Alpha Car Hire Blog

Merry Christmas from everybody here at Alpha

2011-12-21T14:05:00.002+10:00

Just to show we're really in the spirit this silly season, we've dropped our rental rates. Save with Alpha Car Hire & spend more on Holiday FUN!

Mother's Day, Sunday 9 May

2010-05-07T15:38:00.007+10:00

Great ideas for you to spoil your mothers!

Mother's Day is this Sunday, 9 May and anyone hoping to spoil that special mother in their life have many wonderful options on the day. Many local cafes and restaurants put together breakfast, lunch and dinner specials for mothers. There are also great activities and events organised for the day, three of which are below.

Head out for some action-packed Tennis
The Queensland Tennis Centre is hosting the Davis Cup this weekend. is the first time in over a decade the Davis Cup has been held in Brisbane and it promises to be an action-packed event with Australia playing against Japan. To read the rest of this article click here!

Mount Tamborine

2010-04-30T12:45:00.005+10:00

Explore this scenic, artsy centre of S.E. Qld

Mount Tamborine
Located approximately halfway between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Mount Tamborine is a fantastic inland location to explore. It is an easy drive in and beuatifully scenic, though watch out for the piano sliding its way down the hill!

Mount Tamborine provides breath-taking panoramas highlighting the beauty... click here to read the entire article.

ANZAC Day in Brisbane

2010-04-23T15:11:00.006+10:00

Learn about the ANZAC history in Brisbane

Its a long weekend and a fantastic oppotunity for everyone to brush up on your Australian wartime history and take in a little culture this holiday. Whether you come from other parts of Australia or overseas, ANZAC Day represents a history that is relevant to everyone.

Dawn Service and ANZAC Day March
When was the last time you were up for sunrise? The Dawn Service provides a worthy opportunity to get out of bed early this Sunday and head to the Shrine of Remembrance in ANZAC Square on Adelaide Street. The Dawn Service begins at 4.28am and is followed by the ANZAC Day March beginning at the corner of George and...to read more click here.

Contemplate at a War Memorial
Take a moment from your day and visit one of the many war memorials around Brisbane. After the ANZAC Day March head back to ANZAC Square and check out the Shrine of Remembrance, Eternal Flame and World War II Shrine of Memories.

The Freedom Wall presents more than 15000 plaques honouring the individuals who gave their life during wartime. Located in the botanical gardens at the bottom of Mt Coot-tha, it’s also a nice setting for some deep contemplation and the past, present and future.

The Gallipoli Memorial at Roma Street Parkland has been designed to reflect the terrain of ANZAC Cove. One of Brisbane's newest war memorials, the Gallipoli Memorial acknowledges the sacrifices and bravery of both Australians, New Zealanders and Turkish soldiers.

Check out local museums
For those who would like to learn more about Australia's war history there are some great museums at all ends of Brisbane city to explore. From the Queensland Military Museum in the Valley, to Victoria Barracks Museum at Petrie Terrace, the MacArthur Museum on Edward Street, to the Queensland Maritime Museum at South Bank.

Best Brisbane Wildlife Day Trips

2010-04-16T14:54:00.008+10:00

A mix of the deadly, cute and the plant life!

Great wildlife day trip suggestions in and around Brisbane...click here to read the full entry.

Australia Zoo and Glass House Mountains
A must-see visit for all overseas visitors, and a lot of fun for locals as well, is Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast. An easy one hour and 30 minute drive north of Brisbane - and well signposted so less chance of getting lost - Australia Zoo is a great place to start a day trip in the Glass House Mountains.

View some deadly Australian spiders and snakes from the correct side of the glass tanks, cuddle a koala or a boa constrictor (the latter a great photo to show your mother), laugh at a wombat waddling along and, of course, check out the crocs Steve Irwin was so famous for wrestling.

When you have had enough of the local animals check out the local flora, fauna and spectacular views along...to read the rest of the entry, click below.

Tangalooma Dolphin Resort and Moreton Bay Islands

Alma Park Zoo

To read the full entry please click here

Brisbane to Melbourne Road Trip

2010-04-09T15:16:00.006+10:00

Brisbane to Melbourne Road Trip
The Ultimate Aussie Adventure!

