Australian Venue Co (AVC) is scratching the travel itch and filling bucket lists for Aussies stuck Down Under by launching a major “Staycation” series of events inspired by global destinations, and giving away trips to the Whitsundays.
While Australia enjoys an enviable position in terms of suppressing the pandemic, as the fire rages in much of the rest of the world many would-be travellers are being forced to stay in the country. According to Tourism Australia, Australians spent $9.9 billion vacationing overseas in FY19.
Recognising this grounded market, AVC is bringing the summer holiday vibes to its rooftops and beer gardens – “no passport required” – by way of more than 20 pop-up installations at its venues around the country, featuring internationally-inspired themed food, drinks and experiences.
Each theme will take place at a selection of venues, offering the likes of Bali-style cabanas, Japanese-style bottomless brunches, dedicated Mexican margarita menus, and Palm Springs-flavoured Coachella, with pink décor, desert features and festival-style music.
The pop-ups will open 2 November in most states, and in December in Victoria.
The program is supported by the chance for patrons to win one of three holidays to the stunning Whitsundays. AVC has partnered with Tourism Whitsundays and Virgin Australia to send people to a world-class destination at home, “without worrying about restrictions or the expensive airfare”.
“We have kept everyone in mind, so the prizes include a family package adventure, a romantic couples’ escape and a group getaway to remind all Aussies we should appreciate the beauty in our very own backyard,” says Tash Wheeler, Tourism Whitsundays CEO.
To enter, by 30 October entrants need to Like the Facebook pages of Australian Venue Co and Whitsundays QLD, follow both on Instagram, and explain why they need a holiday – tagging who they would bring along.
Sharing the competition post will gain another entry.
POP-UP THEMES – November to February
Destination: Amalfi Coast, Italy
Italian summer haven, featuring Aperitivo Hour, sorbet spritz, bottomless pizza and prosecco nights and more.
Where: Prince Alfred (VIC), Provincial (VIC), The Rook (NSW), Kingsleys Brisbane (QLD), Payneham Tavern (SA)
Destination: Spring in Tokyo
Celebrating cherry blossom season in Japan, Roku Gin plays hero to this activation, with gin spritz and cocktails paired with Japanese-fusion bites.
Where: The Smith (VIC) The Duke (VIC), Manly Wine (NSW), Fridays (QLD) Sweetwater Rooftop (WA), Smith Street Social (NT)
Destination: Mexico Fiesta
A slice of Mexico with bottomless taco nights, Sunday sunset sessions and dedicated margarita menus – think spicy, fruity and everything in between.
Where: Riverland (QLD), College Lawn (VIC), Cleveland Sands (QLD), Perseverance (VIC), Dirty Little Secret (NZ), Waterloo Station (SA)
Destination: Coachella, Palm Springs
Playing homage to Coachella music festival, with plenty of pick décor, desert features and festival-style music.
Where: Fargo and Co (VIC), Cargo Bar (NSW), The Aviary (WA), Hope Inn (SA)
Destination: Beach Club Bali
Bali beach club dreams become reality with crisp white day beds, beach club brunching, frozen cocktails and more.
Where: Bungalow 8 (NSW), The Globe (WA)
