Brisbane Forest Park is a popular destination for a day trip: remote gorges, sheltered lush subtropical rainforest, expanses of eucalypt woodland and gum forests await, with spectacular views to Moreton Bay, and all within an hour's drive from Brisbane (tel: 1300 723 684; website: www.epa.qld.gov.au/projects/park/index.cgi?parkid=2).

Moreton Bay contains around 360 islands and is a geographical oddity, with some of the world's largest sand islands separating Brisbane from the ocean. The area is home to abundant wildlife, including dolphins, dugong, sharks and turtles, and is a popular tropical playground. Cute bayside towns, unspoilt beaches and many fishing hotspots add to the appeal (website: www.moretonbayislands.com.au).