'XXXX' - that's the sound your free samples will make when you crack them open after the interesting 75-minute tour. The rather dapper animated character Mr XXXX will educate you in the goings-on of this 125-year-old brewery and divulge some of the secrets of its iconic ale. For the acme of Australian beer wear, stock up at the XXXX Beer Gear shop.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the largest koala sanctuary in the world. Set in attractive parklands beside the river, over 130 of the fuzzy marsupials live here, alongside kangaroos, dingoes and wombats. The koalas are undeniably cute and for a fee visitors can cuddle one and capture it on film or hand feed the tame kangaroos.

For a taste of the local art scene in its freshest form, try QUT's challenging museum. It features contemporary art from around the world, but focuses mainly on homegrown works, including pieces by QUT students. It specialises in paintings, prints and ceramics. Exhibits change constantly and guided tours are available, but must be booked.