When Governor John Hindmarsh proclaimed the colony of South Australia at 'The Old Gum Tree' in 1836, it was in more ways than one quite unique.

This was Australia's first freely settled state, rather than a convict settlement. Fast forward to today and South Australia is a culturally vibrant state that's renowned for its festivals, fine wines and stunning outback landscapes. It's home to the Flinders Ranges, one of the oldest mountain ranges on earth featuring rugged mountains and peaceful gorges, with Wilpena Pound as its centrepiece.

Meandering all the way from the Snowy Mountains, the mighty Murray River is one of South Australia's favourite holiday destinations. And you don't have to hire a house boat to experience this famous river. Just hop on board the majestic Murray Princess - custom built for the river and offering a genuine insight into the colourful history and abundant flora and fauna.

Just a stone's throw offshore lies beautiful Kangaroo Island, a sanctuary for Sea Lions and Fur Seals. Along the coastal curves of The Great Australian Bight, you'll see stunning cliff faces that provide the perfect vantage point for spotting giant Southern Right Whales as they undertake their annual migration through the Southern Ocean.  Magnificent scenery, legendary hospitality and unique wildlife - it all awaits.

Edward John Eyre (1815-1901)

Eyre was born in England and came to Australia when he was seventeen years old. He conducted many small expeditions in New South Wales, South Australia and Western Australia, combining droving with exploring. Together with his Aboriginal friend Wylie, Eyre was the first man to cross southern Australia from east to west, travelling across the Nullarbor Plain from Adelaide to Albany.