In the heart of the city is Queen Street shopping mall, and the city is compact and easy to explore. Brisbane is a scenic city, surrounded by hills and lookouts, with several impressive bridges spanning the Brisbane River.

Brisbane Botanic Gardens, at the foothills of Mt Coot-tha, is a magnificent sub-tropical garden, notable for its spreading bunya pines, palm trees and exotic flowers. South Bank Parklands on the Brisbane River is the site of a riverbank promenade, city beach, waterways, theme attractions, cafes, restaurants and entertainment. The Parklands are adjacent to the Queensland Cultural Centre with galleries and museums. The Brisbane River is a great way to see the city from either a cruise boat or by rowboat. The River is fringed with gardens, boat moorings, cafes and paths for walking or cycling.

Moreton Bay is an excellent area for water activities including sailing. The Bay is protected from the big ocean swells and offers game fishing for marlin in the southern part of the bay and diving in the crystal clear waters and exploring old wrecks near Moreton Island.

Off the coast are Moreton and Stradbroke Islands. Moreton Island is mostly national park; a pristine island wilderness. North Stradbroke Island shields the southern part of Moreton Bay from the ocean swells. Expansive stretches of sandy coast and national park attract holiday makers.

Fact Summary

Brisbane International Airport Transfers:To city centre by airport bus approximately $6.50, or taxi $17.

Climate: Summer 20-27 deg CC. Winter 20-21 deg CC.

Brisbane - Gold Coast by coach $20 (Coachtrans). 90 minute trip.

Coolangatta Airport is the gateway to the Gold Coast (Surfers Paradise).

Brisbane operates on Eastern Standard Time throughout the year and does not join the Southern states in Daylight saving and is 10 hours forward from Greenwich Standard Time.

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