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Introducing Far North Queensland
Tropical, wild and rugged, Queensland’s Far North proves the theory that size doesn’t matter. Although small geographically, this stunning destination contains the richest pockets of biodiversity in Australia, if not the world. The dense and ancient rainforests of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area coat the landscape, spilling out onto gorgeous beaches. Offshore lies the majestic Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, which is threatened by climate change and the effects of coral bleaching. The highland region of the Atherton Tablelands forms a leafy backdrop to the coast, concealing volcanic crater lakes, waterfalls and giant strangled fig trees. Heading north is historic Cooktown, beyond which lie the dusty isolation of Cape York and the very tip of Australia, Cape York Peninsula.
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Locals speak reverently about their region and will look at you with undisguised pity if you’re from ‘down south’, which could mean only as far as Townsville. Many conform to the stereotype of the ‘real’ Australian: a singlet-wearing tough guy in an Akubra hat, whose idea of dressing up is to change into a newer pair of thongs. Common to most, however, is a genuine respect for their fragile environment, where human impact is closely checked.
Far North Queensland is one of Australia’s leading tourism hot spots and accommodation prices tend to spike during peak tourism (June to October).
Last updated: Mar 2, 2009
