Virgin Australia
Wednesday, May 16th, 2012
We are excited to share with you the details of another key step we are taking in our sustainability strategy, aimed at reducing the environmental impact of our ground operations.
Over the next seven weeks, we are trialling the use of an environmentally-friendly biodiesel blend (B20) in one of our baggage tugs and one of our push back vehicles at Brisbane Domestic Airport.
We are proud to say the trial marks the first time an Australian airline has ever used biodiesel to power its ground service equipment.
The biodiesel used in the trial is produced locally in Narangba, Queensland by an Australian company called Ecotech Biodiesel and is made from used cooking oil and tallow. The fact that these are waste products is important to us because it means the biodiesel doesn’t compromise food production, land or water. What’s more, it has a range of environmental benefits including reduced greenhouse gas and soot emissions.
Our ultimate goal is roll out biodiesel to our ground service equipment across our other mainline ports, which could lead to a reduction in over 300 tonnes of CO2 per year.
We will keep you updated on the progress on the trial, but in the meantime, if you’re travelling through Brisbane, keep an eye out for a biodiesel-powered vehicle!
Tuesday, May 8th, 2012
Out of an overwhelming desire to make fashionable sports attire (activewear), former aerobics instructor, Lorna Jane Clarkson founded one of Australia’s most inspiring multi-million dollar businesses, Lorna Jane.
Two decades later, with more than 120 stores worldwide and 337,000 Facebook followers, Lorna Jane is not only an industry leader, but also a household name. On any trip to an Australian gym you’re guaranteed to find the brand’s iconic logo sported by ladies of all shapes and sizes, and confidence and abilities.
Recognising the brand’s positive effect on females, our holiday partner, Blue Holidays invites you on Breakations with the girls to be inspired over lunch with Lorna Jane.
In anticipation of the lunches we spoke with Lorna Jane Clarkson, to discover what motivates her, where she pulls inspiration from and what projects she has in her sights.
Why did you decide to partner with Blue Holidays for Breakations with the girls?
We all have such busy schedules, and I thought it was a great opportunity for women to stop, take a break and spend some quality time with their friends. We have planned a total Move Nourish Believe experience. I’m really looking forward to meeting everyone; and talking about health and fitness, being positive every day, and finding the time to do more of the things that we love.
What do you feel guests will take away from the weekends?
I hope everyone walks away having learnt more about my personal life philosophy, Move, Nourish and Believe, and how easy it is to incorporate it into their everyday life.
What does Move Nourish Believe mean?
It is my personal philosophy for living and I’ve lived this way for as long as I can remember. I promise myself that I will move my body every day, nourish from the inside out with healthy and nutritious food, and believe anything is possible (with a little hard work).
It’s not only your mantra, but also the name of your book. What made you write Move Nourish Believe?
I found myself constantly being asked by my staff and customers to write a book. Not sure what to write about, I reached out to my Lorna Jane Facebook fans and asked them. They wanted to know the details of how I lived my life, from what I liked to eat, to my favourite workouts. So that is exactly what I wrote about. I am not an expert by any means; I simply shared all the things I had learnt on my own health and fitness journey. I wanted to connect personally with each and every reader, to really inspire them to lead their best lives and never give up.
Do you have any further projects in the pipeline?
We plan to open 10 stores across California by the end of the year, which is a huge focus for our business and will definitely keep us busy. We’re also launching a brand new website and online store this month to support our incredible growth in the online retail space. I am currently putting together a Move Nourish Believe diary for January 2013 and I’d like to write another book – aiming for release in November 2013.
10 stores on top of the 120 that you already have is a huge feat. Congratulations! What is your favourite store destination to visit?
I love them all! All our stores are centred on their local community, and each store has a part in my Lorna Jane family giving it energy, getting to know our customers and becoming part of the local scene. In saying that, it was amazing to walk into our first ever US store in Malibu, California, as it reminded me just how far the Lorna Jane brand has come as well as the amazing possibilities we have in the future.
When you’re not working, what is your favourite holiday destination to visit with your girlfriends?
I love going to a good spa or health retreat. I am one of those people who likes to discover new places, so it’s not often that I go back to the same place twice. I love to research a new destination, look for the good shopping, restaurants and walking spots, and then get everyone’s availability, make a plan and book it.
