Ah the boat ramp. I have far too many teenage memories of under age drinking here (look, there…read morewasn't a lot to do in the Western Suburbs in the 90's OK) but I now view it with much more socially appropriate eyes. This is a beautiful little access point to the river, and it's quite amazing to slip a kayak into the water and paddle along, safely out of the hustle and bustle (and noise pollution) of the busy roads around. With the flood rebuilding pretty much complete this is back to being a family friendly river access point (and I'm sure disaffected youth are also sinking the occasional goon bag after dusk too).

There is nothing more peaceful than the sound of the soft dip of a eight oars slicing through a…read morestill river, with the stars fading and the sky lightening. You feel that your crew are the only people on the river, until you notice the flashing beacons of other boats in the distance. As the mist settles, and the sun breaks through the horizon, the river comes to life with rowers, canoes, jet boats and City Cats. The UQ Boat Club caters to all levels of rowers, from beginners right through to the advanced; some of whom are in training for the London Olympics. And it welcomes members from outside of the university as well. The Learn to Row programme encourages university students and adults who aspire to become budding rowers (I did a course with people aged from 18 through to 55). The coaches are surprisingly patient and very friendly - I can guarantee they'll become your friends almost instantly. Though they do push you hard if they know you have it in you. They are always on the scout for newbies who show signs of potential, so if you think you could become the next Oarsome Foursome, then get into it! Training sessions generally commence before the crack of dawn (5am) and last roughly 2 hours. It's up to you how much effort you put in, and if you want to just row for fun, there are numerous social squads that head out for a paddle later on in the mornings.

A great store for just about anything you could imagine needing for an island holiday. Angel was…read morereally helpful. Good opening hours to get what you need whether for a trip to the beach or rainy day indoors. Definitely worth stopping in when you arrive on the island.

You can't miss this bright little store as you head out of Dunwich on the main road, and just as…read morewell, if you need bait, fishing supplies or camping equipment. We've bought sandcastle making gear here and a chair once, but if you've forgotten anything for your outdoorish Straddie visit, it's probably here. There's bait, ice, tackle, camping gear, and boat repair materials. You can also hire bikes, sea kayaks, body boards, beach umbrellas and even tents. The owners are friendly and ready to help and the local knowledge is invaluable.

I went on a boat party this week organised by the amazing crew at Buxton Records…read more(http://www.buxtonrecords.com/ [THESE GUYS ARE THE TITS]) who instilled the help of Brisvegas Cruises' John Cavil Boat for a sunset music party on the Brisbane River. It was amazing. The staff were as helpful as they were ridiculously good looking - the boat itself was clean, quick off the mark and it ran like a dream. It carries up to 130 people and is spacious, but cosy at the same time! I thought it was predominantly a cash bar, so my mind was blown to find out I was able to get cash out using my EFTPOS card! They had ample seating both upstairs and downstairs - all in all I would recommend this medium for any event ever. In a city as beautiful as Brisbane one should always take advantage of the magical river which gives you the most stunning views of the city you could imagine.

From the owner: You can choose to have the ceremony on board or at a location along the river with guests boarding…read morefor your reception.