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embarkQueensland Rail Travel Onboard Magazine
SUMMER EDITION
DECEMBER 2019 - FEBRUARY 2020
TAKE ME HOME
I’M FREE
50 THINGS TO
EXPLORE
in the Whitsundays
Nine places to fall in love
under the falls this Valentine’s Day
25 photos to tick off
your Queensland bucket list
Seven of Queensland’s best
local farmers markets
Eight ways to master
an outback summer
Welcome aboard
first underwater accommodation be a Queensland summer without Acknowledgements
on the Great Barrier Reef, to a myriad of events on offer, from
never-before-seen panoramic views international tennis in Brisbane, Editors
of the impressive Barron Falls. As to the Clipper Race Carnival in the Lauren Fairley
you’re travelling through North Whitsundays, and the Australian Rowena Wiles
Queensland be sure to tick off your PGA Championship on the Gold
Creative Designers
wildlife encounters, as some you Coast. There is so much to choose
Alex Kavoukis
will only find in this unique and from and we think rail is a great Lisa Mahoney
diverse region. Alternatively, head way to get there. And remember,
west and explore the unexplored if you book early you could save as Production Manager
through Roma, you never know much as 40% off your rail fare. Lisa Mahoney
what you might discover. It’s also the time of year turtles Editor-in-Chief
Love is in the air in Queensland this grace our beaches in Queensland.
Sarah Douglas
Whether you’re travelling on your Valentine’s Day. Take your loved If you haven’t had the chance to
summer holidays, visiting friends one to a picturesque waterfall in visit the Mon Repos Turtle Centre, Editorial Contributors
and family or taking a business Queensland, we’ve got nine for you now is a great time to jump aboard Tourism and Events Queensland
trip, we’re delighted you’ve chosen to choose from. Or head to the the Tilt Train for a journey to an Tourism Tropical North Queensland
to do it by rail. Our onboard beautiful Whitsundays, let’s face amazing encounter. Regional Tourism partners
Queensland Rail Travel's Charity Partners
team are here to ensure your rail it, with 74 islands to explore and At Queensland Rail, we are
experience through Queensland is a kilometres of white sand beaches, committed to safety on board
memorable one, so please sit back, we’re sure you’ll find something to our services. In this edition, you’ll For story ideas, editorial submission or
tempt you, and we’ve got a list of feedback for this publication please email
make yourself comfortable and find our rail safety guide to ensure embark@qr.com.au.
enjoy the journey and the summer 50 things to start you off. your journey is comfortable and
edition of Embark which is packed Whether it’s a new year’s resolution secure, as well as some sun safety
with great train travel tips across Disclaimer
or you're just craving some tasty tips when travelling through
this beautiful state. fresh produce, Queensland has you Queensland in summer. Images provided by Tourism and Events
Queensland, suppliers and partners.
Our Queensland Rail Travel covered this summer. With local Please take your time and move
farmers markets, summer fruits The content in this publication is not for
network plays an important role in safely throughout the train using reproduction, redistribution or reuse by any
connecting regional Queensland and delicious fresh seafood, it’s the the grab rails, your safety is means or in any form without permission from
communities, offering the largest perfect time to get foodie focused… important to us and I encourage the publisher. All information is correct at time of
and most comprehensive network we’ve even thrown in a few recipes you to please read the safety card
print, all travel inclusions and pricing is subject to
to get you started! change and availability at time of enquiry.
of long-distance and tourism trains in your seat pocket.
*Conditions apply, all prices quoted in this
in Australia. Summer is a great time to head It’s wonderful to hear and see publication are subject to change and availability
Together with our partner, west, and we’ve got some hot tips our customers’ stories and at time of enquiry. Prices are based on the
Sunlover Holidays, we’ve pulled to help you master your Outback shared experiences on board our
best available fare at the time of print, specific
Queensland experience, PLUS some fare conditions apply. Queensland Rail Travel
together a selection of rail holidays trains. Remember to join us on reserves the right to make changes without
showcasing some of Queensland’s great rail fare savings on our Spirit Facebook and Instagram, tag us notice. For full terms and conditions visit
most iconic destinations for of the Outback, The Westlander @queenslandrailtravel and share queenslandrailtravel.com.au.
the brand new Queensland Rail and The Inlander services. your rail experiences. For more information on Queensland Rail Travel’s
Holidays Brochure. In this edition services, timetables, fares and onboard facilities
We love our little train in the What a great time of year to be visit queenslandrailtravel.com.au or your local
of Embark, we give you a sneak rainforest, but don’t just take our travelling through Queensland. travel agent.
peek highlighting just a few of word for it. Vagabonds of Sweden On behalf of Queensland Rail
these exciting rail journeys along recently included Kuranda Scenic Travel and your onboard crew,
the colourful Queensland coast and Railway as part of their one-year I’d like to thank you for travelling
out west to the best of Charleville, Australian East Coast adventure, with us today.
Longreach and Mount Isa. and it became one of their most
You’ll also find some of Queensland’s epic train rides ever. Read more in
new and exciting reef and this edition.
EMBARK is proudly printed on Hanno Art Plus
rainforest experiences, from the Check out what’s on in our summer Nick Easy proudly made FSC certified by Hankuk paper
only underwater art museum in the event guide and get planning for CEO who also carry the ISO 14001 EMS accreditation.
