Australian Cities

Sydney

Recently voted 7^th most liveable city in the world by the Economist Intelligence Unit, there is good reason why Sydney and the surrounding area is where the majority of Australia’s population resides. Boasting fantastic weather, beautiful beaches and a lively entertainment scene, Sydney is home to some of the country’s most iconic sights; from the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge in Circular Quay to the sparkling clear water and surfer’s paradise of Bondi Beach.

Culture

For a relatively young city, Sydney is packed with culture. The Sydney Opera House is home to opera, theatre and dance, with a range of performances – both free and paid-for – regularly taking place in the summer. The Sydney Harbour Bridge is a must-see experience as well, and there is a whole range of ways to experience it; from simply walking across it to completing the BridgeClimb for the more adventurous out there.

Beach

There are more than 30 beaches to choose from in the Sydney metropolitan area, with the two most famous being Bondi, in the eastern suburbs, and Manly in the north. For those wanting a quieter, but still just as incredible, beach experience, head to Coogee – just around the cliffs from Bondi but much less tourist-packed.

Schools

There are around 1488 schools in Sydney, from government-run to privately educated. Schools in this area have an international reputation for high quality curriculum and innovative teaching. There are also several colleges and universities in the area, providing plenty of opportunities for further education.

Sport

Host of the 2000 Olympics, Sydney is a sport’s lover’s dream. Sporting events include the spring and autumn horse racing carnivals, NRL, AFL, Rugby and A League football season. Much-loved events include Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, Medibank International tennis, Sydney Marathon and Test Cricket matches during summer. There are also plenty of opportunities to get involved with sport, from joining a local club, to learning how to surf at one of the many beaches.

Shopping

For those who love shopping, Sydney has something to suit all tastes. From the kitsch delights of Chinatown and Paddy’s Markets, to the high-street areas of Pitt Street mall and the Queen Victoria Building, or for those with a bigger budget, the designer paradise of The Rocks, you won’t be short of a retail experience or two.

Brisbane

The capital of Queensland has all the attractions of a big city, plus the laidback style that the state is famous for. Although it’s the third biggest city in Australia, it’s a million miles away from Sydney and Melbourne’s lively, non-stop lifestyle. Built along the Brisbane River, it’s a clean, attractive city, and a great place for families to live.

Culture

Although Brisbane is a small city, it certainly isn’t short of culture. The Queensland Cultural Centre is the obvious first port of call to learn about the history of the city. Brisbane is also home to several festivals, including the Brisbane International Film Festival and the Brisbane Chinese Cultural Festival. Or why not visit the Planetarium, to learn about the universe in a fun and entertaining way.

Beach

Although there are no beaches in the centre of Brisbane, the city is only a short drive away from some stunning stretches of sand. To the north of Brisbane are some of Australia's finest beaches, lining the famous Sunshine Coast, which stretches for over 44 miles. To the south is the equally impressive Gold Coast, measuring in at some 22 miles and located between the border of New South Wales and the aptly named Surfers' Paradise.

Schools

There are around 544 schools in the Brisbane area from government-run to privately educated establishments. There are also several colleges and universities in the area, providing plenty of opportunities for further education.

Sport

With some of the world’s best beaches only a short drive away, it’s no surprise that water sports are a big attraction in Brisbane. From surfing and windsurfing to snorkelling and diving, there is something to suit everyone.  Across the city itself there are 20 public swimming pools, many kilometres of dedicated bikeways, ovals and other sports venues. 

Shopping

The city is home to the usual selection of high street shops to satisfy even the biggest shopaholic. A big highlight however, happens on the weekends, when the Fortitude Valley markets take place in Brunswick Street Mall. Hosting talented young clothing and jewellery designers, as well as vintage items, it is a completely unique shopping experience.

Melbourne

Melbourne is the most European of all Australia’s cities, and is often named as the best place to shop and drink Down Under. The capital is bursting with culture, with art, music, theatre and comedy acts around almost every corner. As well as the buzzing café culture however, the Great Ocean Road, which winds its way along the coast, Grampians (where you can bushwalk to your heart’s content), and the Gold Country mean there is something for the outdoor lover as well.

Culture

Melbourne is home to a selection of world-class entertainment, with some of the best pubs, bars and clubs in Australia, as well as all the comedy you could want, and a varied and eclectic theatre scene. Federation Square, located next to the centre of Melbourne, Flinders St Station, is the heart of the city, home to free events on a weekly basis, as well as the amazing Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI).

Beach

St Kilda is the beach suburb of the city, and is reminiscent of a British seaside resort. Luna Park and the Palais Theatre hint at the past, but the area is brought firmly into the present by a selection of hip pubs and music venues. Albert Park, Middle Park and Williamstown are also close to the city centre, and offer a more relaxed atmosphere to the bustling city centre.

Schools

There are around 1375 schools in Melbourne, with the majority being government-run. There are also several universities in the region, meaning there are plenty of opportunities for further education, including the University of Melbourne: one of the oldest and most prestigious in Australia.

