10 Things you Might not Know About Australia

How well do you really know Australia? Here are 10 things you might not have known about our country.

1. We have a Pink Lake

Off the coast of Esperance, WA you will find Middle Island. This island is home to a solid bubble gum pink lake, Lake Hiller. No one really knows why this lake is pink but scientists speculate that the colour comes from a dye created by bacteria that lives in the salt crusts. 

2. It would take 27 years to visit a new Australian Beach every day

Australia is home to the over 10,000 beaches and if you were to visit a new one every day it would take you 27 years! With no part of Australia more than 1000km from the ocean there are plenty of beaches to explore in Australia. Some top picks would be, Whitehaven Beach in Queensland, Cable Beach in Western Australia and Wineglass Bay in Tasmania.

3. It used to be illegal to swim on beaches

While on the topic of beaches, in 1838 it was declared illegal to swim at public beaches in New South Wales. Beach lovers had to take the risk and swim after dark to get their salt water hit. In 1902 the law was changed but William Gocher who led the campaign was jailed for defying the ban.

4. Snowy Mountains receive more snow than the Swiss Alps

While the majority of Australia doesn’t see snow, the area which does is larger than the area of Switzerland. The Snowy Mountains located in southern New South Wales is the perfect destination for your winter break.

5. We have over 60 designated wine regions

Australia has developed a worldwide reputation for award-winning wines and has over 60 designated wine regions to explore. All wine lovers should have South Australia’s Barossa Valley and Western Australia’s Margaret River on their bucket lists.

6. Land size is only slightly smaller than the USA

Many people think Australia is a small country however when you compare its land size the only small thing about it is the population. When comparing the land sizes Australia is only 7.692 square kilometres smaller than the USA.

7. The ‘Selfie’ was an Australian invention

There is no need to define what a selfie is but in case you are unaware it is a photograph that is taken of oneself and Australia has proudly claimed it. An Australian university student was the first person known to have used the term. Selfies are now a travel essential and massive trend on social media.

8. We have the world’s most liveable city

Last year, one of our own was named the world’s most liveable city for a sixth consecutive year. Melbourne scored highly in healthcare, education, stability, culture, environment and infrastructure. Melbourne has a lot more to offer than just its coffee houses and restaurants.

9. We have the planet’s largest living structure

The Great Barrier Reef is a known tourist attraction for Australia but did you know that it is the planet’s largest living structure? It has over 900 islands stretching for over 2,900km and can be seen from outer space.

10. A country that’s never going backwards

On the Australian coat of arms you will see two animals - an emu and a kangaroo. These native animals were placed on the Australian coat of arms because neither animal can move backwards. This is a representation of progress and is symbolic of a country always moving forward.

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Kristy Reynolds is a young professional based in the Land Down Under, specialising in marketing and social media. She's up for new adventures and ways to broaden her knowledge about the world. In her spare time she likes to keep active, whether that’s hiking a new mountain or soaking up the sun at the beach. Follow her journey on Instagram @kristyreynoldss.

The views, opinions and positions expressed by the author and those providing comments are theirs alone, and are meant as travel inspiration only. They do not reflect the opinions of Cover-More Insurance. You should always read the PDS available from your travel insurance provider to understand the limits, exclusions and conditions of your policy and to ensure any activities you undertake are covered by your policy.