Brisbane is the capital of Queensland
and is Australia's third largest city. Brisbane enjoys
a sub-tropical climate of hot humid summers and mild
dry winters. On the banks of the Brisbane River, the
city's suburbs sprawl out to Moreton Bay and through
the foothills of the D'Aguilar Range. Lookouts on
Mt Coot-tha offer excellent views of Brisbane and
its suburbs.
In the heart of the city is Queen
Street shopping mall, and the city is compact and
easy to explore. Brisbane is a scenic city, surrounded
by hills and lookouts, with several impressive bridges
spanning the Brisbane River.
Brisbane Botanic Gardens, at the foothills
of Mt Coot-tha, is a magnificent sub-tropical garden,
notable for its spreading bunya pines, palm trees
and exotic flowers. South Bank Parklands on the Brisbane
River is the site of a riverbank promenade, city beach,
waterways, theme attractions, cafes, restaurants and
entertainment. The Parklands are adjacent to the Queensland
Cultural Centre with galleries and museums. The Brisbane
River is a great way to see the city from either a
cruise boat or by rowboat. The River is fringed with
gardens, boat moorings, cafes and paths for walking
or cycling.
Moreton Bay is an excellent area for
water activities including sailing. The Bay is protected
from the big ocean swells and offers game fishing
for marlin in the southern part of the bay and diving
in the crystal clear waters and exploring old wrecks
near Moreton Island.
Off the coast are Moreton and Stradbroke
Islands. Moreton Island is mostly national park; a
pristine island wilderness. North Stradbroke Island
shields the southern part of Moreton Bay from the
ocean swells. Expansive stretches of sandy coast and
national park attract holiday makers.
|
