All I want for Christmas

With very few shopping days left until Christmas, you don't have to fight for a car park space or pace around the shopping centre looking for that perfect gift. Mater has come up with some great ideas for Christmas presents, ranging from the humble book through to luxury gifts, hi-tech gadgets, as well as some unusual gift ideas, suiting all tastes and budgets.

Gift ideas

Art

A piece of art is an investment, a gift that keeps on giving and perfect for that person who appreciates the finer things in life. The Schubert Art Galley at the Marina Mirage on the Gold Coast specialises in traditional, modern and contemporary Australian fine art. Similarly the Philip Bacon Gallery in Fortitude Valley also showcase many Australian artists.

Schubert Galley

Ph: (07) 5571 0077 or visit www.art-galleries-schubert.com.au

Philip Bacon Gallery

Ph: (07) 3358 3555 or visit www.philipbacon.com.au

Motorised Golf Caddie

Sick of pulling a golf caddie across the green? MGI has developed a motorised caddie to help with this problem. The caddy is available in four hi-tech options and comes with a full remote control, as well as an electronic compass to provide navigation around any golf course. For more information, visit www.mgikaddy.com

Swimming with the dolphins at Seaworld

The Dolphin Family Adventure Program is designed to offer families a once in a lifetime experience to meet and interact with a Sea World dolphin. Family packages start from $500. Alternately, individual packages are also available. Adults (14 yrs and over) start from $150 and children start from $80.00 or visit www.seaworld.com.au

Edible Blooms

Not sure what to get your practice manager this Christmas? For something a bit quirky, order an arrangement of fresh fruit or vegies to say Merry Christmas from Edible Blooms. Edible Blooms creates artistic arrangements using only Australian grown fruit or vegetables and is a fresh alternative to a bunch of flowers. Prices start from $50. For more information visit www.edibleblooms.com

Books

1000 places to see before you die by Patricia Schultz

This book is for the traveller or armchair traveller, as it lists in detail 1000 must see spots—from beaches to museums to cathedrals, to busy markets, five star hotels, rugged safaris and the most pampering spas. 1000 places to see before you die includes addresses, phone and fax numbers, websites, costs and the best time to visit with subject-specific indexes. It is a must have to help plan for that next trip away. RRP is $35