Manufactured with elemental chlorine free pulps.
Southern Hemisphere and Australia’s your next experience. It wouldn’t Queensland Rail Full ‘cradle to grave’ LCA completed according to
international standards.
Queensland Rail ABN 68 598 268 528
Queensland Rail Travel Centres
Brisbane Mackay
Central railway station, Brisbane Mackay railway station, Connors Road, Paget
Bundaberg Maryborough
Bundaberg railway station, Cnr Bourbong & McLean Streets, Old Maryborough railway station, Lennox Street, Maryborough
Bundaberg Rockhampton
Cairns Rockhampton railway station, George Street, Rockhampton
Cairns railway station, Bunda Street, Cairns Toowoomba
Gladstone Toowoomba railway station, Railway & Russell Streets, Toowoomba
Gladstone railway station, Cnr Tank & Tooloola Streets, Gladstone Townsville
Gympie Old Townsville railway station, Flinders Street, Townsville
Gympie North railway station, Sandy Creek Road, Gympie
Cairns Station Please call 1800 872 467 for your nearest Travel Centre.
queenslandrailtravel.com.au
Travel Fleet
Queensland Rail Travel covers the largest and most comprehensive network of long-distance and tourism
trains in Australia. Our fleet comprises a mix of traditional and heritage carriages hauled by diesel
locomotives, modern electric and diesel hauled tilt trains and a traditional railmotor.
Our long-distance services travel the Queensland coastline and into the outback, from Brisbane to Cairns,
Longreach and Charleville and Townsville to Mount Isa. Our tourism services offer a unique rail experience
in North Queensland and the Gulf-Savannah.
Route: Brisbane to Cairns Brisbane to Cairns 5 services per week Premium Economy Seats: 134
Distance: 1681 kilometres Cairns to Brisbane 5 services per week RailBeds: 35
Duration: 24 hours
Route: Brisbane to Bundaberg Route: Brisbane to Rockhampton Business Seats: 27
Distance: 351 kilometres Distance: 639 kilometres Economy Seats: 258
Duration: 4 hours, 30 minutes Duration: 7 hours, 30 minutes
Brisbane to Bundaberg 12 services per week Brisbane to Rockhampton 8 services per week
Bundaberg to Brisbane 12 services per week Rockhampton to Brisbane 7 services per week
Route: Brisbane to Longreach Brisbane to Longreach 2 services per week Economy Seats: 84
Distance: 1325 kilometres Longreach to Brisbane 2 services per week First Class Twin Sleepers: 36
Duration: 26 hours First Class Single Sleepers: 15
Route: Townsville to Mount Isa Townsville to Mount Isa 2 services per week Economy Seats: 84
Distance: 977 kilometres Mount Isa to Townsville 2 services per week
Duration: 21 hours
Route: Brisbane to Charleville Brisbane to Charleville 2 services per week Economy Seats: 72
Distance: 777 kilometres Charleville to Brisbane 2 services per week
Duration: 17 hours
Route: Normanton to Croydon Normanton to Croydon 1 service per week Economy Seats: 100
Distance: 94 Miles Croydon to Normanton 1 service per week
Route: Cairns/Freshwater to Kuranda Cairns/Freshwater to Kuranda 2 services per day Gold Class Seats: 56
Distance: 37 kilometres Kuranda to Freshwater/Cairns 2 services per day Heritage Class Seats: 500-750
The fleet guide is for illustration (depending on carriages in the consist)
purposes only.
Front Cover Image: Lady
To learn more about your onboard experience including timetables, services, menus and so
Musgrave Island – Melissa Findley much more, visit queenslandrailtravel.com.au
& Bundaberg Tourism
3
embark
6
Queensland's newest
8
Fall in love under
attractions offer the the falls this
experiences of a Valentine's Day
lifetime
10
Experience more
of Queensland
with Queensland
Rail Holidays
16
Endless things
14
How to stay cool in the
to do in the
outback this summer
Whitsundays
20
Explore the
unexplored on a
BOOBOOK Eco Tour
A Gold Class
journey aboard the
Kuranda Scenic
24
Railway
The wonders
32
of the Wet
Tropics of
Queensland
22 Top pics for your
Queensland photo
bucket list
queenslandrailtravel.com.au
contents
Discover
Queensland
by Rail
Coral Sea
Cape York
Peninsula
Kuranda
Normanton Cairns
Croydon Tully
Magnetic Island
Townsville
Charters
Mount Isa Towers
Whitsunday Islands
Cloncurry
Proserpine
Hughenden Pacific Ocean
Mackay
Winton Drummond
LongreachRange
Rockhampton
Gladstone
Bundaberg
Charleville
Maryborough
Quilpie
Cunnamulla Laidley Sunshine Coast
Toowoomba Brisbane
Contents
AROUND QUEENSLAND CONNECT
6 What's new in Queensland 32 The essential Queensland photo bucket list
BEST OF 34 Connect with us
8 Nine places to fall in love this Valentine's Day 36 All aboard with us
37 Get to know our team
SPOTLIGHT
10 Queensland Rail Holidays COMMUNITY
14 Eight ways to master an Outback Queensland summer 38 Queensland's Year of Outback Tourism
39 Multicultural Queensland
LOCALS GUIDE
ONBOARD GUIDE
16 50 things to do in the Whitsundays
40 Our suppliers
ESCAPE 41 Onboard menu
20 Explore the unexplored with BOOBOOK Eco Tours 42 Onboard Entertainment - Movies
22 10 things you didn't know about the Wet Tropics 43 Onboard Entertainment - TV Shows
24 Gold Class aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway 44 Onboard Entertainment - Family Shows & Music
GOURMET 46 Fun and games
26 Seven of the best local farmers markets 48 Timetable
28 Where to eat for that summer seafood fix 50 Travel safe guide
EVENTS 51 Summer sun safety
30 Queensland’s best events this summer
5
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what 's new in Queensland
Museum of Underwater 500,000 visitors (locals and you forever. The Reefsuites are Hamilton Island Heart
Art (MOUA) tourists) will view the sculpture the centrepiece of an $8 million Reef Pontoon
on The Strand each year. redevelopment of the Reefworld
Launching in December 2019, moua.com.au pontoon, situated at Hardy Reef, Hamilton Island Air has recently
world-leading underwater which has been meticulously opened its eagerly awaited
sculptor, Jason deCaires Taylor Reefsuites reconstructed after damage pontoon, at Heart Reef. Moored
has created an experience, the sustained in Cyclone Debbie 40 nautical miles (about 60
MOUA, which will be a globally- Prepare to be dazzled by a kilometres) northeast of Hamilton
in 2017.