Great suggestions for visitors to explore Australia (and something all locals should do one day too!)

There cannot be a better way to really experience Australia than with a great Aussie Roadtrip. One of the best drives is all the way from Brisbane to Melbourne. It encompasses Australia's three biggest city, arguable the world's best beaches, wildlife, shopping, small towns, a giant banana and prawn, and so much more along its 1709km (if you take the quickest route).

Brisbane to Sydney

Start off in Brisbane and explore the city, get your thrills and spills at Dreamworld or Movieworld before heading for a swim or surf at Surfers. See the giant prawn at Ballina and enjoy a organic meal at Byron Bay. Visit the Big Banana at Coffs Harbour and enjoy a river cruise in Port Macquarie. Swing by a small town on your way and keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos (and if you are really lucky a koala) and don't forget to have a good Aussie BBQ on the way!

Sydney to Melbourne

Missed shopping? Shop your socks off in Sydney, climb the Harbour Bridge and visit the Opera House. Enjoy some world-class dining and stock up on supplies because you are really only halfway there. Go exploring in the Royal National Park south off Sydney, and try some dolphin spotting at Jervis Bay. Leaving the coast may be justfied with a trip to the capital city, Canberra to try and spot a politician. Head back to the coast and Batemans Bay for another swim, stop off at Phillip Island to see the penguins, and enjoy some fish and chips at one of the many fishing villages along the way.

Once in Melbourne you can indulge in culture, food, nightlife, sports and so much more all to your heart's content!

Experience the Ultimate Aussie Adventure without the one way fee - for a limited time only! Click Here.

Easter Weekend in Brisbane

2010-04-01T16:15:00.012+10:00

Easter Weekend Adventures

Stuff yourself full of chocolate!

One for the kids

Nothing tops a good old fashioned Easter egg hunt for the young ones at Easter (and the young at heart in many cases). Broadbeach Waters' Platell Park is holding a Free Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, 3 April form 9.30am. Kids can search the park for chocolate eggs and a $50 Toys R Us voucher. The kid with the best Easter Bonnet will also win a large Easter Egg. Similar events are held all over the place this weekend and a quick google search will find you loads more so find the perfect one for your family this weekend.

Chocolate Shop

Willy Wonka eat your heart out! Cocoa Chocolat, a Eumundi retail shop and factory with a shop in Noosa as well, is open to the public throughout the Easter weekend and you can head along to check out the process for handmaking Easter Eggs, chocolates and truffles. Of course you can also indulge yourself in the shop at the end of the day. Find out more here.

Chocolate Buffet

For some serious chocolate indulgence you cannot go past Bistro Allure's Chocolate Buffet. Available for lunch or dinner up until the 11 April all you can in eat chocolate, in all sorts of forms is available for $20 per person. What better way to end your Easter than stuffing yourself full of chocolate again.

Bored in Brisbane?

2010-03-26T14:26:00.010+10:00

Bored in Brisbane?

Here are some of our favourite places to go:

Somewhere Special to Eat:

Bretts Wharf Restaurant
http://www.brettswharf.com.au/
Bretts Wharf Restaurant in Hamilton is a renowned Brisbane seafood restaurant situated on the original site of the historic Hamilton wharves. It is one of the best known and most highly regarded restaurants in Brisbane.

Executive Chef Alastair McLeod is passionate about local seasonal produce. His contemporary menus reflect his commitment to quality fresh seafood, in particular, fish served simply, and a carefully selected and matched wine list including fine examples of Queensland wine.

