The development is part of ambitious plans to further cement Australia's position as the world's largest coal exporter against a backdrop of booming global demand, by opening up deposits in the Galilee Basin in Queensland state.

WSJ: GVK: Bidders Line up for Giant Australian Coal Mine

If you don't have time to spend in one of the vast national parks, Australia's zoos and wildlife parks have come a long way from the miserable cement enclosures of yore, and these created environments provide unparalleled opportunities to observe Australia's rare and cryptic animals.

BBC: Watching Australia's wildlife