Iconic moments
England: Cook betters Bradman
Beating a record held by Sir Don Bradman does not make an Englishman very popular with Australian cricket fans. But England captain Alastair Cook’s 235 not out in the second innings of the first Ashes match in 2010 put him above the Aussie legend with the highest Test score ever recorded at the Gabba. The match was drawn but England won the series — their first in Australia for 24 years.
Australia: the Hayden show
The late 1990s and early 2000s was the pinnacle of modern Australian cricket. The 2002/03 series ended in a 4-1 England defeat and it was Matthew Hayden in the Brisbane opener who got things started at his home ground. Hayden scored the sixth-fastest 100 in Ashes history on his way to a 197, before adding 103 in the second innings to put the beyond England’s reach.
Iconic player
Ryan Harris
Before his surprise retirement just days before the 2015 series, Ryan Harris tormented England in many Ashes series. The former fast bowler lives in Brisbane and played for the Queensland Bulls. He took 57 wickets in 12 Ashes Test matches and was particularly impressive in 2013/14 when he took 22 wickets in Australia’s 5-0 series win.
Iconic landmarks
South Bank
This is where you’ll find all the action in Brisbane. Set on the banks of the Brisbane River, South Bank has 42 acres of lush parkland, bars and art galleries, with incredible eateries throughout and waterparks for children when the temperature rises.
Moreton Island
Situated off the coast of Brisbane, Moreton Island is a must-see when you visit. The third-largest sand island in the world, Moreton has lakes, lagoons, dunes and miles of spectacular beaches. Here you can enjoy a whale watching cruise, feed dolphins or take part in some watersports.
Glass House Mountains
Speaking of Captain Cook, the other one — James — named these rugged volcanic peaks in 1770. North of Brisbane, the peaks tower above the landscape and many of them can be explored. There are many bushwalks to attempt, or for the more adventurous a spot of rock climbing or abseiling might take your fancy.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
A great day out for families. Climb aboard a boat for a cruise of the Mirimar River to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, where you can hand-feed kangaroos and emus as well as getting your photo taken with one of Australia’s most iconic animals, the koala.
Visit our Brisbane page for more inspiration on what to see and where to go.