Sustainability in Tourism

What encourages you to stay somewhere sustainable?

Much has been written about sustainable tourism and locations around the world, but what makes you chose ordinary over sustainable?

Platypus Park Country Retreat, accommodation Bridport Tasmania has over many years been offering visitors a sustainable option for their holiday stay in North East Tasmania. First Eco certified in 2000 with Eco Hotels of the World and again in 2009 with Eco Tourism Australia. Awarded Excellence certificate in 2012 by Keep Australia Beautiful, for showing the ultimate essence of sustainability.

What's ECO accommodation?

Simply it is accommodation which has put into practice many Ecological sustainabilty features and practices into their property, designed to look after the environment. Like what? Accommodation Bridport complex in Tasmania, Platypus Park Country Retreat, was the first in North East Tasmania to offer this type of stay.

A rural property sitting just on the edge of the seaside village of Bridport offers self contained accommodation for families, couples, singles and groups. They have included solar power, solar hot water and a self managed waste water treatment system. the complex relies totally on rain for it's water supply, stored in underground tanks. You will find compost bins for recycling all food waste, recylcing conatiners for plastics and bottles and bags for aluminium cans. Aything which can be recycled on the property is.  Guests are also encouraged to feed the chickens leftover vegetable matter and meat products may be donated to feed the friendly Kelpie cross, Sofie. There is also an organic vegetable garden and orchard where you may purchase fresh produce.

Next time you are considering a stay in Bridport accommodation, please consider the environment and the impact waste has on the landscape.

Just two minutes drive from the village centre you will find a peaceful, relaxing property complete with choices in accommodation to suit your needs. You can book online at www.platypuspark.com.au or ph 03 63561873.

     

• Promoting "eco" activitiesOrganic or Local FoodCar-free accessibility Ecological cleaning products More than 80% waste recycling Energy saving lights Green building Solar thermal panels for hot water 

• 
  
  Electric Car charging
  
  
• Environmentally aware

Spring in Bridport Tasmania

Best time to Visit 

Yes Spring is the best time to visit Bridport in  North East Tasmania. Why...I hear you ask?

Well it's something like this:

1. The wild flowers are in full bloom in the reserve, with a well defined walking track through them, the native orchids are so tiny you need a carefully trained eye to spot them.
2. The Bridport weather is perfect for walking the three beautiful walking tracks around the town. Wildflower Reserve, River Forest and Foreshore tracks are suitable of most levels of fitness.
3. Accommodation is easy to find at Platypus Park Country retreat fully self contained, one, two or three bedroom apartments or rooms. Situated on a 17 hectare property just on the edge of the seaside town.
4. The crowds have not arrived to the popular seaside village.
5. Barnbougle Dunes and Lost Farm golf courses are in perfect condition.
6. Trout are jumping in the Forester and Brid rivers.
7. We saved the best for last - Bridport is the home to fresh Tasmanian Scallops from July to December.

So pack your bags for a short break to Bridport Tasmania, Book your stay at Platypus Park Country Retreat prepare for some relaxation with trip to a nearby vineyard with lunch.

Hidden Secrets of Tasmania

Exciting Electrifying Tasmania

There's a new kid on the block, and you know what that means, don't you? It is exciting!

Many people who live in Launceston, Tasmania have driven passed the Trevallyn Power station many hundreds of times and never really knew what was in that large white building on the way to Riverside.

John Lovell has exclusive access to show you all the secrets hiding inside that building. His new business Discover Tasmania Tours will take you on a quick tour, half or full day tours of the Trevallyn, Duck Reach, and Waddamana Power stations and museums.

John with a group ready to tour

Ever wondered about how electricity is made? John has all the answers. Ever wondered when electricity came to Tasmania? John can tell you. He's a very friendly guy and worked for Hydro Tasmania for many years. He is now retired, well sort of, but he can't stay away from the excitement of electricity.

An original Pelton Wheel from Waddamna.

His quick tours operate on demand with minimum number requirements and strict dress code. Your safety is paramount to John, and he will kit you out in HiVis vest, hard hat and safety glasses, just to be sure. His vehicle is a very safe Mitsubishi Challenger 4WD. John also holds a current Red Cross first aid certification.

John's favourite quote, "you never know what's around the corner" so don't wait, go exploring with John you'll be glad you did.

Trevallyn Power station turbine

So give John a call,  0447 673 459, so you too can discover John and the Power Station Explorer Tour when you are visiting Launceston in Northern Tasmania.

Discover Tasmania Tours also have other tours which may interest you, around the Northern region, which will include visiting wineries, waterfalls, caves and bays, oh and don't forget John will know where all the best Tasmanian food is too!

