The Australian Capital Territory stretches 88km from north to south and only 30km from west to east. The landscape around Canberra is made up of rugged plains, hills and mountains, as well as plenty of trees. This countryside leads into New South Wales from all directions, with most of the landscape being National Parks.

A LITTLE HISTORY

In 1901 a decision was made to develop a national capital. The move was as a direct result of the federation of colonies in Australia. However, it wasn't until 1908 that the location of the capital had been decided.

The location was a compromise between the two rivals Melbourne and Sydney. This explains why the capital is roughly between the two states; although slightly closer to Sydney.

Who was to design the city, was decided by way of an international competion which was won by an American architect named, Walter Burley Griffin.

Canberra was the name given to the new capital which is rumoured to be a translation of 'meeting place' in aboriginal. Slow progress was made, and until 1927 decisions were still made in Melbourne until parliament was convened in Canberra.

The depression put a further dampener on the developments. It fact things didn't really start happening until well after the second world war.

The Australian National University opened in 1946 followed by the Canberra School of Music in 1965 and is home to the National War Memorial.

Parliament House

Upon Capital Hill rests a huge four legged flag mast that marks the location of Parliament House. A large percentage of the building is open to the public between 9am and 5pm, and is well worth the visit.

Thanx Joan for letting us know.  I am always interested in where everyone lives.