Sport

Melbourne is the sporting capital of Australia, hosting many of the country’s major events. Hosting the Australian Grand Prix, Aussie Rules Football events and the Australian Open, as well as being home to the Melbourne Cricket Ground (which hosts AFL games); there is no shortage of events for the avid sports fan.

Shopping

Melbourne is every shopaholic’s paradise. From the surfer shops in St Kilda to the designer boutiques and vintage shops of the city centre, there is literally something to suit all tastes and budgets. And for those who love a bargain, check out the factory outlets in Richmond, for designer looks on a budget price.

Adelaide

For the capital of South Australia, Adelaide feels fairly small in comparison to other major cities in the country. However, this means the city is uncrowded and very attractive, priding itself on its culture, fine food and relaxed lifestyle. Australia’s driest state is also famous for its wine region, producing the majority of the country’s supply. If you do any wine-tasting tours while you’re here, Adelaide is the place to be.

Culture

Adelaide is famous for its extensive range of festivals: there is guaranteed to be one to suit all tastes. From The Adelaide Festival of Arts, to the Fringe Festival to WOMADelaide (World of music, arts and dance), you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to soaking up the culture.

Beach

Adelaide is home to a number of stunning beaches. The beach at Glenelg is probably the most popular, boasting a lively café scene and nightlife. Adelaide is also within easy reach of Kangaroo Island; a wild and windswept world of giant sand dunes, turquoise bays and amazing diving opportunities.

Schools

There are around 440 schools in Adelaide, with government-run ones making up the majority. There are also several universities in the region, meaning there are plenty of opportunities for further education.

Sport

If you love sport, you’ll love Adelaide. The beautiful year-round weather ensures that there’s always something going on, from basketball, cricket and rugby, to the surprisingly popular ice hockey. Kangaroo Island offers sport for those who like something more extreme: sandboarding, kayaking and diving are all there to satisfy the biggest adrenaline junkies out there.

Shopping

For all your shopping needs, Adelaide has it covered. Adelaide Central Market is the place to go for a colourful and eclectic fresh food shopping experience, and Glenelg, Rundle Street and Hindley Street are for those who like to keep up with the latest trends.

Darwin

Stunning surroundings, the freshest seafood, art galleries, museums and much more; Darwin boasts a relaxed lifestyle and magnificent sunsets and is void of the 'hustle and bustle' of many southern capitals. The population of Darwin is quite young with an average age of 33. Modern amenities and shopping centres are available, as well as a domestic and international airport. The warm sunny climate of Darwin allows many outdoor activities to be conducted all year round.Darwin, like the rest of the Top End, has a Wet and Dry season rather than a winter and summer. The sun is almost always shining down on Darwin, however because of its location by the sea; temperatures rarely go above 34C.

Culture
The landscape around Darwin is truly one of a kind and should definitely not be missed. Put on your walking shoes on and trek through scenic bushwalks, wander amongst the parks and gardens, hop on board a helicopter for a bird's eye view or hire a car and drive wherever the road takes you.
The rich heritage is combined with a youthful approach, with the Northern Territory boasting the youngest population in Australia. Their down to earth, friendly attitude is hard not to fall in love with.

Beach
Darwin beaches are not the same as you will find around most of southern and western Australia, as surfing is not as popular. However, there are areas available to take your dog for a run, or even ride your horse along the beaches.
Generally the dry season months (May to August) are safe from jellyfish, and all Darwin beaches and creeks are all protected by rangers and crocodile traps.

Sport
Darwin has a young, active population and sports and recreational activities are very popular. From cricket to fishing, volleyball to tennis; there is a sport to suit everyone. Several public swimming pools are scattered around Darwin, which are always good on a hot day. Another favourite swimming spot is Berry Springs; a small waterfall and a series of natural pools in a bush setting.

Schools
There are 192 schools in the Northern Territory, with about 58 schools in Darwin. The majority of Darwin schools and Northern Territory schools are government schools. Government schools in Darwin and the Northern Territory are non-denominational and among non-government schools there are Catholic schools and Independent schools representing a range of religious faiths or no denomination.

Shopping
Darwin and the surrounding areas of Australia's Northern Territory have some great shopping facilities where you will be able to get everything that you could ever want or need. The air-conditioned Mitchell Centre on Mitchell Street is a good place to start, with more than 30 shops, plenty of eateries and free parking. There are also several markets in Darwin attracting thousands of visitors and featuring an exciting atmosphere. These markets are full of local handicrafts, Aussie gifts and handmade items, most of which are fairly inexpensive.

Alice Springs

Alice Springs, or ‘Alice’ as it is known by the locals, is geographically located right at the heart of Australia. This feature alone makes Alice a perfect location for a whole host of adventures for both tourists and locals. Alice may not be your typical modern city but it is a great place where you can free yourself from common urban buzz.
The town of Alice Springs straddles the usually dry Todd River on the northern side of the MacDonnell Ranges. The region where Alice Springs is located is known as Central Australia, or the Red Centre, and is an arid environment consisting of several different deserts. In Alice Springs, temperatures can vary dramatically with an average maximum temperature in summer of 35.6 °C, and an average minimum temperature in winter of 5.1 °C.

