It's my birthday at the beginning of August and I really don't want to have it in Cairns. Happy to spend a week or so away and money isn't a problem. Any ideas?

(don't want a massively long flight and I don't like 'resort style' holidays)

One thing I was thinking about was possibly flying down to Port Lincoln and doing the great white diving. Has anyone done it?

A guy I work with has done it, said it was extraordinary.

How about the Kimberly? Perfect time of year and what a contrast to tropical FNQ?

Kokoda trail? It's all the rage these days.

I was hoping you might jump out of a cake Unfair Dinkum.

Nah, too lethargic for all that excitement..

See Australia. Katherine Gorge, NT.

I've done most of Australia really - although certainly NT or the Kimberley would be a nice change. Not been to Tassie though? Or Norfolk island if anyone has been there?

Avoid tassie, too many nutters there

Tassie is beautiful
If you like walking/hiking - unspoilt scenery - real peace and tranquility, and possibly the best landscapes in the world, go to Tassie, you won't regret it.

What sort of weather are you after?

Medium range to chilly. Ideally I'd like to be wearing a coat and sunglasses.

Bay of Islands - New Zealand? Stunning and amazing walks etc.
Queenstown - Skiing?

Great Ocean Road, Victoria - great time to visit as quiet and you could do a few days in Melbourne shopping and eating. Can recommend some fabulous places to eat.

As Polly said Tasmania - Bay of Fires

So you just want a kids school really.

You don't need to leave Australia to go skiing. Go to the Southern Highlnds, then you can also take in city and wine areas. If you make it a 2 centre you could come to Sydney and go whale watching or do stuff in the city.

I've yet to get out of Sydney apart from a day trip to the blue mountains, and I've been here nearly 3 years. Wish I had the money, but there are quite a few things to do here.

But the skiing is not as good as NZ!