 New South Wales (abbreviated as NSW) is Australia's most populous state, located in the south-east of the country, north of Victoria and south of Queensland. It was founded in 1788 and originally comprised much of the Australian mainland, as well as New Zealand, Lord Howe Island and Norfolk Island. During the 19th century large areas were successively separated to form the British colonies of Tasmania, South Australia, Victoria, Queensland and New Zealand.
An inhabitant of New South Wales is referred to as being New South Welsh. New South Wales' largest city and capital is Sydney. Sydney's most memorable attractions are an inspiring mix of the natural and the man-made. Some of them are recognised around the world as saying "Sydney".
When you experience the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Harbour, you won't be disappointed. The best thing about these icons is that you can climb over the steel arch, watch a performance under the magical sails or go sailing on the harbour. Other star attractions are Sydney's zoos and aquariums, some just minutes from the heart of the city. You'll see all your favourite Aussie animals - koalas, kangaroos, emus, colourful reef fish, seals and penguins. You may even be lucky enough to see whales or frolicking dolphins in the Pacific Ocean when you follow the famous Bondi to Bronte coastal walk. Beyond Sydney, there are natural wonders recognised as important World Heritage Areas. The Blue Mountains National Park, just one part of the Greater Blue Mountains Area, has sandstone cliffs and forested valleys where rare plants such as the Wollemi Pine survive - all just two hours from Sydney. 
Mungo National Park in the NSW Outback is part of the World Heritage-listed Willandra Lakes Area. It is valued for rich archaeological remains such as the 40,000 year-old burial site of Mungo Man and Mungo Woman as well as 20,000 year-old human footprints. The 160 bottlenose dolphins whose habitat is Port Stephens are an attraction in their own right. See them on a dolphin watch cruise or when kayaking on the crystal clear waters of the bay. When you taste Hunter Valley wines on their own turf, you'll see why this experience is one of our top attractions. The crisp Hunter Semillon has been called a national treasure with no equivalent anywhere. Iconic Byron Bay is situated on the North Coast of NSW. Famed for its waves, hip beach culture and great natural beauty, the town known as Byron is a mecca for visitors from around the world. |
