Exploring Queensland, Australia: Brisbane Highlights, Hiking In The Glass House Mountains & Noosa Paradise
In this episode, I take you through my eight-day adventure across Queensland after flying in from Vancouver—so expect heat, humidity, stories, and plenty of tips. I start off in Brisbane, where I break down how I navigated the city, the unbelievable 50-cent public transport system, the places I stayed, and all the cafés, restaurants and viewpoints that made the trip so memorable.
I share my favourite Brisbane moments, from wandering along South Bank and relaxing at the city beach to heading up the Skydeck for those incredible 360° views. I also talk about my day trip to the Glass House Mountains—how to get there cheaply, what the Mount Ngungun hike was like, and why I nearly abseiled off a 40-metre cliff (but absolutely bottled it at the last second!).
Then I head up the Sunshine Coast to revisit Noosa more than a decade after I first saw it—this time with money in my pocket. I chat through the coastal walk to Hell’s Gates, spotting dolphins, hanging out on those stunning beaches, exploring Noosaville’s cafés, and soaking up that paradise vibe that Noosa does so well.
And of course, I couldn’t be in Brisbane without going to the Ashes. I dive into the experience of watching England get absolutely battered at the Gabba, what it’s like attending a day–night Test, and the special moment of seeing Joe Root finally score a hundred in Australia.
Whether you’re planning a trip to Brisbane, thinking about exploring Noosa, or just love hearing travel stories from the road, this episode is packed with tips, experiences and a few classic mishaps along the way.
What I cover:
- Where I stayed in Brisbane & why it was great value
- My favourite cafés, restaurants and rooftop spots
- What to do around South Bank & the CBD
- How I reached the Glasshouse Mountains for only 50 cents
- Hiking Mount Ngungun & my failed abseiling attempt
- My full breakdown of Noosa: beaches, walks, cafés & transport
- What it’s like attending an Ashes match at the Gabba
- Daily budgeting, weather tips & what to expect in summer
Want to watch my Ashes Series on YouTube? Then head to my channel here to watch Day 1 (then watch the rest through to Day 4) - https://youtu.be/wfi1npmY0Vg?si=7mAW9GpKHmiaC4ck
Want to travel with me to El Salvador?
Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340
Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142
❤️ Support the Show
If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas.
Timestamps
00:00 – Intro
02:00 – Flying to Brisbane
04:00 – Accommodation in Brisbane
06:00 – Public Transport Hack
08:00 – Brisbane CBD & Skydeck
10:00 – South Bank
13:00 – Food & Coffee Spots
15:00 – Glasshouse Mountains
18:00 – Abseil Attempt
20:30 – Noosa Overview
23:30 – Hell’s Gates Walk
25:30 – Noosaville
28:00 – Getting Around
30:00 – The Ashes at the Gabba
34:00 – Budget & Costs
37:00 – Final Thoughts
--------------------------------------------------------------
Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com
Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/
Winging It Travel Podcast - Website
Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts!
--------------------------------------------------------------
Winging It Travel Podcast Credits
Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond
Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com
Social Media - follow me on:
Instagram
TikTok
Facebook
--------------------------------------------------------------
Support My Podcast - Memberships
Patreon - Here
Buy Me A Coffee - Here
Affiliate Links
If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.
Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here
Use Revolut Travel Card - Here
Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here
Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here
Booking.com - Here
Book Experiences With Viator - Here
Discovery Car Hire - Here
Book Buses With Busbud - Here
Book Trains With Trainline - Here
Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here
Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here
Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here
--------------------------------------------------------------
Thanks for supporting me and the podcast!
Cheers James.
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
Smart Travel Podcast
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.
Voyascape Podcast Network
