Queensland isn’t just the state we live in, it’s a state of mind.
On a recent road trip around Queensland I saw the beautiful regions and varied landscapes of this state. Experiencing the place means I know the state in which I live, its many corners and characters.
I loved driving the stretched distances, through pastoral fields and over dry creeks, into Queensland’s west. I was amazed by the gorges and mountains and permanent water holes that foster a diversity of animals and plants. I walked on beaches beside reefs, onto islands dotting the Pacific Ocean and through thriving towns and cities. I saw history in fossilised dinosaur bones, the colours of Aboriginal rock-art, in still-standing buildings of early colonists.
One day I was beside a desert billabong, the next amongst thick rainforest and the next sipping wine in a restaurant with ocean views. Queensland can be all of that…
And of course, Queensland is defined by the weather. To me, Queensland means climatic extremes, from icy nights in Stanthorpe to the blistering days of Bedourie. It means having a brief blast of winter and summers which go on and on into an indiscernible autumn. It also means my children have never seen snow. Queensland means assuming it will be fine weather for an outdoor event and rarely being cooped up inside.
To me, Queensland also means abundance. It means I have a plethora of choices for education, work, holidays, lifestyle and experiences. It’s an incredible place I choose to live in.
Now I’ve told you what it means to me, why don’t you share what living here means to you? Add your comments below.
As a child I never appreciated how lucky I was to live here. I couldn't wait to go overseas. In fact, I spent 10 years away. It wasn't until I had a child of my own that I realised I had left behind the best place in the world. I'm now enjoying watching my children grow up in a beautiful land with a fabulous climate and a wonderful, relaxed lifestyle. Finally, I understand how lucky we all truly are.