BRISBANE is Australia's third largest city and the state capital of Queensland and has become one of the country's most progressive centers. Since playing host to a string of major international events in the 80s, including the 1982 Commonwealth Games and Expo 88, Brisbane has developed into a lively, cosmopolitan city with several interesting districts, a good street cafe scene, a great riverside park, a busy cultural calendar..

Climate: Subtropical with 287 days of sunshine annually.
Temperatures: Summer- 19 to 29 degrees Celsius (66 to 83 degrees Fahrenheit). Winter- 9 to 21 degrees Celsius (48 to 69 degrees Fahrenheit).

The GOLD COAST is located in Queensland, just above the New South Wales border. Population: Over 400,000 people (sixth largest city in Australia)

For more information about the Gold Coast see www.hellogoldcoast.com.au. This site is a little 'touristy', however has some good information. For more historical information, see www.reflections.com.au

The SUNSHINE COAST stretches from Caloundra in the south to Rainbow Beach in the north.

Area: 3,200 square kilometers
Population: 260,000 residents

For more information about the Sunshine Coast see www.queensland-holidays.com.au and click on "Sunshine Coast".