Discover Atherton Tablelands Visitors Guide 2017-18 by Tourism Atherton Tablelands

ATHERTON TABLELANDS Discover Visitors Guide 2017/18

athertontablelands.com.au www.athertontablelands.com.au 1

DISCOVER

DISCOVER THE ATHERTON TABLELANDS THE ‘SMART’ WAY If you love Discover Magazine, you will love the app even more. Totally mobile, you will have up to date information about the Atherton Tablelands at your fingertips – and better yet, this can all be downloaded before leaving home so you don’t use up your valuable data.

Don’t miss the Themed Atherton Tablelands Trails Step Back in Time Gourmet Delights Native Wildlife & Stunning Landscapes Cycling Adventures Geological Wonders The Great Aussie Pub Trail

FRE E

DOW NLOA

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CONTENTS Atherton Tablelands Themed Trails ► 4 Step Back in Time 6 Gourmet Delights 8 Native Wildlife and Stunning Landscapes 10 Cycling Adventures 11 Geological Wonders 14 The Great Aussie Pub Trail 12 Unforgettable Experiences 14 National Parks Guide 15 Australia’s Tropical Rainforests 16 Kuranda 18 Mareeba 21 Chillagoe & Petford 22 Tolga & Walkamin 24 Herberton & Irvinebank 25 Malanda, Ravenshoe, Innot Springs and Mt Garnet 26 Regional Maps 30 Millaa Millaa 30 Tropical Waterfalls 32 Yungaburra 34 The Lakes District 35 Lake Tinaroo 36 Atherton 40 Cassowary Coast 44 Gulf Savannah 47 Gateways & Drives 48 Regional Events & Markets 50 Easy Reference Guide

Welcome to the

Atherton Tablelands and beyond Tropical North Queensland is undeniably one of the most exciting and diverse regions to visit in Australia and the Atherton Tablelands sits at the very heart of it. With its breathtaking waterfalls, scenic vistas at every turn, impressive lakes, lush rainforest and rugged outback, a visit to this region promises to be one of great contrast, beauty and exploration. People often ask what is the best thing about the Atherton Tablelands. If you have ever visited the region, you will have discovered there is more than one. Visitors love to spend their days enjoying scenic country drives, leisurely boat cruises, wildlife spotting, experimenting with local food and unearthing the fascinating geological history. Explore the gateways from the reef to the rainforest before you find yourself spoiled for choice in this stunning region. Plan to stay at least five days, as there is so much to see and do. Divide your time between the Southern and Northern Tablelands on what will be an unforgettable self-drive journey and see for yourself the changing landscape of this diverse region.

For history buffs, the Atherton Tablelands boasts some incredible historical points of interest from wartime to Chinese settlement and Australia’s early pioneer days. Country markets brimming with local produce and homemade crafts are also worth a visit. For those who like to play, you are entering an adventure playground complete with water sports, mountain biking, hiking and camping. Roadside stalls offer a bounty of fresh goodies and depending on the season expect to find mangoes, watermelon, papaya, avocados, potatoes, pumpkin, blueberries, strawberries, bananas and more. For more information once you are here, be sure to consult one of the friendly volunteers at the accredited Visitor Information Centres . For more information on where these centres are located turn to page 51. During your stay, please acknowledge the traditional owners of this amazing region and learn more of their ways. Enjoy your holiday and thanks for visiting.

PUBLISHER: Tropical Tablelands Tourism ADDRESS: PO Box 257 Atherton QLD 4883 PHONE: 1300 072 240 EMAIL: office@tropicaltablelandstourism.com.au SALES & EDITORIAL: Tanya Snelling

AthertonTablelands

ADMIN: www.smartdata.net.au GRAPHIC DESIGN: www.artus.com.au

@AthertonTablelands

IMAGES: TEQ, TTNQ, TTT, Strategic PR and

AthertonTablelands

WEB: www.tropicaltablelandstourism.com.au

Michael Petersen Photography

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STEP BACK IN TIME The Atherton Tablelands has become known for its fascinating history that saw the region in Tropical North Queensland boom on the back of its rich mineral deposits at the turn of the century. Today, its history can be explored from Mareeba through to the Southern Tablelands of Yungaburra, Atherton and beyond to Herberton. Nowadays, the Hou Wang Temple is the only remaining structure of the original town. It is highly significant as a rare example of temples in overseas Chinese settlements. This unique building houses elaborate carvings and has an intriguing past. It was donated to the National Trust of Queensland by the Fong On family in 1979.

Yungaburra is another quaint town on the Atherton Tablelands with its lovely streetscape largely unchanged since 1910. With 18 heritage-listed buildings, it is the largest National Trust village in Queensland.

Few people are also aware of the importance of the Atherton Tablelands region during World War II, when it became the largest military base in Australia. Rocky Creek, a memorial park located between Atherton and Mareeba, hosted between 100,000 and 300,000 troops from 140 different units between 1943 and 1945 when it was a field hospital.

In Atherton, a visit to the Hou Wang Temple recalls the history of the Chinese who settled in the region in the late 1800s. The Hou Wang Temple was the social and religious heart of Atherton’s Chinese community. Apart from the temple itself, there was also a community hall, kitchen and a pig oven. The Chinese were considered pioneers of agriculture and by 1909 were responsible for 80% of the crop production on the Atherton Tablelands.

Today, dedication ceremonies are held in the park each August on the Sunday nearest VP (Victory in the Pacific) Day. To fully connect, follow up your visit with a trip to the Mareeba RSL, which has excellent historical displays. While in Mareeba, be sure to visit the Mareeba Heritage Museum.

HISTORICAL HIGHLIGHTS ►

Historic Village Herberton

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Mareeba Heritage Centre

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Rocky Creek Memorial Park

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Yungaburra Village

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Hou Wang Temple

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Malanda Dairy Centre

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Ravenshoe Visitor Centre

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Herberton Township

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Herberton Mining Museum

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Atherton / Herberton Railway

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Chillagoe Smelters

See the full Pioneering History Trail on the Discover Atherton Tablelands App.

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DISCOVER

It all began in 1880 when tin was discovered in what is now the small town of Herberton. This gorgeous country town still retains all its charm and the Historic Village Herberton, a museum with over 60 lovingly restored period buildings that highlights Australia’s pioneering history, is an absolute must see.

A GREAT AUSTRALIAN STORY ENTRY INCLUDES 3 DAY RETURN PASS

PROUDLY PRIVATELY OWNED

DOGS ON LEADS WELCOME Discover Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pioneering past at the Historic Village Herberton on the Atherton Tablelands. Spend the day exploring more than 60 lovingly restored period buildings dating back to the late 1800s, plus thousands of collectibles, vintage machinery and more. 90 Minutes Self-Drive To the Atherton Tablelands from Cairns / Port Douglas / Innisfail

OPEN SEVEN DAYS 6 Broadway, Herberton, Queensland 4887 Ph: 07 4096 2002

www.historicvillageherberton.com .au www.athertontablelands.com.au

GOURMET DELIGHTS The rich fertile soils of the Atherton Tablelands not only give rise to some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery, it also supports an agricultural industry worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Here you will find coffee, tea, milk, sugar, tropical fruits and cheese, plus avocados, citrus, papaya, potatoes, herbs, pumpkins, watermelons, blueberries, strawberries and more. Growers also continue to diversify their farming practices, bringing a bounty of tropical fruit wines, liquors and spirits made from mangoes, lychees and other exotic fruits. You can sample these at a number of cellar doors, including Murdering Point Winery, Golden Drop Winery and Mt Uncle Distillery.

GOURMET HIGHLIGHTS ►

Mungalli Creek Dairy

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Rainforest Heart

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Mt Uncle Distillery

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Skybury Cafe & Roastery

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Golden Drop Winery

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Nick’s Restaurant

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Coffee Works

DISCOVER

See the full Gourmet Indulgences Trail on the Discover Atherton Tablelands App

At Millaa Millaa, the biodynamic dairy Mungalli Creek produces exquisite cheeses, yoghurts, icecream and milks. If you love exploring new flavours, why not try an Australian tropical bush food orchard tour with Rainforest Heart. These tours need to be booked in advance due to the working nature of the property, but it is worth it, offering the chance to wander through the wild and un-tamed native fruit orchard and taste the fruits as evolution has created them. At Mareeba, you enter the coffee zone. Australia’s oldest coffee plantation, Skybury, is an attraction not to be missed. Perched on the Great Dividing Range around 550 metres above sea level, Skybury Cafe & Roastery is located at the edge of the 350 acre (150 ha) coffee and tropical fruit plantation and is a place where visitors can taste and take home some of the world’s purest Arabica coffee. It is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm, offering light lunches, wraps, cakes, scones, smoothies and of course, coffee.

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In town, a gourmet feast awaits at The Coffee Works. Compare the finest flavours of coffee, tea, chocolate and liqueur. Don’t miss the exquisite chocolate in the chocolaterie. Take the time to stroll through the gift store, offering unique homewares and gifts handpicked by the owners, after enjoying a delicious meal with coffee to finish. Gourmet travellers will also discover Food Trail Tours, the day tour that has all the foodie highlights. Travel off the beaten track to visit private plantations, experience exotic tastes, and uncover secrets even locals do not know. Sweet Farm Tours, near Mossman in Whyanbeel Valley, offers an educational journey covering everything you ever wanted to know about Australian origin cocoa and a working sugarcane farm. This personalised farmer-guided tour covers everything from estate to plate, with a yummy sampling of their Daintree Estates Chocolate at the end. It is recommended to book ahead to avoid disappointment.

DINING OUT Nick’s Swiss-Italian Restaurant, Tolga Woodworks Cafe, Bridges Bar & Restaurant at Mt Uncle Distillery, Tinaroo Lake Resort and the region’s picturesque, welcoming pubs are just some of the recommended places to eat.

The Original Boutique Roasters & Chocolatiers of Tropical Australia.

Mareeba CBD MAR EEBA

WE ARE HERE Turn at Jackaroo Motel

Mareeba Main Street

Est. 1988

.com.au

ROASTERY+CHOCOLATERIE Port Douglas 1 hr

136 Mason St Atherton Ph 4092 4101

30 min

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MAREEBA TOWNSHIP (turn at the Jackaroo Motel)

www.coffeeworks.com.au

CoffeeWorld Experience open 9-3pm

HOT TIP: Arrive in the morning & allow at least 2 hours to Explore!

OPEN EVERY DELICIOUS DAY 9-4 pm! Only 1 hour from Cairns & Port Douglas! www.athertontablelands.com.au 7

NATIVE WILDLIFE & STUNNING LANDSCAPES Playful platypus, dancing Brolgas and cute tree kangaroos are just some of the unique Australian wildlife you can encounter in the region. Viewing and studying wildlife is made possible by a network of National Parks, bushwalks, wildlife spotting tours and the knowledgeable interest of so many local people. The Bat Hospital in Atherton is internationally known and has a visitor centre where you can see and learn more about microbats and flying foxes. You can also see wildlife at excellent attractions such as Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. If you look very hard, you may spot a Lumholtz’s or Bennett’s Tree Kangaroo up high in the branches or platypus in freshwater lagoons.

STUNNING LANDSCAPES Take a

WORLD HERITAGE STATUS The

Referred to as a volcanic pipe, the Mt Hypipamee Crater was formed after a large gas explosion below the surface spread volcanic bombs across the landscape millions of years ago. It is 61 metres wide and 85 metres deep from the water surface. There is a viewing platform that allows you to view this natural wonder up close.

BIRDING Birdwatching on the Atherton Tablelands attracts global attention due to the diverse avifauna and variety of local habitats, including riverine, wetland, woodland, rainforest, grassland, agricultural and parkland. Top birdwatching spots include the dryer regions of Mt Molloy and Kaban, Nyleta Bird Hide (Hasties Swamp), Nardello’s Lagoon, Bromfield Swamp, Abattoir Swamp, the National Parks of Mt Hypipamee, Crater Lakes, Davies Creek, Barron Falls, Mt Lewis, Mareeba Wetlands and the Wongabel State Forest. October to April may be the region’s hotter and wetter months, but it is also the time when the migrant species arrive from Papua New Guinea, including the beautiful Buffbreasted Paradise Kingfisher, Channel-billed Cuckoo and Common Koel.

Mother nature really is something to marvel at and this region is home to some of her best. Here are just a few to explore.

Chillagoe’s limestone caves are the relics of an underwater coral reef, while the Undara Lava Tubes were formed from the world’s longest continuous lava flow from a single volcano. The Atherton Tablelands boasts some of the most stunning waterfalls and natural lakes, including Millaa Millaa Falls and its spectacular 18-metre drop, which never disappoints, while Lake Eacham offers the perfect place for a refreshing dip and Lake Barrine, with its twin 1000-year-old Kauri pines, is perfect for wildlife spotting. Near Yungaburra, the spectacular Curtain Fig Tree has aerial roots, which drop 15 metres to the ground, and is a sight not to be missed. Attractions such as Birdworld and Koala Gardens offer a chance to get up close with some of the region’s most iconic species.

Many birds such as the White-eared Monarch and Noisy Pitta are also breeding at this time of year and are easier to observe as they search for food. During the cooler, drier, winter months from May to September, Victoria’s Riflebirds are also displaying. At this time, Brolgas and Sarus Cranes can also be found on the Atherton Tablelands feeding on the harvested agricultural fields.

