Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef Travel Guide

A maze of 3,000 individual reefs and 900 islands stretching for 2,600 km (1,616 mi), the Great Barrier Reef is one of the world's most spectacular natural attractions, and one of which Australia is extremely proud. Known as Australia's "Blue Outback," the reef was established as a marine park in 1975, and is a collective haven for thousands of species of sea life, as well as turtles and birds. In 1981 the United Nations designated the Great Barrier Reef a World Heritage Site. In 2004 strict legislation was enacted prohibiting fishing along most of the reef -- a further attempt to protect the underwater treasures of this vast, yet delicate ecosystem. Any visitor over the age of four must pay an A$4.50 reef tax to help support the preservation of the reef.