significant asset to Townsville magical underwater world and Island and situated in the Great
and the surrounding regions and watch in awe as colourful tropical Guests will be able to stay Barrier Reef, Heart Island offers a
more broadly to Queensland fish swim right by your window. overnight in one of two unique experience for all who visit.
and Australia. underwater Reefsuites, each
Spend a magical night in This breathtaking, James Bond-
showcasing spectacular
As the only underwater art Australia's first underwater style experience starts with a
panoramic views of the reef’s
museum in the Southern accommodation and have a 30-minute helicopter trip over
marine life such as tropical fish,
Hemisphere – along with being front-row seat to the dazzling iconic sights such as Whitehaven
turtles and manta rays. This
a major tourist attraction, underwater world of the Great Beach, Hill Inlet, the Great Barrier
unique offering will be available
economic injector, job generator Barrier Reef. Be prepared for Reef and on to Heart Reef. Guests
to guests from summer 2019.
and marine science and an intimate and totally unique arrive on the roof of a floating
cruisewhitsundays.com
research hub, MOUA will act experience that will stay with heli-pad, then venture down a
to highlight reef conservation, secret staircase into the interior
restoration and education on a to board the glass bottom boat
global scale. for a once in a lifetime trip
around Heart Reef, followed by
The artworks will be at several
a snorkelling experience in the
locations along the Queensland
surrounding area. This exclusive
coast, including the John Brewer
tour is available to just six guests
Reef, Magnetic Island, Palm
per visit.
Island and Townsville. The first,
Ocean Siren, due to open in This experience departs
December, is on The Strand in daily, including return scenic
Townsville. The 'Ocean Siren' flight, glass-bottom boat
sculpture will be installed 30 tour of Heart Reef lagoon,
metres from the shoreline snorkelling equipment, light
above the water and has been catering and beverages.
modelled on a local Traditional hamiltonisland.com.au
Owner, Takoda Johnson, and
will change colour in response
to changes in the water Image captions from top left to right:
The Edge Lookout at Barron Gorge –
temperature. An estimated Skyrail; Museum of Underwater Art,
Townsville – Riptide Creative; Desert
Views at Winton, Outback Queensland
queenslandrailtravel.com.au
around queensland
You can take the
train to all these
great new events
and experiences!
Skyrail's Edge Lookout
Officially opened to the public
in March this year, The Edge
Lookout was proposed to provide
Outback 2020 Some of these events include:
Harry Redford Cattle Drive
Skyrail guests with never-before- Reunion, Aramac 22 – 24 May 2020
seen panoramic views of the Year of Outback Tourism Outback Queensland Golf
impressive Barron Gorge and Events Program Masters, Various Locations 20 June – 26 July 2020
Falls. Encompassing a large
In Queensland, 2019 is the Year of Festival of Outback Opera,
boardwalk, a nerve-testing glass
Outback Tourism. This Queensland Mount Isa 22 – 28 June 2020
floor section, sweeping views
of the rocky vista and up-close Government funding initiative has Better in Blackall Festival,
views of the dramatic waterfall, supported Outback Queensland as a Blackall 13 – 16 August 2020
The Edge Lookout provides an world-leading tourism destination.
