Hong Kong boy band Mirror will appear in a Christmas special, Mirror Time, on Hong Kong TV channel ViuTV, to mark their fifth anniversary.
The travel show, debuting at 10.30pm on December 25, follows the dozen members who went on an adventure in Tasmania, an Australian island known for its unique landscape and wildlife.
The collaboration between the band and Tourism Tasmania involved meticulous planning, says Cathryn Carey, head of partnerships and international relations at Tourism Tasmania.
“We tailored an itinerary specifically designed for their large group, consisting of 12 band members and 30 crew,” she says.
“We understood their desire to experience the great outdoors, glamping, self-driving and being in environments so different to Hong Kong.”
1. Hobart
The journey began in Hobart, Tasmania’s capital. Mirror visited the Museum of Old and New Art (Mona), an underground contemporary museum where interaction with art is encouraged.
2. Richmond
Richmond was a vital police district during the early settlement of Australia, and is home to Richmond Gaol, the oldest intact jail in Australia which once housed Isaac “Ikey” Solomon – believed to have provided the inspiration for Fagin’s character in Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist.
It’s now a charming historical village containing Sweets and Treats, a confectionery shop where the boy band had fun indulging in sweets.
3. Mount Wellington
At 1,271 metres (4,200ft), Mount Wellington is an iconic peak in Tasmania and an integral part of daily life for Hobartians.
Mirror were filmed here walking and mountain biking. In the winter, there are also snow activities, all just a half-hour drive from the centre of Hobart.
4. Spring Bay Mill
The band went glamping at Spring Bay Mill, a sustainable events venue on Tasmania’s east coast.
Once home to the world’s largest wood chip mill, this 43-hectare (110-acre) site now offers off-grid accommodation with outdoor hot tubs.
5. Mures Upper Deck
Founded by George and Jill Mure over 40 years ago, this family-owned restaurant in Hobart showcases some of Tasmania’s finest seafood and produce.
Mures Upper Deck is committed to sustainable practices and offers a fresh approach to à la carte dining. There is an extensive wine list featuring varietals from Tasmania, Australia and beyond.
6. Par Avion Wilderness Tours
Mirror went on a Par Avion wilderness tour and got a bird’s-eye view of Tasmania from the sky. Par Avion offers scenic flights that showcase the island’s beautiful and diverse nature.
7. Bangor Vineyard Shed
Mirror tasted Tasmanian wine and produce at Bangor Vineyard Shed, in Dunalley.
The Dunbabin family that owns the venue has created a space where guests can enjoy wine tastings and relaxed lunches, and there’s even accommodation for those who want to wake up in a vineyard.
8. Tasman Island Cruises
Mirror went on a three-hour whale-watching cruise by Tasman Island Cruises. Departing from Port Arthur, in southern Tasmania, the cruise navigates the coastline between Port Arthur and Eaglehawk Neck.
Seeing whales may be down to chance and seasonality, but regardless, patrons can see the Southern Hemisphere’s highest vertical sea cliffs at Cape Pillar and explore waterfalls, rock formations, archways and sea caves.
