Tropical North Region Guides Attractions Events in Queensland

Agincourt Reef, off Port Douglas on the Great Barrier Reef, is a series of many smaller reefs with at least 16 different dive sites. The Channels offer interesting swim-throughs and caves, while The Gardens are renowned for their exceptional abundance of brightly coloured reef fish. Blue Wonder is a breath-taking wall dive to beyond 40m while Nursery Bommie is a spectacular pinnacle where pelagic fish gather to feed.

Enjoy an intimate wildlife experience in a natural setting at the Atherton Birds of Prey Show. Get up close to some of Australia’s awesome aerial predators, including eagles, owls and falcons. See them flying free, where the sky’s the limit! This interactive presentation allows visitors to be a part of the show, not just a part of the audience.

Meet some other fascinating Australian animals after the show, such as Macca the Spotted-tail Quoll and Bob the Estuarine Crocodile. Plus, you can experience the thrill of holding Australia’s largest bird of prey, the magnificent wedge-tailed eagle after the show. (additional cost).

One-on-one bird of prey encounters are also available (bookings are essential). Please see the website for more information.

The Atherton Birds of Prey Show is situated on the historic National Trust grounds of the Atherton Chinatown and Hou Wang Chinese Temple and is an experience the whole family can enjoy.

Australian and Oceanic Art Gallery has a diverse and comprehensive range of contemporary and traditional artwork, including paintings, sculpture, glassware, artifacts and jewellery. Australian and Oceanic Art supports and exhibits work from Aboriginal Communities including Lockhart River, Mornington Island, Torres Strait and Western Desert. They feature Lockhart River Artists, Rosella Namok, Samantha Hobson, Fiona Omeenyo and Silas Hobson and Torres Strait Artist Dennis Nona (winner 2007 Telstra National Aboriginal and Islander Art Awards).

The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary is home to some 2,000 tropical butterflies. The screened rainforest environment is designed with the needs in mind of it's rainforest inhabitants, with special attention given to the requirements of the electric blue Ulysses and Australia's largest butterfly, the multi coloured birdwing. The sanctuary breeds all butterflies exhibited on the premises, and informative optional half hour guided tours run on request at no extra charge. As the butterflies are quite friendly, they will readily land, especially if you are wearing bright reds, pinks or white.

The Australian Muster Experience celebrates the spirit of wild outback Australia stretched out before you, and the courage and determination of the men and women who carve their lives from the bush. Views to Port Douglas (35 minutes drive south) and the stunning backdrop of the Daintree rainforest greet arrivals to this beautiful cattle station.

Join Nipper and the team on their rambling escapades as they bring to you an authentic representation of a working cattle station, punctuated by whip-cracking humour, bulls and bulldust! Thundering hooves, dog whistles and cracking whips echo through the valley as wild brumbies and herds of cattle are mustered in for the action packed show. Real stockmen and women riding stunt horses with dogs, quad bikes and a bull catcher. The thrilling show is accompanied by a delicious barbecue lunch, live music and lively bush tales. Night shows also include a free mechanical bull ride for you to test your buckin’ skills and a foot-stomping show by the AME band. On your way out, drop into the outback souvenir shop and buy yourself a corrugated iron beer cooler or muster tee-shirt!

Group Sole Use enquiries are welcome. Extra entertainment options available on request.

Opened in 1977 the Australian Sugar Industry Museum is a modern complex covering some 14,000 square. The Museum's collection comprises of contemporary and historical photographs, books, documents, domestic objects and artefacts related to Australia's sugar industry. Historic tractors, locomotives, harvesters, implements and a working model of a 500 horse power driven crushing engine are on permanent display.

Many static displays depict the history of the sugar industry, including South Sea Islander involvement, a Cane Barrack Kitchen, Stables and a Blacksmith Shop.

The professionally equipped 50 seat theatre features an audio visual presentation that describes the history, growing, harvesting, milling and refining of sugar in Australia.

General, Education and Special Interest Group tours are given on request with at least one weeks notice.

Barnard Island Group National Park comprises seven islands with a fascinating geological history. The diverse landforms include shallow reefs and rainforest-clad slopes. The southern islands are important seabird-nesting areas. Sightings of the endangered little tern and vulnerable beach stone-curlew have been recorded here. Camp on Stephens or Kent islands, or visit for the day to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of these undisturbed places. Join an organised sea-kayaking tour and enjoy relatively calm conditions close to the mainland. Look for bridled terns, white-faced herons and other seabird species. Fishing restrictions apply.

There are several modes of transport through Barron Gorge National Park, including the historic Kuranda train and the Skyrail cableway. They provide spectacular views of the Gorge and the Barron River far below.

At the top of the gorge near Kuranda are the Barron Falls (Din Din). The Barron Falls (Din Din) Lookout Track begins with an elevated boardwalk traversing the rainforest just below the canopy. It then winds its way down the hill past several lookout points and rest stops to the lookout area which also acts as a railway platform.

The walk is well maintained, accessible to all, and is a wonderful way to view these huge falls. In the rainy season, you may be enveloped by a cloud of mist from the falls.

Informative displays describing the area's Aboriginal and European cultural heritage are located at the beginning and end of the walk.

Barron Gorge National Park has great cultural and historical significance, with dramatic scenery and World Heritage-listed rainforest. The local Aboriginal people developed trails through the area, which later became the first pack routes used by Europeans to link the hinterland goldfields to the coast. Today, you can walk the same trails for pleasure! Walk to a lookout to view Barron Falls (spectacular after good rainfall). Take the Skyrail cableway for views over the forest canopy and out to the coast. Jump aboard the famous Kuranda railway as it winds past ravines and picturesque waterfalls. Explore the rainforest along the walking tracks from Speewah or Kamerunga. Join a white-water rafting tour for an up-close experience of the river.

Towering above the fertile coastal plain 70 kilometres south of Cairns in Wooroonooran National Park are the highest mountains in Queensland, Bartle Frere (1622 metres) and its neighbour Bellenden Ker (1593 metres).

More than 8 metres of rain falls on the summit of Bellenden Ker each year and it has recorded 1140mm of rain in 24 hours - one of the highest rainfall intensities in the world.

The track heads through dense rainforest towards Bobbin Bobbin Falls, a good place for water supply. Past the falls, the steep ascent begins and elaborate root systems criss cross the path. As the altitude increases, the vegetation thins out. There are spectacular views as you reach open rocky outcrops past the northwest peak and the track gradient evens out. There is a small descent before coming to the West Campsite. The south peak and eastern campsite are further on across heathlands boulders.

Towering above the fertile coastal plain within the Wooroonooran National Park, 70 kilometres south of Cairns are the highest mountains in Queensland, Bartle Frere (1622 metres) and its neighbour Bellenden Ker (1593 metres).

The track begins at the Josephine Falls carpark close to the ranger's office. The beginning of the track is wide and clear through a tropical rainforest. It takes approximately one hour to reach Majuba Creek. This is a nice place to take a break, sit beside crystal clear mountain pools and towering boulders.

Follow a narrow ridge towards the first of the two campsites known as Big Rock. Majuba Creek intersects the path one more time before a set of steep scrambles through boulder fields and over root ladders. After this steep climb, you pass the second and upper campsite. From the summit you can return to Josephine Falls or continue on to the west.

Batreach, located in Kuranda, is a bat and wildlife care centre, focusing on flying foxes. Pam Tully, creator of the centre, began looking after flying foxes around 1990 in the suburb of Edge Hill in Cairns. She then started a bat and wildlife rescue and care centre at Zillie Falls near Milla Milla on the Atherton tablelands. She later relocated to Kuranda at the top of the range overlooking Cairns. In 1999, after noticing that people walking past seemed horrified at the flying foxes in the recovery cages, making comments like "look at those ghastly creatures”, she decided that the public needed educating and got the necessary permits to open the centre up to the public and the result is Batreach.

Located in the protected Beaver Cay Marine Sanctuary off Mission Beach, Beaver Reef is an unspoiled fringing reef surrounding a sandy cay and offers a range of dive sites. Abundant soft corals and large gorgonian sea fans, lots of giant clams, helmet shells and bailer shells. Green and Hawksbill turtles are regularly sighted, large cod, big schools of spangled emperors, fusiliers, Whitetip reef sharks, barracuda and trevally. Manta Rays occur in winter. There is good snorkelling from the cay or Boat.

Bicton Hill is part of the Clump Mountain National Park. The walk has a fairly easy grade as it winds up the hill and forms a loop track apart from the first half a kilometre.

On the way up there are a few places along the way where you can see out past the rainforest to the coastal views below. Keep your eyes open for wildlife and rare palms and cycads.

