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Add comment April 5th, 2007
About Australia
Australia is a country of so many extremes, being the sixth largest country in the world (50% larger than Europe) but having the lowest population density in the world, some 2 people per square kilometre. The country has historically strong links to Britain, with the Queen still the official monarchy of the country, although the history of Australia is very colourful. Initially populated by the aborigines, the country was used as a place to ship prisoners many years ago. Slowly but surely the aborigine influence in the country was reduced, and western style values introduced.
The country was originally made up of six separate states, although they formed a union in 1901 to create Australia. It was not until Captain James Cook arrived in 1770, that the country was actually discovered by the Europeans. A place of immense beauty, stifling hot weather conditions and one of the most laid back social attitudes in the western world. Australia really is a special place.
Many of the worlds main mineral companies have originated from Australia, as the land of “Oz” continues to supply a large majority of the worlds precious metals, etc. The economy has been fairly strong for some time, although historically there have been large peaks and troughs in line with the swing in commodity prices. This dependence has since been diluted with the country now offering a broader more diverse business scene.
While the mass media portray Australia as a vast and varied land, it is difficult to actually appreciate the size and beauty of the land. Golden white beaches give way to golden white desert land, with many towns and settlements hundreds of miles away from the hustle and bustle of main stream Australia. The famous flying doctor is still in existence, and many of the families rely on the internet and other modern day technology to actually educate their children. A vast and prosperous land, with many investment opportunities.
Property Market
As the business base of Australia has moved away from the dominance of natural resources, the economy has become much more balanced. Still growing and adjusting to the changes, the economy has been one of the better performing worldwide, since 1990. Relatively stronger than most of their European counterparts in the worldwide down turn in early 2000, the economy has thrown up a number of interesting opportunities for foreign capital.
Due to the sheer size of the country, and the extreme difference in population per kilometre, the market for property in Australia is very diverse. Historically it is the main inland cities of Melbourne and Sydney which have pushed the Australian property market ahead, although the coastal areas with strong popular tourist attractions also performing well. Quality Australian property will always hold an attraction to the foreign investor as the infrastructure in many parts of the country is weak, and sometimes nearly non-existent.
While the vast majority of Australians own their own homes, there is a strong rental market which now represents 29% of all dwellings in the country. There are very many similarities with the UK and Australian economies and style of government, although the fundamental difference is that Australia will never run out of land to develop, although the quality of local services may well diminish the further away you move from the main cities and coastal towns.
The Australian property market has been relatively strong for some time, but due to the high concentration of attractive properties in a limited number of areas, the market can show large short term fluctuations. These tend to flatten out as the slow but sure expansion of the larger cities continues, and investors also look for cheaper alternative areas in the less populated parts of the country. To spot Australia’s next growth city could throw up a very lucrative investment.
Why Invest in Australia
Australia offers a unique investment opportunity for those looking at the longer term picture, due in the main to the strong economy, increase in gross domestic product, buoyant labour market and a western style attitude to attracting outside investment.
As the business and employment markets continue to develop with opportunities in all areas of the country, we are seeing a slow shift from owner buyers to long term rental agreements. This market is expected to grow further in the coming years, and offers would be investors a quality long term income stream, together with the potential for long term capital growth.
While air travel from Britain and other parts of Europe is lengthy, there are a number of commercial routes from Europe to Australia as the country continues to retain strong ties with European counter-parts. The free market culture is proving very successful, producing a number of larger Australian corporations who have diversified all over the world - media being one of the main exports.
Add in the ease with which finance is available - often on a short term agreements, allowing maximum tax relief on loans (usually 5 - 10 years, rather than in excess of 20 years in the UK) - not to mention the attractive landscapes and scorching hot weather, it is easy to see why tourism is playing a larger and larger part in the economy of Australia.
Outlook
Historically the Australian economy has seen a number of volatile phases, although over recent years there are signs of a more gradual increase which looks set to continue. The forecast is underpinned by a stable interest rate outlook, proactive government policies to resist the threat of over heating, a thriving employment sector and stable inflation. These all add up to a great scenario for long term property value appreciation, although there will always be “hot spots” in the country, due to the vast difference in population density.
The buy to let market has been showing particular strength, and is currently offering rental returns in the region of 8% - 9%, while properties in Australia a showing capital appreciation averaging approximately 10% per annum. The government are also increasing expenditure outside of the major cities and tourist areas, which is encouraging property investors to consider looking further afield than just the high population density areas. The country has a lot to offer both the tourism industry and the overseas investor, with the Australian property market particularly attractive.
About the Author
The author of this article moderates at Totally Property - a Real Estate Forum that specialises in Property in Australia.
