Traveling Noosa, Australia: White Sands & Lush Hinterlands
When you think of Australian beaches, you think of a destination that visually epitomizes pearl white sands and azure blue sea-sides, as well of the stereotypes that reside within it – surfers, bikini-clad women and golden brown tans. But do these places really exist?
Welcome to Noosa, Queensland. This place is located about 130 kilometres north of Brisbane, Australia in the Sunshine Coast region of Queensland. When it comes to the Australia beach culture, this place encapsulates everything you once imagined.
A history of Noosa
The shire of Noosa was founded in 1910, after long being used as a settlement driven by timber logging it began to grow into a township after a port was established at Tewantin, just north of Noosa. The town of Noosa was originally a fishing village, with an initial population of approximately 2000 however it was not until the mid 20th century that it began to be recognised for its natural beauty, subsequently developing into a popular tourist destination.
Before European settlement, the Noosa region was home to several Aboriginal enclaves – with the dominant tribes including the Undumbi tribe to the South, the Dulingbara to the North, and the Gabbi Gabbi to the West. To this day, Noosa still displays remnants of a strong ancient cultural presence, with markings, carvings and burial sites prevalent throughout conservation areas. The origin of the name ‘Noosa’ is derived from the local Aboriginal word ‘Noothera’ (or ‘Gnuthuru’ in the Kabi Kabi language), it’s ubiquitous translation meaning ‘shadow’ or ‘shady place’. Aside from its pristine beaches, Noosa is renowned for being home to a dense amount of uniquely Australian flora and fauna within the natural beauty of the hinterland.
Noosa’s Natural marvels..
Upon visiting Noosa, you will encounter scenes of lush forests, tropical plantations and white beaches. If you’re looking to explore Noosa’s natural environment, it is suggested that you take a wander through the gorgeous green surrounds of the Noosa Hinterland.
The ranges in the Noosa hinterland were created by volcanic eruptions 25 to 30 million years ago, and changing sea levels shaped the coastal waterways and beaches you see today. If you take a look at the Noosa hinterland from the air, you will see a patchwork of tranquil lakes, lush forests and pastures, guarded by the striking volcanic formations that offer stunning mountain top vistas of the hinterland and the coast beyond.
If you want to soak in the entire atmosphere of the hinterland, look for the pristine Lake Weyba located behind the ocean dunes and drift along the lake and everglade style creeks by kayak and gaze at the water reflecting amazing mirror images of the tree canopy and sky above. For those looking for even more adventure, why not explore the mysterious volcanic formation of Mt Tinbeerwah, and take in the view from atop it’s treacherous rock faces? Abseiling and rock climbing activities run all year round. As for the golfers out there… Have you ever hit 9 holes with a mob of kangaroos? These fury critters will make you feel more welcome as you putt for par on the Noosa golf course.
Noosa, Queensland is the essence of both Australia’s beach culture and natural beauty… If you’re looking to travel abroad, this is definitel
y one place you do not want to miss. For more information on Noosa visit the official Tourism Noosa website for details.
