Sunshine Coast

Australia's Sunshine Coast (population 247,618 with up to an additional 50,000 in visitors and seasonal workers) is the Queensland coastal region north of the state capital Brisbane. The Sunshine Coast includes three Local government areas, the Noosa Shire in the north, the Maroochy Shire in the middle, and the City of Caloundra in the south. The Sunshine coast is bordered by the Pacific Ocean on the east, and extends to the local government boundaries beyond the Blackall Ranges to the west. Occasionally, the town of Gympie which is 30 minutes drive north of Noosa Heads, has been included in a broader definition of the Sunshine Coast region.

Other localities within the Sunshine Coast region include Mooloolaba, Alexandra Headland, Maroochydore, Buderim and Nambour.

The region is characterized by beautiful beaches, expansive coastal views and rich fertile soils in the hinterland. The Sunshine Coast produces many varieties of tropical fruit and nuts, and until recently sugar cane.

The Sunshine Coast is a centre for tourism. It contains attractions such as Steve Irwin's famous Australia Zoo, UnderWater World marine park, Aussie World with the Ettamogah Pub, The Buderim Ginger Factory, Big Pineapple and the Majestic Theatre.

The Sunshine Coast is accessible by the Bruce Highway, or by CityTrain's North Coast Line with bus connections provided by Sunbus.