Queensland, situated in the northeast corner of Australia, is
the country's holiday playground attracting visitors all year
round. It is known as the 'Sunshine State', and the major
attraction is the incredible underwater world provided off its
coastline along the Great Barrier Reef. The Reef is a World
Heritage listed marine park that stretches for more than 1,250
miles (2,000km) along the Queensland coast; it is dotted with
idyllic island resorts and contains one of the most diverse animal
and plant ecosystems on earth.
Further south, beyond Brisbane, the coastline is known as the
Gold Coast. Here visitors can swim and surf all year round at 35
patrolled beaches along the 45 miles (70km) of coastline. Brisbane
is the capital city of Queensland, while Cairns, in the tropical
north, is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
Travellers should be aware that especially during the summer
months (usually between October and May) the shallow coastal waters
of Queensland become infested with marine stingers, commonly known
as box jellyfish, whose sting is highly dangerous and can be
deadly. Many beaches offer protected swimming with stinger nets in
place, or enclosed tidal pools, and surf lifesavers may warn people
off infested beaches. A lycra 'stinger suit' may also be worn by
swimmers as protection.
