Australian Wonders: The Great Barrier Reef | There are a number of terms that apply to the Great Barrier Reef: the world’s largest coral reef system, UNESCO’s most visited natural landmark, and Australia’s greatest natural attraction. Comprising of nearly 3,000 individual reefs, and stretching for over 2,500km, the Great Barrier Reef is a giant among Mother Nature’s accomplishments, and can be found just off the coast of Queensland. Visited by millions of divers and tourists every year, the reef can even be seen from outer space, and it also holds the title of the biggest living structure built by natural organisms.
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park protects one of the largest areas of the reef, and the organisation is responsible for its conservation and protection. Not only do they limit the impact that humans have on the area, through fishing and diving exploration, but climate change and population control are also important factors that continues to affect the reef.
From culture to spirituality, the reef is also deeply entrenched into the societies of the Torres Strait Islander peoples and the Aboriginal Australians, so if you’re thinking of taking a trip to see Australia’s greatest natural attraction, here’s some more information to get you up to speed. In the mean time, you can search for cheap flights here to ensure you get the best deal on your airfares!
Some Perspective
The Great Barrier Reef is actually one of the seven wonders of the natural world, a fact many people don’t know. It is also bigger than the Great Wall of China in terms of distance covered, and it is the only living organism that is visible from space. Much of Queensland’s tourism is generated from the reef, and diving schools and freelance instructors have been riding a wave of increased business for many years, however dives and tours to the most endangered areas of the reef are limited by the Australian authorities.
Described as the most stunning underwater experience imaginable, The Great Barrier Reef is a natural attraction like no other. Not only are there over 400 different types of coral, more than anywhere else on the planet, but with over 1,500 species of fish and 100 year-old giant clams and sea turtles, the amount of life that The Great Barrier Reef is home to is phenomenal. Its also one of the most popular and significant breeding grounds for humpback whales on the planet, as well as the final destination for migrating marine creatures like the dugong and green sea turtle.
Because of its immense beautiful and importance to wildlife and ecosystems, The Great Barrier Reef was officially listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1981, and has been attracting tourists from around the world ever since. According to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, the organisation permitted over 1,500 aircraft and ships across 800 or so operators to ferry tourists in and around the reef, highlighting the extent of popularity and tourism to Queensland, Australia.