Before and after pics: humans change their world

Humans can change their environment like no other animal on this planet, and these interactive pictures show how quickly change can happen.

Humans can shape their world like no other animal on this planet. These pictures show just how rapid change can be. Source: Near Map

Humans have a remarkable ability to change their environment, using the machines and tools they have constructed to reshape entire landscapes.

In Australia, some places are changing faster than others; like Crace in the ACT and Springfield in Queensland.

These interactive image frames show the extent and pace of some developments.

Pictures from Nearmap.

Barangaroo, Sydney

Barangaroo was a disused dock for freight ships, but the NSW Government has turned the area into a nature reserve, with a casino.

Crace, ACT

The ACT suburb of Crace was Australia's fastest growing suburb in 2013-14, data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows.

Elizabeth Quay, Perth

The development of Elizabeth Quay, the WA government says, will revitalise part of Perth into a multi-use riverfront area. Part of the plan includes digging an artificial inlet.

Springfield, Queensland

The Springfield - Redbank area was one of the fastest growing areas in Greater Brisbane in 2013-14.