You mentioned researching walking spots… What are you top five places in the world to exercise?
I have been spending my time between Australia and the U.S. at the moment so:
- Trekking the Hollywood Hills… for the great view
- Bike riding in Santa Monica… where else can you ride your bike on the beach?
- Paddle boarding in Hawaii… because it feels good and the water is amazing
- Running in Central Park, NY… I love getting lost and finding my way again
- Bush walking on the Sunshine Coast… a little bit of paradise in the midst of my busy schedule
You and your girlfriends can meet and be inspired by Lorna Jane Clarkson in person, at our Brisbane Breakation with the girls lunch.
The package includes:
- Return flights from Sydney to Brisbane
- Luxury transfers from the airport, and to lunch
- One night’s accommodation and breakfast at 4.5 star inner city hotel, Quay West
- A sumptuously healthy and motivating lunch with Lorna Jane Clarkson
- A yoga class with Lorna’s personal instructor
Two lunches will be held: on 2 June and 16 June 2012. Spaces are limited to 50 people per lunch. Price start at $494, per person twin share
Find out more information about Lorna Jane visit the Lorna Jane website.
Experience Lorna Jane Clarkson’s favourite US exercise spots first hand; Virgin Australia operates flights to Los Angeles from Australian east coast capital cities. Take the hassle out of planning your trip away, our holiday partner Blue Holidays offers great value Los Angeles holiday packages, starting at $1955, per person twin share.
Tuesday, May 8th, 2012
Tupac sang about his; Abraham Lincoln and George Washington publicly attributed their success to theirs; while Sandra Bullock won an Oscar playing someone else’s… Mothers, they come in all shapes and sizes, and wear different hats – woman, wife, daughter and friend.
Whether she is the archetypical mother who bakes treats and tends to damaged knees, or a dynamic career woman who juggles diverse roles; all caring and loving mothers deserve praise and reverence.
While a mother’s talents, strength and love should be acclaimed every day of the year, Mother’s Day is a great time for reflection and tribute, and the perfect opportunity to give back.
If you’re searching for an exceptional Mother’s Day present, look no further… we have a number of outstanding gift ideas that will show your mum, grandma, wife, sister or best friend just how much you care.
Gift Vouchers
In our opinion, there is nothing more thrilling than travel. Surprise your hard-to-buy-for mum with a Virgin Australia gift voucher. Valid for 12 months, our gift vouchers can be used towards all Virgin Australia flights and Blue Holidays packages. You can even put an extra bit of love into it by choosing the template. Find out more about Virgin Australia gift vouchers.
Mystery Breaks
Keep mum guessing this Mother’s Day with a Mystery Break. Mystery Breaks are a unique and exciting way to experience Australia. You won’t even be able to ruin the surprise, as destinations are not revealed until one to four days before travel. All packages include return airfares, accommodation, return airport transfers, baggage allowance, taxes and sometimes more! Find out more about Virgin Australia Mystery Breaks.
18th Biennale of Sydney
Held every two years, the Biennale of Sydney is Australia’s largest contemporary visual arts event. Showcasing bold and innovative contemporary art from around the world, this year’s exhibition will be presented from 27 June to 16 September in the heart of Sydney. Treat your mother to a spectacular display of culture and art, our holiday partner, Blue Holiday offers Biennale of Sydney flights and accommodation packages, from $339. Find out more about Blue Holiday’s 18th Biennale of Sydney package.
Hamburg Ballet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream
The Hamburg Ballet, the Hamburg Philharmonic Orchestra and the Hamburg State Opera bring together some of the world’s greatest artistic talents for The Hamburg Season. Commencing 23 August at Brisbane’s QPAC, this once in lifetime cultural celebration will delight, entertain and inspire your mother. Our holiday partner, Blue Holiday offers flights, accommodation and Hamburg Ballet ticket packages, from $541. Find out more about Blue Holiday’s Hamburg Ballet package.