Somewhere to cuddle a Koala:

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
http://www.koala.net/
Recently voted one of the 'Top 10 Zoos in the World" by AOL, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane, Australia, is the world's first and largest koala sanctuary, with over 130 koalas. Cuddle a koala anytime, handfeed kangaroos and encounter a large variety of Aussie wildlife, all in beautiful, natural settings. Pamper yourself silly:

Garth Day Spa
http://www.garthdayspa.com.au/
The contemporary Garth Day Spa menu and environment has been created for both men and women, finding the ultimate relaxation for today's hectic lifestyle...
Garth Day Spa is located at The London Quarter, Shop 4, 36 Vernon Terrace, Teneriffe QLD 4005.
Pet a Dolphin:

Tangalooma Island Resort
http://www.tangalooma.com/
Escape to beautiful Moreton Bay with a scenic cruise that in just over an hour will bring you to the crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches of Tangalooma Island Resort.
Check out the details and itinerary for the Dolphin Adventure Tour here: Dolphin Adventure TourThrow yourself out of an airplane:

Skydive Ramblers
http://www.skydiveforfun.com/
Skydive Ramblers at Coolum and Toogoolawah offers everything skydiving; Learn to Skydive lessons for beginners, both the Accelerated Freefall (AFF) skydiving course and the Static Line (S/L) parachute school; tandem jumps, night tandems, plus fun jumping for experienced skydivers including night jumping, instructor and packing ratings.

Fancy a drink - wine or beer your choice:

Sirromet Winery
http://www.sirromet.com/
Sirromet Winery offers wine and tasting tours, restaurant services and lots of bottles of wine for sale out at Mount Cotton.

XXXX Alehouse Brewery
http://www.xxxx.com.au/
The XXXX Ale House and Brewery Tours provide an unbeatable way to experience an Australian icon up close and discover its proud legend.

Hungry again?

Rydges, South Bank
http://www.rydges.com/hotel/0/RQSOUT/Rydges-South-Bank-Brisbane.htm
Check out the Seafood Buffet at Rydges Hotel, South Bank

Wet Weather Days

2010-03-04T15:31:00.000+10:00

Wet Weather Day Ideas

Shop, immerse yourself or get seriously wet!

The forecast for the weekend involves rain, and possibly lots of it. So I thought you might be able to use some wet weather day ideas, especially those who were expecting Queensland's famous sunny days.

Stay dry

Brisbane has many fantastic indoor shopping spots. Malls can be found in many of the suburbs and stock many of the big brands including many Australian brands. For one of the biggest of you should visit Westfield Chermside. You can visit literally hundreds of different stores, check out new movies, and eat at restaurants, cafes or fast food stores.

Immerse yourself

For a different wet weather option, embrace the water without getting wet at Mooloolaba Aquarium on the Sunshine Coast. The 2.5 million litre Oceanarium with its 80 metre transparent tunnel provides opportunities to see sharks, rays, tropical fish, underwater plant life and much more form a unique, and dry, perspective. Other attractions include shark dives and seal swims amongst others.

Get wet

Embrace the rain! It's still warm and we are not aspirins, so for those who want to get out there - get wet and stay wet. Visit Wet 'n Wild on the Gold Coast, go swimming at South Bank, grab a raincoat and explore the rainforest and other gardens at Mt Cootha botanical gardens, just get out there and explore.

Quicksilver Pro

2010-02-26T15:22:00.003+10:00

Surfs up!

Are you a spectator, learner or pro?

The Quicksilver Pro is now on at Snapper's Rock, Coolangatta from today until 10 March, 2010. This event starts the World Tour for 2010 and its the first time in 12 years for a world tour event to start there again.

The Quicksilver Pro is a fantastic spectators sport with a beautiful setting, great views along the coast and a chance to see some of the world's best surfers in action. From Kelly Slater to Mick Fanning and lots of upcoming surfers hoping to be the next big thing in surfing. So if you fancy a bit of sunshine (hopefully), sea air and some intense surfing competiton without needing to get wet, Coolangatta is the place to be until the 10 March.

For those who want to get a taste of surfing for themselves, the Gold Coast has lots of Learn to Surf options all along the coast (with a lot of options centred in Surfer's Paradise). If you are a complete beginner they will teach you the basic skills. Check out www.surfingqueensland.com.au to find great surf schools all along the coast.

For those with a bit more experience the Gold Coast is not world famous for surfing for no reason! So if you have your own board or want to hire one you should check out many of the surf beaches along the Gold Coast.

Valentine's Day in South East Queensland

2010-02-12T14:00:00.001+10:00

Love is in the air!

