My Boomerang Came Back Trivia Quiz

Founded in 1788, Sydney began as a penal colony with the arrival of the First Fleet under Captain Arthur Phillip. He considered naming the settlement Albion, but this name never became official. By 1790, Phillip and other officials were regularly calling the township Sydney.

The area was chosen for its deep harbor and fresh water supply. Over time, Sydney transformed from a harsh convict settlement into Australia's largest city, renowned for its iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

Founded on March 6, 1788, Kingston is the second-oldest settlement in Australia, established just weeks after Sydney. Lieutenant Philip Gidley King and 22 settlers, including convicts, arrived from Port Jackson to secure the island's resources. Initially known as Sydney Bay, Kingston became a vital agricultural and penal colony. Today, it is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Australian Convict Sites, showcasing historic buildings and ruins.

Founded in 1804 as a penal colony at Sullivans Cove, Hobart is Australia's second-oldest capital city. The city's Georgian architecture reflects its early history, and it has grown into a center for arts and culture with well-preserved colonial buildings.

Initially founded as a penal settlement in 1824, Brisbane was named after Sir Thomas Brisbane, the Governor of New South Wales. The city transitioned to a free settlement in 1842 and became the capital of Queensland when it separated from New South Wales in 1859.

Founded in 1829 as the Swan River Colony by Captain James Stirling, Perth was established as a free settlement rather than a penal colony. The discovery of gold in the late 19th century spurred rapid growth and development, making Perth a key economic center.

Established in 1835 by settlers from Tasmania, Melbourne was named after British Prime Minister William Lamb, Viscount Melbourne. The city grew rapidly during the gold rush of the 1850s, becoming a major financial and cultural hub. Today, Melbourne is famous for its vibrant arts scene and diverse population.

Established in 1836 by Colonel William Light, Adelaide was planned as a free settlement based on Edward Gibbon Wakefield's theories of systematic colonization. Named for King William IV's wife, Adelaide of Saxe-Meiningen, the city's layout incorporated parklands and wide streets, and it quickly became known for its festivals and wine regions.

Established in 1869 by George Goyder as Palmerston (later renamed Darwin), the city served as an important port and telegraph station. Darwin's tropical climate and proximity to Southeast Asia make it a gateway to natural wonders like Kakadu National Park.

Named after the British survey ship HMS Flying Fish, Flying Fish Cove was established in 1888 as the first British settlement on Christmas Island. The discovery of rich phosphate deposits led to the island's annexation by Britain. The settlement has a unique multicultural heritage, with early workers including Chinese, Malays, and Sikhs. Today, Flying Fish Cove is known for its picturesque harbour and opportunities for recreational diving.

Selected as the capital in 1908 to resolve rivalry between Sydney and Melbourne, Canberra was officially founded in 1913. Designed by American architect Walter Burley Griffin, Canberra is known for its planned layout and significant national institutions.

West Island, part of the South Keeling Islands, was initially part of the Clunies-Ross plantation established in the 19th century. During World War II, an airstrip was built here, and the island became a strategic military site. Now, West Island serves as the administrative center of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands and is home to government buildings, an airport, and tourist accommodations.