The Mousetrap (Sydney, Melbourne and Perth)
The world’s longest running stage production, Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap finally hits Australian shores this June, for shows in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. A murder mystery, known its twist ending, The Mousetrap is a thrilling and suspenseful tale that will have your mum asking “whodunit?” Our holiday partner, Blue Holiday offers flights, accommodation and The Mousetrap tickets packages, from $491. Find out more about Blue Holiday’s Sydney, Melbourne and Perth The Mousetrap packages.
Hunter Valley Cheese, Chocolate & Wine Tour
Treat your mum to acclaimed wines, a relaxing light lunch, and delicious chocolates and cheeses in the picturesque Hunter Valley. Our activities partner, GoDo offers a full day Hunter Valley tour, which includes hotel pick up, from $65. Virgin Australia operates flights to the Newcastle, direct from Brisbane and Melbourne, while our hotel partner HotelClub has a range of great deals on Hunter Valley and Newcastle hotels. Find out more about GoDo’s Hunter Valley Cheese, Chocolate & Wine Tour.
Mother’s Day Lunch on Sydney Harbour
Discover Sydney’s beautiful harbour from a special Mother’s Day lunch cruise. Welcomed on board with sparkling wine and a lovely chrysanthemum, your mum will be treated to a delicious seafood and carvery buffet. Prices start from $68, for our activities partner GoDo. Virgin Australia operates flights to the Sydney from Australian and New Zealand capital cities and most major regional Australian ports. Our hotel partner HotelClub has a range of great deals on Sydney hotels. Find out more about GoDo’s Mother’s Day Lunch on Sydney Harbour.
Virgin Australia and partners Blue Holidays, HotelClub and GoDo have a whole host of other great Mother’s Day gift ideas.
For more information visit:
Flights and gift vouchers: Virgin Australia
Packages: Blue Holidays
Tours and activities: GoDo
Hotels: HotelClub
Wednesday, May 2nd, 2012
At Virgin Australia, we know that the little touches can make a big difference to your travel experience. One example of this is our amenity kits. We pride ourselves on offering an amenity kit that enhances your comfort not only during your flight, but also beyond your trip. We are pleased to share the news with you that our amenity kits for our international long haul flights on board our Boeing 777 aircraft have been recognised for doing just this in the recent Global Traveler Magazine Awards.
Having tried and tested the amenity kits of eighteen international airlines, the editorial team of Global Traveler Magazine awarded our new 2012 range with:
- The Best Overall in Business Class
- The Best Spa Product for our Vanilla & Orange Peel Hand Cream, from Australian organics brand Grown
- The Best Women’s Product for our Facial Moisturizer
To celebrate, Grown has extended a special offer to Virgin Australia’s online community from May 2nd until May 23rd. Simply enter the promotional code “11223” when you purchase any item on Grown’s website www.grown.com to receive a free 65ml Vanilla & Orange Peel Hand Cream.
The new 2012 range has been designed to incorporate more sustainable packaging, generous volumes of product to last longer throughout the travel journey and new exciting features such vibrant kit interiors and collectable postcard series in Economy Class. You can check-out the contents in the kits below:
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Women’s Business kit
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Men’s Business kit
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Premium Economy kit
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Economy kit
Friday, April 13th, 2012
We are delighted to share the news with you that for the third year running, Virgin Australia will support the United Nations Association of Australia World Environment Day Awards.
The awards, which coincide with the UNEP World Environment Day, which is held on June 5th annually, recognise innovative and outstanding environmental programs and initiatives from across Australia.
This year, we will be sponsoring the Community Award, which will be awarded to an Australian individual, organisation or business who is actively promoting species, habitats or the environment in their local area. The Award is open to land, waterways and coastal/marine environment based projects.
If you or someone you know is going above and beyond to protect their local environment, you can nominate now by simply filling in the entry form, available here.
Nominations are open nationally until Wednesday 9 May 2012 and the winner will be announced at the World Environment Day Awards presentation dinner, which will be held on Friday 8th June at the Grand Hyatt Melbourne.
Stayed tuned to the Virgin Australia blog for further updates on the World Environment Day Awards.
Virgin Australia’s Sustainability Manager, David White presenting the 2011 Virgin Australia Business World Environment Day Award to the Fridge Buyback Program team, which came up with an innovative and energy efficient plan to manage old, unused fridges.
