The Great Barrier Reef is one of the greatest natural wonders of the world stretching from the northern tip of the continent to just north of Fraser Island. The great barrier reef stretches over 1600 miles along the east coast.
The Great Barrier Reef is a sanctuary for well over 1100 fish species, whales, dugongs. Many different types of birdlife live there.
The coral which builds the reef itself is also a living thing. When it dies it turns light grey, and creates the structure for new coral growth. The different types of coral grow at varying speeds, while some are very quick growing, some varieties take well over a 100 years to mature. The colours are not because of the coral but by the growth of algae living on it.
The great barrier reef needs a tropical climate relying on warm nutrient rich waters to thrive. Nutrient rich water and just the right amount of light is needed to maintain the health of the coral.
With hundreds of thousands of square miles of reef it is a diving and snorkelling paradise. Lots of quality day cruises are available from the mainland up and down the coastline. Even if you don’t swim you can see the wonders of the reefs wonders through glass bottom boat tours.
The reef is heritage listed and large sections are protected from fishing and the taking of coral from the reef isn’t allowed to protect it for future generations.
The tropical and friendly capital of the far north, Cairns is full of things to do. Positioned in the middle of some of the most photographically beautiful and environmentally important areas on the planet, Cairns is the obvious doorway to the natural riches of rainforest, tablelands, outback, and The Great Barrier Reef. The city itself has lots of – unbeleivable bargains, theatres, cinemas, museums, botanical gardens, a casino, and fine contemporary cuisine. Cairns is strongly placed as one of Australia’s must-see travelers destinations, being the departure point for a whole host of outdoor experiences. Cairns reef tours are undoubtedly the thing to do for most tourists, although the area is quickly becoming well-known as the adventure sport capital of Australia.