DID YOU KNOW?

There are more than 430 bird species in the Wet Tropics and the Great Barrier Reef and 327 of these can be seen on the Atherton Tablelands.

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WILDLIFE & LANDSCAPE HIGHLIGHTS ►

Crater Lakes

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Mt Hypipamee Crater

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Chillagoe Caves

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Cathedral Fig Tree

See the full Native Wildlife & Stunning Landscapes Trail on the Discover Atherton Tablelands App

DISCOVER

outstanding natural values of Australia’s Tropical Rainforests were recognised in 1988 when the Wet Tropics of Queensland was inscribed on the World Heritage List. You can learn more about World Heritage listed places from regional visitor centres, or look for the green tree frog logo as you explore the area.

refreshing swim in an ancient crater lake, marvel at trees more than one thousand years old, stand in the world’s longest lava flow, see fairytale limestone caves and steep yourself in fascinating cultural history.

Light Lunches • Hot & Cold Drinks • Cakes & Scones • Coffee • Sweet Red Papaya Why not visit Australia’s oldest coffee plantation to enjoy freshly roasted barista coffee and the most breathtaking views on the Tablelands?

for the website ly th n o our m als coffee speci

FRESH ROASTED COFFEE PACKS • FRUIT SALES • GIFTWARE & MERCHANDISE • CHOCOLATE COVERED COFFEE BEANS

OPEN Monday to Friday 9am – 4pm (Closed weekends, Good Friday, and over the Christmas holiday period. Please check the website for opening hours during this time)

Located 9km west of Mareeba 1.5 hours drive from Cairns / Port Douglas 136 Ivicevic Road, Mareeba TM

www.skybury.com.au

www.athertontablelands.com.au /SkyburyCoffee9

CYCLING ADVENTURES Mountain bike trails include Atherton Rail Trail along the old railway line to Mareeba, Atherton Farm Roads Loop along mostly unsealed, quiet back roads, the challenging Black Mountain Road and one-way Bump Track down to Port Douglas, Emerald Creek Ride from Mareeba to Emerald Creek Falls and the Tinaroo Creek Road Hill Climb, a spectacular and challenging endurance ride from Mareeba to Kauri Creek at Tinaroo Dam.

Suggested road cycling routes include the Crater Loop, Granite Gorge Loop, Mount Uncle Loop, short and long Kairi Loop options, short and long Malanda Loop, through to the ‘out and back’ 24km back country ride from Herberton to Watsonville and return. Most routes are suited to moderately fit experienced riders.

See www.tablelandtrails.com for information about Tablelands mountain bike and road cycling adventures.

CYCLING HIGHLIGHTS ►

Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park

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Mount Uncle Loop

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Emerald Creek Ride

See the full Cycling Adventure Details on the Discover Atherton Tablelands App

DISCOVER

The Atherton Tablelands is the perfect destination for cyclists, offering familyfriendly rides along country lanes between the villages and small towns to worldclass mountain bike trails and everything else in between.

ATHERTON TABLELANDS POPULAR CYCLING ROUTES ATHERTON FOREST MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK Serious bike trail enthusiasts and beginners are spoiled for choice. Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park. Just 3km from the Atherton CBD, this mountain bike park has a network of 17 purpose-built, single-track trails in the Herberton Range State Forest. Grades range from easy to difficult. The 6km section of blue level trail, known as Ridgey Didge, was constructed by Glen Jacobs and his World Trail company. ►

ATHERTON RAIL TRAIL An easy, beginner’s ride along the old railway line between Platypus Park at Atherton and Rocky Creek at Walkamin. This 13km shared-use trail is well signposted. ►

► ATHERTON FARM ROADS LOOP This 35km ride starts at Kennedy Highway and Willows Road, Tolga. It can be longer or shorter according to fitness level and ability but is suitable for beginners and moderately fit riders.

BLACK MOUNTAIN ROAD AND BUMP TRACK This is an excellent ride for an experienced rider who wants a challenge and a good workout. Ride along dirt roads, rolling hills and rainforest with the famous descent to the coast and onto Port Douglas. Start your ride at Julatten, Mount Molloy or Kuranda. Distances vary from 30km to 60km. ►

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EMERALD CREEK RIDE This 32km ride is ideal for riders with beginner to moderate fitness levels. Bitumen roads through Mareeba’s rural residential and farmland areas give way to forested dirt roads to Emerald Creek Falls. ►

TINAROO CREEK ROAD HILL CLIMB A 32km, challenging ride on dirt roads for experienced riders, starting at Mareeba. Riders must carry food, water, first aid and tools. ►

DAVIES CREEK MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK Located 13km from Mareeba, the park includes easy, intermediate and black (difficult) alternative sections along the slopes of Lamb Range. ►

► CRATER LOOP This 62km hilly ride for experienced cyclists begins at Atherton and includes long climbs on major roads with moderate traffic at certain times.

GRANITE GORGE LOOP Set out from Mareeba on this 52km ride on quiet bitumen roads through gentle hills and farmland – for experienced riders. ►

MOUNT UNCLE LOOP Ride 54km from Mount Uncle Distillery to the end of Springmount Road and back. The bitumen road takes you along gentle hills on a quiet bitumen road through farmland and bush, and past the Arriga Sugar Mill.

►

KAIRI LOOPS Easy 28km ride from Atherton through farmland or moderate 45km ride. Add another 10km for excellent lakeside ride from the Tinaroo Dam wall. ►

MALANDA LOOPS Both loops start at Malanda. The moderate loop is 58km one way through hills and scenic farmland; the long loop is 93km one way and is a long, hilly ride that requires a high level of fitness. It includes some sections of highway. ►

WATSONVILLE MILL Herberton to Watsonville Ride: This 24km ride is for the experienced. It is mostly uphill from Herberton with a winding descent into Watsonville and is an excellent ride to practise climbing skills. ►

GEOLOGICAL WONDERS

The story here begins about 420 million years ago when Australia was part of the ancient Gondwana super-continent. The east coast was about 150km west of the present coastline and Chillagoe, Cairns, Atherton and Townsville areas were all under the sea. About 360 million years ago, metamorphic mountain ranges were formed when sediments on the floor of an ancient ocean (the Hodgkinson Basin) were compressed by movements in the earth’s crust. Explosive events, possibly as recently as 10,000 years ago, created volcanic cones (Mt Quincan and the Seven Sisters near Yungaburra) and craters (Lakes Eacham,

Barrine and Euramo). These events are remembered in the stories of local Aboriginal people. Check out the Malanda Falls Visitor Centre’s interpretive display on the cultural and natural history of the unique Atherton Tablelands volcanic region.

GEOLOGICAL WONDERS ALONG AUSTRALIA’S ADVENTURE DRIVE Cobbold Gorge’s dramatic sandstone escarpments offer an unforgettable vista, while the Gulf Savannah’s treasures of Riversleigh Fossil Fields, the prehistoric landscapes of Lawn Hill and the stunning Morning Glory Cloud formations of the Gulf are unmatched.

GEOLOGICAL HIGHLIGHTS ►

Waterfalls Circuit

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Malanda Falls & Malanda Falls Visitor Centre

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Lake Eacham

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Lake Barrine

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Mt Hypipamee Crater

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Chillagoe Caves

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Bromfield Swamp

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Innot Hot Springs Thermal Pools

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Undara Lava Tubes

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Cobbold Gorge

See the full Geological Wonders Trail on the Discover Atherton Tablelands App

DISCOVER

Spectacular waterfalls, rugged gorges, crater lakes, glittering limestone caves, lava tunnels, majestic mountains and rich, red basalt soil – the varied geological wonders of the region share a history of cataclysmic changes and long transformations.

Australia’s Accessible Outback...

w w w . u n d a r a . c o m . a u

Undara Outback Rock and Blues 21st - 23rd April 2017 Opera in the Outback 5th - 7th October 2017

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL undara.com.au • 1800 990 992 www.athertontablelands.com.au 11

UNIQUE ACCOMMODATION The accommodation available on the Atherton Tablelands is as unique and varied as the landscape itself and choosing wisely to suit your mood or interests can value add to any holiday experience. Choices range from charming B&Bs, historic pubs and houses, modern motels, luxury rainforest log cabins, rainforest canopy treehouses, Romany-style Gypsy wagon, train carriages, safari lodges, boutique-style cottages, farm stays, camping grounds by mountain streams, hostels and even authentic miner’s cottages further out on the old goldfields. When it comes to options, the Atherton Tablelands has it all. Whether you want privacy in a secluded rustic or luxury romantic hideaway, a self-catered or everything provided family friendly retreat with on-site activities, a town-centre base to lay your head, a rainforest escape or a lakeside or savannah experience there is a lot of choice. For many hosts, introducing guests to their particular patch and sharing local knowledge and appreciation of the environment, wildlife, social history and tips on great places to picnic or to eat out is part of what makes their lifestyle business choice so enjoyable. Many provide extras for their guests’ enjoyment, ranging from wildlife spotting, including platypus and tree kangaroos, bird watching, farm tours, hiking trails, guided walks around the garden and even gold panning in the creek when it has water in it. The range in elevation (which ensures cool nights), rainfall and soil types creates a diverse, beautiful scenic region with a wide range of landscapes and agricultural and horticultural industries – from tropical dairying to macadamia, coffee and fruit wine production. 12 www.athertontablelands.com.au

UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES Want to explore all that the Atherton Tablelands and beyond has to offer but prefer to sit back, relax and let someone else do the work? Choosing a guided tour can be a lot of fun and ensures you get the most out of your visit, learning a lot about local culture, art and history along the way. Tours also offer the chance to meet other like-minded travellers and of course the friendly locals.

FOOD TASTINGS Food Trail Tours offers unique and exclusive food experiences that allow you to savour regional foods at their source and hear the stories behind the foods. Departing from Cairns daily, you will travel across the Atherton Tablelands where you will sample locally grown coffee, macadamias, cheese and more.

THE RUGGED OUTBACK Let Billy Tea Safaris take you to the Chillagoe Caves and outback with stops at Mt Uncle Distillery and Mareeba Wetlands.

TOURING Sweet Farm Tours, in the picturesque Whyanbeel Valley just north of Mossman, offers a great experience on a working sugarcane farm and cocoa plantation. Learn how cocoa is grown in Tropical North Queensland and discover for yourself why its Daintree Estates Chocolate is becoming known as one of Australia’s best. Rainforest Heart, near Millaa Millaa, will also introduce you to new flavours with one of its Australian tropical bush food orchard tours.

ATTRACTIONS No journey would be complete without a visit to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. See the big crocs up close during feeding times as well as experience the wetland boat rides and wildlife presentations. Hartley’s is family friendly and offers a three-day return pass, giving you all the time you need to explore this attraction.

TRANSPORT Trans North offers three return trips weekly from Cairns to Karumba connecting at Undara, as well as six return services weekly from Cairns to Cooktown, including an inland service via Mareeba and Lakeland.

Let Billy Tea Safaris take you there!

Chillagoe CAVES & O UTBACK Day Tour including Mareeba Wetlands

PASSENGER & LIGHT FREIGHT SERVICES

Bus & Coach

CAIRNS- KARUMBA Service

3 return services weekly in air-conditioned comfort Cairns to Karumba

Monday, Wednesday & Friday

Karumba to Cairns

Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday

Ph: 4032 0077 www.billytea.com.au

Service connects with:

Undara Experience • The Gulflander • The Savannahlander

Service CAIRNS- COOKTOWNioned comfort

6 return services weekly in air-condit

Cairns to Cooktown (Coastal)

via Mossman & Wujal Wujal Monday, Wednesday & Friday

Cooktown to Cairns (Coastal)

VISITOR CENTRE & GIFT SHOP

Gift Shop offers an extensive range of Australian Origin Chocolate and local products.

Tuesday - Saturday 9:30am - 4:00pm

FARM TOUR BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL

(07) 4098 8134

www.sweetfarmtours.com

via Wujal Wujal & Mossman Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday

Cairns to Cooktown (Inland)

via Mareeba & Lakeland Sunday, Wednesday & Friday • Same Day Return

Ph: 07 4095 8644 during office hours Email: atherton@transnorthbus.com.au For further information on fares, timetables, service updates and online bookings please visit

www.transnorthbus.com.au

pa rts

Discover the Atherton Tableland’s history, World Heritage Wet Tropics and visit Lake Barrine, while you explore what regional food and wine producers have to offer. Savour foods at the source and hear the stories behind the foods.

Food, Wine and Rainforest Savour regional flavours

Atherton Tablelands

Includes regional, tropical fruit wines, chocolate, cheeses, macadamias, coffee, and plantation tours. The tour departs from both Cairns and the Northern Beaches.

Tel: 4041 1522

www.foodtrailtours.com.au www.athertontablelands.com.au 13

THE GREAT

AUSSIE PUB TRAIL Old pubs are central to Australia’s history and the Atherton Tablelands boasts a clutch of these ‘watering holes’ full of rustic charm and memorabilia of times past. Many offer accommodation, meals and ice-cold beer. Set out on the Great Aussie Pub Trail from Kuranda at the northern end of the Tablelands or at Herberton in the south. The Kuranda Hotel and the Royal Hotel Herberton hark back to the century before last. Railway workers, like thousands of World War II troops later sent to the Atherton Tablelands for jungle training, slaked tropical thirsts at the Kuranda Hotel. Tin miners shared news of latest finds and prices at the Royal in Herberton, which has been licensed since May 1880. In Atherton’s Main Street, the refined art deco architecture of the Barron Valley Hotel saw it appropriated by officers for their club during WWII. The English family built and have run the Malanda Hotel since 1911. It highlights the beauty of rainforest timbers and the ballroom staircase is a must see. The Lake Eacham Hotel/Yungaburra Hotel is a grand old dame, displaying photos of the early timber industry and Gillies Highway. The huge wood stove in the kitchen is impressive.