Great ideas for your Valentine's Day.

Valentine's Day is this Sunday, 14th February, and many of you may be looking for romantic excursions in and around Brisbane. The suggestions below may just make someone's Valentine's Day that little bit more special this year.

Romantic Sunset Cruise

Start off Valentine's Day celebrations the night before and watch the sunset from the sea on the Sunshine Coast. Numerous cruise operators run evening sunset and dinner cruises all along the Sunshine Coast. River cruises with wildlife and luxury-house spotting opportunities, eco-ocean cruises, and cruises with seafood dinners all offer beautiful ocean sunsets to end the day and welcome in the night.

Picnic in the Park

On Valentine's Day, pack a basket of fruit, breads, dips, chocolates and drinks and head off for more than just a picnic on Mount Nebo. Just over a one hour drive north-west of the CBD, Mount Nebo feels much further removed from the hectic city. The drive along Waterworks Road takes you through The Gap, with an excellent opportunity to check out the beautiful Queenslanders in the area and stop for a quick coffee at one of the cute cafes in the area. When Waterworks Road turns into Mount Nebo Road the sightseeing changes dramatically. Driving along the D'Anguilar Range allows for many opportunities to bird watch among the Eucalyptus trees. Bell Bird Grove is a fantastic spot to stop for your picnic and the food can be walked off on many of the bush walks in the area - two walks with spectacular views start at Jolly's Lookout.

Dinner at Surfer's Paradise.

People-watching, walks along the beach, shopping and numerous dining options make Surfer's Paradise a great spot to enjoy your Valentine's Day dinner. From Italian, modern Australian, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Thai, Indian, Greek, German to Turkish and many more there are options to suit anybody's vision of a romantic meal regardless of tastes and budgets.

I hope you have a love-filled Valentines Day!

Must Do - Brisbane

2010-01-22T17:11:00.002+10:00

Spend an afternoon at South Bank

Explore Brisbane from the water on a CityCat

Climb the Story Bridge

Experience the energising outdoor adventures of the Riverlife Adventure Centre

Discover the delights of the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA)

Cuddle a koala at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Hand feed wild dolphins on Moreton Island

Spend a romantic weekend wining and dining in the Scenic Rim

Check out the bands and night life in Fortitude Valley

Explore the lovely inner city parks and gardens

Our Brisbane

The Great Sunshine Way

2010-01-22T17:06:00.002+10:00

The Great Sunshine Way touring route is a new and adventurous way of experiencing the best of Southern Queensland. Along it you'll discover some of the earth's most treasured natural wonders like World Heritage listed Fraser Island, and the ancient rainforests of the Gold Coast hinterland. You'll also indulge in cosmopolitan culture, dining and shopping and of course meet the friendly locals. You can also play gold at internationally rated courses, chill out at a day spa, ride a roller coaster or even cuddle a koala - all at your own pace.

Great Sunshine Way

Q1 Observation Deck

2009-11-24T13:54:00.005+10:00

Q1 Observation Deck takes you to the highest point above the Gold Coast for stunning 360 degree views from the surf to the hinterland and beyond. Rising 230 metres into the sky, the Observation Deck is located beachside in Surfers Paradise. More than just awesome views, your journey begins with an inside look at the contruction of this landmark development, before boarding the express lift to the main observation level. Take some time to explore this custom designed viewing arena and soak up the panoramic views. Enjoy coffee and cake, or perhaps an evening cocktail, in the stylish Skybar cafe and lounge bar on Level 77.

Gold Coast

2009-11-20T15:26:00.004+10:00

This spectacular region stretches from Beenleigh and South Stradbroke Island in the North to Coolangatta in the South; and covers a 70 kilometre stretch of coastline with some 35 white sand beaches. This region also includes the stunning Broadwater which spreads north to Moreton Bay, and is one of Australia's largest protected waterways, with huge sand and mangrove islands that are great for exploring.

Boasting outstanding sparkling beaches, lush rainforest hinterland, sensational shopping, world-class entertainment facilities, adrenalin-pumping excitement and an extensive calendar of special events - the Gold Coast region has something for everyone.

