How the best Aussie town has evolved over the past 25 years
Australia is filled with the quaint and the quirk when it comes to towns and cities alike - but which is the best?
To celebrate the launch of the new news.com.au app, we're celebrating the people, places and events we'll never forget from the first quarter of the 21st century by asking for Australia's view. Our 25@25 series will finally put to bed the debates you've been having at the pub and around dinner tables for years – and some that are just too much fun not to include.
The Economist Intelligent Unit's annual Global Liveability Index ranked Australia as having three of the top 10 spots on the 2025 list of most liveable cities in the world.
Melbourne once again beat rival Sydney, coming in at number four on the chart, while the Harbour City came in sixth and Adelaide was ninth.
But we're more interested in where you choose to visit when the budget can't accomodate an international flight.
Of course there are plenty of hotspots away from our major urban centres.
The ever-popular Byron Bay of the early 2000s has been joined by the quieter neighbouring spot of Yamba as a favourite in recent years, while the Outback and tropical environs of northern Queensland offer unique pleasures.
So when asking some well-travelled Aussie faces to narrow down their top five locations from around the country they've visited over the past 25 years, we didn't limit them to the capitals.
And it's fair to say when it comes to what's ranked well — good food, a decent coffee and plenty of coastline reign supreme.
Teigan Nash - TV presenter, Sydney Weekender
Top Pick: Kimberley, Western Australia
The Kimberley is a realm where connection, serenity, and wonder converge. Walking amongst the rugged red dirt to then be immersed in deep green fern-fringed pools of Zebedee Springs, nestled in the heart of El Questro. It's a place that invites you to pause, listen, learn and be enveloped by its timeless beauty.
2. Kakadu, Northern Territory
3. Lady Elliot Island, Queensland
4. Forster, New South Wales
5. Great Barrier Reef and Atherton Tablelands, Tropical North Queensland
Jana Frawley - Content Director, Escape
TOP PICK: Yulara, Northern Territory
With a bank, supermarket, service station and school, Yulara is like any other small Australian town, but it has one big difference: it's right next door to the awesome natural wonders, Uluru and Kata Tjuta. If you've visiting - as I have done five times in the past 30 years - it's where you'll eat, drink, sleep and rest in accommodation ranging from a DIY camp site to one of the most expensives lodges down under. Then, you head out to the nearby national park and its world-famous and culturally significant landmarks, jaw agape every time. Yulara rocks!
2. Byron Bay, New South Wales
3. Noosa, Queensland
4. Leura, New South Wales
5. Healesville, Victoria
Loren Barry - Co-host, The Hot Hits with Nic & Loren
TOP PICK: Narooma New South Wales
I almost didn't want to include Narooma because I don't want it to become spoiled, HOWEVER, it's far too beautiful to gatekeep. The beaches are perfection, the people are a delight and the Fish and Chips - unbeatable. Also, there's a chance you'll spot Orcas, and if there is Orcas involved, you know I'm there.
2. Fitzroy Victoria (specifically Gertrude Street)
3. Wilson's Prom Victoria
4. Daintree Rainforest Queensland
5. Blue Mountains New South Wales
Rowena Ryan - Digital Editor, Escape
TOP PICK: Thredbo, New South Wales
Thredbo is no longer just about the winter season. While I still go skiing, I've spent summers, Christmases and Easters up in the Snowy Mountains - it's the perfect mix of stunning scenery, laid back Aussie holiday vibes and nature, whether it be golfing, swimming in the rivers, hiking to the top of Mt Kosciuszko or mountain bike riding it's my go-to for a week of switching off.
2. Broome, Western Australia
3. Barwon Heads, Victoria
4. Mudgee, New South Wales
5. Dunsborough, Western Australia
Shaun White - Sunrise tech and travel expert
TOP PICK: Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia
This one took me by surprise. You hear about the Great Barrier Reef all the time, but Ningaloo? It's where the outback meets the reef. The colour contrast between red and turquoise is out of this world. It gets really hot in summer but you can swim with whale sharks. I'm booking my next visit right now.
