The largest country in Oceania, Australia, is located in the Southern Hemisphere. Australia is a very urbanised country with all of its major cities found along the coast. In the centre of Australia lies the outback. This area is arid and hot, which makes it near impossible to live in. Commonly known as “The Land Down Under”, this country is famous for The Great Barrier Reef, kangaroos, boomerangs and Uluru/Ayers Rock, located in the middle of the outback. Three of Australia’s most significant cities include Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. Its capital city is Canberra.

Sydney is known for having picturesque beaches, bars, and boutiques. This city is very diverse, with a vibrant atmosphere and is home to great nightlife. In Sydney, you will find the instantly recognisable Sydney Opera House that hosts numerous shows and plays every week. It’s a must-visit for all lovers of the arts. Sydney is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Perfect for those who enjoy soaking in some rays at a beach all day. Bondi Beach is the ideal place to learn how to surf if you’re feeling adventurous.

Melbourne is situated on the south-east coast of Australia. This is a city full of rich culture. Here you will find alleyways filled with colourful street art, and art performances on all year round. Voted for having the best coffee in the world, Melbourne is the land for coffee addicts! Stroll into any café and treat your taste buds to some great coffee. Within the centre of Melbourne lies Queen Victoria Market. This market has been the soul of the city for over 140 years and is a great place to shop for local fresh produce. It has a friendly and vibrant atmosphere which makes it an excellent experience for any tourist.

Perth is the largest city on the west coast of Australia. This city is very energetic and is surrounded by natural Australian beauty such as its perfect golden beaches and stunning greenery scattered around the city. When in Perth, a must-do is to visit Penguin Island. Just outside of the south of Perth, take a 5-minute ferry across the stunning Shoalwater Bay, bringing you right onto Penguin Island. This island is home to dolphins, sea lions, and of course penguins. Come face-to-face with the smallest penguins in the world and witness them in their natural habitat. If you want to relax and view some breathtaking scenery, then Kings Park Botanic Gardens is the place for you. This garden is a great place to admire the world around us and appreciate what it has to offer.

• The official language of Australia is English.
• The official currency used is the Australian Dollar ($).
• Major airports include Sydney Airport (SYD), Perth Airport (PER), Melbourne Airport (MEL), and Adelaide Airport (ADL).
• If swimming in the sea, be sure to swim between the flags. You will be less likely to come across sharks and dangerous swells.
• Australia is in the Southern Hemisphere: December to February is summer, March to May is autumn, June to August is winter, and September to November is spring.
• In Sydney, summer months average at daily highs of 26°C/79°F and lows of 19°C/66°F. In winter months there are average daily highs of 18°C/64°F and lows of 9°C/48°F.
• In Perth, summer months average at daily highs of 31°C/88°F and lows of 18°C/64°F. In winter months there are average daily highs of 17°C/63°F and lows of 9°C/48°F.
• Tipping is not common in Australia.
• Australia drives on the left side of the road.
• The drinking age is 18 years old.
• Power plugs are of type I. Voltage is 230 V and frequency is 50 Hz.

Glowworm Tunnel

Along Helensburg abandoned railway tracks, you may nearly miss the incredible tunnel home to thousands of glowworms, covered in leafy greens.

The railways were built in the 1880s, but as smoke and soot built up in the tunnels, they were closed in 1915 as they became dangerous. However, the tunnels weren’t completely abandoned. When they were cleared and drained in 1995, the largest colony of glowworms in New South Wales were found as they made their home on the roof.

Wandering deep into the tunnel, you will be enchanted by blue lights from these bioluminescent bugs. As the light fades, another light appears, the light from thousands of glowworms.

When visiting these little insects, be sure to keep the noise low and flashlights down as they only appear when it’s fully dark.

TOP TIPS: Sometimes the tunnels close for a period, allowing the glowworms to recover, so make sure to check if it’s open before travelling! Bring gumboots/wellies as the tunnels are muddy and wet all year round. The best time to visit is during the night when it’s dark.

Address: 2 Vera St, Helensburgh NSW 2508, Australia

Coordinates: -34.1790, 150.9928