Comfortable overnight room Bridport

Platypus Park Country Retreat
When you are travelling for  long periods you probably appreciate a budget room occasionally but still with all the overnight comforts you require.
Here we have prepared a small video so that you can see the facilities offered.
Lavender ensuite a disabled access room

Tasmania - Bridport - Bliss

Platypus Park Country Retreat is in Bridport in north eastern Tasmania, the property is a 40 acre farm where cattle graze, chickens roam and wildlife abounds.
You would be welcomed by 5th generation hosts and well looked after if you choose to stay at Platypus Park Country Retreat on your next visit to Tasmania.

Bridport Holiday...right now

Tasmania - Right Here - Right Now

Looking for a bargain? Want to go to Bridport in North East Tasmania? Then here is a good deal.

Platypus Park Country Retreat Look for the 3 Night Summer Special in the Forester fully self contained two bedroom holiday unit.

Family accommodation

Forester two bedroom holiday unit caters for families up to six people....just move in with your suitcases.

There is still time to have a family holiday before school goes back in February, but if you miss out there are always nice warm weekends coming up.

Platypus Park Country Retreat is a small property on the edge of Bridport, just two minutes drive to the beaches and shops in town. 

• Facilities include: 
• a games room, where everyone can have some fun, 
• trout fishing in the farm dams,
• Walks to the river to spot a Platypus!

Come and be our friend on Facebook too.

Couples Needing to escape

Book the Lavender cottage or Wattle spa studio 

You've Just got to be here in October

The North East Rivers Festival is on again from the 14th -23rd October.
10 events over 10 days focusing on 2 big weekends.


Here is an excerpt from the local Bridport community newspaper BridReport!
Now is the time to rope a team together and start designing your raft for the Derby River Derby, Saturday October 22.

We are excited to announce two new events at this year’s festival.
The Derby Bike Challenge at the Derby River Derby October 22. This will be a poker run and will start after the Super
Multi event.
The Bridport 10 Fun Run will take place along the famous Bridport Walking Track on Sunday 23rd October. Race starts at
10am with registrations open at 8am. You can also walk the track on the day.
Check out our new website for more information www.neriversfestival.com.au
We look forward to seeing you at our events in 2011.

Our Event Calender for 2011 is filling up.

Friday 14th October
Opening Night & School Fair Winnaleah Winnaleah District High School 5pm - 8pm
Saturday 15th October
Fishing Competition Pioneer Pioneer Lake 9am – 5pm
Men's Shed Markets Scottsdale 2 Christopher St, Scottsdale 9am - 1pm
Sunday 16th October
River of Life Celebration
(Combined Church Service)
Scottsdale Scottsdale Performing Arts Centre
11am –12 noon, followed by a
BBQ lunch
Vineyard Concert Pipers Brook Pipers Brook Vineyard 12 noon - 5pm
Friday 21st October
Golf Challenge Moorina Moorina Golf Course 8:30am – late afternoon
Art Exhibition Opening Scottsdale Scottsdale Art & Framing 7pm
Saturday 22nd October
Derby River Races, including
the Derby River Derby, Duck
Race, stalls, entertainment
Derby Derby River and River Bank 9am – 5pm
Derby Cycling Challenge Derby Derby Park 2:30pm
Art Exhibition Scottsdale Scottsdale Art & Framing 9am - 5pm
Sunday 23rd October
Bridport 10 Fun Run Bridport Bridport Walking track 10am Race Start (Registration
from 8am)
Art Exhibition Scottsdale Scottsdale Art & Framing 9am - 5pm

The Bridport 10 Fun Run should not be missed this could become an important annual event for runners young and old! Run for Fun or if you prefer Walk for fun! it's a great track with varied scenery to keep you interested.

Bridport walking track opened

The new $1 million Bridport walking track has been formally opened ... with most of the townsfolk turning out to mark the occasion.

A bevy of State, Federal and local politicians joined the State cricket coach and a local Aboriginal elder to snip a ribbon of foliage to throw open the 10-kilometre track.

The official openers included Federal Bass MP Geoff Lyons, Dorset Mayor Barry Jarvis, Aboriginal elder Patsy Cameron, State Bass MP Michelle O'Byrne and State cricket coach Tim Coyle

Added to the long existent foreshore and wildflower reserve walks the new section of track along and across the Brid River means nature lovers can now completely circumnavigate the township.

An added advantage is that access points to various parts means it can be walked in comfortable chunks.

The project was funded through a $700,000 Federal training program and a State construction grant of more than  $200,000.

The graduation of 27 trainees and team leaders was also recognised at the ceremony with cricket coach Tim Coyle drawing comparisons with the teamwork involved in the recent successes of the Tassie Tigers.

The politicians on hand congratulated the managers of the project Conservation Volunteers Australia and Bridport Innovations for the organisation's foresight in pursuing it.

Graduating trainees celebrate their achievement

Apart from the health and amenity advantages for locals the track is expected to provide visitors to the town with another rewarding activity.