2. Fitzroy, Melbourne
3. Maleny, Queensland
4. Hamilton Island, Queensland
5. Kangaroo Valley, NSW
Angus Kidman - Finder.com.au Travel Guru
TOP PICK: Beechworth, Victoria
This high country gem has charm without being twee, steeped in history and surrounded by gorgeous countryside and a brilliant rail trail. Finish your day of exploring at Bridge Road Brewers with a local IPA and a hot pizza - perfection. And no need to go to Melbourne first for out-of-staters - it's a quick hop from Albury.
2. Kingston, ACT
3. Dubbo, New South Wales
4. Glenelg, South Australia
5. Daylesford, Victoria
Sam Frost, media personality and caravanning queen
TOP PICK: Gib-River Road, Western Australia.
We did this trip last year in our caravan. It was epic! All the beautiful waterfalls and gorges are truly magic.
2. Flinders Ranges, South Australia
3. K'gari, Queensland
4. Victorian High Country
5. Tasmania - I can't pick one spot!
Beau Ryan, Triple M's Beau, Cat & Woodsy breakfast show
TOP PICK: Bermagui, NSW
A coastal town with a relaxed lifestyle, the most pristine beaches, and the best oysters in the country. A place where my family holds an annual reunion that holds a special place in my heart. Bridge jumping at Lake Cuttagee followed by ocean swims at the blue pool. Paradise, man
2. Uluru, Northern Territory
3. Hobart, Tasmania
4. Warilla/Barrack Point, NSW
5. Port Douglas (Daintree Forest) Queensland
Matty Johnson, Dad and podcast host
TOP PICK: Ulladulla - New South Wales
It might not be the most exotic destination on my list but there's no where else I'd rather spend my time with the family. There's amazing restaurants, people are incredibly friendly and the beaches are some of the most pristine I've ever been to. Nothing beats fish and chips on the beach as you watch the whales migrate - so close it feels like they're in arms reach.
2. Byron Bay, New South Wales
3. Cairns, Queensland
4. Magnetic Island, Queensland
5. McLaren Vale, South Australia
Sam Frickey, Australian Olympic Diver
TOP PICK: Surfers Paradise, Queensland
Absolutely love Surfers. There's a diving pool up the road in Southport where I train, but honestly, it's everything else around it that makes this place one of my all-time favourites. The main strip always has pumping street performers, epic food, and the perfect spot to shoot content. One of my best stays ever was this Airbnb apartment in Soul, right above the beach. I slept with the balcony door open and fell asleep to the sound of waves crashing. It was next level. During the day, I love doing mainies (that's where you walk up and down the main street and suss out what's going on). And the Gold Coast is one of the best places in Australia to do good mainies - there's always something happening, the vibes are high, and it's just got that classic Aussie energy that never gets old.
2. Cronulla Beach, New South Wales
3. Lightning Ridge, New South Wales
4. Great Barrier Reef, Queensland
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News.com.au
16-07-2025
- News.com.au
‘Triggered a few people': Detail in Aussie plane photo sparks huge divide
A single photo taken during a flight from Brisbane to Sydney has caused a major online stir, with some Aussies branding the image 'inspiring' while others found it 'disturbing'. Corporate psychologist and Compono founder and CEO Rudy Crous snapped the photo while on a recent early morning, weekday flight. The photo shows a full row of passengers all dressed in similar-looking long-sleeve, button-up shirts, sitting straight up in their seats and facing dutifully towards the front of the plane. Mr Crous, 48, shared the photo on LinkedIn, describing the look as 'corporate battle gear'. 'Take a look — row after row of starched collars, pale blue shirts, and dark trousers. It's almost like a uniform,' he wrote. 'Different companies. Different missions. Someone heading to pitch a new idea. Someone about to negotiate a tough deal. Someone walking into a boardroom for the first time. Someone just hoping to keep it all together. 'But we all have the same determination — to face the day, to lead, to negotiate, to solve, to win.' Mr Crous continued the post, writing that while the passengers on the plane don't know each other's challenges, they will all likely return that night 'a little more tired, a little more proud' and 'victorious in our own way'. The post quickly gained traction, sparking hundreds of comments and revealing a clear divide in responses. There were those who agreed with the CEO's assessment of what the photo represented, with some branding it 'inspiring' and 'uplifting'. 'This hits home. That early morning flight — half-asleep, fully committed — is familiar territory for many of us. It's resilience in motion,' one person said. 