Australia, Pacific Islands, & Antarctica

1. Australia, Pacific Islands, & Antarctica

2. Physical Characteristics • Wide range of vegetation, from tropical rain forests to desert scrub • Australia is mostly desert • The Great Dividing Range is located along the eastern coast of Australia • The Great Barrier Reef is located off the Northeastern coast of Australia

3. Physical characteristics cont. • Australia’s isolation has resulted in unique animal life • Antarctica is the world’s coldest, driest, windiest continent: It is mostly icecap. • Pacific islands are mostly volcanic, coral or continental

4. Economic Characteristics • Require air and water travel to bring goods and services to remote areas • Dry areas of Australia well suited to cattle and sheep ranching • upset of environmental balance, caused by the introduction of nonnative plants and animals • ranching, mining (primary activities)

5. Cultural Characteristics • Pacific Islands are sparsely populated • Most of Australia’s population lives near the coast • Traditional culture continues to shape life in the Pacific Islands • Lifestyles range from subsistence farming to modern city living • Cultures reflect the mix of European and indigenous cultures (ex: Maori and aborigines) • Antarctica has no permanent residents

6. Cultural characteristics cont. • Cities as centers of culture and trade • Canberra ACT (Australian Capital Territory) • Sydney, Australia • Melbourne, Australia • Cultural landscape • Sydney Opera House • Cattle and Sheep station (Australia) • Research stations (Antarctica) • Thatched roof dwellings (Pacific Islands)