Hiking and Swimming

The region around Alice Springs is part of the Central Ranges area of dry scrubby grassland and includes the MacDonnell Ranges which run east and west of the city and contain a number of hiking trails and swimming holes such as Ormiston Gorge, Ormiston Gorge Creek, Red Bank Gorge and Glen Helen Gorge. The 139 mile long Larapinta Trail follows the West MacDonnell Ranges and is considered among the world's great walking experiences.

The Simpson Desert, south-east of Alice Springs is one of Australia's great wilderness areas containing giant red sand dunes and interesting rock formations such as Chambers Pillar and Rainbow Valley.

Sport

Sport forms a huge part of the Alice Springs’ outdoor lifestyle. Participate or support a wide range of activities including sailing, rugby, Australian Rules football, soccer, field hockey, martial arts, cricket, netball, basketball, baseball, and enthusiastic runners clubs.

Culture

The modern town of Alice Springs has both European and Aboriginal influences. The town's focal point, the Todd Mall, hosts a number of Aboriginal art galleries and community events. Alice Springs’ desert lifestyle has inspired several unique events, such as the Camel Cup, the Henley-on-Todd Regatta and the Beanie Festival.

The rich heritage is combined with a youthful approach, with the Northern Territory boasting the youngest population in Australia. Their down to earth, friendly attitude is hard not to fall in love with.

Schools

Alice Springs is served by 19 public and private schools that cater to local and overseas students. Over 3,843 primary and secondary students are enrolled in schools in Alice Springs. There are over 1,932 students enrolled in government schools and 1,055 students enrolled in independent schools. There is also an Alice Springs School of the Air which delivers education to students in remote areas.

Shopping

Alice Springs has some good shopping facilities where you will be able to buy almost everything you need. Particularly central and therefore extremely convenient is the recently opened Yeperenye Shopping Centre, which resides on Hartley Street and is home to around 40 speciality stores, including travel agents, florists, a supermarket and a camera shop.

One of Australia's most highly regarded centres for Aboriginal arts; Alice Springs has a large concentration of shops along the central Todd Mall, with local shops selling a range of authentic Aussie souvenirs, such as didgeridoos, boomerangs and Aboriginal paintings.

Katherine

Often called the 'Crossroads of the North' because of its location, Katherine is the fourth largest town in the Northern Territory and is located 312 km south-east of Darwin. With a population of over 9,804 people Katherine is a modern thriving regional centre that offers a wide range of services to communities from the Western Australian border to the Gulf of Carpentaria on the Queensland border. There is a modern air conditioned shopping centre, hospital, sports grounds, parks and gardens as well as a large number of Commonwealth and Territory Government services.
Katherine is ideally positioned as a base from which to explore all the Top End has to offer. Located only a couple of hours from Kakadu, Litchfield and Gregory National Parks, the town of Katherine is the central hub of the region.

Parks and gardens
Katherine town and its surroundings provide plenty of park and garden areas. Attractions include Nitmiluk National Park and Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park, Kintore Caves Nature Park with its populations of endangered cycads, Low Level Nature Park and Springvale Homestead.

Along Riverbank Drive on the Katherine River, Katherine Hot Springs provide swimming, shaded picnic tables and barbecue facilities set amongst monsoon forest and tall paperpark trees where you can sit back and relax or enjoy the abundant birds and wildlife.

Sport and activities
The magnificent Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge National Park only 30kms from the town has a range of sports and activities from boat tours, canoe hire, hiking and helicopter flights.

Other attractions in Katherine include the ancient Cutta Cutta Caves, Katherine Hot Springs, Jurassic Cycad Gardens, Historical Springvale Homestead and the Katherine River. The Katherine River winds through the centre of town perfect for barramundi fishing, swimming, and canoeing.

Culture
The Katherine region is adventure territory, boasting the magnificent Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) National Park. Around Katherine you will discover such treasures as Borroloola and the Gulf Region across the Roper River - Elsey National Park, Mataranka Thermal Pools, the majestic scenery of the Victoria River Region, Pine Creek and the Douglas and Daly River areas.
This rich heritage is combined with a youthful approach, with the Northern Territory boasting the youngest population in Australia. Their down to earth, friendly attitude is hard not to fall in love with.

Schools
There are 192 schools in the Northern Territory. The majority of schools are government run. Katherine region students have access to good quality pre-school, primary, secondary and tertiary education through a total of 20 remote and 6 local schools and higher education facilities.

Shopping
Katherine has a range of restaurants, specialty shops and a supermarket complex, so there is something to suit all needs. From fruit and vegetables to a piece of Aboriginal art; there is a shop for everything you could ever want. There are also several markets in Katherine that are full of local handicrafts, Aussie gifts and handmade items.

Helen Lock