Buchbesprechungen: Atlas of Australian Resources

Summary

This review discusses the second series of the Atlas of Australian Resources, initiated in 1962 by the Department of National Development. Building upon the 30-sheet first edition of 1960, the atlas had seen 10 sheets revised and reprinted by the time of writing, with three entirely new maps—Landforms, Climate, and Landuse—replacing earlier ones. The review notes that the atlas not only captures the contemporary economic landscape of Australia but also, through comparison with the first series, reveals the continent's economic transformation. The replacement of the physical map with a landforms map reflects advances in geographical research, and cartographic presentation has been markedly improved. The article also anticipates a fuller discussion upon completion of all sheets, including derivative regional series such as the Fitzroy area. Additionally, it briefly reviews W.L. Donn's textbook "The Earth: Our Physical Environment," praising its comprehensive coverage, illustrative material, and accessibility for students and general readers alike.