Australian Sugar Cane Industry


We knew that Australia produces an abundance of surfers. After a road trip through Queensland, we now know that Australia is also a huge sugar producer. As far as vegetation goes, this region of Australia is not exclusive to tropical rainforests. There is an incredible amount of fields where sugar cane is grown (photo). There are so many sugar cane plants that sugar is, after wheat, the second largest export crop in Australia. In addition to this, part of the sugar production destined for the domestic market is used to produce rum. The Australian sugar industry generates more than 40,000 jobs. It could be a good opportunity to find a job in Australia for whoever is here on a Working Holiday Visa.

Have you worked in the sugar industry? What advice would you give to those who are looking for a job and want to work in Australia? Let us know in the comments below!

Experiencing The Outback Life


Today we take you to the western Flinders Ranges, where the mountains meet the desert to live our first real Outback experience. We spent a few days at Beltana Station, a fully working sheep and cattle station located on a property of more than... 400,000 acres! If Beltana Station was a sovereign state, it would rank just after Mauritius in the list of countries and dependencies by area. We can tell you that it is huge and that you will never be disturbed by the neighbours! The place is rich in history with most of its stone buildings dating from the nineteenth century. The farm was also the starting point for various expeditions including one made ​​famous by Ernest Giles in 1875. It is also in Beltana that Thomas Elder imported some of the first camels to arrive in South Australia. Among the many activities offered on site today, it is still possible to participate in a safari of several days with these magnificent creatures. A 4WD tour is also a must. From the summit of Mount Deception, which does not deserve its name, the view over the plains is breathtaking. Beltana Station offers a variety of accommodation options to meet different travelers needs ranging from camping to private rooms in the Shearers' Quarters historical buildings to the Overseer's Cottage. Whether for a weekend or long holidays on the farm, Beltana Station is a destination that will immerse you in the heart of the Australian Outback and will allow you to reconnect with the deepest human values​​. For those looking to work in Australia, make sure to contact Laura and Graham. They might have something to offer. We fell in love!

iPhoneography Oz was a guest of Beltana Station.

Holiday Inflation In Australia


Are you going to travel to Australia on a working holiday visa? Are you considering migrating to Australia because of its great lifestyle? One thing we have noticed since moving to Australia is the cost of living: living in Australia is not cheap at all! It needs to be taken into consideration if you plan to travel to Australia because you will certainly notice a difference, sometimes big, on your receipts. Have you ever wondered what inflation is? We have found a few retailers in Surfers Paradise who might be able to help you find the answer as they apply a 10% surcharge on public holidays (photo). Is there any consumer protection legislation in Australia? Anyway, grocery prices are usually quite high. It is not that easy to find meals for less than $15. A litre of gas is comparable to the excessive prices charged in France. Rent prices exceed Montreal prices and can easily reach double sometimes. Lonely Planet recommends a minimum daily budget of $100 to travellers who want to enjoy their stay as long as they sleep in backpackers accommodation and use public transportation. Of course it all depends on where you are. You will find a few cost of living calculator tools online. You might want to use them in order to help you make cost of living comparison. Hopefully, your job search will allow you to work and earn money as soon as possible. Current Australia's minimum wage is $15.96 per hour. At least, it seems that the economic crisis has not hit Australia yet!

What do you think? What are your best ways to save money while traveling? Do you have any cost savings ideas in order to travel cheaper? Let us know in the comments below!