Queensland is in the north of Australia, and is largely tropical. The weather in Queensland has earned it the nickname the ‘Sunshine State’ due to the year round sunshine. It can in fact get almost unbearably hot, with the highest temperature ever recorded being a scorching 53.1 degrees Celcius. As Queensland is so massive however, the range of climates is actually quite large.
Europeans first came to Queensland in the 18th century. The area that is now occupied by the regional capital Brisbane was originally the Moreton Bay Penal Colony. This was where the most hard-core re-offenders were sent from New South Wales. New South Wales was the primary destination for British convicts being transported to Australia as punishment for their crimes.
Tourism is very important to Queensland, and in fact it is the one of the largest industries in the regions. The Gold Coast is popular with visitors both from within Australia and also international visitors. As a family destination the Gold Coast excels, being home to no less than five major amusement parks. The city of Gold Coast is a great place to visit.
The natural world forms a large part of the appeal of Queensland. The Great Barrier Reef is one of the wonders of the natural world. This is the world’s most fabled aquatic environments, snorkellers and scuba divers around the globe dream of one day being able to take a glimpse into this underwater realm.
the Great Barrier Reef
Brisbane is the largest city in Queensland, and proves very popular with visitors. Highlights include the City Botanic Gardens and the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Fishing is practically a religion in Brisbane, and it is possible to hire both boats and equipment if you fancy turning your hand to it. What better way to end a day than barbecuing freshly caught fish as the sun goes down, ‘tinny’ in hand.
Useful links:\r\nAustralian visas and immigration
Flights to Brisbane
Queensland tourist information
