BYRON BAY - NEW SOUTH WALES - 2481 | ||||
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 Click map for Byron Bay map. |
Population: 9,000 - Area 30,000 Height above sea level: 6m Latitude: 28.6300 Longitude: 153.6200 Location: 790km north of Sydney Highway: Pacific Hwy (1) Nearest Major Town: Lismore Nearest Airport: Ballina Touring Area: Northern Rivers & Tropical NSW |
 Click map for area map. |
 The Byron Bay light. | |
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Resort town based on surfing, swimming, diving and snorkelling. Named by
Lieutenant James Cook after poet Lord Byron's grandson and naval officer, John Byron. The area produces dairy products, bacon and tropical fruits. Arts and Music Festival each Easter. Cape Byron is the most easterly point in Australia and is marked with a 22m lighthouse built in 1901. Galleries and craft shops, sidewalk cafes and restaurants provide for the visitor and there is plenty of accommodation. Byron Bay is located about 775 km north of Sydney and 165 km south of Brisbane. It is a popular tourist destination and the headquarters of Byron Shire, with in excess of 30,000 people. Captain James Cook named the area in 1770 after John Byron (1723-1786) a British vice-admiral and the second son of the 4th Baron Byron. He was the father of John 'Mad Jack' Byron, who in turn fathered the poet Lord Byron. The headland adjacent to the town, Cape Byron, is the eastern-most point of Australia, and part of a giant volcanic crater. The lighthouse opened in 1901, and has the most powerful beacon in Australia. The town has several beautiful beaches and it is popular with domestic and international tourists, including backpackers. The town is famous for its laid back and alternative lifestyle with events such as yoga retreats, pagan gatherings and music festivals. The 'East Coast Blues & Roots Music Festival' and 'Splendour in the Grass', are based in Byron Bay. The area is also noted for its wildlife, with whale watching a significant activity during the winter months. The Tyagarah, Julian Rocks and Broken Head Nature Reserves are within a short distance of Byron bay. MAJOR EVENTS: PLACES OF INTEREST: ACCOMMODATION & SERVICES: 
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© Copyright Peter W. Wilkins