Ever dreamed of escaping reality and immersing yourself in the fictional world of your favourite film? While it may not be possible to actually attend one of Gatsby’s lavish and extravagant parties as depicted in Baz Luhrmann’s 2013 film, it is entirely possible to visit the location where this astonishing scene was filmed!
While the Land Down Under is not typically recognised as a moviegoer’s ideal destination for capturing a scene-stealing experience, Australia’s booming production industry has become host to many local and international films. With rugged outback landscapes, idyllic tropical islands, and impressive architectural attractions, it’s no surprise Australia has become the go-to filming location for blockbusters worldwide!
The Invisible Man (2020)
Gerringong, New South Wales
92% on Rotten Tomatoes
While the terrifying villain featured in hit horror film The Invisible Man (2020) may not be seen by the naked eye, the stunning, cliff-top luxury home featured in the film is a scene you must set your eyes on. The award-winning Dovecote at the Headland property – just two hours south of the Sydney CBD – is a luxury ocean-front farm stay now accessible to holidaymakers.
Jay Gatsby’s Mansion in The Great Gatsby (2013)
Manly, Sydney
A little party never killed nobody – In Baz Luhrmann’s 2013 iconic film, The Great Gatsby, Manly’s famous sandstone ‘castle on the hill’ played host to millionaire Jay Gatsby (Leonardo Di Caprio) and his lavish parties. This extravagant mega-mansion featuring ivy and a spectacular fountain symbolises Gatsby’s desire to reunite with his love, Daisy Buchanan.
Overlooking Sydney’s Northern Beaches, the International College of Management is open to the public throughout the week, where you can experience the extravagance of the Great Gatsby mansion and the Roaring Twenties for yourself.
Crocodile Dundee (1986)
Walkabout Creek Hotel, McKinlay, Queensland
The Walkabout Creek Hotel in McKinlay, Queensland was made famous in the blockbuster film Crocodile Dundee (1986) starring Aussie icon Paul Hogan. This true-blue Australian pub is the perfect stop for travellers, featuring iconic outback hospitality and plenty of movie memorabilia. Don’t forget to grab a hearty pub meal and an ice-cold schooner while you’re there!
Spooky Island in Scooby Doo (2002)
Tangalooma, Queensland
Jinkies! Looks like we’ve got another mystery on our hands.
The Scooby Doo (2002) horror-themed amusement park ‘Spooky Island’ is not so spooky in real life. In fact, Tangalooma Island Resort, located on Moreton Island just over an hour away from Brisbane, is the perfect island oasis. With crystalline waters and pristine natural beauty, it’s hard to believe this tropical island was once home to hundreds of terrifying creatures!
While the resort doesn’t resemble Spooky Island from afar, if you choose to visit the island on a day trip or stay for a holiday, you’ll be able to recognise locations featured in the film such as the Spooky Island Pier or the Spooky Hotel.
Mission: Impossible 2 (2000)
Bare Island, Sydney
Set and shot in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, John Woo’s Mission: Impossible II (2000) features many of the city’s most recognisable locations, such as the Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House.
Featured as the secretive lair of rogue agent Sean Ambrose (Dougray Scott), Bare Island Fort, located off La Perouse in Botany Bay, is a significant location featured in this iconic Tom Cruise action flick. Built as a fortification against Russian invasion, this historic site is currently open to the public with guided tours available.
Keen to explore? Book yourself a flight to Sydney!
Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior (1981)
Silverton, New South Wales
The barren red landscape of Australian outback town Silverton depicts the dystopic desert home of road warrior Max Rockatansky (Mel Gibson) in Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior (1981). Experience the ‘Hollywood of the Outback’ approximately 23 kilometres North of Broken Hill, New South Wales, where you can visit iconic locations featured in the film such as the Silverton Hotel.
For a deeper dive into the world of the crazed biker-chaser, visit Silverton’s Mad Max 2 Museum, featuring a collection of iconic costumes, props and vehicles used in the film.
Dead Calm (1989)
Whitsunday Islands, Queensland
Despite the nail-biting scenes of Nicole Kidman’s psychological thriller Dead Calm (1989), this movie showcases one of the most beautiful island destinations Australia has to offer. While appearing thousands of kilometres from civilisation, Dead Calm was actually filmed in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef – the Whitsundays.
This idyllic location features pure, sandy beaches and prisitine waters that attract travellers all year-round. With so much extraordinary marine life and dreamy surroundings to experience, it’s almost impossible to remember the scenes that occurred in this film!
Explore the location on Google Maps here.
Want an actual calm, relaxed holiday? Explore our Whitsundays deals.
Muriel’s Wedding (1994)
St Mark’s Church, Sydney
Wedding bells are ringing at this famous Sydney location! Also known as the location of pop star Elton John’s first wedding, St Mark’s Church in Darling Point, Sydney acted as the chapel where outcast Muriel Heslop tied the knot in the iconic Australian film Muriel’s Wedding (1994).
While doors are open to all for church services, many of the recognisable scenes featured in this film are available to experience from the outside of this chapel.
Find the church on Google Maps here.
There's so much of Australia to explore. Check out our local deals here.