PUB TRAIL HIGHLIGHTS ►

Kuranda Hotel

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Barron Valley Hotel

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Malanda Hotel

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Lake Eacham-Yungaburra Hotel

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Royal Hotel Herberton

BARRON GORGE NATIONAL PARK AND SPEEWAH CONSERVATION PARK With rugged landscapes, lush rainforest and spectacular views, this is a park not to be missed. Near Kuranda, the impressive Barron River tumbles 250m down a series of ledges and spills into the gorge below.

DAVIES CREEK AND DINDEN NATIONAL PARKS, BARE HILL CONSERVATION PARK AND DINDEN WEST FOREST RESERVE Between Kuranda and Mareeba, discover some of the region’s best kept-secrets in national parks straddling the Lamb Range, the mountainous backdrop to Cairns. Granite outcrops, towering forests and boulder strewn creeks are highlights.

CRATER LAKES NATIONAL PARK Refresh in the clear blue, rainforest-fringed waters of Lake Barrine and Lake Eacham — extinct craters up to 65m deep. Laze around the water’s edge with your picnic, watching the kids swim and play. Take a stroll around the lake and marvel at the 1000-year old, 50 metre tall twin kauri trees at Lake Barrine. DANBULLA FOREST DRIVE Set aside at least a day to explore the spectacular Danbulla National Park and State Forest. With forests, plantations and World Heritage listed rainforest, this 12,000ha park is nestled between the Tinaroo and Lamb ranges and stretches along the banks of picturesque Lake Tinaroo.

HALLORANS HILL CONSERVATION PARK AND WONGABEL STATE FOREST Hallorans Hill and Wongabel State Forest are home to Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroos. At Hallorans Hill in Atherton township, walk through eucalypt forest and endangered rainforest to the summit of this volcanic cone for stunning views over the Atherton Tablelands.

MOUNT HYPIPAMEE NATIONAL PARK Explore the Crater

DISCOVER

See the full Great Aussie Pub Trails on the Discover Atherton Tablelands App.

NATIONAL PARKS GUIDE

track and emerge from high-altitude rainforest to the surprising sight of a diatreme (volcanic pipe). Try to imagine the sounds and sights of the massive explosion that formed this crater. Spotlight for possums, tree-kangaroos, spiders and insects at night.

MILLSTREAM NATIONAL PARK Explore the World War II Heritage walk and see the remains of tent sites, corduroy roads, training and parade grounds, trenches and other reminders of soldiers time spent here.

Visit queenslandnationalparks.com for detailed park information.

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AUSTRALIA’S TROPICAL RAINFORESTS Take a step back in time, a time before dinosaurs roamed, and discover the history and natural beauty of North Queensland’s World Heritage listed tropical rainforest.

One of the region’s ‘must do’ means of achieving this is the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway where visitors can experience the sights, sounds, smells and life of the rainforest.

Representing one of the world’s most ecologically fascinating and diverse environments, this ancient rainforest is recognised as one of the oldest continually surviving rainforests on Earth, with a range of plant and animal lineages dating back hundreds of millions of years in some cases.

The stunning 360 degree views of the Coral Sea, lush Atherton Tablelands region, Barron Gorge and rugged mountain ranges are perfectly complemented by the unique perspective that Skyrail offers as it glides just metres above the pristine rainforest canopy before descending to the forest floor to discover the world’s most beautiful rainforest experience.

From mosses and lichens to basket ferns, native orchids, strangler figs and the majestic Kauri Pine, the rainforest is teeming with plant life. Add to this the range of rare and endemic animals such as the Lumholtz’s Tree Kangaroo, Torrent Tree Frog, Ulysses Butterfly and Southern Cassowary and the uniqueness of the rainforest environment becomes even more apparent. Due to its immediate proximity to the Wet Tropics rainforest, the broader Atherton Tablelands region is the perfect starting point for both locals and visitors alike to participate in an enviable rainforest immersion experience.

Skyrail’s two rainforest stations provide the opportunity to explore and learn more from the forest floor via the interpretive signage and rangerguided or self-guided boardwalk tours at Red Peak and the interactive touch screens, displays, videos, signage and educational tools of the Skyrail-CSIRO Interpretation Centre at Barron Falls. The Barron Falls station also incorporates three viewing platforms, which offer different perspectives of the famous 260 metre waterfall that cascades down its granite face all year round.

While it physically accounts for a mere 0.26% of the entire Australian continent, the vast natural and cultural values associated with Queensland’s Wet Tropics Rainforest need to be fostered and preserved for future generations. With its sustainable operating practices and commitment to maintaining a negligible ecological footprint, Skyrail is helping to achieve this ultimate goal.

RAINFOREST HIGHLIGHTS ► The

ancient rainforest of Tropical North Queensland is recognised as one of the oldest continually surviving rainforests on earth.

►

The broader Atherton Tablelands region is the perfect starting point for both locals and visitors to explore this wonder.

►

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway offers a unique chance to see the rainforest canopy from up above or the forest floor with detailed interpretive signage and rangerguided or self-guided boardwalk tours.

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KURANDA Colourful and quirky, Kuranda is the place to find art, tropical handcrafts and jewellery created by local artisans.

ATTRACTIONS One of

AROUND KURANDA The

Kuranda’s most treasured landmarks is the Barron River and its spectacular gorge, home of the mighty Barron Falls.

journey to Kuranda is an exciting one. Other than the scenic highway route, you can combine a Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and Kuranda Scenic Railway experience, allowing time to enjoy Kuranda in between. This popular option is a not to be missed opportunity to learn about one of the most botanically fascinating and diverse rainforests in the world.

Birdworld Kuranda has one of the best single collections of free flying birds in Australia with over 300 species from around the world. Batreach, located off the main street, is a rescue and rehabilitation centre operated by volunteers. Admission is by donation. Kuranda’s Koala Gardens is ideal for visitors with limited time who want to see Australia’s best known wildlife like koalas, wallabies, wombats, crocodiles and reptiles.

RESTAURANTS AND CAFES Historic buildings from the past now house a variety of upmarket restaurants, cafes and bars. In between shopping, try the locally grown coffee, honey, macadamia nuts and homemade ice creams or sit back and relax at one of the cafes or restaurants.

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WALKING TRAILS Kuranda has a network of interlinked walks that provide access through the village and its surrounding environment, including Barron Gorge National Park. The Village Walk showcases the main street and finishes at the site of the original Kuranda markets. Jumrum Creek Conservation Park is a walk through the rainforest while the Jungle Walk passes through a regenerating forest. The River Walk offers a pleasant riverside stroll down a tree-shaded esplanade.

KURANDA ACTIVITIES Over the years Kuranda has become a great place to shop. There are bargains to be had, as well as exquisite artisan pieces. Spend time browsing the unique stores or the delightful markets. Whether it is an original painting, individually designed jewellery, locally made sweets or a handcrafted bowl, these unique gifts are sure to be perfect, even for the person who has everything.

KURANDA HISTORY Kuranda has always been a magnet for visitors. The village began life in the 1800s as a retreat where locals could escape the heat and humidity of the tropical coast. During the 1960s, a new wave of settlers arrived, embracing the alternative lifestyle movement of the day and establishing Kuranda as an arts and crafts nexus. Catering for visitors, in one form or another, is the basis of commerce and lifestyle in Kuranda today.

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MAREEBA Located 417 metres above sea level, Mareeba is a region of breathtaking landscapes, rugged gorges, savannah grasslands, crisp blue skies and clear nights perfect for stargazing. Mareeba is the largest town on the Atherton Tablelands, once serving as a railway and communications centre. A multi-cultural district rich in wildlife, museums, coffee and wine, Mareeba has a history going back to the gold mining days and a strong sense of community spirit, which sees support for traditional outback sports such as the famous annual Mareeba Rodeo. Considered the heart of Australia’s thriving tropical fruits and coffee industry, you will find large mango and paw paw (papaya) farms, coffee and macadamia nut plantations, along with sugar cane, pineapples, cashews, bananas and a whole banquet of other crops.

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COFFEE AND WINE Over 70% of Australia’s coffee crop is grown in Mareeba and you can taste, buy and explore at a number of local coffee roasters and coffee plantations. With a background of over 25 years roasting experience, Coffee Works owners Annie and Rob Webber have always strived for excellence, creating and perfecting more than 43 rich and delicious coffees, luscious liqueurs and fine handcrafted chocolates. Located in the centre of Mareeba, Coffee Works offers a range of dining options, plus a selection of cakes, pastries, chocolates and more. Make sure you leave enough time to also take in Coffee World, a unique museum dedicated to the history of coffee. Taste, experience and take home Skybury Coffee. Skybury is Australia’s oldest commercial coffee plantation and is situated amid the rolling hills and huge rock formations behind Mareeba.

Just 10 minutes from the town centre, Skybury Cafe & Roastery is a destination in its own right. Its majestic building stands high above the Atherton Tablelands, offering breathtaking views, while the staff provide professional and friendly hospitality. Fruit wines are another specialty of the Mareeba region. Golden Drop’s wines will introduce you to the delights of mango. Its wide range of products include sparkling wine, port and liqueurs, which are available at retail stores throughout the region.

HOT AIR BALLOONING Each year, more people choose to experience hot air ballooning in Mareeba than anywhere else on Earth. From the minute you arrive, you will marvel at the spectacle of so many large colourful balloons standing ready for take off at dawn. Enjoy the 360 degree panorama, before coming gently back to terra firma.

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MAREEBA EVENTS BIRDING The Mareeba region is acknowledged by birding experts as the richest region for birdlife in Australia. Nearly half of Australia’s 750 bird species can be found here and birders have recorded over 300 species within a 15km radius of nearby Mt Molloy. The Mareeba Wetlands is a regionally significant Brolga and Sarus Crane roost.

ACCOMMODATION Centrally located Jackaroo Motel offers the perfect base to explore the Atherton Tablelands. With 25 rooms and a fully self-contained two-bedroom unit, there is something for every preference and budget.

ATTRACTIONS Beautiful sunny skies and crisp cool days ensure a morning out isn’t too hot either. After exploring the markets, make your way into the Mareeba Heritage Museum, which is also the town’s visitor information centre. Offering a real insight into the region’s rich history, the museum is a must do when visiting Mareeba.

20 www.athertontablelands.com.au

In fact, many visitors call into the museum for tourist information and end up spending a considerable amount of time there. See into the past with displays on Aboriginal culture, early explorers, pioneer and early history, the war years, the Mt Mulligan mine disaster and the timber and tobacco-growing industries. Further on, located between Mareeba and Atherton, is Mt Uncle Distillery, which has earned a reputation for its award-winning premium liqueurs. All are distilled on site, set amid landscaped gardens on a banana, avocado and macadamia plantation. The Cellar Door and Bridges Bar & Restaurant also serves delicious produce seven days a week, as well as offering its unique gluten free banana flour. Nature based experiences can include cooling off in the rock pools after exploring Emerald Creek Falls where there are public toilets, barbecues and picnic tables. There is also a walking track leading to an excellent lookout.

The Mareeba markets are held on the second and fifth Saturday (when they occur) of the month between 7am and 12 noon in Centenary Park, next door to the Heritage Museum. Gourmet homemade jams, delicious fresh produce with an abundance of tropical fruit, arts and craft, including woodwork, handmade baby clothes and stunning jewellery, are just some of the things you will find at this great little market. Mareeba also welcomes plenty of grey nomads for its annual Christmas in July celebrations. The Far North Nomads Chapter of the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia hosts the event, which is held at the end of July. The event is now in its 17th year and has become an extremely popular celebration in Mareeba. The Mareeba Rodeo, which kicks off on July 2 and runs through until July 17, has a history dating back to 1949. See the town come alive with an agricultural show and exhibition, wood chopping competition, junior cowpokes, night parade, garden show and the crowning of the rodeo queen.

CHILLAGOE & PETFORD Easily accessed by conventional vehicles via the Wheelbarrow Way, Chillagoe is a genuine outback town with fascinating attractions and abundant wildlife. Starting at Mareeba, the Wheelbarrow Way was named after the gold mining pioneers who, when work was scarce and transportation limited, trudged out bearing their worldly goods in a wheelbarrow. An annual footrace with wheelbarrows commemorates this along The Way each May and raises money for charity. Dimbulah, the gateway to the gold fields, sprang up on the Walsh River to service the ore trains. Once mining faded, cropping became the focus and today sugar cane, mango and lychee plantations can be seen. Almaden, Petford and Emuford are all linked by the Etheridge railway line, which welcomes the Savannahlander train on its weekly run from Cairns via Almaden and Mt Surprise to Forsayth. Petford, the junction of the road from Herberton, was originally called Wadetown and known widely as a watering hole for the miners of the day. Climb the range to the remains of the 100-year old Lappa Pub, another famed stopover of old. On entering the Chillagoe region, a dramatic landscape created by massive limestone bluffs and rock formations greets travellers.

