I caught the tail end of a TV quiz programme the other week. One of the questions was asking for the states of Australia. I didn't too badly - but I forgot Tasmania. Never again, not since this card arrived!
Tasmania, off the south coast of Australia, is the 26th largest island in the world, not so very much smaller than Ireland but with a population of only 500,000. Much of it is a designated World Heritage Site, the Tasmanian Wilderness, made up of nine different national parks. There is a mountain that fascinates me because of its name - Frenchman's Cap. It must look like a Phrygian cap in one of its various forms.
Other bits of trivia that appeal to me:
- It was once known as Van Dieman's Land
- It was named Van Dieman's Land by Abel Tasman.
- Eaglehawk Neck is an example of tesselated pavement. The Giant's Causeway looks completely different but is another example.
I'm impressed that you did well on that test. I think I would have forgotten Tasmania too. There must be some interesting and fun geography board game out there. That's what I need to boost my geographic literacy. Either that or just keep traveling and see all these places in person.
ReplyDeleteI have always wanted to visit Australia but my goodness it so far from the USA. I think is about 3 days flight time. Enjoyed your post though. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteOdie
I've never been to Australia either mainly for the same reason as Odie,I'm put off by the length of the flight.
ReplyDeleteFunnily enough I sat next to somebody on a flight a few years ago who had stayed in Tasmania and they absolutely loved it.
Thanks for another interesting post.
I love your blog! Keep up the great work!!!
ReplyDeletePhrygian cap?
ReplyDelete@Christine, there aren't too many Australian states. I don't imagine I'd do too well on the USA version. There used to be a good geography quiz but I forget where. It was charity based and I didn't do too well.
ReplyDelete@Odie, it's a long way for us too, so I'm not expecting to be able to visit. I'd love to though.
@Paul, thanks to you too. Tasmania seems to be very, very interesting.
@Natasha, thanks. :)
@Max, yes, you know, Phrygian cap. You know all about them. :)
"Map of Tassie" is Australian slang - I'll let you work out what for :-)
ReplyDelete