QUEENSLAND

Queensland, the "Sunshine State", covers 1 727 200 sq. km, almost one-quarter of the continent. It is the country's third most populous state, with a population of about 3 200 000. The capital city is Brisbane. Queensland has the largest Aboriginal population in Australia, most living in rural areas, in communities and on cattle stations. The Torres Strait Islands off the tip of Cape York have a Melanesian population with a distinct culture and there are also Pacific Islanders who came here years ago to work.

The Great Dividing Range divides the fertile eastern third of the state from the arid western portion. A vast plain with occasional subdued ranges characterises the western two-thirds. Generally, summer temperatures are high, averaging 31 degrees C in January; winters are mild, with a July average of 11 degrees C.

Along the Pacific coast stretches the Great Barrier Reef, the largest in the world. There are fantastic beaches and islands with world class resorts. The coastal plain rises to the tablelands, with waterfalls and forests. And inland, after crossing the Great Dividing Range, is the vast Outback, a world away.