The summit was once used by locals to spot ships and offers superb views out to sea and the various islands nearby

Home to the largest single collection of free flying birds in Australia (some 500 of them!), Birdworld Kuranda displays no less than 75 species of the most spectacular birds from all corners of the planet - as well as from the earth's fast diminishing rainforests. Visitors are free to wander through the lush, tropically landscaped aviary to observe the birds in their own specific - yet natural - habitats. Two lakes connected by a tumbling waterfall for example are home to waterbirds such as stilts, herons and Australia's own unique Black Swan.

In the rainforest canopy overhead, blue, gold and scarlet Macaws dazzle with colourful brilliance as they soar above the treetops. One outstanding Birdworld denizen not to be missed is that rare avian giant, the Cassowary - now officially enlisted as endangered. Designed to 'create a centre where birds would be showcased in their natural environment without the barriers of cages coming between them and their admiring public', Birdworld is a photographers paradise. (And without those barriers, visitors often find a feathered friend nestling on their shoulder - a golden photo opportunity!)

Birdworld can provide guided tours for all group bookings.

Black Mountain National Park protects an imposing mountain range of massive black granite boulders at the northern end of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. This intriguing landscape is the source of many legends and is home to some unique wildlife. One frog species and two lizard species are found here and nowhere else. Godman’s rock-wallabies and ghost bats (vulnerable to extinction) also live here. Read the signs at the carpark to learn about local history and wildlife. From the viewing platform, use your binoculars to look for the surprisingly large fig trees growing among the boulders on the distant mountain. Note the natural light colour of the rock on freshly broken boulders, prior to it being blackened by algae.

Blencoe Falls, Girrungun National Park offers breathtakingly beautiful landscapes. Blencoe Falls tumbles 90 metrea into a rocky pool, before cascading a further 230 metres to the hoop pine-studded valley below. Eventually, the water flows into the Herbert River, which winds through a gorge framed by towering cliffs more than 100 metres high. Take the five kilometre Jabali walk through open eucalypt forest to Blencoe Falls lookout. Look for emus and the elegant whiptail wallaby. Listen for kookaburras or sulphur-crested cockatoos. Experienced bushwalkers can enjoy a four to six day hike through the Herbert River Gorge, part of the Wet Tropics Great!Walk.

The adventurous Blue Arrow track loops through the Mt Whitfield Conservation Park. It is a continuation of the Red Arrow walk and branches off near the top of the hill.

Mt Whitfield and Mt Lumley are over 300 metres above sea level and offer spectacular lookouts over Cairns and surrounding areas. Along the walk you will traverse virgin rainforest, open woodlands and creek crossings and are likely to see agile wallabies and other wildlife.

Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park is one of Queensland’s most scenic national parks, featuring spectacular gorge country, sandstone ranges and significant fossils. The Waanyi Aboriginal people have strong cultural ties with the park, while pastoralists of European descent have recent historical connections. Visit the World Heritage-listed Riversleigh fossil site. Numerous freshwater springs feed Lawn Hill Creek.

Camp beside the creek and canoe its cool reaches. Attractive purple-crowned fairy-wrens may be seen along the creek edge. Enjoy one of the many walks that vary in length, difficulty and landscape. Cross the bridge and walk to the Wild Dog Dreaming Aboriginal art shelters. Continue on to the lower gorge where freshwater crocodiles are often spotted basking in the sun. (They can become aggressive if disturbed. Take care if swimming.)

Dining at C'est Bon French Restaurant is a truly unforgettable dining experience. Join Junelle and the team with Chef Samuel Daquin from Lille in France to savour the mouth watering delights from original classic French dishes. Samuels culinary talents emerge each week with some amazing specials of the week. C'est Bon is the only true classical French restaurant in Cairns, situated just five minutes from the Convention Centre and located just behind the Cairns International Hotel and the Reef Hotel Casino, at the entrance to Village Lane in Lake Street C'est Bon serves A La Carte and special two course or three course business lunches, and A La Carte and special Prix Fixe three course dinners. Book now for an unforgettable dining experience! Join them for dinner on Tuesday and Wednesday night and receive a glass of complimentary glass of wine on arrival.

Cable Ski Cairns offers a unique watersport experience for young and old. A man made freshwater lake offers wakeboarding, kneeboarding, and waterskiing for beginners through to advanced riders. An open view terrace with chairs and tables, and a kiosk where you can purchase food, soft drinks or even a beer, invite you to relax and let the day go by.

A beach with umbrellas, a barbecue area and a small swimming lagoon for their youngest visitors contribute to the inviting atmosphere. Stay for an hour or the whole day - you'll love it!

Located at the bottom of the Kuranda Range, situated next to Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and Tjapukai Aboriginal Park, Cable Ski Cairns is easily accessible by car or local transport. The cable park is on the main route to the Northern Beaches and Port Douglas.

Cable Ski Cairns - "Anyone can do it - Everybody is doing it".

Cairns Central Shopping Centre is located in Cairns Central Business District, is open seven days and has over 180 specialty stores, plus Myer, Target, two supermarkets, six screen Cinema complex and an International Food Court. Services such as: banking, hair and beauty, medical centre, dentist, chiropractor, tour desk, Internet access and Post Office.

The Centre is the destination for fashion in North Queensland and boasts a fabulous range of stores with brands such as: Country Road, Jag, Portmans, Sportsgirl, Universal Store, Fossil, L’occitane, I Nouvi, Esprit, Forever New plus many more.

If you’re hungry, why not pop into the Sushi Train for a taste of Japanese, or perhaps authentic Italian at Tosca’s is your style, or grab a coffee and a bite to eat at one of the centre’s many café’s. The food court is handy for a quick meal with over 15 food outlets to choose from including: Sumo Salad, Noodle Box, McDonalds, Hungry Jacks, KFC and Subway.

The Centre is serviced seven days by local bus and taxi connections.

The Cairns Night Zoo - A great Aussie night out! Come and see what the Aussies get up to after dark! This excellent evening activity operates every Monday to Thursday and Saturday night from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Included in the evening you will enjoy a delicious barbecue of steak, chicken, fish, salads, prawns, dessert plus beer and wine.

The guided spotlighting tour is a great experience! Meet some of Australia's favourite animals - at their place. During the tour they enjoy billy tea and damper round the campfire with their authentic 'Swaggie' and their tame kangaroos. Back at the entertainment area exchange the spotlight for a cold beer or wine (or two) and join in with their bush musician. Enjoy some tasty supper, more beverages and then learn some great Aussie folk songs and dance with the 'zoo folk'. Guaranteed great fun.

Transfers are available from Cairns, Beaches and Port Douglas. Numbers are limited so pre booking is absolutely essential. A great night out for individuals, small or large groups of every nationality.

Cairns Regional Gallery is Far North Queensland's only visual art museum and in 2005 it celebrates it's 10th Birthday: a decade of documenting and presenting history, heritage and contemporary culture of this vast and distinctive region of Australia and the world through the visual arts, craft and design.

Houses in a refurbished heritage building in central Cairns, the gallery incorporates four individual exhibition spaces inside the building, showcasing an average of 30 exhibitions per year, and featuring the work of National and International artists, with a strong focus on local and indigenous works of art.

The Gallery is also accompanied by a stylish gift shop and cafe. The Gallery Shop has a wide range of functional, artistic, local and designer gifts at a variety of prices, the Gallery Shop can make finding that perfect gift an enjoyable journey.

Located at the front of the Gallery is the highly acclaimed cafe, Perrotta's. Discover the tantalising flavours, superb beverages and excellent service the local food critics rave about, it is the perfect way to conclude and relax after your visit to the Gallery.

Exhibitions change every four to eight weeks ensuring there will be something new to see every time you visit, with displays ranging from paintings, to sculpture, installations, photography and prints. A stimulating program of workshops, lectures and special events are held regularly to compliment these exhibitions.

Cairns Regional Gallery is a limited liability and non-profit organisation, and is controlled and funded entity of Cairns City Council.

It is the dynamic combination of the region's cultural diversity, tourism and the distance from Australia's capital cities that sets Cairns, and the Cairns Regional Gallery, apart from other regional arts centres.

The award winning Cairns Tropical Zoo, on the Captain Cook Highway at Palm Cove - 20 minutes north of Cairns is six hectares of tropically landscaped zoo featuring a natural habitat displaying Australia's unique animals - plus some international tropical animals.

You have the opportunity to 'Cuddle a Koala' (extra cost applies and includes a top quality souvenir digital photograph). This is a great place to pat a crocodile, meet a dingo, stroke a snake, scratch a wombat, hand feed colourful parrots and meet rainforest birds, waterbirds and cassowaries. Hand feed a multitude of macropods (kangaroos and wallabies) plus visit one of Australia's best reptile displays.

