Queensland

Queensland

Nicknamed the Smart State or the Sunshine State, Queensland is located within the northeastern region of Australia. Queensland came into its’ own on June 6, 1859 when a proclamation was signed by Queen Victoria, declaring this new state as a now separate state from New South Wales. Thus, the name ‘Queensland’ was chosen in honour of Queen Victoria.

Second in size only to Western Australia, Queensland spans a total area of 1,727,000 square kilometres. Given the size of this majestic state, Queensland is as diverse as it is beautiful. With bluest blue waters, lush green forests, glorious sunny days, vast open land, fascinating history, remote communities and the bright lights of bustling cities, Queensland is a state that is to be enjoyed by all who visit.

In the southeastern region of Queensland lies the capital city, Brisbane. Brisbane is a lively city with something to excite everyone. With a visit to Brisbane’s South Bank, visitors can enjoy soft, sandy beaches, a trip to the cinema, great food and, perhaps, even see one of the many festivals that hundreds come to enjoy, year round.  For a first-class view of this beautiful city, consider a drive to the lookout at the top of Mt Coot-tha. The view that awaits visitors is sure to take their breath away.  An hours drive south of Brisbane, is Surfer’s Paradise. As the name states, this is a little area of paradise. Known as Australia’s Playground, people from all around come here to relax, shop, enjoy its’ famous beaches and, yes, surf its’ perfect waves.

In Queensland’s western region, lies Queensland’s vast Outback. Queensland’s arid Outback offers as much adventure as its’ cities and shore towns. Here you can see daring cowboys at the rodeo in Mount Isa, learn to sheer a sheep at a rural farm stay, enjoy camping in the wild, under clear skies, or go four wheel driving along the rugged roadways. The outback is also a place of spellbinding history. A visit to Riversleigh Fossil Fields will give you the opportunity to see ancient fossils; some as old as 25 million years; while near Winton, you can see evidence of a prehistoric dinosaur stampede.

Northern Queensland is a tropical paradise. The peaceful city of Cairns welcomes visitors to explore its’ sunny city and its’ lush surrounds.  A trip to the Great Barrier Reef is perfect for diving and snorkeling. The pristine waters and the tropical fish make for an experience of a lifetime. Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park allows visitors the wonderful opportunity of getting hands-on insight into the lifestyle and culture of the Tjapukai Aboriginal people. Listen to stories, watch a live dance performance and even learn about medicinal remedies used by the Tjapukai Aboriginal people; this is an outing that the whole family can enjoy together.

Whether you’re interested in the city life, a trip to the outback, are looking to surf or would like to learn something new, Queensland is a state with something to please every visitor