A local’s guide to Brisbane and South East Queensland

Julie Leung

on August 11, 2021 at 2:56pm

Snap lock downs. Border restrictions. Quarantine Orders. Covid Tests.

These phrases, virtually unknown 18 months ago, are now common place. Even my 5 year old knows that C is for Coronavirus!

People all over Australia have become used to quickly adapting their holiday plans around the latest rules and restrictions. Which is why, following the latest Brisbane lockdown and recommendations to stay within our region, I now present you with a Local’s Guide to Brisbane and South East Queensland.

Just because our wings are clipped right now doesn’t mean we can’t fuel the wanderlust by exploring our local area. Never mind the fact that it’s my job is to write articles for an airport, a company who by its very existence needs planes in the air and people in the sky.

The fact is that it’s human nature to explore the world around us. Whether we fly, walk or drive, we continue to be curious creatures who seek new experiences through travel.

Explore Brisbane and South East Queensland with these fabulous ideas.

Cycling along the Brisbane River, South Bank

Make the most of free activities

One of the things I love most about living in Brisbane is that there are so many activities that won’t cost you a single cent. Can you believe that a lot of them are provided by the local council? This list of 21 free things to do in Brisbane covers off all of my favourites!

Sailing with whales | Whale watching three ways — Sailing with Whales | Photo by Brisbane Whale Watching

See the giants of the sea

The whale super highway that runs along the east coast of Australia brings these majestic creatures to Brisbane waters from June to November each year. You may be lucky to catch a glimpse from the shore - with Stradbroke Island and Bribie Island being our hot picks – but for an up close and personal experience you will want to join a Whale Watching Cruise.

Queensland Symphony Orchestra: Breathtaking Tchaikovsky — Queensland Symphony Orchestra | Photo Supplied

Support the Arts

Our theatres, galleries, orchestras and other cultural groups have planned an amazing line up of events for the rest of the year. Buy yourself a ticket for a great night of entertainment and to support the local artists that have been so adversely impacted by the ongoing Covid situation.

Brisbane Airport are firm supporters of the many arts and cultural not-for-profits that this amazing city is blessed with. We can’t wait to see you at one of their events!

Mt Barney | 10 of the best things to do on the Scenic Rim — Mt Barney | Photo by Tourism and Events Queensland

Plan a day trip or a long weekend

Living in South East Queensland, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to short getaways. Everyone knows about the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast, but you may be surprised about the quality and diversity of other regions like the Scenic Rim, Moreton Bay and Ipswich. It’s never more than 5 days until the next weekend!