The daily program, all included in your admission, comprises entertaining and educational presentations. Enjoy the only Snake Show that features the world's most toxic terrestrial snake; be amazed at the keeper 'hand feeding' giant saltwater crocodiles - a show described by many visitors as 'the best ever'! See Queensland's first Free Flight Bird Show featuring 'Thala' the sea eagle. Meet the only Red Pandas in Queensland and learn about them and
other endangered species during the fascinating presentation.

The Cairns Wildlife Dome is a spectacular all weather wildlife exhibit encased by a 20-metre high glass dome on the rooftop of the Sofitel Reef Casino Cairns. More than 60 species of magnificent rainforest animals and birds wander and fly freely throughout the enclosure, replicating their natural environment.

Discover the secrets of the rainforest and enjoy informative presentations; Reptile Rap, Bird Show, Mammal Show and Dusk Creatures Show, and guided feeding tours. Meet Goliath the four-metre Estuarine Crocodile. Exceptional viewing of the world's largest reptile in North Queensland's first underwater viewing enclosure.

Digital photos while cuddling a koala are available at designated times throughout the day (optional cost). Learn more about koalas, bandicoots, sugargliders and possums at the Mammal Show.

Marvel at the array of colourful rainforest birds, cheeky cockatoos and parrots in free flight at the spectacular Bird Show. Learn about lizards, snakes, turtles and crocodiles at the Reptile Rap, followed by an opportunity to have your photo taken holding one of these reptiles (optional extra).

The Rainforest Wildlife School program promotes an appreciation and understanding of the unique Wet Tropics Rainforests through observation and interaction with wildlife in a natural environment.

The Cairns Wildlife Safari Reserve is set on 200 acres of open bush land, 40 kilometres west of Cairns. It is home to many of the world's exotic and endangered animals. They have the largest pride of lions in Australasia with 25 in total on the property. They also have Common Hippopotamus, Pigmy Hippopotamus, White Rhinoceros, Syrian Brown Bears, Sumatran Tigers, Bengal Tigers, Cheetahs, Servals, Otters, Ostriches, Deer, Dingoes, Reptiles and many species of Monkeys and lots of Native birds.

As well as daytime visits to the Reserve; they also offer two different dining experiences.

Breakfast with Beasts and Dine on the Edge - dine on the edge is an exciting experience which operates Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights, the venue is inside the Lion enclosure. An African Inspired Menu, Chef assisted buffet style meal. Licensed bar available.

Breakfast with Beasts operates seven days a week except Christmas Day from 0730 to 1100 daily. Smorgasbord buffet style breakfast, fruit, cereals, pastries, bacon, eggs, sausages, tomatoes, mushrooms, toast, juices, tea and coffee. This all happens at the venue inside the lion ensure where 19 lions live. The venue is fully fenced; a keeper gives a talk, as the lions are encouraged to join you whilst you enjoy your breakfast.

Cape Melville National Park combines massive granite boulders of the Melville Range with sandstone escarpments of the Altanmoui Range and inland dunefields. These features form part of a living, Aboriginal cultural landscape. Bush camp at Bathurst Bay behind the beach. Drive to Jones Gap for impressive views to Altanmoui Range and south to the Howick River. Look for pied imperial-pigeons and Papuan frogmouths.

Cape Trib Exotic Fruit Farm presents a delicious way to sample unusual exotic tropical fruits. Join an Eco-certified exotic fruit tasting and orchard tour at Cape Tribulation, in the heart of the Daintree Rainforest. This is a unique opportunity to taste a menu of ten rare tropical fruit; to learn how to prepare and eat the different fruit; and then walk through the orchard which has more than 2,000 fruit trees from the Amazon, Borneo and the Caribbean.

Exotic tropical fruits look and taste very different to apples and oranges - some are hairy, others have bumps or sharp spikes. Often the most unusual fruit turns out to be the most delicious with quirky names like 'chocolate pudding fruit', 'lemon meringue pie fruit' and 'creme caramel'.

Here is an ideal opportunity while travelling in tropical north Queensland to be adventurous and taste new flavours from tropical fruit that will never be seen in the capital cities - fruit such as abiu, black sapote, breadfruit, carambola, canistel, chempadek, durian, grumichama, and jaboticaba.

The orchard has recently been certified as organic.

At Cape Tribulation, Daintree National Park, you can experience two of Australia's most significant World Heritage sites - the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics - where they meet! A stop at Alexandra Range lookout provides a view of the lush green coastline sweeping down to the ocean's inviting blue water. Explore tropical lowland rainforest, swamps, mangroves and beaches on walks ranging from 400 metres to 1.2 kilometres. From interpretive signs, learn about life in this spectacular environment. Look for the endangered southern cassowary. Join a sea kayaking tour. The campground at Noah Beach makes a good base (bookings essential).

Carrowong Sanctuary is a 90 acre pristine property completely surrounded by World Heritage listed rainforest. This unlogged rainforest gives guests a unique experience to enjoy walking through a pristine area unspoilt by outside interference. They have no cages or fences, and rainforest life is free to roam.

Endangered, rare and vulnerable species here include the southern cassowary, musky rat kangaroo, red legged pademelon, northern platypus, pogonomys, antechinus, hydromys, green, striped and pygmy possums and much more. Around 130 bird species exist here together with 15 notable reptiles. Flora of course is unique with species like Macintyres Boxwood, Licuala Palms, Plalcospermum and so on.

Roads and walking tracks throughout the sanctuary have been constructed in such a way as to limit the removal of any old growth forest and fan palms, to avoid both soil erosion and impeded drainage. Their power is generated from the sun and only eco-sensitive composting toilets are used.

Their original wildlife tours continue to lead the way in rainforest eco-tourism. Carrowong's Wildlife Mountain Safari concentrates on the rare and endangered mammals of the night and A Night in the Rainforest, their nocturnal spotlighting walk, reveals the great bio-diversity of these ancient rainforests. Over 90 per cent of Australian wildlife is nocturnal, so the best time to view the native inhabitants in their natural environment is at night.

All tours are led by local wildlife specialists. A very different experience compared to the mass tour market. Their tours tend to transform guests into strong advocates for environmental protection.

Carrowong Fauna Sanctuary is privately funded, locally owned and dedicated to the rehabilitation and conservation of native rainforest wildlife. They know the rainforest, it's where they live and their original wildlife tours continue to lead the way in rainforest eco-tourism. All tours are led by local wildlife specialists.

The Cathedral Fig Tree, like the Curtain Fig Tree, is a gigantic 500 year old strangler tree. Located in the Danbulla State Forest, the Cathedral Fig has the reputation of being the best place to hear an early morning bird 'singing' in the Atherton Tablelands. Circumnavigate the base of the tree and giant buttress roots on the easily accessible boardwalk.

Dense tropical rainforest grows in Cedar Bay National Park, a remote coastal park south of Cooktown in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Sandy beaches and fringing reefs are backed by rainforest. Tulip oaks, Daintree pendas, tall rainforest cycads, fan palms and milky pines grow in the rainforest. Much has never been logged or disturbed. Windswept vegetation covers exposed hillsides.

Cedar Bay is home to a wonderful variety of wildlife including the vulnerable Southern Cassowary and rare Bennett's Tree-Kangaroo. The adjacent waters are protected in marine parks. This is the traditional land of the Kuku Yalanji people whose country extends along the coast to Mossman. The return trail to Cedar Bay leads through rough undulating country.

Along the way see large rainforest trees, tree ferns, and granite boulders. The trail emerges at the northern end of Cedar Bay beach - a remote, palm fringed tropical paradise stretching three kilometres.

The Cairns Centre of Contemporary Arts (CoCA) brings together a variety of exciting art forms under one roof. Resident company, JUTE (Just Us Theatre Ensemble), a professional renowned theatre company presents an annual season of contemporary plays developed from the region, whilst KickArts Contemporary Arts mounts a changing program of contemporary exhibitions in both the Lower and Upper Galleries. Admission to the galleries and exhibitions is free.

Every first and third Sunday of the month End Credits Film Club runs special afternoon film screenings in the JUTE Theatre. Quality non-mainstream films include foreign language, art-house and short films, documentaries and films by indigenous filmmakers.

The Centre of Contemporary Arts (CoCA) is home to the five famous life sized jelly baby sculptures by artist Sophie Cadman that greet visitors to the Centre. Always smiling and always welcoming the jelly babies are a must-see, must-hug photo opportunity - a true icon in Cairns!

During the day the CoCA Cafe is a great place to relax, catch up with friends and enjoy creative light meals whilst checking out the programs of the creative companies. The KickArts Gallery Shop in the foyer offers Far North Queensland's latest and brightest Australian design and innovation shopping choices including unique jewellery, original artworks, glass art and wearable collectibles.

