I have discovered an untaped paradise, a fisherman's goldmine, a natural wonderland. I have also discovered what happened to Rob Brough , who has been reading the news here in Hervey Bay. A far cry from hosting the hand slapping fun of Family Feud and a bit of a change of pace. But I can totally understand why he chose Hervey Bay as a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The city traffic seems years away from Hervey Bay, the place is so laid back, but all the while there is a salty hint of adventure in the air and this is when the real fun of Hervey Bay awaits. One could decide to use the time spent here to enjoy the big breakfasts, relax on the beach, soak in some sun and simply get away from it all. However, there is a great opportunity here to immerse yourself in new things and to try activities that you never have before. I decided that if I was going to be spending a few days, I was going to leave no rock, or sand pile unturned. It was hard to leave the luxurious Great Sandy Marina Resort which was my homebase on this tour, but there was an adventure to be had.

1. See a real whale in the flesh (tick)
2. Fly in a helicopter (tick)
3. Go four wheel driving through rugged outback terrain. (tick)
4. Be in a plane that lands on the beach (okay that wasn't on the list, but not a bad effort.)

What makes Hervey Bay more conventient to get to that ever before is the fact that as of July 29th, Jetstar began flying direct flights from Sydney Domestic. The whole process is smooth, just over a one hour flight to Hervey Bay airport, where you will be greeted by more than a few locals who are mesmerised by the jet planes. I was lucky enough to arrive at Hervey Bay during John Laws' stay, so the locals had plenty to be fussing about, "know what I mean"? In fact Jetstar are now flying to such destinations as Cairns, Whitsunday Coast and Hamilton Island, which means getting to such destinations is affordable and maximises your "stay time".

Hervey Bay, Jetstar's 17th destination, has always been referred to as the gateway to Fraser Island. Yes, I did take the short trip to the sandy heritage listed island, however I found there to be plenty to do in Hervey Bay itself. In fact, Fraser Island was better suited as a great day tour, an extended event during my stay.

Whale watching was the real highlight during my stay. Going out until 4:30am the night before to a local club, "The Beach House", probably a wasn't a great idea as I had to embark on the Tasman Venture at 8:30 am, however I soldiered on. Even when my head was spinning and my stomach was churning, the whales were still breathtaking. At one point there were nine, massive humpback whales surrounding our boat, rising out of the water and gazing back at all of the peering human eyes aboard the boat. They passed under our boat and back again, sending camera happy tourists back and forth each side of the Tasman Venture boat. I'm not sure how but no one fell out of the boat amongst all of the leaning out and photography work. It was a great adventure and seeing the massive, wonderful beasts was something I"ll never forget.

Hervey Bay has also been described as a fisherman's paradise, so if you do fancy a spot of underwater 'cat and mouse", the best way to do things is to head out on a MI helicopter, they offer transfers to the best fishing locations and have also come up with a great tourist package idea. The package includes rod and reel hire, bait and tackle, morning and afternoon tea, BBQ lunch and a fishing guide. So if your keen to do a spot of fishing, but couldn't be bothered dragging all your gear or doing research, this is probably the best way to do things.

My stay at Hervey Bay could have been longer, however two days and three nights was easily enough to refresh the soul. This is definately a holiday that Sydneysiders should embark on, if you are getting sick of looking at your computer screen or another annoyed customer.

• For information about Jetstar's flight schedule and bookings, as well as accommodation and car rental deals check out www.jetstar.com or call 131
  538.
  Flying Jetstar, one way fares from Sydney to the Fraser Coast start from $79 including taxes.
• MI helicopters fishermans "Day Trip" package $335.00 per person (min 2 passengers). There are also plenty of other MI helicopter options availiable, with 10 minute flights starting as low as $66.00 per person.
• To enquire about the Tasman Venture whale watching adventures, you can call a free call 1800 620 322, or check out www.tasmanventure.com.au.
• Great Sandy Straits Marina Resort is situated approximately 300 kilometres, 3½ hours drive, north of Brisbane. Bordered by 40 kilometres of pristine beaches, Hervey Bay offers access to islands, adventure, wildlife and a beautiful safe aquatic playground for visitors to the Fraser Coast.
• To make a reservation telephone S8 Resorts on 1300 553 800 or check out their website at www.s8resorts.com.au .