HISTORY After the gold rush in the 1880s, Chillagoe’s population grew to thousands in a new mining boom. However, the much-anticipated mother lode of copper did not materialise and the State Government took control of the smelter until production ceased in 1943. The ore smelter was never reused and can now be viewed from a high vantage point that also features interpretive storyboards. This is Chillagoe’s landmark that can be seen from a great distance.

TOURS Billy Tea Safaris offer a fully inclusive one-day Chillagoe and outback day tour, so why not let someone else do the driving, so you can take in all the history?

SWIMMING The Chillagoe Weir is a great swimming hole with plenty of shade and picnic tables. It is only a few minutes drive from the town centre (the turn off is on the road to the airport).

DID YOU KNOW? About 400 million years ago Chillagoe was the site of a shallow sea with thriving coral reefs. Over time, the limestone formed by those ancient reefs has been folded, stretched, heated and weathered to form the jagged glittering limestone bluffs and underground caves that characterise today’s remarkable landscape.

CHILLAGOEMUNGANA CAVES NATIONAL PARK Explore an exciting underground world of vast chambers, eerie narrow passages, dripping stalactites and stunning limestone cave ‘decorations’. When you join a park ranger-guided cave tour, the natural beauty of the caves will leave you spellbound. Your caving experience will be enhanced by new state-ofthe-art LED lighting systems and elevated walkways that allow you to see intricate detail as well as sense the awesome ‘big picture’ of Chillagoe’s limestone cave systems. Learn about how the caves and Chillagoe’s distinctive landscape were formed over hundreds of millions of years. After your cave tour, discover the area’s colourful mining heritage with a visit to the historic Chillagoe Smelters. Enjoy views over these fascinating ruins and catch a magnificent outback sunset.

TRAVEL TIP Find out more at

queenslandnationalparks.com.au

www.athertontablelands.com.au 21

WALKAMIN

TOLGA A thriving community today, Tolga began life as a simple staging post on the highway between Port Douglas and Herberton. At the outbreak of World War II, the region became a training centre and base for Allied forces.

As well as exquisitely crafted, handmade timber pieces ranging from small spinning tops and bowls to fine furniture, the gallery features a large array of hand-forged iron and hammered steel pieces, ceramics, fused glass and silver jewellery.

Discover the past at the Tolga Museum, which houses memorabilia of World War II and the local timber and agricultural industries, and at the Tablelands Heritage Centre.

These showcase the collective talents of Tropical North Queensland’s finest artisans. There is also a great cafe, which serves lunches as well as morning and afternoon tea.

ROCKY CREEK WAR MEMORIAL PARK

For more locally sourced souvenirs, fine silver-smithing and a superb range of Australian gemstones fashioned into modern jewellery, visit the studio gallery Rainforest Gems.

From 1943 to 1945 the Atherton Tablelands was the largest military base in Australia, hosting between 100,000 and 300,000 troops from 140 different units. The Rocky Creek Memorial Park was established over a decade ago at what was originally the site of the largest field hospital in the southern hemisphere and honours servicemen and women. Dedication ceremonies are held in the park each August on the Sunday nearest Victory in the Pacific (VP) Day. For further exploration into the region’s war history, follow up your visit with a trip to the Mareeba RSL, which has excellent historical displays.

ATTRACTIONS Tolga is central, pretty and the ideal holiday base with a choice of budget accommodation. Tolga’s foremost attraction is the established fine woodwork gallery, Tolga Woodworks, on the main road.

22 www.athertontablelands.com.au

The Tolga racecourse is the venue for the markets, with a wide range of local produce and crafts on display on the first Sunday of every month. Heading to Atherton, the road turns into a leafy canopy of rainforest at the entrance to the Tolga Scrub.

Walkamin was built during the construction of Tinaroo Dam in the 1950s. Described as food bowl country, the site for the town was chosen due to its perfectly balanced weather patterns with the ideal climate for a wide variety of crops. Just north of Tolga, Nardello’s Lagoon is a peaceful retreat with waterbirds. Visit the Cellar Door and Bridges Bar & Restaurant nearby at Mt Uncle to taste its excellent liqueurs and spirits. The distillery is nestled on the fertile foothills of Mt Uncle from where it claims its name. The mountain was named after the uncle of the founding pioneer John Atherton. The restaurant, which looks out onto native woodland and provides a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere, serves Australian inspired barbecue food including slow cooked brisket, rum glazed chicken wings, pork ribs, pizza and more. Interestingly, it has the largest selection of teas on offer in this region, with more than 50 from around the world, which sit alongside its award winning spirts.

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www.athertontablelands.com.au 23

HERBERTON & IRVINEBANK In the late 1880s, miners like John Moffat created a boom on the back of the tin they extracted from the bush clad hills. Today, Herberton’s wellpreserved buildings and inviting streets are drawing people back with a new vibrancy. Connect with Australia’s history and folklore by re-visiting the past.

HISTORIC VILLAGE HERBERTON The Historic Village Herberton provides a rare glimpse spanning two centuries into Australia’s pioneering past and cultural history. Exhibits range from dwellings, antiques and vehicles through to Aboriginal artifacts and World War II memorabilia. It is a living museum experience, with demonstrations of vintage machinery and trades, including blacksmithing and printing. The Village occupies 16 acres at Herberton and has been laid out to resemble a tin mining town with a garage, newspaper office, butcher’s shop, chemist, grocer, frock salon, toy shop, coach house, John Deere tractor shed, radio store, sewing machine shop and tool shed, each stocked with period wares and items. Elderslie House, built for John Newell, ‘the father of Herberton’, sits grandly among more than 60 restored buildings. These include the Herberton State School, circa 1883, and the ‘haunted’ Bakerville Tearooms, where food is served daily. Allow a full day for your visit.

24 www.athertontablelands.com.au

The Village is open seven days and dogs on leads are welcome.

HERBERTON TOWN The oldest town on the Atherton Tablelands has its entire precinct listed on the National Heritage Register, and is best discovered via its intriguing photo posts and self-guided Heritage Walk. See the earliest building, the 1881 School of Arts, in the main street and wander down to the Jack & Newell Store c.1882, which houses the fascinating Spy & Camera Museum. Open seven days, this fascinating museum is one-of-a-kind and will transport visitors from downtown Herberton to the cold, dark streets of the former USSR and the world of espionage. Learn the history of photography, starting with the birth of today’s modern camera and finish with owner Michael Peterson’s favourite – the spy camera.

THE RAILWAY MUSEUM Also worth a visit is the Railway Museum, located at the end of John Street. Open on weekends and public holidays, the museum is operated by the volunteer organisation The Atherton-Herberton Historic Railway Inc. Having restored the old train line, they now operate train rides from Herberton Station to the Historic Village Herberton on a regular Sunday timetable between 10am and 3pm. Please check the Historic Village’s website for more information on public and school holidays.

THE HERBERTON MINING MUSEUM AND INFORMATION CENTRE Occupying the site of the first big tin discovery at the Great Northern Mine, the museum has themed areas telling the fascinating story of Herberton’s mining history and the town’s development. There are mineral collections on display plus a small theatre for multi-media displays.

IRVINEBANK Established in 1882, Irvinebank boasts many century old buildings such as Loudoun House, the original home of the town’s founder John Moffat and now a museum. At nearby Montalbion, a former Cobb & Co. stop, you can fish in the dam and camp under the stars.

RAVENSHOE, INNOT HOT SPRINGS & MT GARNET RAVENSHOE Queensland’s highest town, Ravenshoe is 920m above sea level and is home to Windy Hill wind farm, which generates enough electricity to supply approximately 3500 homes. Surrounded by natural wonders like Millstream Falls and Lake Koombooloomba, the locals here live a lifestyle to be envied and celebrate it every year during the annual Torimba Festival and Festival of the Forest in October. The Ravenshoe Visitor Centre at 24 Moore Street provides first-class information and has excellent displays on the rainforest, timber-milling, dairy farming and the World War II military presence in the area. It also incorporates the Nganyaji Interpretive Centre and Ravenshoe Heritage Gallery.

INNOT HOT SPRINGS In an often quoted local export story, the hot water bubbling out of Nettle Creek at up to 75 degrees celsius was bottled and shipped to Europe as a health treatment over 100 years ago. Today, visitors take to the waters at the Innot Hot Springs Leisure & Health Park, which has six public pools. Innot Hot Springs is also a great base for gem fossicking, fishing and bird watching.

MALANDA The pretty town of Malanda is situated in the heart of the Atherton Tablelands’ rainforest region. It is great for bird watching, bushwalking and taking a cooling dip in the falls. As well as being the centre of a highly successful dairy industry, the village has many resident artists. Their work can be viewed on an art trail showcasing a series of vibrant mosaics depicting the town’s history.

ATTRACTIONS Take a break at the historic Malanda Hotel and step inside for a cool ale. The Malanda Dairy Centre in the main street features an innovative retro milk bar restaurant. Nearby Tarzali has a terrific attraction in the Tarzali Lakes Aquaculture Centre. Here you can buy the freshest fish possible. The park and its natural surroundings are a place for families and groups wanting to participate in activities such as platypus tours, fishing, nocturnal tours and camping.

ACCOMMODATION Today’s visitors have a range of accommodation options including The Canopy Rainforest Treehouses and Wildlife Sanctuary.

ACTIVITIES The Malanda Falls Visitor Centre is a great place to start. Allow time to browse the fascinating displays and learn about this unique tropical region, its natural history and its people.

The area’s traditional owners are the Ngadgon-ji people. Informative and highly personalised guided rainforests walks are available on weekends or by appointment at a small cost. Centre volunteers provide local information so make sure you ask about the guided rainforest walks through the Conservation Park, which are moderate, enjoyable trails. In the rainforest surrounding Malanda there have been more recorded daytime sightings of the rare Lumholtz’s Tree Kangaroo than elsewhere. It is common to see platypus, turtles and lizards as well. Two self-guided walking trails, the Tulip Oak Walk and the Rainforest Walk weave through the forest or along the banks of the North Johnstone River. Each walk takes approximately 30 minutes to enjoy and begins near the visitor information centre. The beautiful Malanda Falls is a must-see stopover with year round swimming and picnicking. Not far from Malanda is Bromfield Swamp, an extinct volcanic crater. Hundreds of Sarus Cranes and Brolgas roost here each winter. It is a stopping point for bird enthusiasts hoping to see the enchanting dancing displays of these birds.

MT GARNET During its heyday, large deposits of copper, silver, tin and lead were extracted from Mt Garnet, the town named from a large garnet lode discovered during copper mining. If you would like to experience real Australian bush style hospitality, turn up at Mt Garnet on the first weekend of May for the town’s races and rodeo – as a community event this rates as one of the top in the country.

Hogan Road, Tarzali Phone: 4096 5364

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MILLAA MILLAA Beautiful Millaa Millaa, known as the Village in the Mist, is the gateway to the southern Tablelands. The image of its picturesque waterfall has graced thousands of travel pages. At 850 metres above sea level, the town is nestled among emerald hills surrounded by lush dairy pastures, majestic rainforests and magnificent waterfalls.

MILLAA MILLAA TOWN The village celebrated its centenary in 2011 and its rich, rural heritage is outlined in the local museum. Don’t miss the massive Kauri Pine logs, with a memento of the logging industry of the past. Next to the museum is a covered picnic area featuring a sculpture of the famed explorer, Christie Palmerston. One of the most superb vistas in the region can be seen from the Millaa Millaa Lookout just west of town.

WATERFALLS Millaa Millaa’s picturesque waterfalls, which have been attracting visitors for over a century, are Queensland Heritage listed. The Waterfalls Circuit begins at Theresa Creek Road just east of town and the drive encompasses Millaa Millaa Falls, Zillie Falls and Ellinjaa Falls. All the falls have walking tracks, however Millaa Millaa Falls also has picnic tables, change rooms and toilets.

From town, travel east 11km to Junction Road and follow the signs onto the Mungalli loop, which includes Mungalli Falls, the highest waterfall on the Atherton Tablelands.

MISTY MOUNTAIN TRAILS Millaa Millaa is also the gateway to the Wet Tropics wilderness long distance walking trails. More than 130km of tracks have been constructed. This network of short and long wilderness tracks takes visitors through pristine, high-altitude rainforest with crystal clear creeks, waterfalls and panoramic views. These tracks are intended for visitors with medium to advanced bushwalking and navigation skills.

GOURMET PRODUCE Don’t miss the successful bio-dynamic/organic dairy, Mungalli Creek, where you can sample its range of award-winning products as well as watch them being made. A private guided tour of Rainforest Heart will offer you the chance to see first hand an operating tropical fruit farm, where Davidson’s plum, lemon aspen, rainforest cherry and rainforest lychee are all grown. .

Other falls to visit include Pepina and Souita, which are located 10km from Millaa Millaa along the Old Palmerston Highway towards Ravenshoe.

TROPICAL WATERFALLS Here in the northern tropics, there is plenty of water. Luckily, the rivers and streams cascading from the highlands to the coast spill over terrain that creates natural features such as lakes and waterfalls, which are stand-out attractions in the region. Here you will find Australia’s tallest waterfall (Wallaman Falls), the widest single-drop waterfall (Millstream Falls) and even a waterfall that featured as the tribal council on the television series Survivor (Blencoe Falls).