A comfortable walk within the City Centre of Cairns (corner of Florence and Abbott Streets), CoCA is fully air-conditioned and has both on-site and street parking and the local Sunbus stops right at the front door.

In the Chillagoe-Mungana National Park, dry tropical open woodlands hide underground caves of breathtaking natural beauty. Pockets of deciduous vine thicket cling to jagged limestone outcrops. Laid down 400 million years ago, the limestone has been weathered, dissolved and reformed by water to create caverns and passages of significant natural and cultural heritage value. Join a ranger on a guided cave tour to view splendid limestone formations. You can alsoexplore some of the caves on your own. Visit Balancing Rock, an impressive tower karst (limestone pillar). Walk the nine kilometre return track to Royal Arch Bluff, looking for wallabies and birds. Drive the historic interpretive trail at the Chillagoe Smelters.

With Bicton Hill at its centre, Clump Mountain National Park preserves one of the few remaining patches of undisturbed lowland tropical rainforest. Many of the trees have large buttressed trunks and support epiphytic ferns and other plants. Several southern cassowaries live here and vulnerable arenga palms and ancient cycads grow near the summit. Climb to the summit of Bicton Hill on a four kilometre rainforest circuit. Enjoy the panorama of the mainland and offshore islands from viewing and resting seats along the track. In summer months, look for buff-breasted paradise-kingfishers nesting in termite mounds. Go spotlighting for long-nosed bandicoots, striped possums and fawn-footed melomys.

Located off Lizard Island, on the Great Barrier Reef near Cairns, Cobia Hole is a pinnacle of rocks covered with marine organism including sponges, soft coral, coralliamorpharians, feather stars, sea stars, sea squirts, shrimps, crabs and gobies. Look for sea whips, gorgonian fans and stinging hydroids. Hovering bream can often be seen, as well as circling pelagic barracuda or trevally. Large turtles, toadfish and estuary cod. Explore the sea grasses and algae on the nearby sand.

Cod Hole, located on Ribbon Reef no.10 on the Great Barrier Reef, is best accessed from Cairns or Port Douglas. Internationally recognised underwater photographers Ron and Valerie Taylor were the first to publicise this site. Swim with large friendly Potato Cod (6-30 kilograms). See clouds of cod like Maori Wrasse, red bass, and emperor. Other marine life includes average coral cover, anemonies, whitetip reef sharks, giant clams, schools of pyramid butterflyfish, Solomon's sweetlip, cleaning stations and feather stars. Great photo opportunity.

Cooktown's Scenic Rim Trail displays all aspects of the town's historical and cultural delights. Experience a range of diverse natural habitats, each with their own special features and species.

Walk through mangrove lined banks of the Endeavour River, an estuarine environment which forms a complex breeding ground for various wildlife. Pass through open forest on the lower reaches of Mount Cook, until the trail reaches the rainforest. Up through the dim rainforest light, weave past vine thicket and around walls of buttress roots. The trail crosses Alligator Creek, (only cross at low tide) and continues along the beach towards the northern end of Finch Bay.

On the decent to the small secluded beach at Cherry Tree Bay enjoy magnificent coastal views. Sometimes fish, turtles and even dugongs can be seen in the bay. The Scenic Rim Trail is broken into nine different sections, catering for a range of fitness levels.

Coral Gradens, on the the Great Barrier Reef off Cairns, features a wall that stretches from 5m to the surface along the reef edge, dropping away down 10 to 20m. Superb variety of corals on the plateau and down the slope. Clownfish, batfish, trout, cod, fusiliers, angelfish, basslets and whitetip reef shark; also octopus, moray eels, barracuda, lionfish and nudibranchs. Good pelagic action, wrasse, parrotfish, rabbitfish, butterflyfish and anthias perform unique antics. Several other dive sites including Gordon's Mooring and Tracy's Bommie.

The Coral Sea Battle Memorial Park is Australia’s largest war memorial. The park was created to commemorate an air and sea battle which took place in 1942 about 800 kilometres east off the coast of Queensland, between Australian/United States forces and Japanese.

This was the first naval battle, in history, in which the opposing ships never came within sight of one another. The entire action was fought by carrier borne aircraft. The Japanese claimed a tactical victory whilst the Allies a strategic victory, in that the assault on Port Moresby had been thwarted.

With Hinchinbrook Island silhouetted against the skyline and cool sea breezes this is a beautiful park in which to enjoy a picnic. Facilities include picnic tables, barbecues, a shelter shed and toilets.

This battle is commemorated in Cardwell annually, during early May, with dignitaries from both the United States and Australia participating.

Part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, Curtain Fig National Park contains an endangered type of rainforest called mabi forest. A semi-deciduous canopy allows more sunlight to reach the ground than in other rainforest types. This promotes a well-developed shrub layer. The highlight of this park is a huge, unique fig tree called the Curtain Fig with extended aerial roots dropping 15 metres to the forest floor and forming a 'curtain'. Enjoy the short, elevated boardwalk around the tree. Return at night to spotlight for the elusive Lumholtz's tree-kangaroo and other nocturnal animals. Spotlighting guidelines are available in the information shelter at the carpark.

The Curtain Fig National Park contains the renowned Curtain Fig Tree, an enormous strangler fig tree. Located a short drive out of Yungaburra, a small town in the Atherton Tableland, the giant tree has several aerial roots hanging down from its branches that look like curtains. It's over 500 years old and definitely worth a look! There’s a short boardwalk around the base of the tree that is wheelchair accessible.

The award winning Daintree Discovery Centre is the number one attraction in the Daintree. It is a self-funding eco tourism facility that specialises in providing interpretive information about the Daintree Rainforest and its environs. Located just 10 kilometres north of the Daintree River Ferry, the road is sealed all the way - you do not need a four-wheel drive vehicle. The Discovery Centre attracts visitors from all over the world and is highly regarded as a first class eco-tourism experience.

Visitors enjoy the spectacular Aerial Walkway – and maybe see a cassowary meandering along the beautiful McLeans Creek. You can climb the 23 metre high Canopy Tower, explore the Bush Tucker Trail or the Cassowary Circuit, or relax on the reclining benches and gaze up at the giant Strangler Fig. Experienced naturalists are available to answer questions and information is available in six languages.

The Centre has a large, colourful reception area, trendy gift shop sell a range of local arts, crafts and eco-clothing. The coffee shop boasts the best refreshments in the north.

Danbulla National Park and State Forest is a spectacular part of the Atherton Tableland, encompassing eucalypt and acacia forests, pine plantations and rainforest; also crater lakes, walks and places of local history and interest. This large park covers 12,000 hectares between Tinaroo and Lamb ranges and borders Lake Tinaroo. Choose a secluded campsite at School Point. At The Chimneys, the grassed area is large enough for kicking a football around. Enjoy a short walk through upland rainforest to Mobo Creek crater or take time to marvel at the enormity and age of the cathedral fig tree.

In Davies Creek National Park, Davies Creek cascades over huge granite boulders as it flows through eucalypt woodland from its source in the Lamb Range. The rare wet sclerophyll forest is home to the endangered northern bettong: a small marsupial found only in a few parts of north Queensland. Camp near the creek and cool off in its deeper pools. Walk to lookouts above Davies Creek Falls, two kilometres beyond the campground. An 850 metre circuit track leads to a sandy picnic area (where platypus may be seen in the adjacent creek), and then back up a slope dotted with grasstrees. Watch for eastern yellow robins, white-cheeked honeyeaters and white-naped honeyeaters.

Try deliciously different mango wine and tropical fruit wines, liqueurs and ports at de Brueys Boutique Wines, 189 Fichera Road, Mareeba, Queensland. de Brueys Boutique Wines is a unique winery and cellar door set amidst mango orchards and natural bushland. Try mango, lychee, jaboticaba, passionfruit and native bush cherry wines. Sail away with the historical ‘Flagship Coffee Elixir’, the new coffee liqueur. Ports include mango, mulberry and award winning Swagman Port. Be tempted by the new cream liqueurs - Tropical Temptation, Strawberry Temptation and the award winning Coffee Temptation.

Winemakers Bob and Elaine de Brueys look forward to meeting you, please drop by. Online orders are taken along with email, phone and mail orders.

Des Spencer Gallery is located in the main foyer of the Sheraton Mirage Hotel, Port Douglas in Tropical North Queensland. The gallery exclusively features the fine art of Des Spencer. Des is renowned for his vivid, vibrant and vivacious images of the world around him. His landscapes and cityscapes, floral, underwater and abstract scenes explode with pulsating colour, conveying all the energy and passion of life. His imagery dances on the canvas, reminding us that our world is joyous.

Des' paintings feature a highly distinctive paint application that allows him to create depth and movement through the combination of vibrant colours and varying textures. Des' art works are invitations to join him on a fantastic journey through his personal perceptions and his belief that all things inherently have effervescent life and ultimate purpose. Des sells original paintings as well as giclée limited edition prints of his most popular images.