'Everyone is out there facing their own battles which no one else is privy to. Trying to get that little bit further in whatever they are trying to achieve,' another wrote. Others agreed that there was definitely a 'corporate uniform' on display, with others joking the workers in the photo were all likely sporting brown RM Williams boots as well. However, not everyone found the image to be motivating, with others branding it 'strangely disturbing' and 'the definition of cringe'. 'Such a depressing photo. Everyone looks the same. Where's the individuality?' one person asked. 'You can call it 'battle-gear' if you it SHOUTS 'hamster-wheel',' another said, with one branding the workers 'corporate drones'. Another person claimed the photo summed up 'so much of what is wrong with corporate Australia today'. The photo gained so much attention that it was reshared to Reddit, where users branded it 'low-key dystopian'. 'You could barely make this up for a sitcom,' one added. Speaking to Mr Crous said the photo was definitely up for interpretation. 'I think that was the beauty of it and that's what I really liked about it. I definitely saw it triggered a few people,' he said. Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, the 48-year-old used to do those early morning flights weekly and now only does them on the rare occasion. But, what stood out to him about the scene wasn't the 'conformity' of how everyone was dressed, it was the idea that, while they may look the same, everyone has a different purpose. 'The corporate battleware that I was referring to was more about battling for their families, battling for themselves in the tough economy,' he said. 'It was also nice to see people getting out. There is nothing like in person meetings, seeing the whites of people's eyes while sitting across from them in rooms, rather than being distracted by your devices on a Zoom call.' The corporate psychologist addressed some of the comments pointing out the lack of diversity in the photo, stating that those comments, along with ones viewing the conformity in a negative light, 'kind of missed the point'. 'It wasn't about race. It wasn't about gender, it was, again, everybody setting off to achieve what they can, to achieve their mission for themselves, their family, their future and the economy,' he said. Mr Crous also snapped a photo of the plane during his flight home, which he once again shared online. He noted the scene was a very different one from the morning, nothing that 'after a full day of corporate sharecropping and strategic warfare, the formation looked a little thinner'. He also pointed out there was a woman pictured in the second photo, who also sported the 'blue inform'. 'At the end of the day people love to make it about themselves, rather than necessarily read the actual post and make a comment on the post that I've made,' the CEO said. 'I think you can see good or bad in anything. The photo is definitely up for interpretation, and that's what I like about it.'

News.com.au
13-07-2025
- News.com.au
What is the most overhyped holiday destination of the 21st century?
You've seen the locations dominate your social feeds and dreamt about visiting for years. But when you get there, they're not exactly what they're all hyped up to be. Our 25@25 series will finally put to bed the debates you've been having at the pub and around dinner tables for years – and some that are just too much fun not to include. There's no denying the beauty of these locations but over time, mass-tourism appears to have impacted some travellers experiences, especially when you're stuck waiting in lines to visit restaurants, monuments or even snap a quick selfie at a picturesque lookout. Tourists became so unruly in one spot local authorities had to introduce some behaviour rules. Another is described as the perfect place to catch measles. Which is the most overhyped? Let's explore. Byron Bay The ever so popular Byron Bay in Australia has changed a lot over he past 25 years. It's gone from quiet, quaint coastal town to now attracting two million people a year. It is not all its hyped up to be. That's according to a new survey conducted by Ibiza Summer Villas, a service known for creating unique experiences with its exclusive portfolio of luxurious villa rentals in Ibiza. The coastal town's beach came fourth on the list. Despite its popularity, some reviews were negative, citing high expectations that weren't quite met. There was once a time the coastal town, now made famous by celebs including Chris Hemsworth, was dubbed the ultimate chill destination – and while it still boasts great surfing and yoga retreats, some will argue mass tourism has played a big role in affecting some experiences. Angus Kidman, travel expert at Finder, said cheap flights to Byron Bay are still common, so it remains a popular tourist destination, but accommodation prices are high and in peak periods it can get really crowded and expensive. 