Outback Paddle Regatta,
entirely new experience to the Due to the success of this initiative, the Longreach 19 September 2020
multi-award-winning Skyrail Queensland Government has extended Karumba Barra & Blues Festival
rainforest experience. the funding to 2020. Outback Queensland and Anglers Classic, Karumba 3 – 5 October 2020
skyrail.com.au will see a variety of new events that
will contribute to enhance the profile of Out the Back Music Festival,
Cobbold Gorge Glass Outback Queensland and attract new and Emerald 11 October 2020
Bottom Bridge increase existing visitation to the outback Savannah Way Art Trail,
regions for 2020 and future years to come. Various Locations 30 November 2020
Cobbold Gorge Tours have
launched Australia’s first glass
bridge, spanning the width
of the gorge which opened in
October 2019. The 11-metre LOOKING FOR A GREAT VALUE RAIL FARE THIS SUMMER?
glass bridge will give tourists Travel in Economy Seats on our western services with this 2FOR1* offer
the opportunity to walk over the aboard The Westlander, The Inlander or the Spirit of the Outback.
sandstone cliffs and look down
to the waters below. This new
tour compliments the existing 2 people from
141
2 people from 2 people from
108 $
90
experiences run by Cobbold
Gorge Tours, which includes boat
tours, stand up paddle boarding $ * * $ *
tours through the gorge Brisbane to Charleville
Townsville to Mount Isa Brisbane to Longreach
and scenic helicopter flights. Economy Seat Economy Seat Economy Seat
cobboldgorge.com.au
*Conditions apply.
7
embark
to fall in love under the falls
this Valentine's Day!
Author: Tourism and Events Queensland –
Kantesha Takai
In Queensland, Valentine’s MILLAA MILLAA FALLS lace up their boots and trek the 2 hours from Brisbane. Follow
Day is at the end of summer. Tropical North Queensland 4-kilometre course together. the walking trail to the lookout
Coincidentally, that may be Channel your inner Peter Andre and be rewarded with a gorgeous
For the not-so-keen hikers, see
why the term “having the hots and woo your date by dancing sunset. Hold hands, stare out
the falls (and its 268-metre
for someone” was invented. in front of the flowing falls of over Lamington National Park
drop) from the lookout near
But we digress. While the Millaa Millaa in Tropical North and picture your future together.
the car park instead. To get to
weather may be perfect for Queensland. Just 1.5 hours Wallaman Falls, it’s 2.5 hours
beach dates, romantic trips drive from Cairns, you’ll find BABINDA BOULDERS
northwest from Townsville or
and all things adventure, it can Millaa Millaa in the Atherton Tropical North Queensland
only an hour drive west from
get stinking hot. We’re talking Tablelands. A tale of forbidden love makes
Ingham.
upwards of 40 degrees in some Babinda Boulders a very special
places. Ouch! Warning: you will pass other
JOSEPHINE FALLS spot to spend V-Day. Legend
fresh water holes and waterfalls
You’re probably thinking “who on the way (because hey, this Tropical North Queensland has it that a young Aboriginal
wants to be outdoors this region is riddled with them) woman named Oolana was
Slide down a natural water
V-Day”, and we don’t blame however, hold out to see your slide and into each other’s forced to marry an older man,
you. But, before you rush off to date’s eyes light up when arms (aww), what could be whom she had no feelings for.
book a poorly lit restaurant or Millaa Millaa’s movie-quality more romantic? The boulders And, when a wandering tribe
a movie that both of you agree falls transports them to exotic at Josephine Falls are a natural arrived, she found love at first
isn’t cinema-worthy, imagine Thailand. waterpark where you and your sight with a handsome man
cooling off under cascading valentine can be big kids and named Dyga. They met every
falls, floating weightlessly and WALLAMAN FALLS swing on thick vines, splash in night until their tribes uncovered
swimming in rejuvenating North Queensland the pool and enjoy each other’s their secret. Disappointed, Dyga’s
fresh water. company. You’ll find Jo about tribe took him far away. In pain
Profess your never-ending love and anguish, Oolana threw
under Wallaman’s never-ending an hour south of Cairns, in the
That’s right, you can still Wooroonooran National Park. herself into the water creating
falls. This beauty is Australia’s an upheaval. Huge boulders
have an outdoor adventure
highest permanent single drop emerged from the earth and she
and keep cool at the same MORANS FALLS
waterfall and it runs all year disappeared.
time. So, ditch the rose for Lamington National Park
round, 365 days a year, 24
the great outdoors and treat
hours a day. And just like the If you’re looking for the perfect When you visit Babinda Boulders
your valentine to a date under
complexities of love, Wallaman spot to exhale and reflect on with your date, please refrain
these falls.
Falls isn’t a walk in the park. an amazing Valentine’s Day, from swimming in Devil’s Pool.
In fact, it’s a hike and a-bit-of- head to Morans Falls in the Stick to the main swimming area,
bouldering to reach the pool at afternoon. Only a 1.5 hour it’s close to the car park and is
the bottom. So, help your date drive from the Gold Coast, or very accessible.
queenslandrailtravel.com.au
best of
Because the water runs straight Cairns and at the bottom of waterfall on that schedule. And, a large house on a five-hectare
from the tablelands, it’s fresh a lush rainforest staircase. the best place to go is Stoney virgin plot of land in Tropical
and slightly chilly, but on a Creek Falls, Fairy Falls or Crystal North Queensland. Before
balmy Valentine’s Day, all you’ll CEDAR CREEK FALLS Cascades. These three local faves getting started, Jose returned
want to do is dive in. Airlie Beach are only 15 minutes from Cairns to Catalonia and married his
Gift your date a giant inflatable city and they’re perfect for a wife Margarita. Together they
ELLINJAA FALLS swan and then drive 30 minutes quick dip and hot Insta photos. returned to Queensland where
Tropical North Queensland inland from Airlie Beach. Take Jose brought his vision to life.