Des’ art has been sold to collectors on every continent around the world. He has successfully exhibited his art in many galleries around the world including Hawaii, Scotland, England, throughout Australia and the United States cities of New York, The Hamptons, Carmel, Phoenix and Naples.

High in the Lamb Range, Dinden National Park protects rainforest and eucalypt woodland. The clear waters of Davies Creek flow over smooth granite boulders and make a refreshing place to relax. Picnic or bush camp beside Davies Creek. Spend a day climbing to Kahlpahlim Rock (Lamb Range’s highest point) for views over Cairns and the Atherton Tableland. Learn about the rainforest on the Clohesy fig tree boardwalk. Drive through picturesque rainforest on the Cairns–Copperlode Dam Road.

Barron Gorge is the traditional home of the Djabaguy people who have many special connections to this place.

The Douglas and Smiths tracks, traditional pathways for the Djabaguy for thousands of years, became the first pack routes linking the hinterland goldfields to the coast in 1876.

From the Rainforest Estate, the track follows an old sealed road and then winds through the scrub up to the Cairns-Kuranda railway line. From the nearby bridge continue climbing up to Red Bluff which offers spectacular views down the valley and to the coast. From Red Bluff you can continue to climb along the ridge to Glacier Rock. Rest and take in the glorious scenery of the gorge below.

The walk from Glacier Rock to Speewah is through some well-preserved upland rainforest with frequent ups and downs and small streams. Keep an eye out for cassowaries and other wildlife.

Dundee’s Restaurant captures the three ingredients of success at its best. Great Food, Great Location and Perfect Ambience. Locals can share in this magical location seven days a week, sharing an early sunrise over a sumptuous breakfast to the buzz of people wandering along the boardwalk.

Dundees breakfast menu is guaranteed to impress, from Eggs Benedict to Sauteed Mushrooms to build your own breakfast. Just add what takes your fancy. Stop for a light lunch along the way. Dundees is a great place to enjoy a business lunch whether it be a small or large group, they can cater for any size. The extensive menu has a wonderful selection.

At its best Dundee’s is renowned for its evening dining with the sheer magic of its views from every vantage point of its layout. The menu offers fresh local produce with an extensive selection of creative flair, prepared by Executive Chef James Wort and his team. Specialising in Australia beef, fresh seafood, pasta and Salads, there is a dish to cater for every tastebud. Try the Oz Beef Rock - steak sizzling on Hot Volcanic Rock or the Smoked Crocodile Salad or the Chilli Mussels.

Dundees an unforgettable dining experience.

Edmund Kennedy National Park is within the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Few parts of north Queensland's wet tropics can boast the range of vegetation types found in this park.

Lying along the coastline, just north of Cardwell, Edmund Kennedy National Park contains areas of low coastal rainforest, eucalyptus forest, melaleuca woodland, sedge swamps and extensive mangrove swamps.

This section of coastline is just as explorer Edmund Kennedy found it. In 1848, he and his party of 12 men landed at Tam O'Shanter Point, about 35 kilometres north of the park, to begin their ill-fated expedition to Cape York.

Many of the mangrove species known to occur in Australia are found in the park. The red beech, with its distinctive red, flaking bark and large yellow flowers, along with pandanus and melaleucas are common. The rare Arenga palm, only known from a few locations in Queensland, also grows here.
Much of the wildlife is nocturnal although birds and reptiles may be seen during the day. The park is home to the endangered Mahogany Glider. Orioles, sunbirds, black butcherbirds and honeyeaters are common. The nesting mounds of orange-footed scrubfowl can be seen along the edge of the walking tracks.

Ellinjaa Falls are picturesque falls that are part of the Waterfalls Circuit along with Millaa Millaa and Zilzie Falls. Enjoy the sound of the water rushing over a series of lava columns as you have a picnic lunch. There's a 200 metre walkway to the base of the falls where turtles and platypus are often spotted. The falls are a great spot for swimming. There's also a little ledge hidden behind the falls that you can sit on and take in the scenery.

Emerald creek has a series of cascading waterfalls over granite boulders. A walking track takes you alongside the creek to the numerous falls and lagoons, up to the lookout with views of the valley towards Mareeba. The site is an ideal picnic spot and has several great swimming holes. Road is not suitable for caravans.

At Emerald Creek Falls, Dinden State Forest, the waters of Emerald Creek tumble down a granite rock face, forming placid pools below. Smooth-barked water gums with graphically twisted trunks create a natural arch above the creek. Bottlebrush trees, with red flowers in season, sprout from between the rocks. Dragonflies and damselflies hover around the water. Picnic in the day-use area beside the creek. Follow the easy one kilometre track to the falls through dry open forest characterised by eucalypts, acacias and grevilleas, with pandanus trees in the moister gullies. From the lookout, enjoy views of the falls, the valley and the northern Atherton Tableland.

Eubenagee Swamp National Park’s wetlands are a significant habitat for waterbirds. The park also protects some of the last remnants of various lowland vegetation types. Much of it is swampland, supporting paperbarks, waterbirds and crocodiles. The rest is rainforest and grassland. Melaleucas and sedges feature around the swamp and rare plants grow in the park. Birdwatching is rewarding, as the different vegetation types attract many birds. Explore the wetlands along a one and a half kilometre walking track which initially follows the Alice River. This track passes through a forest which was planted by Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service as part of a revegetation program, using seeds from the site. Climb to the top of the grassy hill and enjoy views over the swamp. To the west you will see Queensland’s highest peak, Mount Bartle Frere.

Family Islands National Park covers a chain of islands near Mission Beach, with lush rainforest and woodlands, surrounded by coral reefs, tidal flats and sandy beaches. The chain is part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage area. The most accessible of the islands is Dunk. Take one of several walks that traverse 13 kilometres of Dunk Island's varied landscape. Relax at the resort after your strenuous walk. Go birdwatching or snorkelling, stroll along the seashore, or laze under shady beach trees. Bush camping is possible on two other islands: Wheeler and Coombe. As you explore the Family Islands, catch glimpses of the iconic Ulysses butterfly in beautiful metallic blue.

The Crystal Caves are a mineralogical museum in a fantasyland cave. Guests put on a miner's helmet and discover some of the world's most beautiful natural crystals, real fossils, and best of all the world's largest amethyst geode standing more than three metres high. The museum is set in a magnificently crafted cave to create a real mining experience.

Visitors are encouraged to touch and explore these beautiful wonders of the earth at their own pace. In the shop you can crack your own 44 million year old geode or indulge yourself in the beautiful display in the amethyst room. Spoil your family, friends or yourself with natural crystals, local gold nugget jewellery, colourful Australian Agate, Gemstone Globes and so much more.

Hastings Reef in the Great Barrier Reef off Cairns is a large, popular diving and snorkelling reef and home to the "Fish Bowl". This site offers great protection from the prevailing South Easterly winds, which provides consistent diving and snorkelling conditions all year round.

The "Fish Bowl" is home to "Wally" the world famous Maori Wrasse so with a good underwater camera you'll have fantastic photo opportunities. Marine life includes White Tip Reef Sharks, Moray Eels, Spine Cheek Anemone fish, False Clown Fish, Turtles, Lion Fish.

In Fitzroy Island National Park in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, densely forested Fitzroy Island offers bushwalking as well as swimming and snorkelling. The island rises to 269 metres, offering grand vistas from almost any vantage point. In winter (June to August), watch from the lighthouse for humpback whales. Walk to the disused lighthouse and continue on the 4.2 kilometre circuit walk via the summit, or return to Welcome Bay to swim and snorkel. Look for some of the island’s varied birdlife, such as rose-crowned fruit-doves and metallic starlings. Explore the rainforested Secret Garden (one kilometre return) or walk to Nudey Beach (1.2 kilometres return).

This walk in Fitzroy Island National Park travels through rainforest and open woodland, on route to a disused, wartime lighthouse. At the lighthouse, interpretational signage describes how the lighthouse was used during World War II.

From the lighthouse the track continues on the circuit walk via the summit, which presents spectacular views over the island and surrounding sea.

Rainforest and migratory birds inhabit the island.

Welcome to Flecker Botanic Gardens, the only wet tropic botanic gardens in Australia. At Flecker Botanic Gardens, the collections reflect their tropical diversity, with plants from the steamy jungles of South East Asia, South America and Africa easily adapting to the warm, wet climate of Cairns. These gardens have a fairytale-like feel for many plant collectors, with the most outstanding flowering and foliage plants arranged in natural landscape style.

