It seems incredible that Australia's early explorers, who stumbled across a huge continent filled with so many natural wonders, didn't at first realise what an important discovery they had made!

However, I guess many of us, who first began to learn about Australia's past in history class, probably also don't realise just how fascinating Australian history is - both before and after European settlement. Australia's early explorers were an odd bunch. Some were incredibly brave; others were extremely foolhardy. Some formed friendships with Aborigines and respected their rights and traditions; others treated them awfully.

They came from many different countries and backgrounds. Some gained fame and fortune; others lost their lives. Despite this, they all had one thing in common, one thing that I share with them - an unquenchable thirst for discovery. Discovering more about Australia has captivated me since I was a child.

I hope that, like me, you will enjoy reading about how our continent was first revealed to the world, and about the people who explored the Great Southern Land.