A trip to the Red Centre just got more sustainable - here's why

Uluru is on most people's bucket list, but now there's a new reason to visit. Ayers Rock Resort has just received both Advanced Ecotourism and Respecting Our Culture Certification to become an ECO Certified business, making it easier for visitors to support local communities, contribute to cultural preservation in the area and be as kind as possible to Mother Nature.

A field of solar panels, a vast recycling centre and programs focussing on wildlife conservation allows the tourism operator, celebrating its 40th birthday this year, to offer travellers guilt-free experiences. Unforgettable holidays in this glorious part of Australia are just the cherry on top. ayersrockresort.com.au

Speaking of regional travel, Victoria's High Country - with lush valleys, steep mountains, idyllic villages, and a stellar food and wine scene - is a great destination to visit any time of the year. But a number of events are about to descend on the region, making February and March a particularly good time to go. From February 16 to 18, Festival Falls Creek will offer a packed calendar of music, art, comedy and food events; while on March 9 and 10, it'll be all about the wines at the Tastes of Rutherglen festival, where you can savour more than 200 drops from 16 cellar doors. And if that's not enough, the High Country Hop in Beechworth on March 23 will showcase the best brews and spirits of the region. fallscreek.com.au/feastival; explorerutherglen.com.au; thehighcountryhop.com.au

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