Situated on Collins Avenue only four kilometres from the Cairns City Centre, the gardens comprise of three main areas;

Flecker Botanic Gardens - main botanic collection, Orchid House, The Fernery and aboriginal Plant Use Garden. There is also the award winning Botanic Gardens Restaurant Cafe open for breakfast and lunch.

Centenary Lakes - has the wonderful rainforest boardwalk, Amazon Pond Lilies, native fruit trees, ample bird life, Freshwater Lake and Saltwater Lake with the occasional crocodile siting.

Mount Whitfield Conservation Park - the famous red and blue arrow hiking tracks with stunning views over Cairns and Trinity Inlet, where you can spot the occasional scrub turkey and orange footed scrub hen.

Flinders Group National Park protects seven remote and ruggedly attractive islands with a rich cultural landscape and heritage. The islands contain important Aboriginal story and burial sites, along with nationally significant rock art showing early contact with Europeans. Surrounding waters are protected in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Walk the 2.8 kilometre interpretive trail to learn about the Yiithuwarra 'saltwater people'. Contemplate their rock art in the Ship and Yindayin rock shelters on Stanley Island (Yindayin). Bush camp on Flinders Island (Wurriima). Watch seabirds and look for turtles and dugong. Enjoy the remoteness of this unique park.

Forty Mile Scrub National Park is an island of rainforest in a sea of eucalypt woodland, preserving rare, remnant semi-evergreen vine thicket. Large bottle trees, along with fig, Burdekin plum and white cedar trees drop their leaves in the dry season but spring to life with summer rain. Take a break and have a picnic at the sheltered tables. Learn about the plants and animals found in this park on the short, self-guided walk through this unique forest. Listen for the ringing calls of pied currawongs and look for lemon-bellied flycatchers, rufous fantails and other birds in the trees.

Frankland Islands National Park covers five islands, all popular for their relatively untouched rainforest, mangroves and surrounding reefs. A colony of spectacled flying-foxes roosts on Russell Island, while manta rays and sea turtles have been spotted in nearby waters. Go out with a tour operator and enjoy a guided nature trail on Normanby Island. Comb the shores at low tide to see intriguing ocean treasures washed up by the sea. Snorkel or dive and enjoy the underwater wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.

The Gab Titui Cultural Centre is located on Thursday Island in the Torres Strait Islands just off the Cape York Peninsula, the most northern point of Australia. Thursday Island is the most developed of the 74 Torres Strait Islands. The Centre has been created through a partnership between the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) and the Queensland Heritage Trails Network (QHTN).

The Centre boasts several unique displays that explain the history and culture of the Torres Strait Islanders. This includes an artefacts gallery, workshop areas for local artists and a meeting venue for local educational groups and community events.

Originally the Golden Gumboot was a competition between Tully, Innisfail and Babinda as to which town is the wettest in Australia. The winner for the competition (since 1970) was awarded with a rubber boot and with an annual rainfall of up to seven metres – Tully was the winner. The Golden Gumboot Festival is dedicated to the fact that Tully is a ‘pretty wet place’.
In this small sleepy town, locals get together once a year for this festival, of which the highlight is the gumboot throwing competition. The person who can throw a size eight gumboot the greatest distance wins. The festival begins in the afternoon with a 7.9 metre high Golden Gumboot being paraded through Tully’s main street.

This family orientated fun festival has as many things to do involving gumboots as possible including; tenpin bowling using gumboots, banana packing in gumboots, decorated gumboots…and the list goes on…

Other activities include, food market stalls, displays, children’s activities, judging of the Golden Girl, Golden Princess, and Golden Oldie quest and a big evening of live entertainment.

The Goldfield Track in Wooroonooran National Park leaves Babinda Boulder and makes its way over the saddle between Mount Bellenden Ker and Mount Batle Frere, the two tallest mountains in Queensland, to the Goldsborough Valley.

The track follows Babinda Creek upstream through lowland rainforest with epiphytes and vines. Leaving the creek, but still on flat ground, the track enters World Heritage listed Wooroonooran National Park. The track begins to ascend to about 4.5 kilometres along, crossing several mountain streams and taller rainforest with a dense canopy to reach the saddle amidst mountain rainforest.

The descending trail passes through a grove of king ferns with fronds up to 6 metres long and rare feather palms.

The pools of the East Mulgrave River provide excellent opportunities for swimming. The back end of the track follows an old logging road along the river to the Goldsborough Valley campground.

Goldsborough Valley, Wooroonooran National Park is that section of the park nestled at the base of the rugged Bellenden Ker Range, protecting World Heritage-listed rainforest in the Mulgrave valley. The traditional homeland of the Yidinydji Aboriginal people, the area was the site of a productive goldfield in the 1870s and 1880s. Relax and enjoy a picnic or set up camp in the large grassy picnic area and campground beside the winding Mulgrave River. Take a short walk through the rainforest to Kearneys Falls. A longer hike, the 18 kilometre Goldfield track, passes between Queensland's two highest mountains (Bartle Frere and Bellenden Ker) and leads to the Boulders Scenic Reserve near Babinda.

Located off Cairns on the Great Barrier Reef, the Great Detached Reef is a large complex of several reefs on an older fossil surface. This reef has about 46km of edge. Wall diving and very steep down to over 400 metres with some small caves in the wall. Barracuda, trevally and sharks, along with schools of basslets, fussiliers and sometimes blue-lined snapper. Moray eels, lobster, shrimp and nudibranch. Lots of large potato cod and some mantarays and turtles.

Green Island, located off Cairns on the Great Barrier Reef, is a true coral island surrounded by sandy beaches and a huge coral reef system. 4m above sea level, 606 metres long, 200 metres wide and half a kilometre in circumference. Good snorkelling, average scuba diving, underwater observatory. Excellent for day visitors. Dive shop, scuba diving tuition and dive charter Boats to reef nearby. Resort accommodation, Cafe and souvenir shops also on island.

Green Island National Park is one of the Great Barrier Reef’s most popular destinations. This small rainforest-clad coral cay is fringed by palms and sandy beaches that slope gently to the clear, blue-green waters of the surrounding reef. The island is spiritually significant to the Gungandji Aboriginal people. Stroll around the island's boardwalks to explore the rainforest and birdlife and find out about the island’s history. Walk along the beaches to view seabirds and enjoy views over the reef. Relax on the beach. Swim or snorkel in the clear reef waters. Take a ride in a glass-bottomed boat or join a guided nature walk. Visit the world's first underwater observatory and the Marineland Melanesia Crocodile Habitat.

Hallorans Hill Lookout is an ideal spot for a barbecue or picnic, watching the sunset or just enjoying the view of the surrounding areas, farmland and rolling hills. The best way to enjoy this is to start from the Environmental Park on Louise Street, follow the walking track right to the top of the hill. Best times are early morning or late afternoon when you can watch the sun set. Walking track takes approximately two hours return.

Hallorans Hill Conservation Park marks the highest point of Atherton township. Hallorans Hill is one of several extinct shield volcanoes. At the lookout, which is managed by Atherton Shire Council, sculptures and a children's playground follow the theme of local volcanic geology. Drive to the summit or walk up along the one and a half kilometre track, learning about local geological, natural and human history from signs dotted along the track and at the summit. Take a short walk from the summit to the rainforest lookout - a boulder seat with a view into the forest. This type of rainforest, called mabi, was once prolific but is now endangered. This particular patch has been revegetated by Green Corps and members of the community.

Hartley's Crocodile Adventures is simply the best place to see crocodiles and local wildlife in the North. With over 2100 metres of timber boardwalks and pathways leading you on a journey of discovery through woodlands and rainforest where you can see an array of wildlife, including beautiful tropical birds, wallabies, reptiles, insects and other native fauna. Enjoy their entertaining and educational wildlife presentations including, snakes, quolls, cassowaries, koalas and crocodiles. Take a boat cruise on Hartley's Lagoon to see crocodiles and other wildlife inhabiting the beautiful melaleuca wetland. Learn about sustainable use and conservation on their crocodile farm tour.

The newly opened Gondwana Gateway is an innovative addition to this award winning attraction, where you can learn about the evolution of Australia’s iconic wildlife in a beautiful forest setting surrounded by the living descendants of Australia’s ancient past. Enjoy a delicious meal in Lilies Restaurant overlooking Hartley’s Lagoon and find that perfect gift in the Paperbark Gift Shop.

Hasties Swamp National Park is a small but significant wetland which is flooded during the wet season. As it dries out, it becomes an important refuge for waterbirds - up to 1500 magpie geese may be seen here at once. A two-storey bird hide has wheelchair access and is big enough to hold a school group. Observe the birds from the comfort of the hide, using the signs as a guide to species identification. At least 220 bird species have been recorded, mainly in the wetland and open woodland. Pacific black ducks, wandering whistling-ducks, hardheads, green pygmy-geese, pink-eared ducks and various egrets and ibis feed here. Sarus cranes roost in the dry season. Learn about the history of the area from interpretive signs.