Beautiful from every angle, a left on Conway Beach Road MENA CREEK FALLS AT For anyone who’s read or
Ellinjaa Falls is arguably one of and drive about 7 kilometres PARONELLA PARK watched The Notebook, Jose
the best falls along the Atherton into the Whitsunday Coast Tropical North Queensland and Margarita are basically the
Tablelands waterfall circuit. hinterland (you can’t miss it). Swoon your valentine and set real-life Noah and Allie. And,
Complete with natural props for Here you’ll find the oasis that a high bar for all Valentine’s instead of a big white house
stunning photos (like the large is Cedar Creek Falls. Complete with blue shutters, Jose built his
Days to come with a day trip
log directly in front of the falls), with resident turtles and fish, wife a Spanish castle surrounded
to Paronella Park, just 1.5 hours
it’s perfect for professional and this natural rock amphitheatre by tropical rainforest and an
from Cairns. The romantic
budding photographers to get is a cool spot to chill. accompanying waterfall. How’s
history behind Paronella is a
creative. Capture moments from tear-jerker (the happy kind) and that for an act of love?
your Valentine’s Day that you’ll STONEY CREEK FALLS, FAIRY
FALLS OR CRYSTAL CASCADES you can learn all about it arm- Psst! If you’re planning to go
cherish for years to come and
Tropical North Queensland in-arm with your #bae on a tour. all the way and pop the big
don’t forget to take a romantic
selfie on the hidden ledge under In short, after arriving in 1913, question (hint hint), Paronella
If you’re planning an itinerary
the falls. You’ll find Ellinjaa Falls Spanish cane farmer Jose Park is the perfect place to do it.
for the big day and are pulling
about a 1.5 hour drive from out all the stops, you need a Paronella had a dream to build
take the train
Image captions from top left to
The Spirit of Queensland right: Josephine Falls, Tropical North
runs five times a week Queensland – Vagabonds of Sweden;
from Brisbane to Cairns Wallaman Falls, Townsville – PixbyJen;
Babinda Boulders, Tropical North
Queensland; Moran Falls, Lamington
National Park – The Travel Quandary
9
embark
Queensland
Rail Holidays
The new Queensland Rail Holidays Brochure is
filled with getaways to tropical destinations,
island escapes and adventures to the rugged
and vast country of Queensland’s Outback or
the Gulf Savannah. There is a great rail holiday Town of 1770 Highlights
just waiting to be discovered. Grab your copy 4 Days
today and start planning your next rail holiday Explore the Southern Great Barrier Reef
in Queensland. aboard the Tilt Train to Agnes Water.
Discover the national parks and waterways
bordering the picturesque Town of 1770
on an amphibious craft, the LARC!
Highlights
• Visit the coastal Town of 1770
• Agnes Water Museum
• Tour of Bustard Head Lighthouse
• The LARC!
Inclusions
• Return travel in an Economy Seat
aboard the Tilt Train to Miriam Vale
• Return coach transfers from Miriam
Vale Railway Station to Town of 1770
• 3 nights 4½ star accommodation in
Town of 1770
• Half-day Town of 1770 tour
• 2 day Town of 1770 bus pass
• Full day LARC! Paradise Tour
• 5 meals included
4 days from
$
945*
per Adult Twin Share ex Brisbane
Australian Senior Twin Share $883*
queenslandrailtravel.com.auspotlight
Bundaberg Breakaway Airlie Beach Escape Cairns Rail & Reef
4 Days 5 Days 7 Days
Start your holiday aboard the Tilt Train. Escape to the Whitsundays in the Take the Spirit of Queensland and
Enjoy unforgettable scenery including comfort of a RailBed aboard the Spirit discover the tropical city of Cairns and
the beautiful Southern Great Barrier Reef of Queensland. Arrive relaxed and ready enjoy access to the beautiful Great
and must-see attractions in Bundaberg. to explore this beautiful region. Barrier Reef and rainforest on this
unforgettable journey.
Highlights Highlights Highlights
• Swim in the coral lagoon at Lady • Discover Airlie Beach • Snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef
Musgrave Island • Spend time at Hamilton Island Marina • Stroll along the Palm Cove Esplanade
• Visit a working fruit farm • Walk along the fine white sand at • Ride on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
• Tour the Bundaberg Rum Distillery Whitehaven Beach • Experience Kuranda Scenic Railway
• Stop at the Hummock Look Out • Sunset sail around Pioneer Bay
and Turtle Bay Inclusions
Inclusions • One-way travel in a RailBed aboard the
• Return travel in an Economy Seat Inclusions Spirit of Queensland including all meals
aboard the Tilt Train to Bundaberg • One-way travel in a RailBed aboard the to Cairns
• Return coach transfers from Bundaberg Spirit of Queensland including all meals • 5 nights 4 star accommodation in Cairns
Railway Station to Bargara to Proserpine
• Full day Michaelmas Cay Cruise
• 3 nights 3½ star accommodation in • RailBus Coach Connection transfer
• Half-day Cairns City Sights Tour
Bargara to Airlie Beach
• Full day Kuranda Scenic Railway and
• Half day Taste of Bundaberg Tour • 3 nights 4 star accommodation
Skyrail tour
in Airlie Beach
• Entry to Bundaberg Rum Museum and • 9 meals included
Distillery Experience Tour • Full day Hamilton Island and
Whitehaven Beach Tour
• Full day Lady Musgrave Cruise
• Sunset sail around Pioneer Bay,
• 6 meals included 7 days from
Airlie Beach
4 days from
• 6 meals included $
1365*
per Adult Twin Share ex Brisbane
$
1059* 5 days from Australian Senior Twin Share $1312*
per Adult Twin Share ex Brisbane
Australian Senior Twin Share $989*
$
905*
per Adult Twin Share ex Brisbane
Australian Senior Twin Share $863*
*T&C’s: Prices are subject to change and availability, based on per person twin share, unless otherwise specified and based on the lowest room category for travel in low season.