Friday, April 13th, 2012
Described by The New York Times as “Beijing’s naughty sister”, Shanghai is a thriving metropolis with a pioneering spirit that exudes adventure, excitement and attitude.
A trip to Shanghai is an eye-opening experience. Nicknamed “Whore of the Orient” during the Golden Age of the mid-1800s to mid-1900s, the city was once rife with opium dens, brothels, gambling houses and a strong crime trade. Populous and ever-morphing Shanghai has since transformed into the “Pearl of the Orient” – a sophisticated playground for expats and socialites, where the trials and triumphs of capitalism are omnipresent and all-embraced.
Typified by flashing neon lights, a bustling cityscape and one of the world’s most recognisable skylines, Shanghai is a trend and pace setting showpiece of China’s economy – where the East first met the West with exciting new-world assertiveness.
If you’re looking to explore China’s history visit Beijing… If you’re looking for a good time visit Shanghai. Flashy mega high-rises tower into the air, showcasing opulent restaurants and shopping facilities; while the streets are abuzz into the early hours of the morning with lively bars and nightclubs.
Read more »
Tuesday, March 27th, 2012
We are excited to share the news with you that our Premium Valet service is now open at Brisbane Domestic Airport.
Located directly adjacent to the terminal, the new service means all Virgin Australia guests can now pull up to the kerbside, leave their keys with the valet and be checked into their flight straight away at the dedicated valet reception area.
The Premium Valet was officially launched this morning with the help of V8 Supercar Champions Craig Lowndes and Jamie Whincup, who tested out the service for the first time in TeamVodafone cars.
“As V8 drivers and frequent flyers, time is always of the essence. Having tried and tested the new Premium Valet this morning, we can say with confidence that it will make getting to the airport and then to your flight a quick and convenient process”, Craig Lowndes said.
“We know they’ll look after the car too, with undercover parking and the option for cleaning services during the car’s stay”, Jamie Whincup added.
Virgin Australia Group Executive of Product and Guest Services Martin Daley said the Premium Valet was one of a range of new products and services the airline was introducing to enhance the airport experience for guests.
“Soon Virgin Australia guests will be able to enjoy concierge services at Gold Coast and Canberra, an enhanced lounge at Perth and a brand new lounge at the Gold Coast”.
Premium Valet service at Brisbane Domestic Airport is open every day, one hour prior to the first flight until 30 minutes after the last flight of the day, with prices starting from $55.00 for up to 14 hours and $65.00 for up to 24 hours.
If you would like more information about the service, please visit our website here.
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Will the new Premium Valet at Brisbane Airport be a service you will look to use?
Friday, March 23rd, 2012
A source of inspiration, a teacher, a guide, a saviour during wait times, a companion in the jet-lag hours, and a travel buddy on the road and in the air – a good book is atop most seasoned travellers’ must-pack list.
Before and while travelling it’s a good idea to read a book to gain a sense of culture and experience a taste of what’s to come. Over a million books are published every year; a feat that can make it hard to weed out the good from the bad. To help you choose what book to take away with you on your next trip we’ve pulled together a list of travel-centred recommendations.
On the Road by American writer Jack Kerouac is a largely autobiographical work, based on road trips made by a group of friends across America. The Telegraph Travel explained that the book should come with a warning: “proceed with caution; you may never be able to settle in one place again.” The 1950’s cult classic transports the reader from New York to LA, encountering music, poetry and wild antics along the way. Read more »
Friday, March 16th, 2012
New York City…
It’s the setting of a thousand films; the subject of Frank Sinatra’s famous lyrics: “If I can make it there, I’ll make it anywhere”; and home to the United Nations’ headquarters and the world’s largest stock exchange. The thriving metropolis typifies the United States’ “Land of the Free” moniker – packing activity, culture and opportunity into every nook and cranny of every street and alleyway. There is no ‘bad’ time to visit The City That Never Sleeps… A constantly evolving calendar of events sees New York always engaged with things to see and do. However to experience the Big Apple in all its splendour, it’s hard to beat spring in the city.