Sit in the school house. Stand at the bar. Herberton Historical Village is more than a vintage precinct; it's a tangible buzz of things past. The collection of over 30 original building with intact interior displays, original machinery and vehicles plus thousands of genuine antiques and period memorabilia is regarded as the most significant ever assembled in Queensland. Live the folklore and romance of yester year Australia in every piece of this eye opening collection. You'll find the village just outside the Atherton Tablelands township of Herberton, 90 minutes from Cairns. Open daily 9am-5pm except Christmas day and February. It's Vintage Australia here and now!

Hinchinbrook National Park on Hinchinbrook Island offers isolation and experience of wilderness. Hinchinbrook is one of Australia’s most impressive and rugged continental islands and the challenging Thorsborne Trail is one of the world’s most popular wilderness walks. Hinchinbrook Channel, which separates the island from the mainland, is renowned for its variety of mangroves and its dugong population. On the island, take a short walk from Macushla to Cape Richards (Resort), to North Shepherd Bay or South Shepherd Bay. Trek along the remote east coast (Thorsborne Trail) for four to seven days or explore the island’s coastline by sea kayak, bush camping along the way. (Book your campsite early to avoid disappointment.)

Hope Islands National Park consists of a pair of low-lying coral cays. West Hope is a shingle cay dominated by hardy mangroves, and East Hope is a typical sandy cay with trees such as beach almond and red coondoo. An important nesting site for pied imperial-pigeons, these islands are significant sea country of the Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal people. Relax and enjoy the natural beauty. Bush camp at one of four campsites on East Hope Island. Watch the birdlife along the shore. Go snorkelling or diving to discover amazing reef life. Make use of public moorings and throw in a fishing line.

Atherton Chinatown is the Award-winning site of the unique Hou Wang Temple and interpretive museum. Located just over a scenic hours drive south west of Cairns, the National Trust of Queensland property ensures visitors of a fascinating insight into part of North Queensland's history and heritage. The site was chosen by the Chinese settlers during the 1800s. The temple is the only one of its type remaining and the only temple dedicated to Hou Wang outside of China still existing. It has an ornate interior with original wood carvings that can be seen during the guided tour of the property.

Allow time to browse through the interpretive museum with its interactive displays and 'world-first' artefact scanner. The giftshop has a good array of Feng-Shui symbols and souvenirs.

Indarri Falls is located in the beautiful Lawn Hill Gorge - formed by Lawn Hill Creek, which is fed by numerous freshwater springs from the limestone plateau to the west. The magnitude of the sandstone cliffs lining the gorge, its emerald waters and lush vegetation make it a visual splendour.

Serving as an oasis, the spring water and surrounding vegetation attract an abundance of wildlife. This loop walk takes you to the falls and returns via the creek edge. Refresh in the cool water and watch purple-crowned fairy-wrens and crimson finches in the creek-side vegetation. This is a good morning walk and a great setting for photos.

Iron Range National Park is a remote coastal park in northern Cape York Peninsula, protecting the largest area of lowland tropical rainforest in Australia. Rainforest, eucalypt and paperbark forests and heath-shrouded hills provide a backdrop to long sweeping beaches, rocky outcrops and mangrove forests. Enjoy bush camping at one of several campgrounds. Take the 10 kilometre return walk along the banks of Claudie River. Spotlight for green pythons and common spotted cuscus; look for eclectus parrots and palm cockatoos. Visit the viewing platform for sights of Mount Tozer and surrounding heathland. Walk along the white sands of Chili Beach.

The Jambal Walk begins at Blencoe Falls, a spectacular three-tiered waterfall, which cascades 300 metres down into the Herbert River Gorge below. Situated in the drier savanna woodlands, hoop pines grow on the rocky outcrops around the falls.

As you walk, look for emus and kangaroos resting from the heat and listen for laughing kookaburras or screeching sulphur-crested cockatoos. This country is rugged and one of extremes. With the arrival of the wet season, the countryside is inundated with water and the plants spring back to life.

The track then winds its way to the top of the escarpment above Blanket Creek before dropping steeply onto the banks of the Herbert River, which is lined with shady she-oak trees. After enjoying a night camping under the stars at the Blanket Creek bush camp, the walk returns the same way.

Janbal Gallery is more than just an Aboriginal art gallery - it is a true Aboriginal Experience – 100 per cent owned and operated by Australian Aboriginals.

Mary and Binna, Janbal Gallery co-owners invite you to come and browse, enjoy and share in an authentic Aboriginal art experience.

Binna, the artist in residence, is a local Kuku Yalanji man from the Mossman region. He is passionate about sharing his culture, dreamtime stories and visual interpretations of these with those who are interested.

Authentic Aboriginal Art and artefacts from Far North Queensland as well as other acclaimed Australian Aboriginal Artists are on show at the Gallery. Come and visit their Gallery and learn about the dreamtime, animals and stories of country of the Aboriginal people of the Mossman region.

Aboriginal Art Classes: take home with you a true Aboriginal Art Experience that you too can share. While learning about the Kuku Yalanji history and culture, local Aboriginal Artist – Binna will show you the intricate detail and designs used in the art of the Kuku Yalanji people. Bookings are not essential but can be made on their website.

Jardine River National Park and Heathlands Resources Reserve is a true wilderness at the tip of remote Cape York Peninsula. It includes much of the catchment of the Jardine River, Queensland’s largest perennial river. Heath, rainforest and woodland cover low sandy ridges separated by swamps. Shrublands and vine thickets cover massive coastal dunes. A rich Aboriginal cultural landscape, the parks also have colourful European historical links. Bush camp at Eliot Falls, Captain Billy Landing or beside the Jardine River. Take short walks along the creeks at Eliot and Fruit Bat falls, to view crystal-clear water and striking waterfalls. Look for carnivorous pitcher plants and delicate sundews along moist creek margins. At Captain Billy Landing, explore remote scenic beaches.

The Johnstone River Crocodile Park is a stones throw from Innisfail on the road to picturesque Flying Fish Point. The Park is home to some of the largest crocodiles on display in Australia.

Since changing ownership in late 2007, the park has undergone some major transformations. The latest attraction is the new dingo enclosure complete with a pack of pure bred alpine dingoes. Visitors have been captivated by the antics of the adorable dingo puppies, born in early August. Spring is in the air and there is also one baby emu chick, piglets and kangaroo joeys. So drop in now as these cute little guys grow before your eyes.

Upon arrival you will be greeted by friendly staff and be given the opportunity to meander around the park before being embarking on a guided tour. Tours are a combination of excitement and learning where you come face to face with a massive crocodiles and learn interesting facts about the world’s last remaining dinosaurs. The fun continues as you meet more fascinating creatures such as the endangered cassowaries, friendly kangaroos and cheeky dingoes. There are also several species of Australian birds on display. Come along for a great day out!

Josephine Creek begins as a trickle high on the south-east side of the summit of Mt Bartle Frere, Queensland's highest mountain. Approximately 7.5 kilometres from the summit of Mt Bartle Frere the waters of Josephine Creek tumble over granite boulders, forming the picturesque Josephine Falls.

This track leads you through lush tropical rainforest, to viewing decks overlooking the Josephine Creek and Falls, where there are excellent photographic opportunities. Below the falls are several swimming holes surrounded by boulders and a popular water slide down a smooth sloping rock face between pools.

At Josephine Falls, Wooroonooran, the waters of Josephine Creek plunge over granite boulders and forming a turbulent waterfall at the base of Queensland’s highest mountain, Mount Bartle Frere (1,622 metres). Surrounding the falls is mesophyll vine forest, the most complex rainforest type in Australia. Take an easy half-hour walk through lush tropical rainforest to viewing decks that offer excellent photo opportunities of this tiered waterfall. Discover a number of plants that normally occur only at higher, cooler altitudes. Listen to the harsh calls of colourful king parrots and look for strutting lace monitors. Access to the top of the falls is restricted, for safety reasons. Wheelchair access is available to the viewing platform at the top pool.

This circuit walk leads through Jumrum Creek Conservation Park, connecting with the Jungle Walk and then the Esplanade Walk.

In Jumrum Creek Conservation Park, a boardwalk leads you through the forest to the banks of Jumrum Creek with its fast curls and rapids. Take some time to rest and enjoy the sound of the water flowing here and watch for the different birds.

On the Jungle Walk section enjoy riparian forest fringing the Barron River.

The Juwun Walk starts at Blencoe Falls in Girringun National Park, a spectacular three-tiered waterfall, which cascades 300 metres down into the Herbert River Gorge below.