It passes through a wide range of landscape and habitats... along the estuary and beach coves, the low undulations of the heathy wildflower reserve and the steeper, more heavily forested sections to the south of the town down to the pleasant stroll along the riverside.

Maps of the track are available from the information Pavilion in the centre of town.

Kate and Frank entertain the throng at the track opening

Ah lovely Autumn in Tasmania

Don't you just love it!
The mornings are crisp, the days are still warm enough for T-Shirts, the beaches are not crowded so it's an ideal time for a walk, and the evenings are cool enough to sleep comfortably - just bliss.

Bridport is the ideal place to while away some well earned relaxation time now that the hot summer has passed. There are fantastic places to stay including Platypus Park Country Retreat, which is in a quiet location, not in the main street, but on 40 acres(17.5 hectares) of farm and river setting. You'll be amazed at the bird life in the peaceful garden, and you can walk to the Brid river where you might be able to spot a platypus!

The resident hosts are friendly, and helpful and go out of their way to assist weary travelers. If you arrive late they will even make sure you don't go hungry, just because all the shops and eateries are closed. They have a wonderful organic garden where you may purchase some fresh vegetables - always a bonus when on holiday - you do get tired of eating out all the time! Oh and the free range eggs - you just have to taste the difference.

The autumn colours are starting to appear in the North East region. The many poplar trees are starting to turn, and in a couple of weeks will all be glowing golden what a gorgeous sight.

Why don't you take a break in the North East of Tassie right now and enjoy the WOW of autumn!

If Only it Were True

Why do people think we are going to fall for their tricks?

This email appeared today from someone I don't even know.

Who would recommend me as a project manager for such a large project?

Whilst I am capable of co ordinating the odd small building project I would think, if someone was going to recommend me for a job they might at least ask if I was interested first or if I had time????

Dear Sir/Madam,

You have been recommended as a reliable foreign investor and project manager. I am therefore seeking your

cooperation in building a Tourist Hotel or Real Estate in your country. I am sorry if this is not completely in line

with your profession. I need an experienced person like you to assist me set up,develop the project and assume

responsibility of ownership as chairman but will be bringing in profit /distribute profit monthly or annually.I shall

give you more information. Please get back to me immediately on my

private email: jamesibori12@aim.com

Best regards, Gov. James Ibori.

NOW where do I start:

1. I wouldn't be the foreign investor if I was doing something in my own country!

2. What skill set does this person assume I have that is going to be useful for this type of project?

3. Dear sir/madam! If I have been recommended for a task wouldn't you think they would know what gender I am?

At best I am putting this one into the potential scam box and deleting it...So don't get caught!

Reliable web hosting

MD webhosting is a reliable host of one of my websites.
You may like to use them too.Take this link over to check them out.

I use this one because:
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2. I can use their FREE web site builder, to build a simple website.
3. The support staff are always quick and efficient with my enquiries.
4. You could be elegible for a $100 Google Adwords voucher too.

Peace and Tranquillity

What is it about Platypus Park Country Retreat that is so relaxing?

Why does it attract people looking for a quiet relaxing place to stay at an affordable price?

It just does!
Set on 40 acres or 17.5 hectares Platypus Park Country Retreat in Bridport Tasmania just seems to be magnet when it comes to attracting the right sort of guests.
Perhaps it is the name, perhaps it is the location, perhaps it is the friendly voice on the end of the phone, perhaps it is the laid back 5th generation hosts..... Perhaps it is all these things.

Some remarkable people stay at Platypus Park Country Retreat

Thank you to Ian Clarke, a world renown creator of stringed instruments, and his delightful wife, who recently stayed at Platypus Park Country Retreat on a brief visit to Tasmania. Ian has been creating "stringed instruments of distinction" for quiet some time. From 1974 to 1977 Ian trained at the Newark School of Violin Making, graduating with "distinction", he was the first of a number of Australians to graduate from Newark.

Ian is one of Australia's most highly regarded violin makers, with his instruments being used all around the world. Professional orchestra musician, Anna Roach of TSO, has played a Clarke Viola since 1992. You can find out more about Ian and his quality instruments at www.clarkeviolins.com

So if you too would like to find out what is it about Platypus Park Country Retreat that is so relaxing jump onto the website and make a booking today. The garden is particularly delightful in Spring.

Family self catering units, romantic spa cottages, disabled access room; ideal for small groups of golfers whilst visiting Barnbougle Dunes, and family gatherings.

You to can discover what Ian found so attractive at Platypus Park Country Retreat.

Eco Tourism Is it important?

Platypus Park Country Retreat in Bridport Tasmania.

Has recently been certified!

If you care for the environment and would like to show you care, take your next holiday at Platypus Park in Bridport. The 5th generation Tasmanian hosts will ensure you have an enjoyable experience and assist you with your days touring.