30 www.athertontablelands.com.au

It could be easy to spend days exploring all the waterfalls across the Atherton Tablelands. All the waterfalls are easily accessible and within a reasonable distance from each other. Some of the more notable falls include Millaa Millaa Falls, Zillie Falls, Ellinjaa Falls, Mungalli Falls, Nandroya Falls, Tchupalla Falls, Malanda Falls, Dinner Falls, Lake Eacham Falls as well as the Millstream and Little Millstream Falls.

www.athertontablelands.com.au 31

YUNGABURRA AVENUE OF HONOUR The Avenue of Honour was opened in 2013 to acknowledge the Australian Diggers who lost their lives in Afghanistan. This living memorial commemorates the courage and commitment of those who served and is dedicated to the memory of the young men who made the ultimate sacrifice serving their country. Private Ben Chuck, one of three commandos killed in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan in 2010, was from Yungaburra. Located within the Avenue is a sculptured set of wings in full flight depicting the contributions made by all services and symbolising the undaunted spirit of the Australian Diggers.

EVENTS On the fourth Saturday of each month the famous Yungaburra Arts & Crafts Markets, the largest and most popular of all the region’s country markets, are held on the green in the village centre. Fresh produce, flowers, homemade crafts, local wines, books, wooden furniture, clothing and more can all be found here. In late October, the Tablelands Folk Festival takes place in various venues around the village, bringing musicians, singers, poets and fans from around the region and interstate. Nick’s Swiss-Italian Restaurant is the place to celebrate Octoberfest in early October with German beer, music and dancing.

Yungaburra, the historic heart of the Atherton Tablelands, is a picturesque village established in 1890. With 18 heritage-listed buildings, it is the largest National Trust village in Queensland and with its lovely streetscapes largely unchanged from those early pioneer days it is easy to see why. Wide verandahs and historic shop fronts line the pretty lanes, while charming cafes, award-winning restaurants and arts and crafts galleries complete the picture.

ATTRACTIONS Yungaburra’s high profile landmark, the amazing Curtain Fig Tree, is only minutes from the village and is accessed by a short boardwalk from the sealed road. The Cathedral Fig Tree, another 500year old strangler fig, is located in the nearby Danbulla State Forest. The Lake Eacham Hotel, or Yungaburra Pub as it is commonly known, is a magnificent showpiece of federation architecture. Nick’s Swiss-Italian Restaurant, an interesting Alpine-style chalet, has also become an icon in this Australian country town.

ACTIVITIES Bushwalking is the ideal way to encounter the wildlife of the surrounding areas. A network of easy and moderate walking tracks leads through wetlands, rainforest, scrub and

lake-side paths. The village is set below Mt Quincan, an extinct volcanic crater whose slopes cradle the award-winning timber pole treehouses of Mt Quincan Crater Retreat, which also happens to be a great place for wildlife watching or functions. Yungaburra’s focal attraction is the Peterson Creek Walking Circuit where there are nearly always platypus to be spotted. The re-vegetation program has ensured Lumholtz’s Tree Kangaroos are also making their home there. The platypus viewing platform at Peterson Creek also provides an excellent place to watch these elusive creatures. Nearby Tinaburra Waters is popular for sports. It features a boat ramp and special areas set aside for water skiing and jet skiing. Active travellers will love exploring the lakes and trails by bike, boat or kayak. The world’s largest barramundi was also caught in these waters, coming in at 121cm long and weighing 38.75kg. The lake’s ability to produce world record fish also makes it a unique fishing destination. If you are looking for more adventure, hire a kayak, bike, or join a cycling tour.

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YUNGABURRA HOSPITALITY Yungaburra is something of a foodie heaven. Nick’s Restaurant comes highly recommended, with great food, wine and a wonderful, jovial atmosphere. The restaurant has been under the ownership of Nick Crameri for 31 years. NIck also offers free guided tours of his organic garden, explaining the workings of the worm garden and the different herbs grown and used. Curtain Fig Motel also has a licensed tapas bar, which is open to the public Friday and Saturday nights from 6pm to 10pm.

delicatessen. Today the town’s interests are fostered by the Yungaburra Business Association.

HISTORY Volcanic activity shaped much of the Atherton Tablelands and evidence of this is easily spotted around Yungaburra. There are the obvious geological features of the Seven Sisters (cinder cone hills) and Mt Quincan with its dish-like crater.

ACCOMMODATION Charming B&B’s such as Kulara Views Retreat, Allumbah Pocket Cottages, Curtain Fig Motel, Lakefront Holiday Villas, Birds ‘n’ Bloom Cottages and Blue Summit Hideaway can be found.

SHOPPING The village features a garden centre, boutiques, art and gem galleries, crafts and country style antiques, a popular second hand book store and a foodmart/newsagent/

Multi Tourism Award Winners

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3 bed / 2 bathroom house (sleeps up to 6) | Huge Verandah Overlooking Lake Tinaroo | Abundant Birdlife | 7kms from Yungaburra Close to all attractions including Lake Barrine

Thorpe Road, Barrine | Email clshipway@yahoo.com.au

Phone Carol today: 0418 151 288

• Romantic rainforest isolation • Luxury self-contained treehouses • Double spas - spectacular views • Wood fires • Unique wildlife & bushwalks

Phone 07 4095 2255 Peeramon Road Yungaburra

kularaviewsretreat

28 Gillies Highway, Yungaburra • Ph: (07) 4095 3168

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www.athertontablelands.com.au 33

THE LAKES DISTRICT Swim in an ancient crater lake right here on the Atherton Tablelands. The twin volcanic crater lakes of Barrine and Eacham are tranquil pools of water fringed by rainforest. Formed approximately 12,000 years ago by violent volcanic eruptions, it took several hundred years for water to fill these giant craters and for the trees to grow back, creating the placid lakes used today by families and tourists for recreation. There are no streams that flow into or out of the lakes, water is only lost through soakage and evaporation and only replenished through rainfall. Many people are surprised to discover the level can fluctuate by up to four metres between wet and dry seasons. Also nearby are Lake Eacham and Lake Barrine. These craters known as maars were created when rising lava came in contact with the water basin and exploded. Yungaburra has existed largely unchanged since 1910 and the Eacham Historical Society has chronicled much of the town’s early history. The town’s original name was Allumbah Pocket and in the early days of the 1880s miners en-route to the tin and goldfields used the hamlet as an overnight stopover. The readily available Old Town Loop Map, available from the local Visitor Information Centre, is another great way to take a self-guided walk around the quaint village nestled in the hills.

33 Gillies Highway • YUNGABURRA Est. 1986

Yodeller’s Bar

Dine in or away Take-aw

European Chefs

Great hospitality, food and drinks

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Enjoy best Pizza in North Qld!

Lunch FRI-SUN 11am - 3pm Dinner TUES-SUN 5pm - 9pm

yungaburrapizzeria.com.au

nicksrestaurant.com.au

Ph: 4095 3577

Ph: 4095 3330

NEW WINE DINE & STAY PACKAGE The place to stay Ph: 0474 722 866 waterfrontholidayvillas.com.au

34 www.athertontablelands.com.au

At Lake Barrine, take a cruise to spot wildlife and enjoy a break at the quaint 80-year old teahouse, which serves excellent devonshire teas. There is also a short walk to the towering twin Kauri trees, thought to be over 1000 years old. At Lake Eacham, a long stretch of grassy lawn meets the lake’s edge and there are barbecues, picnic areas, an all weather shelter and toilets. Guests at the neighbouring Chambers Wildlife Rainforest Lodges enjoy free guided nocturnal animal viewings each evening.

LAKE TINAROO At the very heart of the Atherton Tablelands is Lake Tinaroo. With over 200km of shoreline, it offers fishing, sailing and water sports enthusiasts plenty of room to spread out. Each year more than 500,000 people visit the lake, which was built on the Barron River in the 1950s. Lush green scenery and deep, clear water affords the perfect backdrop for sailing, boating, canoeing, water skiing and more. Recreational fishing is also popular with ample opportunity to snag a barramundi, sooty grunter, sleepy cod, mouth almighty, archer fish, spangled perch and many species of crayfish, including the red-claw and yabby. Drive along the shores of Lake Tinaroo, stopping at Platypus Rock Lookout for a view over the lake and Atherton Tablelands.

EVENTS The Yungaburra Triathlon is an annual event held at the beautiful Avenue of Honour at Lake Tinaroo in

April. This event embodies the essence of the Soldier On Organisation, which is to inspire and empower. The Tinaroo Sailing Club also hosts one of the largest dinghy sailing regattas in North Queensland, attracting up to 100 boats each May Day long weekend.

HISTORY Built in the 1950s on the Barron River, the dam wall is 45.1 metres high and traps enough water from the Barron River to create a lake three-quarters the size of Sydney Harbour. It was built to irrigate approximately 9000 hectares annually in sections of the basins of the Barron, Mitchell and Walsh Rivers, also supplying around 800 local farms from the channel system and streams fed by Tinaroo Falls Dam. This water also supplies the Barron Gorge Hydro Electric Power Station, above Lake Placid at Kamerunga, near Cairns.

WHERE TO STAY Lake Tinaroo Holiday Park is a popular pet-friendly holiday spot with a range of accommodation options including 47 waterfront villas, poolside, family and studio units, budget cabins and caravan and camp sites. The park has plenty to keep the family entertained with a large resortstyle swimming pool and a giant jumping pillow. Guests can also hire peddle carts, kayaks, canoes and boats. Tinaroo Lake Resort is a stylish home-away-from home with all apartment balconies providing views of the lake. The resort has an outdoor pool, barbecue area, library, restaurant and bar so there are plenty of places to relax and unwind after a day out on the lake.

AROO LAKELITDIN AY PARK

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Phone/Fax (07) 4095 8912

www.tinarooresort.com.au

info@tinarooresort.com.au

Mention this ad for a 5% discount on accommodation bookings* *Subject to availability

Budget to Deluxe Waterview Villas / Great shady sites to suit – get in early! / “Stay 7, Pay 5” deal* bookings required / FREE Wifi / FANTASTIC NEW camp kitchen! / Large drive thru slab sites / Water sport equipment for hire – stand up paddle boards, canoes, kayaks! / Boats and jet ski tours also available! (Seasonal – bookings required) / Pet friendly / NEW Owners / Resort style pool and jumping pillow / On site CAFÉ! / Residential HOME PARK! / Fire pit sites / Shop, fuel, firewood, gas refills and ice available

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Address / 4 – 28 Tinaroo Falls Dam Rd, TINAROO Qld 4872 Email / bookings@lthp.com.au

To book please call 07 4095 8232 or www.LTHP.com.au www.athertontablelands.com.au 35

ATHERTON From its beginnings as a timber-getters’ camp and staging post between the outback tin mines and the coast, Atherton has blossomed like its trademark Jacaranda trees into a diverse regional centre. Well known to the locals as a highland getaway destination, Atherton is also famous for its rich soils, which grow superb produce and flowers.

and microbats at the visitor centre. This internationally renowned facility is operated by a not-for-profit group dedicated to the conservation of bats and their habitat.

ATTRACTIONS The region

THE CRYSTAL CAVES In

has a wealth of artists whose works are best seen at the Tablelands Regional Gallery. Check out the wonderful pre-war Barron Valley Hotel, browse through the town’s quaint shops like Atherton Antiques & Australiana and enjoy a picnic at Halloran’s Hill with a view of the Seven Sisters volcanic cones. Hasties Swamp (Nyleta Wetlands) is a seasonal wetland with an annual wet and dry cycle. The twostorey bird hide provides wheelchair access on the lower section only. Finally, take time to get to know the inhabitants at The Bat Hospital on the road to Herberton. Here, you can meet flying foxes 36 www.athertontablelands.com.au

They achieve the rescue, rehabilitation and release of hundreds of bats each year and the facility is open seasonally to the public. the main street, you will find one of the most remarkable and novel attractions in the whole of Australia. The Crystal Caves are a spectacular private mineral collection with over 600 specimens made up of rare crystals, gemstones and fossils. These gemstones have been brought together by one visionary who found love at first site more than 40 years ago after cracking his first geode along the banks of Agate Creek in North Queensland. Rene Boissevain, together with his wife Nelleke, have made it their life’s work to build one of the largest mineral collections in Australia.

FARM FRESH PRODUCE The Atherton Tablelands covers an area from Julatten and Kuranda in the north, west to Chillagoe and south to Ravenshoe and Mt Garnet. The cool, elevated green and brown mountains are part rainforest, part outback. This region is known as Tropical North Queensland’s food bowl with agriculture the largest contributor to the regional economy, realising a gross value of production of over $500 million. The success and resilience of the Atherton Tablelands’ agriculture industry is attributable to the diversity of sectors suitable to the vast region. Water, soils and diverse growing conditions have sustained development of a wide range of agricultural and horticultural cropping operations including plant and animal industries and production of both tropical and subtropical crops of which 39 large agricultural industries now exist. Mangoes, bananas, avocados, strawberries, macadamias, dairy cattle, lychees, pumpkins, aquaculture, beef cattle, flowers, longans, hay, eggs, peanuts, mixed vegetables, tea, coffee, table grapes, blueberries, melons, tea-tree, passionfruit and honey are just some of the produce grown here. Look for produce and preserves at the weekend markets and roadside stalls, savour local coffee (over 90% of Australia’s coffee crop grows here) and teas, and take home award winning fruit wines and liqueurs made from tropical fruits and other exotics. Did you know? Just under five million flowers are picked each year on the Atherton Tablelands for the wholesale market.

