Melbourne - Australia's southern pride

Australia's southern pride

Melbourne needs no introduction. It is a graceful and cosmopolitan city with its fair share of attractions, including stylish architecture. And now the city has a new claim to fame in the form of being the host city for the 2006 Commonwealth games. At this time of the year, Melbourne is the place to be.

Melbourne prides itself on its scenic landscape and reputation for innovation. The state of the art Docklands precinct and the beautiful Yarra River are but just some of the main attractions that the city has to offer.

Melbourne is also renowned for its cultural diversity. Did you know that Melbourne has the largest Greek population outside of Greece in the world? Italian, Greek and African cultures are to found in this great city as it welcomes guests from interstate and abroad.

The Ian Potter Musuem of Art is a tribute to excellence in the arts and is also worth visiting if you happen to be in Melbourne during the games. Melbourne is a very cultured city and if you're into the arts, then Melbourne is paradise.

Tourism is a big revenue earner for the state of Victoria and for the city of Melbourne. It is estimated that tourism alone brings A$3.6 billion a year in earnings to the southern state. Victoria benefits from 1.3 million visitors annually.

Melbourne is a fascinating place to visit. The city is the pride of Australia and now the city is basking in the spotlight of international publicity with the spectacular opening ceremony last night

By Neil Rao