Melbourne

Melbourne is located in Australia's smallest continental state, Victoria. Originally a part of the state of New South Wales, Melbourne was made a separate colony in 1851. A year later gold was discovered and the subsequent gold rushes along with the development of rural industries would propel the city's growth.

Gold and industrialization also help explain its reputation as a "melting pot" as people of all nationalities came to Melbourne seeking a better life. Today, Melbourne's prosperity continues and enjoys a fine reputation based on the quality of life enjoyed there. Living up to Victoria's nickname as the "Garden State," Melbourne has superb parks and gardens including those at the Government House and at Captain Cook's cottage as well as the world-famous Melbourne Zoo.

It is a city of Victorian buildings next to modern skyscrapers joined by safe, pedestrian-friendly streets - all in easy access to its many beaches. It is also a city of sports and the arts epitomized by the Cricket Ground and the new Arts Center. General Information Ship berths alongside at Station Pier, Port Melbourne off Beach St. Points of Interest: Excursions to Dandenongs, the Puffing Billy steam train, Aboriginal Heritage Walk and kangaroo watch.

Visit the The National Gallery, the Botanical Gardens, the Shrine of Remembrance, Como Mansion, the Treasury Gardens, the Fitzroy Gardens, Cpt. Cook's Cottage, the Fairy Tree, the Royal Park Zoo, Mt. Dandenong, daylong state tours,and Sir Colin Mackenzie Wildlife Sanctuary.