Here is a concise summary of the provided text:
**Title:** The Principality of Hutt River: A Self-Declared Country in Australia
**Key Points:**
1. **Location & Size**: Principality of Hutt River is a self-declared country within Australia, spanning 75 sq kilometers.
2. **Origin Story**: Founded in 1970 by Leonard Casley (aka Prince Leonard) in response to a disputed Wheat Quota Bill that threatened his farm's livelihood.
3. **Features**: Has its own flag, currency, passport, postcards, stamps, and visa (available for $4).
4. **Recognition**: Not recognized as a country by Australia or the international community; deemed a "fantasy passport" by the European Union.
5. **Unique Aspects**: The ruling family (descendants of Prince Leonard) do not receive Australian benefits or voting rights, yet claim to offer a "beacon of hope" for liberty and freedom.
6. **Tourism**: Limited attractions within the principality, but the surrounding area offers natural beauty (e.g., crystal clear waters, pink shade beaches, and a pink lake).
**Core Question Explored**: What defines a country, and can an individual create their own nation in response to governmental disputes?
Here are the key facts extracted from the text, numbered and in short sentences:
**Geography and Location**
1. The Principality of Hutt River is located within Australia.
2. It is approximately 500 km away from Perth, a major Australian city.
3. The country spans over 75 square kilometers.
**History and Establishment**
4. The Principality of Hutt River was established in 1970.
5. It was founded by Leonard Casley, who later referred to himself as Prince Leonard.
6. The country was created in response to the West Australian government's Wheat Quota Bill in 1969.
**Government and Recognition**
7. The Principality of Hutt River is a monarchy.
8. The country has its own flag, currency, passport, postcards, and stamps.
9. None of the world's countries, including Australia, recognize it as a legitimate country.
10. Australia considers it a tax avoidance measure.
11. The European Union labels its passport as a "fantasy passport".
**Internal Functioning**
12. Initially, the country had only one citizen (Leonard Casley); now, only his family resides there.
13. The family members do not receive Australian medical benefits, pensions, educational allowances, or voting rights.
14. They are not listed in the Australian electoral roll.
**Succession**
15. Leonard Casley (Prince Leonard) passed away in February 2019 at the age of 93.
16. His son succeeded him as the next prince of the Principality of Hutt River.
**International Relations**
17. Queen Elizabeth II congratulated Prince Leonard on the country's anniversary in a letter (latest mentioned in 2016).
18. Prince Leonard had invited Queen Elizabeth II to be the Queen of his principality, which she politely declined.