Queensland is affectionately named Australia's 'Sunshine State' and this title is well justified. This is well and truly a tropical region since the Tropic of Capricorn passes through , just north of Bundaberg. The capital Brisbane is one of the fastest growing cities in Australia and when you experience its enviable climate it is not difficult to undersatnd why. To the south of Brisbane, traversing the border with NSW is the Gold Coast which has gained the status as Australia's playground. The Sunshine Coast a few hours to the north is more discrete and home to the magnificent and stylish Noosa. Why fly off to Fiji or Bali when there are thje Whitsundays? This grouping of tropical islands have been developed to suit all budgets. The world famous Barrier Reef lies offshore and stretches for a significant proportion of the Queensland coastline. The stylish and chic resort of Port Douglas lies to the North, an hour or so north of the busteling Cairns. This state seems to have it all The best times to visit Queensland, particularly the northern regions are the Australian winter as the summer can be the wet season.