'Its hippy vibe also has a downside: if you have a perverse desire to catch measles, this is the place,' he told Bali It seems there's lots of Instagram v Reality posts dominating feeds on Bali with people snapping selfies in front of beautiful locations only to have it ruined by the swarms of tourists in the background. Over the years, the island has seen a massive boom in tourism with 1.5 million Aussies alone visiting each year. Its increased popularity has brought significant changes, including increased development, a more crowded atmosphere and higher prices with the destination no longer the 'cheap' paradise it once was. While prices are still arguably affordable, it's not what it used to be. More people bring more problems – so much so, the Indonesian government introduced a do's and don'ts list to combat misbehaving tourists. The guidelines focus on ensuring respectful behaviour when visiting sacred sites. 'Bali has been cracking down on misbehaving tourists since 2023, imposing fines for violating laws and enforcing stricter dress codes at sacred sites,' Mr Kidman said. 'Its introduction of a compulsory tourist tax has also taken the edge off its reputation for cheap and cheerful holidays.' Despite some people thinking its overrated, Finder research shows South-East Asia is still Australia's top travel choice for overseas destinations. 'But it faces stiff competition from Vietnam and Malaysia,' Mr Kidman added. Paris Paris will always be a top travel destination, particularly for Aussies heading to Europe. It's the city of lights, love and croissants with stylish people riding vintage bikes along the Seine. And while landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, and the Louvre will always draw in big crowds – some will argue the reality is a little different to what you'd otherwise find on social media and even 'back in the day', thanks to mass tourism. 'I've been to the city three times now and I felt unsafe. It was dirty, the people weren't very nice. I just did not enjoy my time in Paris at all and that is why it is on my overrated European places list,' Aussie influencer Jacki, 27, unleashed in a TikTok video. 'Paris is under-hated (sic) and overrated,' one follower agreed, while another added they loved Paris and while 'certain areas over-hyped', it's still a 'beautiful city'. Brett Mitchell, the Australian managing director for Melbourne-based travel company Intrepid Travel, said they were seeing more Aussies 'wising up to mass tourism' and choosing to travel out of peak season to avoid crowds and get a better experience. 'When tourism is not done well it does lead to overtourism, and overtourism can have insidious effects on local communities,' he told last year. Mr Kidman said if you ignore all the Emily in Paris fans and the snippy waiters, Paris still has its own unique charm. 'Be careful when planning a visit to the Louvre: prices are going up in 2026 and major renovations are planned.' Venice While many find Venice to be a magical place, the influx of tourists has lead to overcrowding, high prices, and environmental concerns such as affecting lagoons. And while mass-tourism can have economical benefits, it can also have the opposite affect on tourists with venues hiking prices to keep up with operational costs and demand. As such, visitors have complained it's ruining their experiences. 'Like Bali, Venice has [also] gone down the tourism tax route, with even day trippers asked to cough up at least five Euros a day for visits during the peak summer season,' Mr Kidman said. 'It's hard to replicate the Venice experience elsewhere, but there are definitely cheaper options elsewhere in Europe.' Locals have been protesting about mass tourism since January – saying its affecting their livelihoods. They blame mass tourism for driving up the cost of living and chronic housing shortages. They even got billionaire Jeff Bezos to cancel part of his three-day wedding extravaganza. The couple had to cancel their party at a 16th-century hall in the centre of Venice and move the event to a more secure location after protesters threatened to stop guests arriving by filling the canals with inflatable crocodiles. New York City Is New York everything it's hyped up to be? Yes and No. If you've never been, it's definitely worth going as you'll never run out of things to do, see and eat. But don't expect everything to be picture-perfect like social media tends to make things out to be. Expect longlines to popular restaurants, bars, clubs and massive crowds in touristy areas like Times Square. Trash is also another problem with litter often ending