New South Wales also contains Lord Howe Island, which is located 360 miles (580 kilometers) east of the continent. It is Australia's oldest state, having been established in 1788. Sydney, the country's biggest metropolis, serves as the state capital. The Great Dividing Range stretches along its east coast, and a thin coastal plain runs along its west shore. NSW is Australia's most populated state, with the bulk of its citizens residing around the coast. On its north coast, it contains lush woods, alpine highlands, deserts, and golden-sand beaches and bays. This state is home to Australia's longest river system, the Murray-Darling. It is well-known for its sheep and beef industries.