DROP IN AND SEE OUR CURRENT EXHIBITION – ENTRY IS FREE

The Tableland Regional Art Gallery Vibrant, Cultural and Diverse Exhibitions on show. OPEN: Tues to Sat 10am-4pm • Sun 10am-2pm 16 Robert Street • Atherton • PHONE: 4091 5261

www.tablelandgallery.trc.qld.gov.au

The Bat Hospital

Visitor Centre

Atherton Holiday Park

Open daily for tours, bookings essential Tours at 3, 4 & 5 pm Adults $20, Children $10 (5-15 years)

Enter an upside down world and discover the real stars of the night, both big and small www.tolgabathospital.org Close to Hasties Swamp

René started building in 1987

•

Rural Outlook, on the outskirts of town...

stic

-ta

Bat

134 Carrington Road, Atherton (turn right off Herberton Road, 6km from Atherton) Phone: 07 4091 2683

•

Check our website for opening hours: www.nationaltrust.org.au/qld

Large flat sites • Ensuite van sites • Pool • Country views 4km east of Atherton Post Office - on the Gillies Hwy.

Units • Villas • Cottages • Caravan Sites

holiday@athertonholidaypark.com (07) 4091 1099 • www.athertonholidaypark.com

See and touch natural crystals

René Boissevain has spent a lifetime travelling to every corner of the world to collect perfect crystals, gemstones and fossils. To house his growing collection of more than 600 individual pieces, Rene has built 250 m2 of tunnels and grottos for you to explore. Carefully positioned and delicately lit, you are free to discover in your own time and encouraged to touch and

Be the first to see inside a 44 million year old geode

photograph. The imagination of one man to build a fantasy cave is only surpassed by the quality and size of the crystals. This natural history collection has been compared to the best in the world. Open your mind and put all expectations aside, this is not your average museum…

Atherton museum & shop open 7 days* - 69 Main Street Atherton QLD Australia - ph 4091 2365

Open weekdays 9.00 am - 5.00 pm Weekends & public holidays 9.00 am - 4.00 pm info@crystalcaves.com.au • www.crystalcaves.com.au

*Admission fees apply. *Last entry to the museum is 1 hour before closing. * Free all day parking also for large vehicles. *Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day and Good Friday.

Cairns shop open 6 days - 14 Spence Street Cairns QLD Australia - ph 4041 1031 www.athertontablelands.com.au 37

Today, the caves are a natural history adventure museum where visitors don a miner’s helmet complete with headlamp for a fun tour of this fairy-tale cavern. Marvel at the world’s largest amethyst geode, The Empress of Uruguay and the gravity defying attraction, The Magic Spheres. The Fascinating Facets gift shop is also an attraction in itself. It features the largest collection of amethyst geodes in Australia, beautifully displayed under lights to create a glittering showpiece.

CHINATOWN Gold attracted Chinese settlers to North Queensland in the late 1800s and when the gold ran out, many turned to timber cutting and market gardening. The remains of Atherton’s Chinatown are now an archaeological site featuring the community’s fully restored place of worship, the Hou Wang Temple.

ATHERTON’S HISTORY Back in the days of the pioneers, Atherton was a key town along the Mulligan Highway connecting the seaside town of Port Douglas to the newly opened tin deposits at Herberton. The highway passed through the present Main Street of Atherton, which was then known as Prior’s Pocket. Bullock teams hauled supplies up to Herberton and ore back to Port Douglas. The route also opened up the area to logging of magnificent rainforest timbers and Cobb & Co ran a coach service up and over the Great Dividing Range. The road was named after James Venture Mulligan, as was the nearby Mount Mulligan. An adventurer and prospector, Mulligan was responsible for opening most of the North Queensland mining fields. John Atherton was another colourful local. A pioneer grazier and adventurer who lent his name to the town and the region, Atherton first discovered tin while prospecting in 1879, naming the site Tinaroo Creek, now the site of Tinaroo Dam. 38 www.athertontablelands.com.au

The Temple was the social and religious heart of Atherton’s Chinese community. Apart from the temple itself, there was also a community hall, kitchen and pig oven. People gathered here to worship, celebrate festivals and discuss community issues. The Temple is part of a complex featuring a Chinese museum with interactive displays of Atherton’s Chinese heritage and a prized collection of original artefacts and historic photographs of the once bustling precinct.

The Chinatown grounds host regular markets and food festivals.

AGRICULTURE The soils of the Atherton Tablelands are suited to horticulture and around the Atherton area they yield an amazing range of produce. Small to large farming enterprises produce lettuce, strawberries, macadamia nuts, bananas, beans, maize, corn, sugar cane and avocados. Sample these at roadside stalls and take away a memory of the taste of farm fresh produce.

ACCOMMODATION Atherton has always featured as a service centre and a stopover point for travellers. Today, the Trans North transport service provides linkages between Atherton, Kuranda and Cairns all the way to Karumba via Undara. Visitors can enjoy comfortable accommodation at the Atherton Holiday Park or Halloran’s Leisure Park.

DINING OUT The Atherton International Club is open seven days for lunch and dinner and is a great place to enjoy a buffet meal, steak, fish and chips and other Aussie favourites.

WINE, DINE & PLAY ... THE PLACE TO BE!

LUNCH 11.30am - 2pm DINNER 5.30pm - 8pm (Fri 8.30pm)

POKIES | BINGO | POKER | TRIVIA | RAFFLES COLDEST BEER IN TOWN

• LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

LARGEST AIR CONDITION VENUE ON TABLELANDS

KENO

• FOXTEL • FOXSPORTS • KIDS GAMES ROOM GREAT FOOD • GREAT SERVICE OPEN 7 DAYS 10AM TO LATE

Cnr Kennedy Hwy & Nasser Rd ATHERTON

07 4091 4970 | www.athertoninternationalclub.net

OPEN 6 DAYS

Tues to Sat 9.30am to 5pm Sun 9.30am to 1.30pm

Phone: (07) 409 1 4455 • 2 Tolga Road, Atherton

FREECALL: 1800 885 030

www.halloransleisurepark.com

152 Robert Street, Atherton QLD 4883 (Hwy ) Phone/Fax: (07) 4091 4144 Email: holiday@halloransleisurepark.com

10%

UNT DISICGHOTS MIN. 2N

13CTN044

Overlooking Atherton from the base of Hallorans’ Hill Lookout

* Not valid with other discounts. Door rates only.

SALT WATER POOL ❱ KIOSK ❱ BBQ ❱ WiFi INTERNET DRIVE THRU SITES ❱ CAMP KITCHEN ❱ GAS ❱ TOUR BOOKINGS 2 & 3 Bedroom Villas • Spa Villas • All Ensuite • Disabled Villa • All Self Contained • Patios • Reverse Cycle • Air-Conditioning

www.athertontablelands.com.au 39

CASSOWARY COAST The Cassowary Coast region provides a stunning gateway to the Atherton Tablelands with beautiful beaches, offshore islands, rainforest-fringed freshwater streams, majestic mountain ranges and rich seas and agricultural land producing food from fish and shellfish to vegetables, sugar cane, beef and ultratropical fruit. Where better than the Cassowary Coast to see the endangered Southern Cassowary – a two metre tall flightless bird and a key disperser of rainforest seeds? In a quirk of nature, it is the male cassowary that incubates the eggs and raises the chicks.

MISSION BEACH is one of the few places where the Wet Tropics and Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Areas meet. The reef is closer to Mission Beach than places further north and local firms offer reef fishing, snorkeling and diving trips, and sightseeing trips around the Family Islands, including famous Dunk Island. At Mission Beach you can “jump the beach”, taking in a birds-eye view of the reef with a skydive before landing on the sand. Perhaps a rainforest or beachside walk is more your style, or simply relaxing and enjoying a delicious meal at an excellent local eatery. CASSOWARY COAST is Australia’s banana-growing hub and centre of a growing ultra-tropical fruit industry, with mangosteens (the ‘queen of tropical fruit’), lychees, rambutans, guanabana (sour sop) and now cocoa, with a chocolate factory at Mission Beach. It encompasses the larger towns of Innisfail, Tully, Cardwell and Mission Beach.

40 www.athertontablelands.com.au

TULLY is home to the iconic giant ‘golden gumboot’, sugar mill tours during the cane crushing season and white-water rafting. CARDWELL is the stepping off point for Hinchinbrook Island, the largest island national park in the southern hemisphere. It is also home to the Girringun Aboriginal Art Centre, representing artists from nine traditional owner groups.

INNISFAIL, the regional centre, is a pretty town built on the confluence of the North and South Johnstone rivers. In the wake of the 1918 cyclone, the town was rebuilt in the Art Deco style. The town centre is worth a visit, boasting Australia’s largest concentration of Art Deco buildings, with examples of Spanish, Sicilian, Moroccan, Italian and Anglo Saxon Art Deco design facades.

CANECUTTER WAY is a major highlight of this region and is a 52km scenic drive between Kurrimine Beach and Innisfail. Billed as the ‘Greatest Detour in North Queensland’, the scenic drive provides plenty of reasons to leave the Bruce Highway to catch a glimpse of the sweet life in the tropics. Named for the men who laboured hard, cutting the sugar cane by hand with cane knives in the days before mechanised harvesters, the Canecutter Way meanders from the Coral Sea-lapped shores of laidback Kurrimine Beach, past cane land and papaya and banana plantations, through picturesque towns with old country pubs and World Heritage listed rainforest to Innisfail and the southern access to the Atherton Tablelands via the Palmerston Highway.

Paronella Park- The wonderland that was voted the #1 must do in Far North Queensland

Enjoy restaurant quality food and drink at pub prices at the

Mena Creek Hotel

1671 Japoonvale Rd Mena Creek Ph: 07 4065 0000

www.paronellapark.com.au

Extend your experience stay overnight in either Paronella Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cabins or Mena Creek Hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rooms

Corner of Japoonvale Rd & Mena Crk Rd , Mena Creek Ph: 07 4065 3201

www.menacreekhotel.com.au

www.athertontablelands.com.au 41

CASSOWARY COAST TO THE ATHERTON TABLELANDS ATTRACTIONS Kurrimine Beach is famous for King Reef, which is so close to shore that walking tours are offered on the lowest of low tides. It is also popular with fisher folk. A leading attraction nearby is the Berryman family’s Murdering Point Winery, where visitors can enjoy free guided tropical fruit wine tasting and discussion of the bush tucker and locally sourced fruits used to make the medalwinning wine. Quality dry, sweet and fortified wines are produced from fruits such as mango, passionfruit and lychee and bush tucker Lemon Aspen and Davidson Plum. Follow the road to Silkwood, which maintains religious and cultural immigrant links with Italy. The tradition of the Feast of the Three Saints is celebrated on the first Sunday of May, with a parade, feast and fireworks. The town is home to the famous Aussie Pepper and the smallest National Australia Bank building. Mena Creek’s history is flavoured with the romantic story of Jose Paronella, a Spanish immigrant with a dream and a passion for castles and hard work. In the 1930s he opened his pleasure gardens and reception centre, Paronella Park, powering the

venture with hydroelectric generators. Today the dream continues at this restored, intriguing venue. During the day, visitors are charmed by guided tours, including the Tunnel of Love. By night, the park presents a dramatic evening tour. Paronella Park was voted the number one thing to do in the 2009 RACQ poll and has since been recognised as the best major tourism attraction in the region. Camping and cabin accommodation is available. Visitors can also stay locally at the caravan park and camping grounds with its six boutique cabins or at the Mena Creek Hotel, which offers air-conditioned rooms (including family room options). Mena Creek is home to a number of walks, including the Gorrell Track, an easy 3.7km to MacNamee Creek’s lush rainforest and picnic spot. The cane track runs through the centre of South Johnstone so it is a good place to grab a coffee or a beer and experience the sight of the colourful little locomotives hauling cane bins to the local mill during the sugar cane crushing season. Next stop is Wangan where award-winning pies are on offer.

The southern access to the Atherton Tablelands provides a scenic drive along the 55km Palmerston Highway from the coast, through Wooroonooran National Park, to the township of Millaa Millaa at the top of the range. After turning off the Bruce Highway 5km north of Innisfail, the vista opens out on to cattle and cane farm land with breathtaking views of mountain fringed valleys and the southern aspect of Mt Bartle Frere. At 1622m, this is Queensland’s highest mountain. Continue past the Nucifora tea plantation and into the World Heritage rainforest, stopping en route to experience the Mamu Tropical Skywalk, a 350m elevated walkway in the traditional country of the Mamu Aboriginal people. It offers close-up views of rainforest plants, insects and birds high up in the rainforest canopy, along with spectacular panoramic views of the World Heritage area, including North Johnstone River gorge and surrounding rainforest-clad peaks. Interpretive signs tell the story of the rich culture and history of the area and explain the rainforest’s complex web of life. There are numerous camping areas and places to swim in the cool, fresh water of the North Johstone River as you drive through Wooroonooran National Park. Sections of the Palmerston Highway are quite steep so observe the speed limits. Keep an eye out for the overhead “possum ladders”, which allow native animals to cross from rainforest on one side of the wide road to the other without having to come to the ground and risk being hit by vehicles. The endangered Southern Cassowary and even feral pigs (definitely ground-dwellers) have been spotted along this section of highway. From Millaa Millaa continue on the Millaa-Malanda road or take the Old Palmerston Highway tourist drive (not suitable for caravans) to the Kennedy Highway north of Ravenshoe.

