit and bon voyage!

As we continue our journey, we'll reach Forster by mid-afternoon. Our next stop is the Santa Barbara Picnic Area, where we'll enjoy an early BBQ dinner. Nestled in coastal heathland and right on Seven Mile Beach, this spot offers a perfect backdrop for our meal. Keep an eye out—you might just spot some majestic whales migrating along the coast!

Day 2 - Hawksebury River Cruise

As we head to our hotel accommodation in Sydney for the rest of the week, we'll embark on a scenic cruise along the Hawkesbury River. Discover the rich history of islands like Lion, Dangar, and Spectacle, and pass by unique water-access-only settlements. You'll also see the fascinating wreck of the HMAS Parramatta and enjoy breathtaking ocean views behind Lion Island. Don’t miss the ancient Aboriginal rock carvings at Eagle Rock near Broken Bay. This popular cruise includes a delightful Postie-Ploughman’s lunch served on board.

We'll embark on a memorable journey together on the famous Riverboat Postman, cruising the scenic lower Hawkesbury River. We'll deliver mail and essentials (sometimes including a bottle of whiskey or rum...) to the river-access-only settlements upriver from Brooklyn.

The skippers, lifelong locals, will entertain us with captivating stories about the river and its history as we cruise comfortably along this breathtaking waterway. We'll enjoy real coffee, hot tea, and famous ANZAC biscuits, baked daily from Grandma’s recipe. A delicious lunch is also provided, ensuring we have a delightful experience on this iconic day trip.

Day 3-6 - Sydney & Surrounds

Our Sydney visit will feature a special tour of Bethel, where we can tour the branch, view the Jehovah's Witnesses Australian history museum, and peek behind the scenes of the "Good News according to Jesus" film production.

Sydney also offers two free days with a variety of activities to choose from, such as visiting the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, exploring Australian museums and the Botanical Gardens, enjoying a dinner cruise on the harbour, or even taking a sightseeing flight around the harbour.

No trip to Sydney is complete without a day excursion to the Blue Mountains, where we'll witness spectacular waterfalls, lush rainforests, and incredible rock formations.

Australasia Bethel

In Sydney, we'll visit the Australasia branch where the filming of the GnJ Series is underway. Enjoy a guided tour of the branch, explore the Museum of the History of Jehovah's Witnesses in Australia, and get a look at the backlot where the series is being produced.

Sydney Opera House

Enjoy a walking tour around Circular Quay, where you'll encounter some of Australia's most iconic landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Sydney Botanic Gardens

Take a leisurely stroll through the Sydney Botanic Gardens, a lush oasis in the heart of the city. Discover a diverse collection of native and exotic plants, serene ponds, and vibrant floral displays. The gardens offer a tranquil escape, perfect for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone looking to unwind amidst beautiful surroundings.

Sea Life Aquarium

Dive into an underwater adventure at the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, one of the city's top attractions. Located in Darling Harbour, this captivating aquarium offers a fascinating glimpse into Australia's diverse marine life. Explore themed zones featuring vibrant coral reefs, majestic sharks, playful penguins, and unique Australian creatures.

Wentworth Falls Walking Track

Embark on the Wentworth Falls Waterfall Walk, a breathtaking journey in the Blue Mountains. This scenic trail leads you through lush eucalyptus forests, past dramatic cliff edges, and down to the magnificent Wentworth Falls.

Three Sisters

A visit to the Three Sisters in the Blue Mountains is an unforgettable experience. These iconic sandstone rock formations, standing proudly at Echo Point, offer stunning views over the Jamison Valley.

Jenolan Caves

Embark on a tour of the Jenolan Caves, one of the world’s oldest and most spectacular cave systems, located in the Blue Mountains. Your journey begins with a scenic drive through lush forests and dramatic landscapes. Upon arrival, expert guides will lead you through a network of awe-inspiring limestone formations, crystal-clear underground rivers, and grand chambers adorned with stalactites and stalagmites.

Day 7 - Hunter Valley

Indulge in a delightful tour through the enchanting Hunter Valley, where we'll visit renowned wineries, savor artisanal cheeses, and treat yourself to delectable chocolates. This experience offers a wonderful blend of flavors and scenic beauty, making it a memorable highlight of our trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are single fares allowed?

Our prices are based on double occupancy rooms. If you are travelling alone we can try to pair you with another single guest to share accommodation. Otherwise, there will be an additional charge to have a room to yourself.

Is travel insurance required while on the Oz Friends tour?

You are responsible for arranging any travel insurance for yourself.

What deposits are required and are there deadlines?

A deposit is required to reserve your seat. One month prior to departure the remainder of your tour price is required.

What happens if I need to cancel?

I will do my best to find a replacement thus providing you with a full refund. If no replacement can be found then a partial refund will be calculated, usually the fare minus the deposit.

What about hotels before and after the tour?

You must make your own arrangements before and after the tour.