Four decades of driving tourism

POPULAR local coach service Tropic Wings is celebrating 40 years of promoting sustainable tourism throughout the Tablelands and Cairns regions.

Over the past four decades, Tropic Wings has grown from two small coach companies started by CaPTA group founders Charles and Pip Woodward to a “thriving business” with a fleet of coaches and a team of tour guides.

It started with the mission by the couple to “get tourists to Kuranda (Rainforestation) on a Sunday even if we have to buy a coach company to do it”, which was so successful, they began charters across the Tablelands and to Cape Tribulation.

Tropic Wings general manager Colin Anderson said the important milestone was testament to the dedication and hard work of their team and the support of the community.

“We are proud to have played a part in the growth of tourism in Tropical North Queensland, and we remain committed to the local community and responsible tourism,” he said.

“Tropic Wings aims to achieve carbon neutrality, having also set an example in sustainable transportation by being the first Queensland business to introduce a 100 per cent electric bus for commercial use back in October 2019.

“As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we are more committed than ever to promoting sustainable tourism to ensure that future generations can enjoy the beauty and diversity of Tropical North Queensland.”

Local flavour key to new liqueur

FROM a wildlife sanctuary to a distillery, Rainforestation in Kuranda has expanded to new heights after officially launching their “Mountain Grove” liqueur.

Named after the orchard that was situated at Rainforestation before it became a nature park Mountain Grove distillery uses locally sourced fruits and spices to create an authentically “Kuranda” taste.

Flavours on offer so far include Passionfruit and Pepperberry, Mango and Chilli, Pineapple and Cinnamon, and Lemon-Myrtle-Cello, but the intention is to quickly expand the range to over 10 options with some of the region’s unique bush tucker flavours included.

CaPTA director of sales and marketing Ben Woodward said feedback from those who have had an early taste say it is going to be another winner for the region and for Rainforestation.

“Our region is blessed with beautifully fla-