Founded in 1823 on the banks of the wide, meandering Brisbane River, the former penal colony of Brisbane was for many years thought of as just a big country town. Many beautiful timber Queenslander homes, built in the 1800s, still dot the riverbanks and suburbs, and the city's numerous parks erupt in a riot of colorful jacaranda, flame tree, and bougainvillea blossoms in spring. Today, the Queensland capital is one of Australia's up-and-coming cities, where glittering high-rises mark the polished business center and numerous outdoor attractions beckon.
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