Author(s): MACKANESS Caroline B

History

Sydney, one of the world's most popular tourist destinations, is an amazing combination of natural beauty and modern urbanity. With miles of beautiful shoreline, the 'Harbour City' was home to Australia's Aboriginal people for 40,000 years before the first European ships dropped anchor. Since then, it has grown into a world-class destination, filled with Victorian-era landmarks and contemporary skyscrapers. Take a trip down under with Sydney Then and Now.

- Side-by-side historical photographs document the booming growth of Australia's capital city over the last century.

- Much has changed at the tip of Bennelong Point, on the Southern side of Sydney Cove. In 1817, Fort Macquarie stood on the site; today, one of the world's most recognized and beloved silhouettes dominate: The Sydney Opera House.

- Investigate the ever-changing harbor, from McMahon's Point, Mosman Bay, the Manly resort area, Elizabeth's Bay and popular Bondi Beach.

- Examine Sydney's historic landmarks and natural scenery as they were and are today. Notable destinations include the sweeping esplanade at Coogee (Australia's original beachside resort), the Hero of Waterloo Pub (one of Sydney' oldest surviving pubs), the Queen Victoria Building (originally constructed as the city's fresh produce market), and many other splendid locations.