Visit some of the best Queensland shopping centres and browse through local art and craft markets. The Gold Coast has some 3500 shops, open seven days a week, and an average eight hours of sunlight a day to shop in. Beachside retailers and huge shopping centres stock colourful fashion and gifts, and 20 markets flourish on the beachfront and hinterland.

Fantasy, thrills, action rides, daring stunts, live shows and fun for all ages! Whilst in Australia's theme park capital, why not experience first hand some of their thrill-seeker rides and attractions. Or take off into the magnificent Gold Coast hinterland. Just 30 minutes drive from the beaches you will find some of the most biologically diverse rainforests in Australia protected by World Heritage listing.

The Coast is host to 40 championship golf courses either set against the hinterland, beautiful resorts or gently undulating countryside.

You can't stand back on the sidelines! This destination invites you to be excited, it dares you to be invigorated and it encourages you to discover for yourself why Australia's Gold Coast has always been a favourite holiday spot.

Story Bridge Adventure Climb

2009-11-20T14:41:00.003+10:00

Climb Brisbane's Icon - the Story Bridge. Enjoy a two and a half hour climb experience to the top of the Story Bridge during this Adventure Climb. This is an experience with a difference and a spectacular way to discover Brisbane and its beautiful surroundings. From the 80 metre summit, enjoy uniterrupted 360 degree views, whilst learning about the bridge and Brisbane's transition from a 19th century panel settlement to a 21st century metropolis. It is one of only four bridge climbs in the world and an experience that should not be missed.

Brisbane

2009-11-18T13:46:00.006+10:00

Known as the City of Sun Days, Brisbane enjoys great weather, a relaxed pace of life and all the cosmopolitan bustle of a major urban hub. It doesn't seem to matter what time of year it is - there's always something exciting happening in this vibrant city. You'll find the best in arts and culture, entertainment and sports events as well as good food, wine and shopping. As the natural starting and finishing point of your Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast holiday, Queensland's vibrant capital city is the centre of a region rich in world-class beach, river, rainforest and mountain experiences.

To the north and south, you will find rainforest vistas, jutted mountain ranges and framatic waterfalls, glass-clear streams, lush ferns and forests, and brilliant wildlife. Brisbane's regions include 70 plus beaches, as well as Moreton Bay whose aqua clear waters host nautical wrecks, coral coves, abundant sea life and a magnificent series of islands. Head west to see highland brumbies and working cattle stations. Visit the 135 year old ruins of Brisbane' notorious first jail. Hand feed Tangalooma's wild dolphins or visit the Crocodile Hunter's backyard.

Music, dancing, partying, live shows, good times - there's plenty more going on in the City of Sun Days and fun nights.

Car Rental Brisbane

Melbourne's East and South East Touring

2009-11-13T10:32:00.008+10:00

Within a 90 minute drive to the East or South East of Melbourne, explore the magnificent regions of the Yarra Valley, Dandenong Ranges, Phillip Island and the Mornington Peninsula.

From world famous wines to fabulously fresh food and breathraking scenery, the Yarra Valley is Victoria's source of indulgent sensations. The Yarra Valley is a unique confluence of award-winning wineries with sensational cellar doors, superb produce, luxury accommodation, quality touring services and iconic scenery.

Right beside the Yarra Valley, discover why the Dandenong Ranges have been Melbourne's favourite retreat for over a century. Lose yourself within magical mountain villages and sun-kissed gardens. Explore magnificent forests and snuggle into cosy bed and breakfast cottages. Ride Australia's favourite steam train, or explore the many tracks and trails shadowed by tall Mountain Ash trees.

Phillip Island may be famous for it thoroughly adorable Little Penguins, but the rest of this emerald isle sparkling on the southern tip of Australia is still waiting for you to discover it. Breathtaking natural beauty and myriad attractions that is virtually untouched by visitors, Phillip Island features a choice of comfortable accommodation finessed by old-fashioned country hospitality. Home to the Australian Moto GP, World Superbikes and V8 car races, Phillip Island is an easy 2 hour drive from the CBD of Melbourne.