Book online today

Special event coming up Bangarra 23rd and 24th October 2009. Don't miss out on this world renown Aboriginal theatre company's performance in Bridport, part of the North East Rivers Festival 16-25 October.

Take a break Now

Platypus Park Country Retreat is a finalist.

Make a booking today

Playful Platypus Bridport Tasmania

Cute Platypus Bridport Tasmania

When you stay at Platypus Park Country Retreat in Bridport Tasmania it may be possible to see an unusual Australian creature, the duckbill platypus.

It's a monotreme the same as an Echindna an egg laying mammal.

Would you like to see the video of one

Cute isn't he? If you would like the opportunity to see him in real life make a booking to stay at Platypus Park Country Retreat today.

Promote your business today

Have you found anywhere new to promote your business today?


Well here are a couple of hints.


Tip one:
Go to linkedin and submit your profile and business details, search for others you may know within this network it could be valuable. Import your address book from outlook and see who is already linked In, you could be surprised.



Tip two:
Have you been to HOT FROG yet? Well get on over there too, it's a business directory and you never know who's looking in there. Google actually post the articles in their keywords alerts too.

Let me know how you get on.

Family holiday to Korea Tips

Oh what a busy 3 weeks it was when we visited South Korea, Japan and Singapore recently for our first overseas family holiday, we usually holiday at home.

Coming from Tasmania, Singapore at 33C was quiet exhausting! But the shopping opportunities were fantastic.

I've got to tell you that flying Singapore airlines was a great decision. All our flights to and from all destinations were on time all the time and the service was excellent and the staff friendly.

Travelling with teenagers can have its moments, but we all survived and the young people now have an appreciation of travelling in other countries and eating "foreign" food.
I'll be posting more holiday reviews on tripadvisor for any one who is interested.

Tip1: Kimchi comes in many forms and varying degrees of spicyness!

Tip2: Rooms with four "proper" beds are hard to find.

Tip3: Practice your chopsticks before you go, Korean metal chopsticks are much harder to deal with than the plastic or wooden variety.

Tip4: The DMZ tour was very safe.

Tip5: The fast ferry from Busan to Fukuoka was very comfortable for a non "boat person" ME.

Now it's back to work, would love to hear from you if you have been to Korea too.

Bargain shopping Are you ready

Want your hair to be strait?
Then check out the hair styling gadgets discounted bargains right now.

Also available today only is the Easypix Cyber scanner P500 Digital photo scanner $97.95 don't miss this fantastic bargain.

Serious Twitter business

Want to get really serious about twitter and tweeting don't be a twit then ...
There's lots of free add ons in to help you twitter all day
try them out here.

"Tweetlater" is a fantastic tool to help you master twitter.
Send your folowers an auto message to welcome them
You'll stand out from the crowd if you make it a
personalised message and not a selling message.

Follow me on twitter too if you like.

See you soon.

May Special offer - River of Life give it a Go

Are You Ready for the Flu Season?

There IS something you can do you know!

Check out this Amazing 4Life May Special

In May, when you order 2 packs (4 bottles) of RioVida® Liquid Immune Booster, and 1 bottle of Transfer Factor Plus capsules, not only will you SAVE $46.10 - but you'll receive a FREE 4Life Signature Star Key Ring!


Startling news is breaking hourly about a new, mutated strain of the H1 N1 influenza virus, which was first reported in Mexico.

The virus, common in pigs, has mutated so that it now has the ability to infect humans and is transmitted by contact or by coughing and sneezing.

The mutated H1 N1 strain has never been seen before. Therefore, human immune systems don’t have the ability to recognise it.

This leaves the human population vulnerable to developing what has been referred to as “Swine Flu”.

There are several precautions which one can take to hopefully not contract the swine flu, which include frequent washing of hands, keeping the hands away from the face, coughing or sneezing into a tissue, and the avoidance of crowds in any area where the illness has been reported.

Research scientists also recognise that the best defence against contracting any illness, including viral illnesses such as influenza, is to have a healthy, vital and responsive immune system.

According to Dr Rob Robertson, MD, ex-Director of Emergency Services at Western Baptist Hospital, Kentucky, USA, another simple thing that everyone can do is take Transfer Factors.

He says, "Transfer Factors have the ability to augment one’s immune system’s responsiveness through stimulation of our first line of defence, our Natural Killer cells. Recent research has also revealed that Transfer Factors produce antibodies against invading pathogens."

Dr Robertson further states, "The consumption of Transfer Factors during this potential pandemic of the swine flu would appear to be a reasonable and recommended course of action to best avert what could possibly be an infection with high morbidity and mortality."

And the good news is that 4Life Research, the world's Immune System Company, has designed this May Special so you can boost your supplies for the chilly season ahead.
RioVida® Liquid Transfer Factor comes in a smart looking bottle!
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Yours in vibrant health...
Gina Scott Your 4HealthDirect shop owner