up in sidewalks. NYC is pricey and with the Aussie dollar currently buying US.65 – it makes holidaying in the city a tad bit hefty, especially when you have to also factor in tipping and taxes. Most tourists will find they'll have a love/hate relationship with the city. The Maldives There's no denying the Maldives' stunning natural beauty, luxurious resorts, and romantic ambience. But the high cost and limited activities beyond the water can be drawbacks for some travellers who have otherwise dubbed it overrated. Tourists argue that from flights to accommodation, food, and activities, everything comes with a hefty price tag. And be prepared for things like boat traffic which has increased with rising tourist numbers. However, for the most part, many would argue a trip to the Maldives is 'something you have to experience at least once in your life'. Disneyland It's considered the happiest place on Earth – but long lines, hefty entry fees and overpriced food are all part of the reasons some tourists have a bone to pick with the magical destination. There's Disneyland locations in Paris, Hong Kong and Japan – but Disneyland Park in California tends to dominate social media for all the wrong reasons. One Reddit user revealed they spent $A475 on a day pass only to spend most of their time waiting in queues of up to an hour for 'things that weren't even rides, like souvenir stores, food kiosks and even the bathroom'. 'The rides themselves are just atrocious. Minimum wait times of two hours to go on a ride that lasts three minutes?' they wrote. 'Now on top of paying nearly $US300 for one day at the park (Park Hopper pass), you have to also purchase $US20+ passes to get on rides, otherwise you're going to waste your entire day sitting in a 3 hour line.' Finder travel expert Angus Kidman said the Magic Kingdom has become 'addicted to the magic of surcharges'. 'Lightning Lane passes mean you can queue for less time, but massively increase the cost of your ticket,' he told 'With the US also on the nose as a destination for many travellers, it's worth thinking about Paris or Hong Kong as alternative Mouse House options.'

News.com.au
13-07-2025
- News.com.au
How the best Aussie town has evolved over the past 25 years
From Bondi Beach to Byron Bay, Brisbane through to Ballarat and everywhere in between. Australia is filled with the quaint and the quirk when it comes to towns and cities alike - but which is the best? To celebrate the launch of the new app, we're celebrating the people, places and events we'll never forget from the first quarter of the 21st century by asking for Australia's view. Our 25@25 series will finally put to bed the debates you've been having at the pub and around dinner tables for years – and some that are just too much fun not to include. The Economist Intelligent Unit's annual Global Liveability Index ranked Australia as having three of the top 10 spots on the 2025 list of most liveable cities in the world. Melbourne once again beat rival Sydney, coming in at number four on the chart, while the Harbour City came in sixth and Adelaide was ninth. But we're more interested in where you choose to visit when the budget can't accomodate an international flight. Of course there are plenty of hotspots away from our major urban centres. The ever-popular Byron Bay of the early 2000s has been joined by the quieter neighbouring spot of Yamba as a favourite in recent years, while the Outback and tropical environs of northern Queensland offer unique pleasures. So when asking some well-travelled Aussie faces to narrow down their top five locations from around the country they've visited over the past 25 years, we didn't limit them to the capitals. And it's fair to say when it comes to what's ranked well — good food, a decent coffee and plenty of coastline reign supreme. Teigan Nash - TV presenter, Sydney Weekender Top Pick: Kimberley, Western Australia The Kimberley is a realm where connection, serenity, and wonder converge. Walking amongst the rugged red dirt to then be immersed in deep green fern-fringed pools of Zebedee Springs, nestled in the heart of El Questro. It's a place that invites you to pause, listen, learn and be enveloped by its timeless beauty. 2. Kakadu, Northern Territory 3. Lady Elliot Island, Queensland 4. Forster, New South Wales 5. Great Barrier Reef and Atherton Tablelands, Tropical North Queensland Jana Frawley - Content Director, Escape TOP PICK: Yulara, Northern Territory With a bank, supermarket, service station and school, Yulara is like any other small Australian town, but it has one big difference: it's right next door to the awesome natural wonders, Uluru and Kata Tjuta. If you've visiting - as I have done five times in the past 30 years - it's where you'll eat, drink, sleep and rest in accommodation ranging from a DIY camp site to one of the most expensives lodges down under. Then, you head out to the nearby national park and its world-famous and culturally significant landmarks, jaw agape every time. Yulara rocks! 