People gather at a beach in northern Queensland, ready to witness a rare sight.

The chance of catching a full solar eclipse drew large crowds to the state on Wednesday (November 14).

Many were armed with safety goggles as the moon began its journey across the sun.

An extra 60,000 people were expected to head to the state and watch the rare event.

And with clear conditions here at Palm Cove, the spectacle delighted crowds.

North Queensland was plunged into darkness for two minutes.

SOUNDBITE: YOUNG BOY SAYING (English):

"Yeah, it's really cool. I've never seen anything like this before."

SOUNDBITE: TERRY CUTTLE, ASTRONOMER SAYING (English):

"Wow, we got the perfect clearing for it. It was absolutely amazing."

The event was expected to generate a 78 million dollar tourism boost for the region.

A partial eclipse was also visible in other parts of Australia.