Prices from other departure points and seasons available, seasonal surcharges may apply. On sale now for travel from 01 April 2020 to 31 March 2021, block out periods may apply.
For full terms and conditions visit queenslandrailtravel.com.au
11embark
Explore Outback Longreach Winton Adventure Charleville Stars & Secrets
& Winton 8 Days 7 Days 5 Days
Start your Outback Queensland experience Adventure to the home of Waltzing Discover the true pioneering spirit of
aboard the Spirit of the Outback, a journey Matilda and the land where dinosaurs Queensland's famous outback as you
through ever-changing scenery. Enjoy true once roamed in and around Winton. See follow in the path of Queensland's famed
blue country hospitality and must-see spectacular landscapes at Bladensburg explorers aboard The Westlander.
attractions in Longreach and Winton. National Park and Carisbrooke Station.
Highlights Highlights Highlights
• Take a stagecoach ride on the old • See the Dinosaur Stampede at Lark • Travel across the Great Dividing Range,
Longreach to Windorah mail route Quarry Conservation Park through the rich farmlands of the
• Sunset cruise on the Thomson River • Take in the natural beauty of Darling Downs
• Follow in the footsteps of dinosaurs as Carisbrooke Station • Explore the outback town of Charleville
you walk through Dinosaur Canyon • Tour the fossil preparation laboratory • Visit the Cosmos Observatory to view
• Be charmed by local bush theatre at at the Australian Age of Dinosaurs the sun through a specially designed
The Harry Redford Old Time Tent Show • Visit the old Homestead at solar telescope
Bladensburg National Park • Guided tour of the Cosmos Centre and
Inclusions learn all about our solar system
• Return overnight travel in a First Class Inclusions • Marvel at the clear night skies to where
Sleeper aboard the Spirit of the Outback • Return travel in a First Class Sleeper distant stars, galaxies and planets
to Longreach including all meals aboard the Spirit of the Outback to shine brightly
• 5 nights 3 star accommodation in Longreach including all meals • Visit the WWII Top Secret USA Airfield
Longreach • Return RailBus Coach Connection • Complimentary in-seat snack-packs
• Nogo Station Experience transfers from Longreach to Winton delivered at meal times on
• Qantas Founders Museum and Jets Tour • 4 nights 4 star accommodation in The Westlander
Winton
• Cobb & Co Stagecoach Experience
• Australian Age of Dinosaurs Tour, Inclusions
• Starlight’s Cruise Experience with
including Dinosaur Canyon • Return Economy Seat aboard
two-course campfire dinner
• Half-day Bladensburg National Park The Westlander to Charleville
• Starlight’s Spectacular Sound & Light
Tour • 2 nights 4 star accommodation
Picture Show
• Rangelands Sunset Tour in Charleville
• Australian Age of Dinosaurs Tour,
• Winton Historic Town Tour • Full day Outback Stars and Secrets
including Dinosaur Canyon and the
Tour including the Cosmos Centre.
Collection Room • Visit Waltzing Matilda Centre, Royal
Open Air Theatre • 3 meals included
• Admission to Waltzing Matilda Centre
and Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame • 13 meals included
• All coach transfers
5 days from
• 16 meals included
7 days from $
585*
8 days from
$
2014* per Adult Twin Share ex Brisbane
Australian Senior Twin Share $535*
$
2868 * per Adult Twin Share ex Brisbane
Australian Senior Twin Share $1848*
per Adult Twin Share ex Brisbane
Australian Senior Twin Share $2676*
*T&C’s: Prices are subject to change and availability, based on per person twin share, unless otherwise specified and based on the lowest room category for travel in low season.
Prices from other departure points and seasons available, seasonal surcharges may apply. On sale now for travel from 01 April 2020 to 31 March 2021, block out periods may apply.
For full terms and conditions visit queenslandrailtravel.com.au
queenslandrailtravel.com.auspotlight
Gulf Savannah Experience
6 Days
Take a journey like no other across the
vast Gulf Savannah region. Enjoy the
country hospitality, spectacular scenery
and two unique rail journeys.
