Toowoomba

Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia, is 90 minutes drive west of Queensland's capital city, Brisbane, and two hours from the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast beaches. With a population of nearly 90,000 people, Toowoomba is Australia's second largest inland city after Canberra, the nation's capital. The city sits on the crest of the Great Dividing Range, around 700 metres above sea level. Toowoomba enjoys four distinct seasons and the rich volcanic soil in the region helps maintain the 150 public parks that are scattered across the city. Jacaranda and camphor laurel trees line many of the city streets. The city's reputation as 'The Garden City' is highlighted during the Australian Carnival of Flowers festival held in September each year. The city has twice been voted the best city to live in Australia. Factors which influenced this included the city's low cost of living, pleasant surroundings, clean air and the safe, friendly atmosphere. It has the benefits of city living without the pollution. Toowoomba's climate is pleasant with temperatures averaging 27 degrees celsius in summer and 15 degrees celsius in winter. Toowoomba is regarded nationally as a major educational centre. The University of Southern Queensland in Toowoomba, estaliblished in 1967 and has approximately 27,000 enrolments. Category:Queensland cities