The Mornington Peninsula is only an hour drive from Melbourne, but it seems a world away. In fact, the Peninsula now has an air that's reminiscent of the Mediterranean, with its vineyards and olive groves, its historic country house retreats and intimate hotels. Wile it's boot-shaped like Italy, the Mornington Peninsula is far easier to explore at a leisurely pace. You can travel the length of the coastlines, stopping at our seaside villages, or just meander back and forth from one coast to the other on country roads with glorious views.

Grab a car and discover Victoria. Car Hire Melbourne

Byron Bay and Beyond

2009-11-10T10:48:00.007+10:00

Uncrowded beaches, lush rainforests, wide rivers, picturesque surroundings and idyllic climate all add to the allure of New South Wales' Northern Rivers region. Located just below the Queensland border, the region provides an ideal holiday escape with its unique blend of pristine beaches and crystal clear water on the coast contrasting the tropical rainforests and rich rolling countryside of the hinterland.

Kingscliff, just 30 minutes south of the Gold Coast offers 2km of golden sandy beaches, fantastic fishing, world-class surfing, and is the perfect place to unwind. Foodies are also well catered for as the region's hinterland is celebrated for its organic produce, outstanding cafes and restaurants. Specialities of the area include coffee, tea, macadamia nuts, bush tucker, seafood and exotic fruits.

The seaside resort town, Byron Bay, situated on the most Eastern point of Australia, enjoys a relaxing and informal lifestyle that has become a favourite for many travelers. Byron presents an assortment of experiences ranging from sea kayaking with dolphins, to strolling the un-spoilt beaches or pampering oneself with spa treatments and 'new-age' therapies. Byron is also home to numerous organic culinary delights and visitors are truly spoilt for choice.

The laid-back village of Lennox Head is Mecca among surfers, with world-renowned breaks at Boulders and Lennox Point. Panoramic views from the headland are absolutely breathtaking and Pat Morton lookout offers the ideal vantage point for whale and dolphin spotting. On Lennox Head's outskirts, Lake Ainsworth is a fresh water lagoon stained 'billy tea' red by the tea trees that fringe its banks and it is claimed to have therapeutic and rejuvenating properties.

Hire a car from Gold Coast and take the 2 hour drive down to Byron Bay. Car Hire Gold Coast

Out Of This World Attractions

2009-11-06T16:34:00.001+10:00

With more attractions than any other destination in the southern hemisphere, the Gold Coast has the fastest, the longest, the highest and the most exciting thrill rides in Australia. You could spend days exploring worlds of heart-racing rides and unique animal experiences or step outside the theme parks and uncover a number of truly unique attractions. Experience this great Australian city in distinctly memorable ways. In Australia's theme park capital you could swim with a dolphin, walk with a tiger, kiss Marilyn Monroe or spend the evening with a real Australian stockman.

Travellers of all ages and interests will encounter an array of exhilarating worlds and attractions not offered anywhere else in the country. Or take a closer look and explore new ways to enjoy a celebrated city that will make your Gold Coast holiday unforgettable.

This city has it all.

Warner Bros. Movie World
Experience the magic and excitement of a world where your favourite movie stars walk the streets. The white-knuckled fun of your favourite action movies is brought to life on rides like Lethal Weapon, Wild West Falls, Schooby-Doo Spooky Coaster and Superman Escape. The new Batwing Spaceshot will test the bravest rider with a rapid 4.5G vertical launch up a 60 metre freefall. For fun the whole family can enjoy a visit to the Looney Tunes Village or hit the streets for the Main Street Star Parade.

Sea World
Celebrating the world's precious marine environment with animal encounters, shows and rides, Sea World offers a fun and enertaining insight into the lives of some of the world's most elusive sea creatures. See the polar bears at play in Polar Bear Shores or take a journey into the world of the endangered dugong at Dugong Discovery. Become a dolphin trainer for the day or for a toothier experience come face-to-face with the world's most feared predators at Shark Bay. Join a qualified diver for the ultimate Shark Enchounter, feeding the predators from the safety of an acrylic cage.