Highlights
• Watch the spectacular sunset over the
Gulf of Carpentaria
• Discover the fishing village of Karumba
• Travel from Normanton to Croydon on
the iconic Gulflander
• Embark on the scenic journey through
semi-arid spinifex ranges on the
Savannahlander
• Experience historic Forsayth
• Take a cruise through Cobbold Gorge
• Explore the oldest standing lava tubes
on earth
Inclusions
• Coach transfer from Cairns to Karumba
• Gulflander from Normanton to Croydon
• Savannahlander from Forsayth to Cairns
• 2 nights 3½ star accommodation in
Karumba
• 2 nights 3 star accommodation in
Forsayth
• 1 night 4 star accommodation in Mount
Surprise
• Forsayth By Night Tour, Cobbold Gorge
Cruise and Undara Lava Tubes tour
• One way transfer between Karumba to
Normanton and Croydon to Forsayth
• Return transfers from Forsayth to Cobbold
Gorge and Mount Surprise to Undara
• 10 meals included
6 days from
$
1795* Start planning your next
escape across Queensland,
per Adult Twin Share ex Brisbane
Australian Senior Twin Share $1724*
with the new Queensland Rail
Holidays Brochure, out now!
13embark
eight ways
to master
an Outback Queensland summer
Author: Outback Queensland
If there was any doubt that Outback Queensland
is smokin’ hot – a quick glance at a thermometer
in summer settles all bets but hang around and
we promise, you’ll be rewarded. Here are our hot
tips for cooling down when you head out west to
Outback Queensland.
Image captions from top left to right:
Birdsville, Outback Queensland; The Burdekin
River, Charters Towers; Outback Bathtub,
Longreach; Charters Towers Pub, Charters Towers
queenslandrailtravel.com.auspotlight
1. Visit a man-made, air-conditioned Gardens, Lochern National Park, or by backyard water dish for an au naturale
attraction the banks of the Five Mile Waterhole. dip in an Outback Queensland gorge.
They build things cooler in the outback Set beneath towering sandstone cliffs
4. Take a dip in an artesian pool and among lush vegetation Isla Gorge,
and the QANTAS Founders’ Museum in
Longreach, John Flynn Place in Cloncurry For the original float tank experience, Carnarvon Gorge and Porcupine Gorge
and the Charleville Cosmos Centre are swap inner-city salt caves with an are all found a little off the beaten track,
no exception. Put them on your to-do list artesian pool. These therapeutic spas but a journey their way is our weapon of
when the temperatures start to rise and draw on thermal mineral waters from choice in this summer survival pack.
your temperament starts to deteriorate. the Great Artesian Basin and are perfect
You’ll see attractions, artefacts and for relieving muscle tension. You’ll find 7. Relax in an outdoor outback bathtub
art pieces encased in world-class them located in Blackall and Mitchell – Shandonvale Station gives ‘bathtime’ a
air-conditioning. smack bang in the middle of Artesian new meaning. Lay back in their iconic
Country. By summer you’ll want to dive outdoor bathtub and watch the sunset
2. Sip an ice-cold beer at one of Outback straight into a chilled artesian pool – on a warm day in Outback Queensland
Queensland’s iconic hotels natural artesian water is 38 degrees. with a glass of crisp white wine in tow.
There’s a correlation between hot days It’ll cure whatever summer heats ail you.
and cold beers in this neck of the woods. 5. Dive into an outback river
A stop in at one of Outback Queensland’s There’s no need to go coastal with so 8. Ride the rails in air-conditioned comfort
best watering holes is guaranteed to many inland watercourses in Outback What would you say if we mentioned
quench your thirst. As the temps outside Queensland, where you can swim, fish, you could see the best of Outback
reach 40 degrees you’ll still be sipping on barbecue and waterski. The Thomson, Queensland without ever having to
sub-5 degree liquid gold. Warrego, Barcoo, Dawson and Flinders leave the air-conditioning? Join
Rivers are dotted across the region and Queensland Rail Travel's Spirit of the
3. Find shade under a Coolibah Tree are the best chill-out locations during Outback, The Westlander and The
Follow the movements of the jolly the summer solstice. Inlander for a journey through Outback
swagman and find yourself under Queensland in fully air-conditioned
the shade of a Coolibah Tree. These 6. Cool off in one of Outback comfort. Double the fun for these
wide-spreading eucalypts are usually Queensland’s gorges iconic rail journeys through Charleville,
found on the banks of creeks and rivers If cooling off in blow-up pools has Longreach and Mount Isa with a 2FOR1
like Coolibah Trees in the Roma Bush become all too familiar, swap the deal this summer.
2FOR1
Discover Queensland’s outback with great savings
aboard our western services with this 2FOR1* rail offer.
Travel in First Class Sleepers aboard the Spirit of the Outback.
SUMMER FARE
*Conditions apply.
15embark
50 things
to do in the
Whitsundays
this summer
Author: Tourism and Events Queensland – Shelley Winkel
queenslandrailtravel.com.aulocals guide
Number 32 – Palm Bay Resort,
Long Island
17embark
With 74 islands to explore, 6
See a swarm of majestic blue
Ulysses butterflies at Butterfly
kilometres of squeaky Bay on Hook Island as they fly
out over the ocean every morning
white sand beaches – and and afternoon.
the kind of mainland hub
Sign up for Salty Dog Sea
you find yourself plotting 7 Kayaking‘s half-day, full-day or a
a seachange to after just marathon six-day tour and power
yourself through the Whitsundays.
one visit – you won’t be
short of things to do in the 8 Walk from your lounge to the
lawn, set up a banana chair and
Whitsundays. snooze just metres from the
impressive Whitsunday Passage
at Marina Shores.
