Exploring Australia
by Delia Toh
Australia is divided into numerous territories, each of which has its own selection of great attractions for you to explore. Let us take you around the Northern Territory.
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park: The National Park, located in the Northern Territory, houses the famous Ayers Rock, the largest rock formation in the world. This grand and natural structure stands at 348m above sea level and is an ideal stop for photos. The park itself is also home to about 80 species of wildlife, including bats, centralian bloodwood, various kinds of rabbits and more. The park is listed as a World Heritage site and is a very popular destination among foreigners. You can even sign up for a guided tour around the Park!
Journey eastward to New South Wales, where the sights and sounds of Sydney await.
Sydney Harbour: Also known as Port Jackson, Sydney's harbour is one of the most significant landmarks in New South Wales. Stretching 20km along the majestic Parramatta River, Sydney Harbour is brimming with leisure activities and a buffet spread of beaches, resorts, coves and parks for busy Australians and keen tourists to enjoy some respite. Don't miss the iconic Sydney Harbour National Park either, where you can explore the natural greenery and historical monuments of Australia.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge: What makes the Opera House distinctive is its exterior design, consisting of many sail-like structures. It is designed by Danish architect Jorn Utzon and houses four main auditoriums for concerts, theatre performances and more. It is hence said to be the most well-known artistic hub in Australia. Beside it is the unique Harbour Bridge, which links the central business district of New South Wales to Northern Sydney. The structure is so striking that it can be seen from the corners of your eye in many parts around the city.
Hunter Valley: The Hunter Valley is not a dangerous place like it sounds. It is actually the oldest wine-brewing region in Australia, where grape vines were first planted in the 1820s. It is most famous for the Semillon and Shiraz wines. While you're here, visit the Hunter Valley wineries and vineyards, the most renowned being the Audrey Wilkinsons Vineyard. Chocolate fanatics should also drop by the Hunter Valley Chocolate factory for a sneak peek into the chocolate-making process. If you're hungry and tired, you could also take a break at the Hunter Valley Gardens cafe.
Visit Victoria for a rich taste of Australian culture.
St Patrick's Cathedral: The St. Patrick's Cathedral in Melbourne is famous for its Gothic-revival style architecture. Gothic architecture is characterised by pointed arches, a tall tower (this style places a great emphasis on height) and the use of expansive windows to light up the interior of the building. The majestic St Patrick's cathedral was built in 1891 under the leadership of Archbishop Thomas Carr. It is a great spot for tourists to take photos.
Queensland is where you will find the traces of the settlements of the Aboriginal people. You will also be able to find a variety of fascinating landmarks to explore.
Daisy Hill Koala Centre: Situated in Brisbane, the Daisy Hill Koala Centre is home to the cute but threatened Koala bear species. The centre is dedicated to conserving and protecting the country's iconic koala bear by providing an ideal environment for them to thrive in. Over here, you will see many cared-for and well-fed bears, as well as exhibitions that aim to help visitors understand why and how the natural habitat of the koalas are being threatened, and more importantly, how we can protect these.