42 www.athertontablelands.com.au

N9 S ESGI UAGE D I U IO G LAN AUDERENT DIFF

mamu tropical

Queenslandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s longest elevated walkway, and tallest observation tower offers visitors the exhilarating expereince of being high in the rainforest canopy, along with providing spectacular panoramic views of World Heritage rainforest landscapes. OPEN EVERY DAY

Mamu Tropical Skywalk Palmerston Highway, Innisfail Phone 07 4064 5294 www.mamutropicalskywalk.com.au

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to visit our sister attraction

Just 25 minutes from the Skywalk 1671 Japoonvale Road Mena Creek, Queensland Phone: 07 4065 000

www.athertontablelands.com.au 43

GULF SAVANNAH The Etheridge region to the west of the Atherton Tablelands still echoes with the romance of the famous gold rush days that drew thousands of miners to try their luck at a series of sites from the mid-1860s. Relics of those days can still be found throughout the district and around the settlements of Mount Surprise, Einasleigh, Forsayth and Georgetown. Several goldfields, base metal fields and gem fields still excite fossickers today. The “poor man’s” Etheridge goldfield, so-called because you don’t need expensive equipment, has never been worked out. Modern day prospectors with metal detectors and hand tools find specimens such as coloured topaz, agates, sapphires, smoky quartz and other precious stones and gold nuggets. Visitors to the region will enjoy getting off the beaten track, camping in remote locales by waterholes with giant paperbarks, bird watching, visiting historic ghost towns and simply enjoying the tranquillity amid the region’s wooded savannah grasslands.

MT SURPRISE is the first town encountered within the Gulf Savannah when travelling from the East. This railway town on the old Cairns to Forsayth line is an ideal area to fossick for gemstones, explore the Forty Mile Scrub National Park, cool off at Junction Creek just a few miles west, or

44 www.athertontablelands.com.au

swim in the Einasleigh River, especially in the early part of the year after the storms. Here you can see a wide range of gem stones and learn how faceting is done, join a dig at a local claim with expert guides or explore by yourself with hire equipment, mud map, fossicking licence and advice. The O’Brien’s Creek designated fossicking area, 37km north of Mt Surprise, is a wellknown topaz area and yields gorgeous stones. The Undara lava fields west of Mt Surprise is the toe of the lava flow that originated from the 164 craters of the McBride Plateau. There are basalt tunnels, which run for some 100 miles underground and can be accessed only through the Savannah Guide Post located at the Undara Lava Lodge on the edge of the Undara Volcanic National Park. You can take local day tours or take advantage of the camping and accommodation on offer. Guided tours can be organised either by Undara Experience or Bedrock Village. Walk the path of an ancient volcano during the day then sleep cocooned in an antique railway carriage. Check the Undara Experience website for details of the famous Undara Opera in the Outback and the Undara Outback Rock and Blues events.

az Silver Top

Bring this ad into the Georgetown TerrEstrial Centre to get your FREE Etheridge Tourism Kit

Agate

Blue Topaz

Gold Nugget

Unea rth Etheridge Suggested Itineraries

1. Savannah Way ¬ Undara Lava Tubes ¬ Fossick for Gems at Mt Surprise ¬ Newcastle Ranges ¬ TerrEstrial Centre Georgetown ¬ Cumberland Chimney

Cobbo

ld Gor ge

2. Lava Tubes, Gems and Gorges Trail ¬ Undara Lava Tubes ¬ Fossick for Gems at Mt Surprise ¬ O’Briens Creek ¬ TerrEstrial Centre Georgetown ¬ Flat Creek Station ¬ Cobbold Gorge ¬ Agate Creek Gemfields ¬ 4WD Gilberton Outback Retreat to The Lynd ¬ Alternate route through Forsayth to Copperfield Gorge Einasleigh

Undara Lava Tubes

Coppe

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Picture caption to go here.

orge

3. Fossicking Trail ¬ Gems at Mt Surprise ¬ Topaz at O’Briens Creek ¬ Ted Elliot Gem Collection TerrEstrial Centre ¬ Gold at Flat Creek Station ¬ Agate and Thunder Eggs at Agate Creek Gemfields ¬ Gold at Gilberton Station ¬ Agate Display at Goldfields Hotel Forsayth ¬ Copperfield Gorge Einasleigh ¬ Kidston Gold Mine and Dam

TerrEstrial Centre

4. Cairns to Gulf Savannah – 3 Day ¬ Travel through Tablelands ¬ Innot Hot Springs ¬ Undara Lava Tubes ¬ Fossick for Gems at Mt Surprise ¬ TerrEstrial Centre Georgetown ¬ Cobbold Gorge 5. Townsville to Gulf Savannah – 3 Day ¬ Harvey’s Range Road through Thornton’s Gap ¬ The Lynd Oasis Roadhouse ¬ Copperfield Gorge Einasleigh and Miniature Display at the Hotel

¬ ¬

Forsayth Goldfields Hotel to view the famous Agate Display Cobbold Gorge Via Georgetown and Undara Lava Tubes

6. Hughenden to Georgetown – 3 Gorges Trail ¬ Hughenden to Porcupine Gorge National Park ¬ The Lynd Oasis Roadhouse ¬ Einasleigh to Copperfield Gorge ¬ Agate Display at Goldfields Hotel Forsayth ¬ Cobbold Gorge ¬ TerrEstrial Centre Georgetown Mineral Collection

Events: Easter@Einasleigh 13-16th April Outback Rock & Blues, Undara Experience 21-23rd April Georgetown Rodeo 24-25th June Oak Park Races 7-8th July Forsayth Turnout 5th August Forsayth Tusk & Toad and Horse Sports October Long Weekend Flat Creek Finch Count 30th September – 1st October Opera in the Outback, Undara Experience 5-7th October Einasleigh Horse Sports 9-10th December

Picture caption to go here.

Low Street, Georgetown QLD P: (07) 4062 1485 | E: terrestrialgeorgetown@bigpond.com www.terrestrialgeorgetown.com.au For more information on suggested itineraries visit: www.savannahway.com.au Picture caption to go here.

Picture caption to go here.

www.athertontablelands.com.au 45

FORSAYTH is the terminus of the Savannahlander’s four-day journey from Cairns. It is located within the Etheridge goldfield and adjacent to the Agate Creek Mineral Reserve. Ask the locals about some of the mining relics you can see when you visit. The newly renovated Goldfields Hotel offers meals, accommodation, general store and fuel (diesel and unleaded).

EINASLEIGH is a tiny township originally named Copperfield, which began life after the discovery of copper in 1866. It is on the Savannahlander rail line and sits among some unusual scenery with flat top hills rising out of grasslands. The Einasleigh Hotel is walking distance from the beautiful Copperfield Gorge. The town comes alive at the famous races and rodeo, usually held around Easter.

GEORGETOWN sits west of the Newcastle Range and is the administrative centre for the region and a service centre for local pastoralists and mining operations. Gold was discovered near here in the mid-1860s and a reminder of this is the Cumberland Chimney, 20km west of town. It is all that remains of the gold crushing plant – it processed nearly 66,000 ounces – built by Cornish masons. The adjoining dam is a great place for bird watching, especially in the dry season. The town is home to a motel, hotel and caravan parks. A mustsee in Georgetown is the TerrEstrial Ted

TRAVEL TIP 46 www.athertontablelands.com.au

Elliott Mineral Collection of more than 4500 display specimens. About 90km from Georgetown is the striking Cobbold Gorge, formed through sedimentation of the Hampstead Sandstone 134 million years ago and hewn by nature to leave permanent waterholes beneath spectacular cliffs. Cobbold Gorge forms part of a working cattle property and access to the gorge is by Savannah Guide-led boat trip and tours. Camping, powered sites and cabins, meals and tours are all available through Cobbold Gorge Camping Village. Another outpost in the Etheridge Shire is The Lynd Junction, about 80km from Einasleigh. Accommodation and meals are available at the roadhouse and caravan park, which boasts the Guinness Book of Records’ smallest bar in the world. Fossickers may be interested in the Moonstone Hill Resource Reserve, about 90km south of the Lynd Junction on the Kennedy Development Road. The Etheridge region is an exciting, geological wonderland with history and romance at its core. Remember that any fossicking requires a permit and make sure you know where to dig as mining claims and mining leases are ‘no-go’ areas. When you have had your fill of the excitement and discoveries of the rugged, red Savannah country, head East towards the calming, soft greens of the Atherton Tablelands.

Did you know the Etheridge Region is located just a couple hours drive west from the Atherton Tablelands, making it close enough for a weekend away or a longer relaxing break?

GATEWAYS AND DRIVES Tropical North Queensland has rightfully earned its reputation as one of the most beautiful and diverse localities to visit in the world and finding your way around has never been easier, with some fantastic tried and tested drive routes that all lead to the Atherton Tablelands and beyond.

TOWNS ALONG THE WAY MOUNT MOLLOY Further along the Mulligan Highway, 30 minutes from Mareeba, is the historic mining and timber town of Mount Molloy. It is named after Patrick Molloy who, while searching for stray bullocks, found the copper outcrop, which put the town on the map in the 1890s. Today, this small town has a population of around 300.

HISTORIC SITES Located at the south-east corner of the Mount Molloy cemetery near the mature grevillea tree is the resting place of James (Venture) Mulligan. A very condensed but beautiful biography of his life can be read on his tombstone. Visitors can also visit the old steam engine that was used to supply the power to the local sawmill, which is located at the southern entrance to Mount Molloy.

JULATTEN Tucked away in the rainforest just to the west of the popular coastal town of Port Douglas and just 10 minutes from its neighbour Mount Molloy is Julatten. This small town attracts thousands of birders each year on the lookout for species that include Spectacled Monarch, Pale-Yellow Robin, Lesser Sooty Owl, Red-Necked Crake, Pied Monarch, Yellow-Breasted Boatbill and Orange-Footed Scrubfowl. In summer, the spectacular Buff-Breasted Paradise Kingfisher is another highlight. NATURAL SITES Not far from all three towns is the imposing pyramid-shaped Black Mountain within the Mowbray National Park. This National Park is popular among birdwatchers, with cassowaries known to inhabit the rainforest in this area. The nearby Mount Lewis Forest Reserve is home to some of the most accessible and scenic upland rainforest in the area. It is known as a good spot for birdwatching, where Golden Bowerbirds, Noisy Pittas, Blue-Faced Parrot Finches and Chowchillas can be seen.

COOKTOWN & CAPE YORK The push to the tip of Australia is a must for the intrepid road warrior. Visit amazing Aboriginal rock art and pioneer relics, marvel at nature in the national parks or try your luck sport fishing. Why not stop at Mt Carbine Caravan Park enroute? It is ideally located for further exploration of the Palmer River Gold Fields, Lakeland Downs, the Annan Gorge, the mysterious Black Mountain and historic Cooktown.

CHILLAGOE & THE WHEELBARROW WAY The Wheelbarrow Way encompasses some of the richest and most important history of our national heritage between Mareeba and Chillagoe. Drive through ancient landscapes, with spectacular escarpment formations and be sure not to miss the beautiful limestone caves at Chillagoe. Spend some time in Chillagoe touring the historic copper mines of the Old State Smelters and marvel at ancient indigenous culture at the Chillagoe Museum, housing some of this countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest and most important Aboriginal rock art. Be sure to take a torch for your tour to the Bauhinia and Pompeii Caves.

THE GREAT BARRIER REEF DRIVE Starting in Cairns, the Great Barrier Reef drive takes in 140km of rugged coastline from Ellis Beach to Port Douglas, past Mossman and over the Daintree River before meandering through the World Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest on the way to Cape Tribulation.

MT CARBINE This is another historic town dating back to the 1890s when Wolframite was discovered on Carbine Hill. Mt Carbine Caravan Park is ideally located for the traveller wishing to explore the Palmer River Gold Fields, Lakeland Downs with its vast cropping areas, the Annan Gorge, the Black Mountain National Park, the Mt Mulligan Coal field, the beautiful Daintree Rainforest and historic Cooktown. www.athertontablelands.com.au 47

REGIONAL EVENT HIGHLIGHTS MARCH

APRIL

FEAST OF THE SENSES INNISFAIL March 23-28 The Feast of the Senses is one of the Tropical North’s premier food experiences. It showcases the region’s impressive variety of rare and exotic fruits while also highlighting the enviable range of other produce including meat, seafood, herbs, spices and wine.

MAY

KURANDA EASTER CELEBRATION April 15

TINAROO SAILING CLUB MAY DAY REGATTA April 29-May 1

MT GARNET RACES & RODEO April 28-30

NORMANTON BARRA CLASSIC Easter Weekend April 14-16

UNDARA OUTBACK ROCK & BLUES April 21-23 Undara Experience is set to erupt with the Undara Outback Rock & Blues weekend. With five separate artists and performers over three days, this is a weekend to suit fans of all music genres.

