Gary Topic
I am immensely proud of my beautiful, stunning country and love to show it off to visitors. I get a real buzz when someone from overseas says, "Wow, that was amazing."
I am also an explorer by nature. Anytime a visit I new place or a new city, I maximize my time by taking a long walk just to find out what else there is to see, and what little gems I might be able to share with others. I love to find those secret hidden places, known only by locals (and me). The fun part is, the learning is never-ending! Sharing my knowledge with others is my dream job.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"Our nationwide network of local partners enables us to deliver a portfolio of highly rated experiences, accommodating a wide range of budgets, standards of comfort & uniqueness and levels of activity. From join-in coach tours to self-drives, from camping or glamping to the comforts of luxury accommodation, from professional surfing lessons to (self-)guided nature hikes. You tell us what you expect from your dream-holiday to Australia, chances are we will make it happen!"
How did you get involved in travel?
"I think I was born to travel. My first big trip was a cruise from Sydney to the US, plus an overland trip to visit my Nanna and Pappa in Illinois, at the age of two. But the travel bug really bit on my very first school excursion. I was captivated by the idea that one could get into a car, bus, train or plane and explore entirely new places, meet different people, and experience amazing scenery. That excursion was to the Barrington Tops in the Upper Hunter Valley and I still take my daughters to explore this wonderful landscape today.
Our parents took us on wonderful, memorable road trips across the country to Adelaide and Brisbane. As soon as I gained independence, I began dragging my friends around Australia on road trips, Mystery Flights and interstate weeks away.
At age 18, I organized my first group coach tour to see Phantom of the Opera in Melbourne. I really wanted to see it but I figured why not see it with 50 friends? This was followed by two more coach trips to World Expo in Brisbane and two weeks around Tasmania.
After a stint working in administration, I commenced in the travel industry in 1998. Since then I have worked arranging group tours around Australia and New Zealand, and also as a tour director and sometimes driver in both countries. I know most Australian destinations like the back of my hand and can genuinely say that the entire country feels like my home."
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"I was driving a tour group across outback Northern Territory when we stopped at the Devils Marbles. The plan was to camp in tents there overnight. We clambered to the top of the highest rocks (I knew a secret way) to watch a stunning sunset. But from that vantage point we could see a desert storm approaching in the distance. We decided to drive to Wycliffe Well to instead enjoy some more solid accommodation. From there we watched in awe at the most intense electrical storm I have ever seen, by far. The dark approaching clouds were simply mesmerizing, as they lit up with never ending lightning flashes ... about 5 per second. When at last it hit, we were glad we had skipped the tents. Wow, such powerful wind and driving rain. The whole experience made us feel small, humble and in absolute amazement."
Gary's favorite itineraries and travel advice
Top itineraries and travel advice
Unveil the wonders of Perth and its spectacular surroundings with this immersive eight-day itinerary. Begin with a deep dive into Western Australia's dynamic capital, where...
This epic 20-day self-drive adventure explores Australia's diverse landscapes and iconic destinations. Over 20 days, you'll take in dazzling Sydney and witness the magnificent...
Get set for a fantastic nine-day adventure across Australia. Start in Melbourne, rent a car, and hit the Great Ocean Road, one of Australia's most iconic drives. Fly north to...
Family itineraries
Road trip itineraries
In 15 days, you'll explore exciting cities, spot wildlife, and visit iconic landmarks of Australia's southern states and interior. You'll start in Sydney for a biking excursion,...
Get set for a fantastic nine-day adventure across Australia. Start in Melbourne, rent a car, and hit the Great Ocean Road, one of Australia's most iconic drives. Fly north to...
Embark on an eight-day adventure down Australia's marvelous southeastern coast. Begin with city tours of Melbourne, an eclectic coastal capital quickly emerging as a tourism...
Recent trip reviews for Gary
Our Excellent Adventure
Australia
|
May 11 - Jun 4, 2024
Will be using kimkim again
Australia
|
Apr 26 - May 10, 2024
Had a GREAT time on our trip. Thanks to Gary ...
Australia
|
Mar 14 - Apr 15, 2024
Our five week trip inclued Port Douglas (scuba diving on the great barrier reef, Daintree, Karunda), Cairns, Whitsundays, Eungella (Glass... Read more
Gary was amazing helping us plan our trip to ...
Australia
|
Mar 15 - Mar 21, 2024
Five fabulous days in Palm Cove
Australia
|
Mar 23 - Mar 28, 2024
Gary was there for me online from start to fi...
Australia
|
Mar 10 - Mar 16, 2024
Hi Jo,
Thank you for your lovely review. It was a pleasure to look after you. I also once sat at the top of Australia one time when I was leading a group, thinking, "This is a pretty wonderful office to be working in."
Gary was such a pleasure to deal with from th...
Australia
|
Mar 9 - Mar 16, 2024
Thank you Gary - We had an amazing trip in Australia.
Australia
|
Jan 16 - Jan 30, 2024
Wonderful Service Gary was terrific! He was ...
Australia
|
Dec 29 - Jan 8, 2024
Wonderful Service
Gary was terrific! He was accessible, thoughtful and helped us plan and experience the most amazing trip!