5 sustainable ways to experience Australia

Embracing the chill

Editorial Team · 14 May 2024

As the southern hemisphere cools down, June presents a perfect opportunity to explore Australia’s winter wonders. This month, dive into experiences that not only thrill but also conscientiously contribute to the planet and local communities. From eco-friendly ski resorts to immersive cultural tours, discover how you can enjoy the winter season sustainably.

1. Eco-skiing in the Snowy Mountains, New South Wales

Thredbo Ski Resort, Snowy Mountains, New South Wales. Image credit: Thredbo

As the southern hemisphere cools down, June presents a perfect opportunity to explore Australia’s winter wonders. This month, dive into experiences that not only thrill but also conscientiously contribute to the planet and local communities. From eco-friendly ski resorts to immersive cultural tours, discover how you can enjoy the winter season sustainably.

• Getting there: Travel by train from Sydney to Canberra, and then catch a connecting bus to the Snowy Mountains to minimise your carbon footprint.
• Where to stay: Choose the eco-certified Candlelight Lodge, known for its energy-efficient practices and waste reduction measures.
• Where to dine: Enjoy locally sourced, organic meals at the Terrace Restaurant in Lake Crackenback Resort, which focuses on sustainable dining practices.

2. Cultural discovery in the Kimberley, Western Australia

Uptuyu Aboriginal Adventures cultural tour, the Kimberly, Western Australia. Image credit: Uptuyu Aboriginal Adventures/WAITOC

Indigenous experiences and ancient landscapes

Experience the rich Indigenous heritage of the Kimberley with Uptuyu Aboriginal Adventures, known for its authentic and respectful cultural tours guided by local Indigenous people.

• Getting there: Opt for a low-emission flight to Broome with Qantas, which offers carbon offset programs.
• Where to stay: Stay at the Eco Beach Resort, which uses solar power and operates on strict eco-tourism principles.
• Where to dine: Sample traditional bush tucker prepared sustainably at the resort’s restaurant.

3. Winter wine tasting in Margaret River, Western Australia

Voyager Estate, Margaret River, Western Australia. Image credit: Voyager Estate

Organic wines in a picturesque setting

Explore the sustainable vineyards of Margaret River, where wineries like Voyager Estate practice organic viticulture and land management to produce exquisite wines with minimal environmental impact.

• Getting there: Take a biofuel-powered coach from Perth to Margaret River, reducing your travel emissions.
• Where to stay: Book your stay at the Harmony Forest Cottages, which feature eco-friendly accommodations surrounded by nature.
• Where to dine: Enjoy a meal at the Voyager Estate restaurant, where dishes are prepared using organic produce from the estate’s garden and local suppliers.

4. Sustainable whale watching in Hervey Bay, Queensland

Blue Dolphin Marine Tours, Hervey Bay, Queensland. Image credit: Blue Dolphin Marine Tours

Ethical marine encounters

Hervey Bay is renowned for its ethical whale watching practices. Operators like Blue Dolphin Marine Tours ensure minimal disturbance to the whales with their eco-certified tours.

• Getting there: Travel by electric-powered rail services from Brisbane to Hervey Bay.
• Where to stay: The eco-certified Akama Resort offers a luxurious yet sustainable stay.
• Where to dine: Dine at the Coast Restaurant & Bar, known for its commitment to sustainability and locally sourced seafood.

5. Organic farm tour in Tasmania

Fat Pig Farm, Huon Valley, Tasmania. Image credit: Tourism Tasmania

From farm to table

Connect with the land on a guided tour of Fat Pig Farm, home to the renowned TV chef and advocate of sustainable farming, Matthew Evans. Learn about organic farming and enjoy a feast of farm-to-table delights.

• Getting there: Take a green car hire from Hobart to the picturesque Huon Valley.
• Where to stay: Stay at the Huon Bush Retreats, an eco-retreat that offers self-contained cabins with minimal impact on the environment.
• Where to dine: Partake in a Friday Feast at Fat Pig Farm, where all dishes are made from ingredients grown on the farm or sourced from nearby ethical producers.

June in Australia doesn’t just have to be about keeping warm—it’s a chance to engage deeply with unique, sustainable experiences that benefit the traveller, the community, and the planet. Each of these activities offers a way to make your winter travels enriching and eco-friendly, proving that responsible tourism can indeed go hand-in-hand with adventure and cultural immersion.