Add comment April 4th, 2007
1. Brisbane:There is so much to do in Queenslands capital city. Visit the Alma Park Zoo, picnic and swim at Southbank Parklands or view the city and coastal region from Mt Cootha lookout. There is always the option of the exhilarating Storey Bridge Climb, or why not take the ferry over to Stradbroke Island for a relaxing day trip. 2. Gold Coast:Known for its amazing theme parks, this is the ultimate holiday destination. Visit the tourist strip at Surfers Paradise with long stretches of white beaches, Currumbin Bird Sanctuary and Sea World are great for a family day trip, or for thrill seekers you cant go past Dream World or Movie World. 3.Lamington National Park:Including the Gold Coast Hinterland and stretching out to the surrounding mountains and valleys, you will find amazing rainforest and walking trails here with popular attractions including Binna Burra, Springbrook National Parks and Coomera Gorge. Mount Barney National Park and Mount Warning offer incredible walking trails, camping sites and lookouts. 4. Glasshouse Mountains:Easily accessible from the Bruce Highway, this tourist region offers exhilarating lookouts and camping spots at Coochin Creek. The best walks are Glasshouse Mountains Lookout and Wild Horse Mountain Lookout. Mount Tibrogargan is the most impressive as it looms over the forest below. The famous Australia Zoo is also close by at Beerwah. 5.Noosa:Being the main tourist centre of the Sunshine Coast, Noosa is a very popular tourist spot. The Cooloola National Park and Noosa National Park both offer fantastic camping sites with raw natural beauty. Hastings Street is the place to be for stylish shopping and beach side restaurants, and head to the Noosa River for all types of water sports, fishing and boating activities. 6. Montville:Located in the Sunshine Hinterland, this area is popular for weekend retreats and day trips. With exquisite art and craft shops and sweeping views of the coast through to the Glasshouse mountains, it is perfect for a weekend getaway or stopover. Visit Lake Baroon for a picnic, or travel down to Maleny for some more sightseeing. 7. Sunshine Coast:Packed with tourists, this region includes Alexandra Headland, Mooloolaba, Maroochydore and Coolum. It also extends to the great Blackall Range. There is so much to see, with fantastic coastal drives and blue waters. It is the ideal base for a relaxing holiday in the sun. 8. Mackay:This tropical city is a great base to explore the neighbouring islands such as stunning Brampton Island or smaller Keswick Island. Dont miss the Mackay Botanic Gardens or Marina Village close to the city centre. The coastline offers fantastic drives and scenery. The Cape Hillsborough National Park is located north from the city has excellent campsites and stunning beaches, plus inland lies the Eungella National Park which features the Finch Hatton Gorge. 9. Lower Barrier Reef Islands:This southerly region of the Barrier Reef is teeming with underwater beauty, known for unique tourist islands such as Heron, Lady Elliot and Lady Musgrave. Most popular activities include underwater diving and exploring the exquisite coral reefs, just metres away from the beach. Easily accessible for a day trip from Bundaberg or Gladstone. 10. Townsville:This is the ideal city to visit the lush tropical islands off the coast such as Orpheus, Dunk, Magnetic and beautiful Bedarra. The Hinchinbrook Island National Park is another world heritage listed gem that is a popular tourist hideaway. Why not take the family to the Billabong Wildlife Santuary close to the city, or relax at the Strand on the beachfront. Alligator Creek, next to the lovely Bowling Green Bay is great for a day trip.
About the Author
Jenny Brewer is a travel agent whose passion is writing. After spending her leisure time writing time writing childrens stories, she now enjoys writing about travel destinations. For more of her articles visit Car Hire Australia
Add comment April 3rd, 2007
Kelpies are loyal, friendly, intelligent, problem-solving dogs and make excellent pets. The Kelpie is one of the lesser known breeds outside its native Australia. ‘Kelpie’ is the Gaelic word for water sprite, and is thought to have stuck to the breed after being used for one particularly fine breeding dog specimen of these dogs, years ago.
A sheepdog, the Kelpie is said to be a breed that runs along the backs of the sheep it is herding.
Descended from British dogs of the same stock as collie sheepdogs the Kelpie was introduced into Australia by 18th-century settlers. Different kennel clubs breed standards have preferences for certain colours. The Svenska Working Kelpie Klubben like other clubs separates working strains from “pedigree” show dogs but also does not permit Working Kelpies to be shown.
Some say that the Kelpie was crossed with the native dingoes, when the modern breed was derived. There have always been varying views as to whether or not this is true, but there is plenty of circumstantial evidence in, for example, the fox-like look of the Kelpie’s head, and where else would it have developed its heat tolerance?
The end result, whether “Dingo gene generated” or not, is a tough, solidly built but fast-footed sheepdog, which will happily work even in the extreme conditions of the Australian climate. It is also reportedly able to go without water for long periods, which helps a lot when herding.
Any sheepdog needs to be the intelligent and the Kelpie is no exception. They are easy to train and loyal to their owner. A Kelpie is not an aggressive dog, but family pets will protect their family with no regard for themselves.
It is important to remember that this is a working dog, and used to a great deal of activity, and exercise. So a happy Kelpie must be given both space, interesting activity, and lot of exercise. Many national dog clubs which recognise the Kelpie still encourage encourages breeding for herding ability, and allow a wide variety of coat colors.