The walk follows the Herbert River downstream to Yamanie, with no designated walking track in the gorge. Be aware that beyond Blanket Creek, no designated bush camping sites have been identified.

As you walk, look for emus and kangaroos resting from the heat and listen for laughing kookaburras or screeching sulphur-crested cockatoos. On the track to Big W, keep a lookout for bird life such as shags, cormorants and sea eagles that reside in the gorge.

The Juwun Walk passes through the traditional lands of three Aboriginal groups - the Warrgamay, Warungnu and Girramay. All of the Wet Tropic Great!Walk tracks have been given language names by the Traditional Owners. They hope you will enjoy the walk and respect this sacred place.

This walking track in Danbulla State Forest and Forest Reserve follows the creek to Danbulla Drive and the Day Use area by the road. You can walk from here too.

The walk continues upstream past pine forests and eventually enters intact rainforest and divides into a loop walk which climbs and circles back around to Kauri Creek and returning downstream on the other side of the creek. The track here can be rough in places, but the rainforest contains some large trees with pronounced buttress roots.

Kauri Creek is just one of the many attractions to keep visitors busy along the Danbulla Forest Drive. This 28 kilometre scenic way supplies visitors with a plethora of recreation, including interesting historical sites, water activities, camping, walks and opportunities for wildlife and birdwatching.

For Cairns’ newest and most beautiful tourist attraction, look no further than the stunning Ken Duncan Gallery right in the heart of the city. Recognised as a master in his field, Ken Duncan is Australia’s original pioneer of panoramic landscape photography. He was recently recognised for his long-standing contribution to landscape photography and the arts with a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) from the Federal Government. Ken is internationally renowned for his striking images and his ability to capture the very spirit of a place at a given moment in time. The Ken Duncan Gallery is designed as a sanctuary where visitors can relax and contemplate the beauty of creation. The Gallery offers something for every taste and budget – from Ken’s famous Limited Edition Prints, to coffee table books, postcards, posters, tableware and jigsaw puzzles – and the professional staff are experienced at shipping your purchases anywhere around the world. For a tour of Australia under the one roof, do not miss the Ken Duncan Gallery. Let us turn your walls into windows!

This walk is part of the Misty Mountain Trails network, situated between the towns of Innisfail, Tully, Ravenshoe and Millaa Millaa. The Koolmoon Creek Track is a long distance walk between Cochable Creek on the coastal lowlands and Ravenshoe on the tablelands. A section of the Koolmoon Creek track follows the Jirrbal Aboriginal people's traditional pathway; the Djilgarrin track, and is recommended for fit and experienced walkers.

The track can be very steep in places and the Djilgarrin section entails numerous stream crossings. The walk offers a range of streams, swimming pools, waterfalls, panoramic scenic vistas, contrasting types of rainforest and a challenging wilderness experience.

Views of Elizabeth Grant Falls cascading over 300 metres onto Koolmoon Creek, can be experienced from a lookout 4.2 kilometres return off the Koolmoon Creek track. From this track you can access Little Millstream Falls in Millstream National Park.

The power station was commissioned in 1999, and was developed in line with principles of environmentally sustainable development. Its location in Lake Koombooloomba in Far North Queensland's Wet Tropics World Heritage Area finally put into use infrastructure established when the dam was constructed in 1960. The original dam design allowed an outlet for use by future hydroelectric development. This outlet has been used to release water for Stanwell's Kareeya Hydroelectric Power Station. The water from Lake Koombooloomba is what makes white water rafting on the Tully River possible all year round.

The picturesque mountain retreat of Kuranda Village is just 25 kilometres northwest of Cairns in Far North Queensland, Australia. It is a vibrant little town surrounded by World Heritage Rainforest. Travelling to Kuranda is a highlight in itself. Visitors can travel to Kuranda on Kuranda's Historic Scenic Railway, by car or bus, via the spectacular Kuranda Road, or above the rainforest canopy on Skyrail - the world's longest rainforest Cableway.

Kuranda has come a long way from its initial origins as a centre for those choosing an alternative lifestyle in the late 1960s. Historic buildings from the villages past now house a variety of up market restaurants, cafes and bars. It is still laid back, but with a style and sophistication that sets it apart from other Cairns Highlands Venues and Attractions.

Kuranda's shops and markets with their exotically handcrafted goods, Aboriginal artifacts, restaurants and coffee shops make Kuranda a well known day destination, but to truly enjoy the ambience this village has to offer you really have to stay a few nights. Whether you are looking for a cosy bed and breakfast, a well maintained multi-choice accommodation and camping park, a hotel that when you step inside you feel like you are back in the 1920s, a gorgeous resort or a backpacker’s hostel, you'll find it in Kuranda.

Take the time to visit some of Kuranda's many first class nature based tourist attractions, which include koalas, butterflies, native and exotic birds, kangaroos and reptiles. There are wonderful walking tracks which meander through magnificent rainforest and which are breathtaking when in flood. You can also see traditional Aboriginal dancers perform, travel on a riverboat on the mighty Barron River on join an Army Duck ride through the rainforest.

This award winning boutique style wildlife experience, Kuranda Koala Gardens, is in Kuranda Village right at the Heritage Markets. This is the only place in Kuranda village where you can enjoy the 'Cuddle a Koala' opportunity. A small fee applies and this includes a digital souvenir photo.

Also visit Australia's first walk-through 'Reptile House' and see pythons and other reptiles roaming free. Meet tame wallabies, see wombats, freshwater crocodiles, lizards and more. Visit the 'Pioneer Shed' that depicts some of the early history of European settlement in the Kuranda region.

A free shuttle bus operates from Skyrail and Kuranda Scenic Train Stations.

It's a great attraction for those with limited time in the region, (if you have plenty of time, they also recommend visits to Cairns Tropical Zoo and Hartley's Crocodile Adventures). Kuranda Koala Gardens is also part of the 'Kuranda Wildlife Experience'. This combines Kuranda Koala Gardens, Birdworld and the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary.

These are ideal for independent travellers and small groups.

The original Kuranda Scenic Railway is a spectacular journey comprising unsurpassed views of dense rainforest, steep ravines and picturesque waterfalls. This famous railway winds its way on a journey of approximately one hour and 45 minutes from Cairns to Kuranda, the village in the rainforest.

The Cairns-Kuranda Railway was constructed between 1882 and 1891 and even today is considered an engineering feat of tremendous magnitude. Hundreds of men were employed to build the 15 hand-made tunnels and 37 bridges that stand as a monument to the pioneers of tropical North Queensland who lost their lives while working on the railway.

Rising from sea level to 328 metres, the journey to Kuranda passes through World Heritage protected tropical rainforest, past beautiful and spectacular waterfalls and into the awesome Barron Gorge. Upon reaching the village of Kuranda a rich assortment of interesting attractions and unique shopping experiences awaits you.

Kuranda Station is renowned for its tropical gardens and historic significance. The heritage-listed buildings blend with the tropical surrounds providing a relaxed environment to enjoy.

KSR Gold Class offers passengers a little touch of luxury. Club-style seating, refreshments and an exclusive gift pack combine to create an unforgettable experience.

The Kuranda Trading Post is a modern tourist complex comprising a licensed 300 seat restaurant, a 150 seat side-walk cafe, souvenir shop and foreign Currency exchange. The Complex has been designed in true Queensland tradition so as to fit in with the atmosphere of Kuranda. The Restaurant/complex is in the centre of town, within walking distance of all attractions, including the Railway Station, the skyrail terminal and Kuranda markets.

Specialising in large groups for 26 years (go to website for wholesale menus) their mantra is simple Australian food made perfect. They have now introduced Kuranda's largest selection of Gelato and Ice cream made on the premises utilising locally grown tropical fruits.

This 6 kilometres circuit around Lake Barrine, a volcanic crater lake in Crater Lakes National Park, has recently been upgraded and is a peaceful way to spend a couple of hours in the rainforest, with serene views across the lake and plenty of wildlife on view. Water birds abound and you may see fish and turtles in the lake.

The walk begins on the boardwalk to the two giant kauri pines. Look for saw-shelled turtles and eastern water dragons around the lakes. Keep an eye out for musky rat-kangaroos sheltering in the rainforest and the colourful Boyd's forest dragon. More than 180 bird species have been recorded in the park.

Lake Barrine, in Crater Lakes National Park, is a maar: a crater lake formed by volcanic explosions. The surrounding rainforest is typical of that found on fertile red basalt soils in high rainfall areas. In several places, large kauri pines emerge through the canopy – a species that dominated the tableland forests over thousands of years. Take the five kilometre track around the lake, pausing to view the two giant kauris. Some of the many animals that inhabit the park, including the colourful Boyd’s forest dragon, amethystine python and eastern water dragon, can sometimes be seen from the track. Lake cruises operate from the teahouse.