|
|
|
  |
| Australian Capital Territory (ACT) including Canberra |
|
 |
The Australian Capital Territory, created at Federation in 1901 (when the Australian
colonies became states), is
surrounded by New South Wales and is (roughly) half way between
Melbourne and Sydney - the location was chosen largely to appease
Melbourne and Sydney who both hated the idea of the other becoming the
Australian capital. The ACT covers a 2400 sq. km area with Canberra, which
became the national capital in 1927, at its heart. The layout of Canberra was designed by Walter Burley Griffin and has a beautiful man made lake (pictured) and some great attractions including the poignant Australian War Memorial, one of the best of its type anywhere (also pictured). 
Other highlights are the old and new Parliament Buildings (Old
Parliament House is pictured above), the superb
National Museum of Australia, the stunning National Gallery of
Australia, the Australian Institute of Sport and the Australian National
Botanic Gardens on the lower slopes of Black Mountain (pictured below). If you are self
driving, a meander past the impressive and varied array of embassies is
worthwhile. South of the city, the ACT boasts the excellent Namadgi National
Park www.australianalps.deh.gov.au/parks/namadgi
on the edge of the Australian Alps. Although not teeming with
accommodation, Canberra has a good range of hotels and motels whilst
nearby are some good bed and breakfasts and farms with accommodation. |
|
|
| Return to - Top
NSW+ACT Summary Page
NSW Regions Intro
AUS
GUIDE BOOK Contents Page or hit 'Back' Button
|
| HOME |
|
|
| Truly Australia have attempted to give an honest and objective description of the topics covered on this page and have deliberately avoided regurgitating tourist office media releases. The information shown has been compiled from a variety of reputable sources and our own experiences. We check and review this information from time to time, but we assume no responsibility for the absolute accuracy of the details given. |