It has been said that walks and socialisation are more than sufficient to keep them happy, and agility and ball games bring out the best in them. Others though, do say that the exercise does really need to be in wide open spaces for much of the time - after all this is such a characteristic of this breed’s home surroundings. They do need to be stimulated as idle and bored dogs of almost all breeds become frustrated and destructive.
There is, by the way, an easy way to tell which any particular Kelpie breeder is, as Kelpie breeders tend to call their breeding establishments “kennels”, whereas working Kelpies are bred much more for their herding instincts. Working dog breeders tend to call their breeding establishments “Studs” in a similar way to studs in the animal livestock industry.
It is recommended that Kelpies be vaccinated against parvovirus and distemper, and rabies if the dog is outside Australia, which is currently free of the disease
Learning rate: High
Height: 43-51 cm (17-20 inchs)
Life span: Ten to fourteen years
Watch-dog ability:High
Guard dog ability:High
For more information about this dog breed visit http://www.dog-breeds.me.uk/html/kelpie_dog_breed.php - The Dog Breeds Compendium - Kelpie - page.
About the Author
Steve Evans is a regular contributor of articles, especially Dog Breeds Articles. Vist his site at http://www.dog-breeds.me.uk .
Add comment April 2nd, 2007
The Australian Grand Prix is one of the most exciting events held in Australia every year, with thousands of spectators viewing exciting Formula One racing and flat-out speeds experienced in Melbourne, Australia.
The World Championship event Formula One race, held every March, has been delighting spectators since 1996, when the Australian Grand Prix hit the race circuit calendars. It hasn’t slowed down since. Not only does the racing event draw thousands of travelers and visitors from around Australia, but around the world as well, and every visitor is rewarded with more than just a car race.
Australia, especially Melbourne, Australia’s second largest city, has much to offer visitors, including great weather, friendly people and world-class restaurants, hotels and amusements. Melbourne also offers a laid back atmosphere that caters to any budget. Visitors who come to see the now world-famous Formula One racing event often stay to enjoy the vistas, foods and sites that Australia has to offer.
For racing fans, the Australian Grand Prix is part of a Formula One racing circuit that includes the United States’ Indianapolis 500, the Malaysian Grand Prix in Kuala Lumpur, the Grand Premio de España Telefónica in Catalunya and warms up audiences for the ultimate in Formula One racing in Monaco with the Monaco Grand Prix held at the end of May 25-27 of 2007. The Monaco Grand Prix has gained the reputation of being the ultimate in Formula One racing as the most difficult and prestigious of the circuit. That one event within the Formula One racing circuit draws more people every year to a principality that is known for brilliant sunshine, fantastic beaches and unequalled luxury.
The Australian Grand Prix racing event takes place over several days and starts the annual Formula One World Championship. Held in the Albert Park, the site has long been popular with native Australian racing fans since the 1950s, and the race is viewed by millions of racing fans around the world. Known for its love of sports, Melbourne offers events and entertainments to suit any taste, all in an atmosphere known for its blend of rugged history and ‘Outback’ serenity with the newest and most popular in business and technology.
Pricing for event tickets are fantastic and offer visitors the choice of three different ticket pricing ranges and grandstands or flat grassland to enjoy the sights and sounds of one of the world’s greatest racing events. The Australian blue sky and warm weather offers world travelers a respite to brutal winters elsewhere, and Melbourne nightlife offers treats and events to visitors who want to enjoy everything Australia has to offer after the engines have cooled and it’s time to relax and enjoy the ambience.
Thousands of travelers flock to Melbourne every year to witness the spectacular Australian Grand Prix and are also treated to the Carrera Cup, the Celebrity Challenge and the Aussie Racing Cars, as well as a myriad of events and entertainments that take place away from the asphalt and racing grounds. Melbourne pulls out the red carpet for this yearly event, and everyone is welcome to the Land Down Under for exquisite landscapes, great food and more than enough entertainment to please anyone.
This year’s race was won by Kimi Raikkonen in a Ferrari, but the Finnish driver’s exploits didn’t make as many headlines as debutant British driver Lewis Hamilton who finsihed third, the best Formula 1 debut for years.
The four days that cover the Australian Grand Prix provide spectators, no matter where they sit, with the fastest, loudest and most gifted Formula One race car drivers in the world as they rev their engines and prepare to battle for position on the track. Off track, tourists can enjoy the seashore or venture inland to see exotic wildlife, mingle with native Australians and enjoy the great outdoors in a land that offers a blend rustic ruggedness and the finest in luxury.
If you missed the Australian Grand Prix in 2007, make sure you clear your calendar for next year’s Formula One racing event, as the Australian Grand Prix is an experience that everyone should enjoy at least once in their lives.
About the Author
YourMonaco.com offers details about Monaco, including her Grand Prix. The Monaco hotels are already fully booked for the Grand Prix so anyone wishing to attend should consider hotels in Nice and make their way to Casino Square, Monte Carlo by train.
Add comment April 1st, 2007
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