Located on the eastern coast, Queensland is the second largest state in Australia. This part of the country is home to incredible ecological and geographic diversity, including the arid, sparsely populated bush (outback) to the west, the hills and mountains of the Great Dividing Range, subtropical and tropical rainforests, and the Great Barrier Reef to the east. Brisbane, the capital, is Australia's third largest city with a population of about 1.4 million yet maintains a “small town” feel. With its tropical climate, numerous gardens and parks, and accessible location, it offers many attractions for visitors.