Study abroad means that you, as a student, will live in a foreign country with its unique nature and customs for a long time. Today we acquaint you with features of a mainland state, such as Australia. Let's start with the fact that Australia is a large country with beautiful nature. It is inhabited by various nations. The life of Australians combines the Aboriginal culture (indigenous persons) and traditions of immigrants (mostly from English-speaking countries).
Australia got separated from other continents 65 million years ago. Because of the isolated situation there are many species of plants and animals here that are not found in any other country in the world. Echidna and platypus are unique mammals, kangaroos, koalas and wombats - marsupial mammals, as well as the most famous of the Australian trees - eucalyptus. And now, when you have a general idea about Australia, let’s discuss what you probably have not known about it.
Fact №1. Rip currents
The first fact we note is one of the greatest dangers in Australia - tip or underflow currents. There are lots of terrifying stories about Australian jellyfish and sharks. But the real danger is not actually in them. The real danger is RIP currents. Such current may occur essentially at any place of the coast. Usually it is directed in the opposite direction from the shore. In Australia, on the coast there are places where rip current constantly occur. Rescue workers are aware of these currents and indicate danger zones with signs.
On the beaches of Sydney one should swim between the flags, in the area that according to rescuers is safe at the moment. Lifeguard volunteers are necessarily on duty nearby and they vigilantly watch after swimmers not to leave the safe area. If you behave cautiously and carefully, you will not be afraid of rip currents.
Fact №2. Wild rabbits
You'd be surprised, but the second fact is rabbits became wild. In 1859 Tom Austin, one of the Australian land owners, said: "The release of a small number of rabbits into the wild nature will not be harmful and will help provide meat, in addition to hunting." After hearing the opinion of the distinguished gentleman, his example was followed by many farmers. Just 10 years later, the rabbits multiplied so that the annual destruction (by shooting or trapping) of two million rabbits did not have any noticeable effect on the rabbit population. The spread of rabbits was the most rapid spread of mammal species in history.
The thing is that in Australia there were ideal conditions for the explosive growth of the population of rabbits. Mild winters allowed rabbits to breed year-round. Vast plains covered with low vegetation, were also an ideal habitat for rabbits. In addition, rabbits in Australia have no natural enemies. The consequences were quite disastrous. Rabbits ate vegetation, which fed native species of fauna. Because of rabbits, Australia lost many members of the local species of wildlife.
Unexpected steps were taken to combat the rabbit expansion. In 1907, in the state of Western Australia a 1833-kilometer barrier fence made of wood, metal and wire was built. Major part of this centennial barricade has been saved until today. Its official name - "Fence number 1 for protection from rabbits." It consists of three levels and a total of its length is 3256 kilometers.
If you love animals, the rabbit overpopulation will not affect your life. The government and special authorities do everything to keep the situation under control.
Fact №3. Year-round sunshine
The third fact we note is that there is generous year-round sunshine throughout Australia, that can’t help arising the desire to bare as much as possible and sunbathe. But it is not recommended to anyone, because Australia is in the latitudes from sub-equatorial in the north to subtropical in the south and only Tasmania island lies almost entirely in the temperate zone. In accordance with the geographical location, one of the main factors influencing the climate of the continent is a high total solar radiation reaching 140 k/cal per cm2 per year in the north-west. Therefore, in Australia they prefer to wear hats that it is also advised to do so to all guests of the country.
Fact №4. Ozone hole
Our next fact is ozone hole - the culprit of drought in Australia.
Scientists believe that the ozone hole over the Antarctic was the main reason for drought in Australia. Thus, researchers from the Columbia University in New York found that the hole affects the strength and direction of the winds, and, as a consequence, the distribution of precipitation.
In the article published in "Science" magazine, the researchers note that although this situation applies to the entire southern hemisphere, a particularly strong "hole effect" is felt in Australia. In many parts of the country drought has lasted for several years. Many farmers have gone bankrupt. And the city authorities in these areas have to spend budget funds for the construction of desalination plants.
In this regard, when choosing an educational institution you are advised to pay attention to its location on the mainland. Fortunately, most of the educational institutions are located in densely populated urban areas, where there are no such problems with drought and food.
Fact №5. Left side traffic
The fifth fact to discuss is that Australia is a country with the right sided steering – it is evidenced by the left-side traffic. It is inherited from the British colonialists. Perhaps the most beautiful version of the appearance of left-side traffic comes from the inhabitants of Foggy Albion. According to it, in medieval England knights preferred to ride on the left side of the street, so that it would be better to shake the right hand of the knight riding toward, or fight with him.
No matter what, left-side traffic has taken root among Australians. Therefore, if you plan to study and live in Australia, think about getting international driving license.
Australia is a very attractive country for students from all over the world. If you set a goal to study in Australia and are going to achieve it, we hope that this article will help you quickly adapt to a new country.
