Yup. Been to OZ twice with my wife. Spent a week in Sydney and another week with business associates North. The next time, took a ride North of Sydney to (Idon't remember) and went to the Great Barrier Reef. Did some snorkeling watch very colorful fish. Did some deep sea fishing and came home
Those Marriott Hotel points paid for 80% of the trip!
I also went to the Great Barrier Reef and did some snorkeling at Carnes (spelling). It was great.
Went I went, the exchange rate meant $200 hotel rooms for $100. Like you, I stayed in great hotels. Also true for New Zealand.