Wet'n'Wild
Adults and children of all ages will enjoy this colourful aquatic adventure playground, offering multiple levels of interactive water fun. Thrill seekers should head straight to The Tornado in the new Extreme H20 Zone. The first of its kind in the southern hemisphere the enormous thrill slide begins from a 15 metre high platform, blasting riders down a 40 metre long tunnel into the middle of the storm. Tornado riders spin through the storm in a giant funnel before sliding through the eye of the storm and into the calm waters below. Take it easy at Calypso Beach or lie back in a tube in the Giant Wave Pool for a Dive-in Movie. Slides and pools are heated during cooler months so you can enjoy Wet'n'Wild Water World at any time of the year.

Find out more of what Gold Coast has to offer with Car Hire Gold Coast.

General Australian Rules of the Road

2009-11-06T14:59:00.000+10:00

When renting a vehicle in Australia, it is important for both your safety and enjoyment, that you understand the rules of the road. To assist you we have outlined some of the basic rules.

Drive on the left side of the road.

Do not drink and drive. In Australia, drinking and driving is considered a very serious offence. Roadside testing units to check the blood alcohol level in motorists are very common. The alcohol limit varies from state to state.

Speed limits vary from state to state, so you should pay attention and adhere to the posted speed limits. As a general rule the top speed limit in most states is 110kms/hour and 40-60kms/hour in residental or commercial areas.

When facing a 'Stop' or 'Give Way' sign you must bring your vehicle to a complete stop.

Give way to pedestrians who are crossing the street into which you are turning, whether you are turning left or right.

Do not cross double broken lines.

At T-junctions the driver approaching the intersection along the terminating road must give way to all traffic on the continuing road, unless the other traffic has a 'Stop' or 'Give Way' sign.

'Hook signs' are found only in central Melbourne. The sign may be at the side of the road or hung from tram wires. If you need to turn right at one of these intersections you must make a 'hook turn'. Begin your right turn from the left lane.

Do not overtake other traffic when: approaching a pedestrian or school crossing or an intersection, approaching the crest of a hill, on a blind corner, where there are double unbroken lines or an unbroken line on your side of the centre line.

Drivers entering a roundabout must give way to the traffic already entering or leaving the roundabout.

Headlights must be used while driving between the hours of sunset and sunrise.

If you are involved in an accident you must notify the police immediately. You should then contact your nearest rental car depot.

Great Southern Touring Route

2009-11-06T14:19:00.000+10:00

The best way to explore the 777km long Great Southern Touring Route is to self-drive. The 182km stretch from Melbourne to Apollo Bay, via Geelong on the Great Ocean Rd offers great vistas of Victoria's coastline. The next section from Apollo Bay to Port Fairy, via Warrnambool (189km) has majestic views of the Twelve Apostles.

The route turns inland towards the north from Port Fairy and on to Halls Gap (158km) via the scenic Grampians Mountains. Halls Gap to Melbourne is 284km stretch via the Goldfields and the historic town of Ballarat. Stop at Sovereign Hill to view how life was in 19th-century Victoria during the Gold Rush and take in a showing of Blood on the Southern Cross Show.

Car Hire Melbourne

Useful Sites

http://www.greatsoutherntouring.com.au/

http://www.greatoceanroad.org/

http://www.visitvictoria.com/

http://www.australia.com/

Country Valley

2009-11-06T12:11:00.001+10:00

Take a relaxing self-guided drive through Brisbane's Country Valleys. Trace its unique history, explore the lakes, trails and national parks or take to the sky and be awe of its natural beauty.

Mt Mee - Enjoy the many rocky waterholes, cool streams and rainforest walks and the magnificent views over Lake Somerset and Lake Wivenhoe from Somerset Trail. From the Falls lookout you can see the picturesque Neurum Valley and at The Gantry picnic area you can see the remains of an old sawmill which operated until 1981.

Mt Nebo and Mt Glorious - Winding mountain roads lined with large trees and rainforest patches lead to the breathtaking Maiala rainforest via the Mt Nebo township. Enjoy the cafes and picnic areas at the top of the mountain as well as various bushwalking and horse riding trails that lead you through the cool forests to waterfall surrounded by large fig trees, palms and ferns.

