AUSTRALIAN WATERFALLS AS TOURISM ATTRACTIONS

Abstract

For a largely arid country with generally low relief, Australia has a remarkably large number of waterfalls. Found mainly near the coast, close to where most of the population lives and near the major tourist resort areas, Australia’s falls have long been popular scenic attractions and places for recreation. They play an important role in the country’s tourism, even in seaside resort areas where the main attractions are sunshine, sandy beaches, and surf. The aesthetic appeal of waterfalls and their value as recreational and tourism resources are recognized by the inclusion of many in national parks. This article examines the way in which Australian waterfalls have been developed and promoted as tourist attractions. It considers threats to the sustainable use of waterfall resources posed by power schemes and, particularly, by the tourist industry itself. Queensland’s Gold Coast is selected as a case study. The discussion draws largely on an examination of tourist literature from the 19th to the 21st century, including holiday brochures and guidebooks, together with field observation in Australia and other countries.