2. Byron Bay, New South Wales 3. Noosa, Queensland 4. Leura, New South Wales 5. Healesville, Victoria Loren Barry - Co-host, The Hot Hits with Nic & Loren TOP PICK: Narooma New South Wales I almost didn't want to include Narooma because I don't want it to become spoiled, HOWEVER, it's far too beautiful to gatekeep. The beaches are perfection, the people are a delight and the Fish and Chips - unbeatable. Also, there's a chance you'll spot Orcas, and if there is Orcas involved, you know I'm there. 2. Fitzroy Victoria (specifically Gertrude Street) 3. Wilson's Prom Victoria 4. Daintree Rainforest Queensland 5. Blue Mountains New South Wales Rowena Ryan - Digital Editor, Escape TOP PICK: Thredbo, New South Wales Thredbo is no longer just about the winter season. While I still go skiing, I've spent summers, Christmases and Easters up in the Snowy Mountains - it's the perfect mix of stunning scenery, laid back Aussie holiday vibes and nature, whether it be golfing, swimming in the rivers, hiking to the top of Mt Kosciuszko or mountain bike riding it's my go-to for a week of switching off. 2. Broome, Western Australia 3. Barwon Heads, Victoria 4. Mudgee, New South Wales 5. Dunsborough, Western Australia Shaun White - Sunrise tech and travel expert TOP PICK: Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia This one took me by surprise. You hear about the Great Barrier Reef all the time, but Ningaloo? It's where the outback meets the reef. The colour contrast between red and turquoise is out of this world. It gets really hot in summer but you can swim with whale sharks. I'm booking my next visit right now. 2. Fitzroy, Melbourne 3. Maleny, Queensland 4. Hamilton Island, Queensland 5. Kangaroo Valley, NSW Angus Kidman - Travel Guru TOP PICK: Beechworth, Victoria This high country gem has charm without being twee, steeped in history and surrounded by gorgeous countryside and a brilliant rail trail. Finish your day of exploring at Bridge Road Brewers with a local IPA and a hot pizza - perfection. And no need to go to Melbourne first for out-of-staters - it's a quick hop from Albury. 2. Kingston, ACT 3. Dubbo, New South Wales 4. Glenelg, South Australia 5. Daylesford, Victoria Sam Frost, media personality and caravanning queen TOP PICK: Gib-River Road, Western Australia. We did this trip last year in our caravan. It was epic! All the beautiful waterfalls and gorges are truly magic. 2. Flinders Ranges, South Australia 3. K'gari, Queensland 4. Victorian High Country 5. Tasmania - I can't pick one spot! Beau Ryan, Triple M's Beau, Cat & Woodsy breakfast show TOP PICK: Bermagui, NSW A coastal town with a relaxed lifestyle, the most pristine beaches, and the best oysters in the country. A place where my family holds an annual reunion that holds a special place in my heart. Bridge jumping at Lake Cuttagee followed by ocean swims at the blue pool. Paradise, man 2. Uluru, Northern Territory 3. Hobart, Tasmania 4. Warilla/Barrack Point, NSW 5. Port Douglas (Daintree Forest) Queensland Matty Johnson, Dad and podcast host TOP PICK: Ulladulla - New South Wales It might not be the most exotic destination on my list but there's no where else I'd rather spend my time with the family. There's amazing restaurants, people are incredibly friendly and the beaches are some of the most pristine I've ever been to. Nothing beats fish and chips on the beach as you watch the whales migrate - so close it feels like they're in arms reach. 2. Byron Bay, New South Wales 3. Cairns, Queensland 4. Magnetic Island, Queensland 5. McLaren Vale, South Australia Sam Frickey, Australian Olympic Diver TOP PICK: Surfers Paradise, Queensland Absolutely love Surfers. There's a diving pool up the road in Southport where I train, but honestly, it's everything else around it that makes this place one of my all-time favourites. The main strip always has pumping street performers, epic food, and the perfect spot to shoot content. One of my best stays ever was this Airbnb apartment in Soul, right above the beach. I slept with the balcony door open and fell asleep to the sound of waves crashing. It was next level. During the day, I love doing mainies (that's where you walk up and down the main street and suss out what's going on). And the Gold Coast is one of the best places in Australia to do good mainies - there's always something happening, the vibes are high, and it's just got that classic Aussie energy that never gets old. 2. Cronulla Beach, New South Wales 3. Lightning Ridge, New South Wales 4. Great Barrier Reef, Queensland