As winter thaws out, alfresco dining fills New York’s…
sidewalks, patios, decks, rooftops and terraces with chattering friends, spilling drinks and heaped plates. Enjoy cocktails and sushi overlooking the West Village at Sushi Samba’s rooftop bar. Casual and quirky Yaffa’s in Tribeca is a New York institution, open 24/7 with outdoor tables offering a great vantage point from which to spot celebrities. Shake Shack’s Madison Square Park outdoor court brims with social burger fiends – the store is so popular that its website helps guests “check the line and save time” with a ‘Shake Cam’. The Yard at the Soho Grand is one of the city’s hippest and most coveted outdoor spaces; the perfect place to bask in the sun and indulge in plates from the grill. New American-style dining is presented against a stunning backdrop at Bryant Park Grill on a glorious sun-drenched rooftop. Closed for the winter, The Loeb Boathouse comes to life in the spring, with an outdoor terrace perfect for marvelling at couples adrift on paddle boats on Central Park’s famous Lake . Read more »
Tuesday, March 6th, 2012
At Virgin Australia, we are committed to being a leader in sustainability in the aviation industry.
One example of how we have led the way for the industry is our carbon offset program, Fly Carbon Neutral. Launched in 2007, it was the world’s first government-certified airline carbon offset program.
As we know, the Australia Government will introduce a carbon price in Australia in July 2012 and last week we provided details of how it will affect our airfares. However, some have rightly asked:
‘Why should I offset my flight if I’ve already paid for the carbon price as part of my fare?’
The answer is – they are different means to different ends.
Funds raised from the Australian Government’s carbon price will go towards assisting households and small businesses transition into a clean energy future. It won’t be until 2015, when the carbon price changes to a fully flexible cap and trade scheme, that some of the funds raised begin to be used for investment in activities that offset carbon emissions.
Therefore, for the next three years at least, the carbon price is designed to provide additional incentive for companies and households to reduce emissions. It does not offset your flight and you will not be flying carbon neutral.
Australian Government’s National Carbon Offset Standard
Conversely, our carbon offset program provides an immediate way to address carbon emissions.
Every time a Guest takes up the voluntary option to offset their flight, the money goes directly towards purchasing carbon credits that “offset” the emissions attributed to their flight.
We only purchase credits that are approved under the Australian Government’s National Carbon Offset Scheme to ensure that they are of the highest quality.
For example, one of the projects supplying credits to our program involves a new water treatment facility in Thailand which captures methane gas (a powerful greenhouse gas). Previously waste water was treated in an open pond system and the methane was released into the atmosphere.
The project has also resulted in a number of other environmental and social co-benefits, including:
* The re-use and recycling of water within the production process
* Improving local air quality
* Producing clear and fresh water in the lagoons, free from pollution
* Waste water being used for irrigation of local farms, providing better yields
* Funds donated from the project being used to support a local school with computer equipment and library facilities.
It is also important to note that the carbon emissions offset by our Guests are not used by us to reduce our liability under the carbon price.
At Virgin Australia, we are committed to minimising the carbon emissions from our operations. Some of the ways we are achieving this:
* We maintain a very young fleet of fuel efficient aircraft, the average age being 4.9 years. We have invested in a $2.5billion fleet renewal program over the next six years to ensure our fleet remains modern and fuel efficient. An example of this is the introduction of ATR turboprop aircraft to our fleet, which are up to 40% more fuel and greenhouse efficient than existing aircraft on our short to medium haul routes.
* We have a dedicated fuel efficiency team that is examining ways to further reduce emissions through improving operations, adopting new technologies and working with airports and air navigation service providers to improve air traffic management.
* We actively support the development of sustainable, aviation biofuel and are working towards sourcing 5% of our fuel requirements from these fuels from 2020. Last year, we announced our support of two highly promising Australian projects that use sustainable means and methods, such as the eucalypt mallee tree, to achieve high-quality bio-crude oil.
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So there is a significant difference between the Australian carbon price and our carbon offset program. We know there won’t be one quick solution to achieving sustainable air travel, so we are working with a range of stakeholders and we look forward to engaging with the sustainability initiatives that result from the carbon price.
For more information about our sustainability strategy and our carbon offset program, please our website here.
