Article: Tours put us on track

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Article: Tours put us on track
Sunshine Coast Daily
18th March 2012 4:00 AM

http://www.sunshinecoastdaily.com.au/story/2012/03/18/tours-put-us-on-right-track/

THE Sunshine Coast is set to be a big winner in the tourist stakes with the region earmarked as a cornerstone of Queensland Rail Travel's latest series of themed travel packages.

Golf and gardening tours will bring visitors to the region from across Queensland and interstate, while Coast residents will have the chance to jump on board the biggest steam train event in the state since the Q150 celebrations.

The Coast will be the focus of a four-day gardening tour, which revolves around the Queensland Garden Expo, while it also features in Queensland Rail Travel's 10-day Coastal Golf 'n' Rail Adventure.

Queensland Rail Travel general manager, Max Kruse, said the holiday packages were all about giving customers unique experiences.

"The idea behind our packages is that they take people away from their everyday lives, and give them an experience which is unique and exciting," he said.

"Our gardening tour will be hosted by Colin Campbell, and it will take in a couple of days of the Queensland Garden Expo at Nambour Showgrounds.

"Our group will also get the chance to explore the Eumundi Markets and Maroochy Bushland Botanic Gardens, as well as all the other great experiences in the region."

The golf package will see travellers tee up for 18 holes at the Novotel Twin Waters Resort.

"The Sunshine Coast is home to some of the most stunning courses in the state," Mr Kruse said.

"The two tours in August and November will be led by a couple of sporting legends from the Queensland Rail Bulls Masters."

Coast history buffs, rail aficionados and fans of the Wild West can jump on board one of two seven-day steam train journeys covering the line from Brisbane to Longreach.