YUNGABURRA TRIATHLON April 22 & 23

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

HISTORIC VILLAGE HERBERTON PIONEER WEEKEND May 13-14 Step back in time as the Historic Village Herberton comes to life for one weekend a year. Watch experts demonstrate blacksmithing, wood chopping, tin panning, small engines, olden days fashions and more. Enjoy great local entertainment and train rides for the family over the two-day event.

ROTARY FNQ FIELD DAY MAREEBA May 24-26

THE GREAT WHEELBARROW RACE May 12-14

DIMBULAH LIONS FESTIVAL May 27-28

BIG WEEKEND CHILLAGOE RODEO May 12-13

OCTOBER

ATHERTON GEM FESTIVAL @ TOLGA August 5

NORTH QLD GOLD PANNING @ MAREEBA 2017 Date TBC

OPERA IN THE OUTBACK UNDARA October 5-7

MAREEBA MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL 2017 Date TBC

VP DAY MEMORIAL SERVICE @ TOLGA August 13

TASTES OF THE TABLELANDS @ ATHERTON October 15

HERBERTON ANNUAL FLOWER SHOW September 2-3 MT CARBINE BULL & BRONC RIDE August 12 There will be plenty of action at this Bull & Bronc Ride. Starting at 5pm until late, with live music, entertainment and more than 10 events to enjoy, spectators will be able to take in the country atmosphere of this popular annual event. Camping is available as well hot food and family fun.

TABLELAND FOLK FESTIVAL @ YUNGABURRA October 26-29

The annual flower show will be held over this weekend showcasing the local plants grown in the area, local school and photography displays and a variety of arts and crafts made by locals.

CROCODILE TROPHY September 16-23

ATHERTON BIKE FESTIVAL September 29 - October 1

No responsibility can be taken for date changes. It is recommended event details are checked directly with organisers.

48 www.athertontablelands.com.au

KURANDA FESTIVAL October 22

TORIMBA FESTIVAL @ RAVENSHOE October 7-21 Celebrate Ravenshoe’s heritage as a former timber town. Torimba fosters community spirit and unites the town and district. Don’t miss the Torimba Mardi Gras parade.

MARKETS

Visit www.athertontablelands.com.au for a comprehensive list of events and markets plus organisers’ details.

Archer Creek

JUNE WEIPA FISHING CLASSIC June 9-11

2ND SUNDAY OF THE MONTH 7am-12noon, Kennedy Hwy.

JULY LAURA RODEO, RACES & HORSESPORTS June 23-25

COOKTOWN DISCOVERY FESTIVAL June 9-11

CHRISTMAS IN JULY @ MAREEBA July 27-30 Grey nomads will be rolling into Mareeba to take part in the town’s 20th annual Christmas in July celebrations. The four-day event, hosted by the Far North Nomads Chapter of the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia is a significant event on the region’s calendar and attracts thousands of visitors from across Australia.

Atherton 1ST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH 7am-12noon, Platypus Park, Herberton Rd. 2ND SUNDAY OF THE MONTH Atherton Show Grounds Lions Park, Louise St.

Herberton 3RD SUNDAY OF THE MONTH 7am-12noon, Wondecla Sports Ground. Kuranda

KURANDA ROOTS FESTIVAL June 19-21 Kuranda Roots will be back in its 13th year in 2017. The festival is part of an exciting Far Northern festival circuit that draws people from interstate, starting at Happy Daze in Mackay, Kuranda Roots, Laura Dance Festival and culminating in Bushweek in Rossville.

NOVEMBER CHRISTMAS CARNIVALE - MAIN STREET ATHERTON 2017 Date TBC

MALANDA SHOW July 7-9 ATHERTON SHOW July 10-11

OAK PARK RACES July 7-8

MAREEBA RODEO FESTIVAL July 1-16 MAREEBA RODEO July 15-16

EVERY DAY Original Markets, 9am-3pm Heritage Markets, 9am-3.30pm.

Koah

1ST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH 8am-1pm.

Innot Hot Springs

3RD SUN OF THE MONTH

Karumba

DECEMBER CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT & XMAS FAIR @ MAREEBA 2017 Date TBC

EVERY SUNDAY (April until 6th September), 7am-12noon.

Malanda

3RD SATURDAY OF THE MONTH 7am-12noon, Malanda Showgrounds.

Mareeba 2ND AND 5TH SATURDAY OF THE MONTH 7am-12noon, Centenary Park. Mt Molloy 1ST SAT OF THE MONTH MarchDecember, 8am-12noon, Fraser Rd. Speewah

EVERY SUNDAY 8am-1pm.

NEW YEAR’S EVE HERBERTON STREET PARTY December 31

TINAROO BARRA BASH November 3 – 5

The night will be packed with activities including face painting, hat making and lots of family games. Food stalls available as well as local outlets offering yummy meals and treats. There will be a best dressed business competition and best fancy dress costume. From 6.30pm-1am.

Tolga 1ST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH 7am-12noon, Morrow Park Racecourse. Tumoulin

4TH SUNDAY OF THE MONTH, 7am-12.30pm, Tumoulin, Ravenshoe.

Yungaburra

4TH SATURDAY OF THE MONTH 7.30am-12.30pm, Bruce Jones Park. www.athertontablelands.com.au 49

Easy Reference Guide ACCOMMODATION

PAGE

Atherton

Atherton Halloran’s Leisure Park Atherton Holiday Park

www.halloransleisurepark.com www.athertonholidaypark.com

1800 88 50 30 07 4091 1099

39 37

Forsayth

Cobbold Village

www.cobboldgorge.com.au

07 4062 5470

Lake Tinaroo

Lake Tinaroo Holiday Park Tinaroo Lake Resort

www.LTHP.com.au www.tinarooresort.com.au

07 4095 8232 07 4095 8912

35 35

Malanda

The Canopy Treehouses and Wildlife Sanctuary

www.canopytreehouses.com.au

07 4096 5364

Mareeba

Jackaroo Motel

www.jackaroomotel.com

07 4092 2677

Mt Carbine

Mt Carbine Caravan Park

www.mtcarbine.com

07 4094 3160

The Savannah Way

Cobbold Village

www.cobboldgorge.com.au

07 4062 5470

Yungaburra

Allumbah Pocket Cottages Birds ‘n’ Bloom Cottages Blue Summit Hideaway Chambers Wildlife Rainforest Lodges Curtain Fig Motel Kulara Views Retreat Mt Quincan Crater Retreat

www.allumbahpocketcottages.com.au www.bnbcottages.com www.yungaburraaccommodation.com.au www.chamberslodges.com.au www.curtainfig.com www.facebook.com/Kularaviewsretreat www.mtquincan.com.au

07 4095 3023 0) 4095 2218 07 4095 2218 07 4095 3754 07 4095 3168 0418 151 288 07 4095 2255

33 32 32 34 33 33 33

Atherton

Atherton Antiques & Australiana Atherton Chinatown & Hou Wang Temple Tableland Regional Gallery The Bat Hospital Visitor Centre The Crystal Caves

platypus@tablelands.net.au www.houwang.org.au www.tablelandgallery.trc.qld.gov.au www.tolgabathospital.org www.crystalcaves.com.au

07 4091 4455 07 4091 6945 07 4091 5261 07 4091 2683 07 4091 2365

39 37 37 37 37

Cairns

Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures

www.crocodileadventures.com

07 4055 3576

Cassowary Coast

Mamu Tropical Skywalk Murdering Point Winery Paronella Park

www.mamutropicalskywalk.com.au www.murderingpointwinery.com.au www.paronellapark.com.au

07 4064 5294 07 4065 2327 07 4065 0000

43 43 41

ATTRACTIONS

Chillagoe

Chillagoe Caves

www.nationalparks.queensland.com

07 4222 5251

Herberton

Historic Village Herberton Spy & Camera Museum

www.herbertonhistoricvillage.com.au www.spycameramuseum.com.au

07 4096 2002 07 4096 2092

5 31

Kuranda

Birdworld Kuranda Kuranda Koala Gardens Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

www.birdworldkuranda.com www.koalagardens.com www.skyrail.com.au

07 4093 9188 07 4093 9953 07 4038 5555

17 17 15

Mareeba

Coffee Works www.coffeeworks.com.au Golden Drop Winery www.goldendrop.com.au Mareeba Heritage Museum & Tourist Information Centre www.mareebaheritagecentre.com.au

07 4092 4101 07 4093 2750 07 4092 5674

7 19 19

Millaa Millaa

Mungalli Creek Dairy & Organic Café www.mungallicreekdairy.com.au Rainforest Heart - Australian Tropical Bushfood Orchard www.rainforestheart.com.au

07 4097 2232 07 4097 2359

31 31

Mossman

Sweet Farm Tours, Sugar & Cocoa Experience

www.sweetfarmtours.com

07 4098 8134

The Savannah Way

Cobbold Gorge Tours TerrEstrial Centre Undara Experience

www.cobboldgorge.com.au www.terrestrialgeorgetown.com.au www.undara.com.au

07 4062 5470 07 4062 1485 1800 990 992

11 45 11

Tolga & Walkamin

Rainforest Gems Tolga Woodworks Gallery & Café Mt Uncle Distillery

www.rainforestgems.com.au www.tolgawoodworks.com.au www.mtuncle.com

07 4095 5223 07 4095 4488 07 4086 8008

23 23 23

Atherton

Atherton International Club

www.athertoninternationalclub.net

07 4091 4970

Kuranda

Kuranda Hotel

www.kurandahotel.com.au

07 4093 7206

Mareeba

Coffee Works Skybury Cafe & Roastery

www.coffeeworks.com.au www.skybury.com.au

07 4092 4101 07 4093 2190

7 9

Yungaburra

Nick’s Swiss Italian Restaurant

www.nicksrestaurant.com.au

07 4095 3330

Billy Tea Safaris Food Trail Tours

www.billytea.com.au www.foodtrailtours.com.au

07 4032 0077 07 4041 1522

13 13

www.avis.com.au www.transnorthbus.com.au

136 333 07 4095 8644

17 13

RESTAURANTS/CAFES

TOURS & TRANSPORT Tours

Avis Rent A Car Trans North Coach Services 50 www.athertontablelands.com.au Coaches, Self-drive and Hire Car

Visitor Information Centres

On-line or On-the-road

can help you!

Call

Click

Come in

ATHERTON TABLELANDS INFORMATION CENTRE

HERBERTON MINING MUSEUM & INFORMATION CENTRE

KURANDA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

MALANDA FALLS VISITOR CENTRE

Centrally located in the heart of the Tablelands region. OPEN DAILY: 9am to 5pm Cnr Main St & Silo Rd, Atherton Ph: 1300 366 361 athinfocentre@trc.qld.gov.au www.iTablelands.com.au

Immerse yourself in the history of the oldest town on the Tablelands. Try panning for tin! OPEN DAILY: 9am to 4pm 1 Jack’s Road, Herberton Ph: 07 4096 3474 info@herbertonvisitorcentre.com.au www.herbertonvisitorcentre.com.au

Located in the heart of the unique rainforest village. OPEN DAILY: 10am to 4pm Therwine St, Kuranda Ph: 07 4093 9311 info@kuranda.org www.kuranda.org

Learn about the unusual wildlife of the Tablelands OPEN DAILY: 9am to 4.30pm 132 Atherton–Malanda Rd, Malanda Ph: 07 4096 6957 info@malandafalls.com www.malandafalls.com

Lat 17° 05’ • Long 145° 28’

Lat 17° 23’ • Long 145° 23’

Lat 16° 49’ • Long 145° 38’

Lat 17° 35’ • Long 145° 58’

MAREEBA HERITAGE MUSEUM & VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

RAVENSHOE VISITOR CENTRE

YUNGABURRA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

FREE ENTRY: Interactive heritage displays for all the family. OPEN DAILY: 9am to 5pm 345 Byrnes St, Mareeba Ph: 07 4092 5674 info@mareebaheritagecentre.com.au www.mareebaheritagecentre.com.au

Discover pioneering history & the rich heritage of the Jirrbal people. OPEN DAILY: 9am to 4pm. 24 Moore Street, Ravenshoe Ph: 07 4097 7700 ravenshoevc@trc.qld.gov.au www.ravenshoevisitorcentre.com.au

Explore the village walks and the Afghanistan Avenue of Honour. OPEN DAILY: 9am - 5pm, Sun 10am - 4pm Maud Kehoe Place, Yungaburra Ph: 07 4095 2416 yungaburravic@gmail.com www.yungaburra.com

VISITOR INFORMATION ALSO AVAILABLE AT CHILLAGOE MT GARNET & MILLAA MILLAA

Lat 17° 03’ • Long 145° 25’

Lat 17° 61’ • Long 145° 48’

Lat 17° 16’ • Long 145° 36’

would love to see you!

www.athertontablelands.com.au 51

Visit the Empress of Uruguay in Atherton! Stand in awe of the most spectacular discovery out of Uruguayâ&#x20AC;Ś standing 3.5 meters tall and weighing 2.7 tonnes. You are encouraged to touch and photograph this magnificent natural creation. It is truly an experience to take your breath away. One of more than 600 specimens on display in The Crystal Caves.

Atherton museum and shop open 7 days* - 69 Main Street Atherton - phone 4091 2365 Cairns shop open 6 days - 14 Spence Street Cairns - phone 4041 1031 * check www.crystalcaves.com.au for opening hours and admission fees 52 www.athertontablelands.com.au