A glimpse into the wonderland of Western Australia

by Rupa Banduwardena

According to history Australia, the smallest continent in the world map was at one time a victim of imperialism. Unlike other Asian countries, one time imperialism has been a perfect fit to Australia. Though the interior had been originally inhabited by the Aborigines who still claim to be the original and earliest tribes, the coastal belt is blessed with a number of well developed major cities well renowned for their quality of life.

The Federal Government in power ensure a highly advanced lifestyle providing all the amenities for comfortable living pushing one to believe that it is a perfect welfare state with a reputation for excellence for human existence. The way of life is viewed with humanitarian point of view giving preference to urgent human needs, catering to individual requirements in a way not seen in any part of the globe. The best things the state could give the people are well reflected in the vast array of benefits offered regarding a healthy attitude to living.

A panoramic view of Western Australia

There is a sense of satisfaction and achievement for the people who feel that they are well equipped to handle difficulties and face challenges in life. With the advancement of time, it has gained popularity as a multicultural society. They have come from various grounds.

Besides the original British settlers, there are those who have migrated from European countries such as Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Holland, then China, India, Indonesia and Vietnam.

Harmony

Asians form a considerable part, living in harmony and it is the most outstanding feature in places where I have visited. They commemorate their national events with no discrimination and live harmoniously. All races living in Sri Lanka are found in many parts and major cities. My personal opinion is that it is mostly education that has brought many of them here. For many neighbouring countries higher education has been the main attraction. University education is a great opportunity for the intelligentsia and for those who can afford financially. Of course there are those who have come for greener pastures. There are many professionally qualified people who have come to offer their services for greater benefits.

Going back to my topic, my visit to Western Australia proved to be a very interesting and an important one. Located in the western corner of the continent, Australia's southernmost tip is Perth, the capital of WA, a beautiful city, a marvel. Western Australia with its amazing landscapes and stunning scenery, extraordinary wildlife is said to be the richest in natural resources. 40 percent of the country's wheat production is centred in Western Australia. Excess is sent across the globe via South Africa and South America. Exports are also destined for Asia and the Middle East. Ships from here travel via Cape of Good Hope taking mineral sands, a wide range of mineral products and wheat to USA and Europe. Karrara and Tom Price in Western Australia is the most exciting iron ore region.

Joint venture

It is a joint venture between Australia and China's biggest steel makers and iron ore miners. There are also mining towns of iron ore in Tom Price, the largest single pit, open cut iron ore mine in the world. World class iron ore deposits including magnetite and hematite is said to give Kararra a flourishing iron ore business. Meekathorra gold project is a good example for gold mining. Isolated remote areas in natural bushland known as Yalgoo, Mt. Magnet and Cue are also said to be rich in gold mines.

Gold nuggets found in these areas have led to the establishment of jewellery shops by renowned jewellers serving the community in WA with a combination of other items such as argyle, diamonds, pearls from Broome and Abrolhos. After much preliminary research they have started the pearl industry at the Abrolhos along the WA coast line producing pearls not only white but different shades of silver, pink, gold and also rainbow colours.

Other than mining WA has much to trumpet in agricultural products, oil and cheese making. WA shares a similar climate to the Mediterranean, producing the best wine with its fabulous vineyards adding to its wealth of natural beauty. Fine wine and also fine fruits and veggies are grown widely in this region. Well known for its fine wine is the world famous Margaret River wine region.

Cholesterol-free cooking olive oil with a distinctive flavour is produced here. With its dark green and silver foliage, olive is a beautiful fast growing tree. Harvesting the olive fruit for oil production is done here mostly for commercial purposes. Besides oil, it is used for beautiful body and soap products. Above all, WA is famous around the world for its wheat production. There are wheat lands on either side of highways stretching as far as eye could see, almost touching the horizon.

Wheat belt

Degree holding qualified farmers in the wheat belt of WA are said to be the richest in the community contributing their share to strengthen the economy of the country. Brand Highway and the Indian Ocean drive running parallel from Perth to the city of Geraldton offers you the most fascinating picture of wheat harvesting, utilising machinery with modern techniques, (the mould-board plough). Also the thickly grown pine trees in certain areas of WA, adding to its natural beauty contributes to fulfil the needs of vast tissue industry for sanitation as well as other purposes.

With Australia's sea food consumers on the increase, WA's fisheries management is supposed to be among the best managed in the world. There is also a massive range of machine production giving boost to the industrial sector. Automobile industry is still another remarkable one with its exports to the rest of the globe.

Among the many things that Australia could be proud of, tourist industry ranks the highest. Western Australia is blessed with an array of beautiful locations to enjoy the sun, sand and sea. They are uniquely beautiful spots. Coral Bay is one such location. The coral coast has become the focus of tourist industry. Seaside towns are considered the adventure hub of the state due to a diverse range of activities. Visitors relax and admire the views of the coastal cliffs. Activities available for visitors include swimming, fishing, surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling and skydiving. The sunshine coast is still another favourable destination for families.

Caravans

Enjoying holidays outside is looked upon as a right of Australians. Most sightseeing excursions are done by caravans during the school holidays. Caravans built for adventure with all the requirements are used by the retired citizens to go round the country visiting places. Caravans are their luxury camping vehicles used by the young and old. Turquoise Bay, Exmouth, Coral Bay, Port Alley Cove, Jurien Bay and Tarcoola Beach, are a haven for beach lovers. They love the shore and the facilities on offer.

Restaurants are available in remote locations. The North West Coastal highway, Brand highway and the Indian Ocean drive offer you the most comfortable way to experience this amazing country. During the wild flower season, hundreds of varieties of wild flowers begin to bloom - colourful and fantastic.

There is plenty to see along the way. Wheat belt town of Hyden Watershed Winery, Albany Whale World, Monkey Mia, Shark Bay, Kalbarri, world heritage listed Pinnacles which is the most popular tourist attraction having a fascinating geological history, Nambung National park and also the museums and art galleries in the beautiful city of Geraldton. These are some of the must see spots that Western Australia is blessed with.