MONARO, Australia — The expansive rural landscape of the Monaro region unfolds along the Monaro Highway. Rolling hills covered in golden grass stretch to the horizon, dotted with scattered gum trees, exemplifying the austere beauty of New South Wales' high country.


Photograph by David Coleman. The Monaro Highway traverses one of Australia's most distinctive rural landscapes, cutting through the heart of the Monaro region in southern New South Wales. This high plateau, known for its treeless plains and rolling hills, presents a unique vista that captures the essence of Australia's high country. The Monaro's landscape is characterized by its wide-open spaces and golden grasslands, punctuated by the occasional stand of hardy eucalyptus trees. This sparseness is not just scenic; it reflects the region's challenging climate, with cold winters and dry summers shaping the land and its use over millennia. Historically, the Monaro has been prime grazing country, supporting extensive sheep and cattle operations. The highway itself serves as a vital link between Canberra and the Snowy Mountains, offering travelers panoramic views of this austere yet beautiful countryside. Despite its apparent harshness, the Monaro is home to diverse flora and fauna adapted to its unique conditions. The region's beauty changes with the seasons, from summer's golden hues to winter's occasional snow-capped hills, providing a ever-changing backdrop for those journeying through this quintessential Australian landscape.


Size: 5026px × 3338px
Location: Monaro Highway, New South Wales, Australia
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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