Welcome to our annual 52 Weekends Away issue, in which we showcase some of the new or reimagined holiday spots around Australia. The properties are curated to include options to suit whatever your perfect mini-break looks like, whether it’s a romantic getaway, a wildlife-spotting weekend or a group gathering. We know everyone is carefully considering where and how to spend their leisure time, so our writers have criss-crossed Australia to ensure everything included in this issue is tried and tested. While affordability is an important criterion, we have also selected properties where you can spoil yourself or your loved ones from time to time. And a new feature this year is the addition of several short-break itineraries, for those who want to make their escape last a little bit longer than the weekend – don’t we all? Enjoy! — Melissa Stevens, editor
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From plunge pools to beehives, a revamped church and off-grid geodomes.
Need a change of place, pace and perspective? These NSW properties offer ways to rapidly refresh.
These destinations are proof it is possible to pack a lot of punch into a short break or long weekend.
Half a dozen Queensland escapes offering sun, style and sanctuary.
Options abound for fast, fresh ways to recharge over a 48-hour break.
From Perth to Fremantle to Busselton: three of the best WA boltholes.
For 21 years, Peter Gash has been the custodian of Lady Elliot Island on the Great Barrier Reef. His daughter, Amy, is continuing his conservation efforts.
Actor and neurodiversity advocate Michael Theo on what he longs for, what kind of spouse he’ll be – and what employers get wrong.
When it comes to café etiquette, a chair that is spare is there to be shared, counsels our Modern Guru.
Trivia buffs: can you get a perfect score in the interactive superquiz?
What is football club culture teaching men about women? | Jelena Dokic on a crucial life lesson | Chris Bowen’s make-or-break moment | Comedian Dara Ó Briain
Life after an internet pile-on | Things you learn at 60 | The funeral where power, politics and crime came together | A former Spice Girl on memorable advice
