This morning we fly from Sydney to Melbourne to begin our exciting Australian Open adventure. On arrival, we make our way to the Docklands where we enjoy lunch together. Afterwards, we set off on a guided city highlights tour, including a short stop at the lively Victoria Markets before continuing through Melbourne’s famous sights. We finish at Federation Square before checking into our hotel. This evening we share a two course dinner, the perfect start to our tour.

Overnight: Best Western Travel Inn Carlton

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

Following a hearty breakfast we will depart this morning for Flinders Park and all the excitement of the Australian Open. Before the tennis (which commences at 11.00am with gates open at 10.00am) we will spend an hour in Melbourne’s beautiful Botanic Gardens. We have reserved seats on the shaded side of Rod Laver Arena and our tickets also give us access to all the matches played on the surrounding courts (apart from Margaret Court Arena).

At the conclusion of the scheduled centre court matches we will return to our motel with dinner at 7.00pm – however, this is subject to play not running overtime. Occasionally if there is a run of 5 set matches daytime play can run past the scheduled 7.00pm start time of the night sessions. Our motel restaurant has been advised that flexibility may be required.

Overnight: Best Western Travel Inn Carlton

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

We begin our day with breakfast at our hotel before departing for the Bellarine Peninsula. Travelling via Geelong, we stop along the waterfront to enjoy morning tea and some time to stretch our legs before continuing on to Drysdale Station.

On arrival, we board the iconic Q Train for a truly unique rail and dining experience. As we settle into our beautifully restored dining carriage, we enjoy a leisurely multi-course degustation lunch showcasing fresh, seasonal produce from the region, accompanied by local wines. The train travels at a relaxed pace along the historic Bellarine Railway, offering scenic views across Swan Bay and the surrounding countryside. The three-hour journey allows us to unwind, savour each course and take in the charm of this memorable experience.

At the conclusion of our rail journey, we return to Drysdale where our coach awaits, and we make our way back to Melbourne and our hotel in Carlton. This evening, we enjoy dinner before retiring after a memorable day.

Overnight: Best Western Travel Inn Carlton

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, after breakfast, we travel to Albert Park for the thrill of a hot lap around the famous circuit. Afterwards, we return to Melbourne Park for the Australian Open quarter finals. From our shaded seats at Rod Laver Arena, we watch the world’s top players battle for a semi-final place. Lunch is at leisure whilst enjoying the Tennis. This evening, we come together for another enjoyable dinner.

Overnight: Best Western Travel Inn Carlton

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast we head back to Melbourne Park with time to explore all the merchandise tents and for another day of exhilarating tennis. With more quarter-final matches on centre court, we are treated to world-class performances and gripping competition. Lunch is at leisure today, and the evening is free for us to enjoy Melbourne our own way. You may like to catch a show, stroll along Lygon Street, or perhaps return to the tennis for more action under the lights.

Overnight: Best Western Travel Inn Carlton

Meals Included: Breakfast

We enjoy breakfast at our hotel before departing Melbourne for a scenic day in the beautiful Yarra Valley. Our first stop is Bruno’s Sculpture Garden, where we take time to wander through the unique outdoor gallery set amongst tranquil bushland surrounds. We pause here for morning tea while enjoying the creativity and charm of the sculptures displayed throughout the gardens.

We then continue to a local Yarra Valley winery, where we enjoy lunch and a tasting in relaxed regional surroundings. Afterward, we visit the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery, allowing time to browse the showroom and perhaps select a sweet treat before beginning our journey back to Melbourne.

Overnight: Best Western Travel Inn Carlton

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Some of you may wish to take it easy this morning while others will want to maximise their time in the city. Options this morning are shop “till you drop”, take in the City Circle Tram or perhaps some more of Melbourne’s fine galleries, museums and gardens. A shuttle will be organised so that we can try to accommodate lots of different tastes. A choice will be offered including the Eureka Skydeck for panoramic views from level 88, tour of the MCG, City Circle Tram, the Immigration Museum in Old Customs House, Victoria Markets, the Shrine of Remembrance, St Pauls Cathedral, Old Melbourne Gaol, Carlton, Fitzroy and Treasury Gardens and a variety of Yarra River cruises.

We will regroup for our final meal together at Southbank before transferring to Melbourne airport for our flight back to Sydney.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

To ensure a smooth experience for our large group, we will occasionally divide into two smaller groups: Group 1 and Group 2.

On Days 2, 4 and 5, everyone attends the Australian Open together at Melbourne Park.

On Days 3 and 6, the groups will follow different touring programs, swapping so that both groups enjoy all inclusions (Bellarine Peninsula & Q Train / Yarra Valley).

On selected evenings, the dinners will alternate between dining at the hotel and dining out on Lygon Street. This arrangement ensures a relaxed pace and allows everyone to enjoy the full itinerary.