Samford Valley - This beautiful area is surrounded by incredible forests, the gorgeous Mt Nebo and Mt Glorious. The Samford Village has a historical museum, plenty of restaurants, art galleries, antique and gift shops.

Dayboro - Classic old pubs, shops and churches make for an idyllic country atmosphere. Be sure to check out the galleries, antique and craft shops before enjoying a cold one at the historic Crown Hotel.

For your next South East Queensland holiday check out Car Hire Gold Coast and Car Hire Brisbane.

Ipswich and The Scenic Rim

2009-11-06T11:35:00.001+10:00

Wake up in a quaint little township or to the sounds of nature at the atmospheric rainforest retreat. Take a leisurely walk down winding country roads for a tasting at one of our welcoming wineries. Reconnect with nature on an eco tour and just when you're nice and relaxed get the adrenalin pumping again with skydiving, canoeing, bushwalking, and hot air ballooning. Spend your afternoon in a heritage-listed pub before tucking yourself in at a cosy bed and breakfast.

Wineries

The rich volcanic soils of the Scenic Rim lends itself to being an award-winning wine region, producing both full-bodied reds and refreshing whites.

Bunjurgen Estate Vineyard

Cedar Creek Estate Vineyard and Winery

Ironbark Ridge Winery

Kooroomba Vineyard & Lavender Farm

Tamborine Mountain Distillery

Warrego Wines

On The Ground

Nature based walks and hikes to world heritage-listed rainforests.

Bushwacker Eco Tours

Discovery

Explore art galleries, craft shops, cafes and unique retail stores.

Mt Tamborine Gallery Walk

The Workshops Rail Museum

Ipswich Art Gallery

Pickup your rental car in Brisbane and start exploring! Car Hire Brisbane

Great Day Out

2009-11-06T10:10:00.001+10:00

The popular and exciting Dreamworld is a favourite holiday destination to anyone visiting the Gold Coast. Here you can enjoy WhiteWater World and Dreamworld togeher on a World Pass for unlimited entry to two worlds in one great location.

WhiteWater World is the ultimate water fest! Australia's newest water-ride park delivers thrills for all ages, from the Supertube Hydro Coaster (a rollercoaster on water) and Little Riddles (the world's first two person cannon ball water ride) to the Nikelodeon Pipeline Plunge (boasting over 100 interactive water activities) and Wiggles Bay (designed for the under fives, with mini slides and giant instruments.

Then dry off at Dreamworld, a wonderland packed with attractions that will easily fill your day. You'll love the six huge thrill rides (including The Tower of Terror, The Giant Drop, Mick Doohan Motocoaster), Imax Theatre, helicopter rides and of course Wiggles World, full of wiggly wonderful rides and attractions. Nickelodeon Central is a world where kids live and breathe Nickelodeon all day long!

Dreamsworld's Australian Wildlife Experience lets you get close and personal with deadly snakes, killer crocs, big cats, cuddly koalas, amazing birds and more. You can also meet some beautiful tiger cubs at Dreamworld's Tiger Island! The triplets Ndari, Shanti and Jaya are living it up and have been meeting a few faces at their daily Cub Experience sessions.

The easiest way to get to Dreamworld and WhiteWater world is with Car Hire Gold Coast.

Australia Zoo

2009-11-06T08:34:00.000+10:00

Just one hour drive north of Brisbane, Australia Zoo is your ultimate wildlife adventure! Imagine hand-feeding an Asian elephant, cuddling a koala, walking alongside a Sumatran tiger, waddling with a wombat or wrapping a snake around your shoulders.

You can even watch a massive saltwater crocodile launch a strike from the water's edge. It is a fantastic family day out!

Brisbane Car Hire

Alpha on Twitter

2009-11-05T17:27:00.000+10:00

Alpha Car Hire can now be found on Twitter. We offer exclusive specials to our followers such as 1 day free vouchers!!! Click here to start following Alpha and send us a direct message, we will send a 1 day free offer straight away.

Never pay full price again for car hire in Brisbane, Gold Coast and Melbourne!!