Your bucket list will be 9
Jump on board a ferry and island-
hop the passage to Hamilton
overflowing with these Island. Taste test a poolside Pina 15 Bet on a toad or two at the weekly
Cane Toad Races every Thursday
50 things to tick off: Colada at each resort. night at Magnums, Airlie Beach.
Zip, zoom and zap across the Check out the Saturday markets
10 Coral Sea from your very own 16 on the Airlie Beach foreshore
Feel the solitude of the reef
1 without the tourists and camp
jet-ski with award-winning
operator, Whitsunday Jetski Tours.
for the usual jumble of fresh fruit
out on Reef Sleep pontoon with and veg, coffee, clothing, and
Cruise Whitsundays. From $525 one of the cheapest places for
Have a 60-minute heart-to-heart a massage.
per person, you get two days on 11 and chopper over Heart Reef,
the reef, comfy swags and a million
perfectly shaped and surrounded Grab a hand line and land a
stars at night.
by turquoise waters. 17 prized barramundi, the prince
Tuck into a local crab claw, the of freshwater catches, just 30
2 biggest and the best outside 12
Eat a Bowen mango where it all minutes from Proserpine at Peter
started, in Bowen, the home of Faust Dam.
Singapore at Fish D'vine or slug
summer’s most favourite fruit.
down one of their mojitos, rated –
Help save the Great Barrier Reef
by one journalist at least – as best
in the world.
18 with Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc.,
a hands-on volunteer experience
Grab a coldie, pick the perfect palm where you pick up marine
3 tree and then sit back and watch debris from the beaches of the
the sunset at Cape Gloucester Whitsunday Islands.
Resort restaurant… Shhh, keep it
quiet. This is truly a local secret. Take a natural shower at Cedar
19 Creek Falls, located 20 kilometres
Warm up on the world's whitest from Proserpine on Saltwater
4 sand on Whitehaven Beach, Creek Road.
often voted as the No. 1 Beach in
Smell the wild lemon myrtle
Australia and the South Pacific,
and one of the Top 10 beaches
20 flowers and listen to the wampoo
in the world. pigeon as you trek the lowland
tropical rainforest along the
Conway Circuit.
Light up a free barbecue at the
21 Airlie Beach and Shingley Beach
lagoons or Cannonvale Beach in
Take a day trip to Palm Bay with a safe stinger-free environment
13 Island Transfers. Immerse yourself surrounded by relaxed landscaped
in the lush rainforest whilst tracking gardens.
through the national park. Play
tennis, go kayaking, snorkelling or Hike your way to Coral Cove, a
fishing, or just laze by the pool with 22 hidden bay fringed by reef and
a cocktail in hand. surrounded by tall pines, accessed
from Saddle Junction on Hamilton
Get behind the eight ball with Island on a 4.6 kilometre round
Tee off at Australia’s only island 14 billiards or croon your heart out trip. Don’t forget to pack your
5 championship golf course located on karaoke at the lively bars in the togs – there’s plenty of swimming
on Dent Island. main street of Airlie Beach. spots along the way!
queenslandrailtravel.com.aulocals guide
Set sail from Coral Sea Marina on While at Hamilton Island, order Blend in with the locals by lunching
23 a dreamy day trip to secluded bays 31 the dribble-worthy ‘son-in-law’ eggs 41 at Northerlies (while pretending
and beaches like Macona Inlet and followed by ‘twice-cooked pork ribs’ you’re used to seeing such
Butterfly Bay with Airlie Beach Day at coca chu restaurant. No need to ridiculously turquoise water every day).
Sailing. The French chef will prep fly to Asia.
the nibbles and you can BYO tipple! Holiday big on a small budget
Enjoy the serenity and sunsets from 42 and go camping on the largest
Picnic on the soft white sand at 32 your hammock on the verandah island in the Whitsundays,
24 Boathaven Beach and suck up the of your private Balinese inspired Whitsunday Island. Permits are
stunning views of the Coral Sea beachfront villa, at secluded Palm around $6 per night.
and islands beyond. Bay Resort on Long Island while
exploring the 13 kilometres of Get inspired by Hamilton Island’s
Jump on board with Just Tuk’n walking tracks through abundant 43 palm-fringed beaches, then take an
25 Around pedicabs who run short island rainforest. on-island art class to capture the
tours of Airlie Beach as well beauty first hand.
as progressive dinners. Start Sit on the beach and enjoy live
at Sorrento for pizzas and 33 music every Sunday at the Airlie
sundowners, then onto Shucks for Beach Esplanade.
oysters and 74 Taphouse for share
platters, finishing at KC’s Bar & Grill Heck, while you’re in the
for live music. 34 Whitsundays, why not get married?
There happens to be a chapel
Travel in an open-air tractor-drawn on Daydream, Hayman and
26 wagon train with Whitsunday Hamilton Islands.
Crocodile Safari and take a cruise
to spot flocks of magpie geese, Ride your own Segway through the
agile wallabies, resident brolgas, 35 spectacular Conway National Park Throw a line in with Whitsunday
and the prehistoric saltwater rainforest, or along the Whitsunday 44 Fishing Charters during a half-day or
crocodiles. Bicentennial Boardwalk overlooking full-day fishing charter.
the pristine waters of Pioneer Bay.
Get down with gran over a $15 Hike to the lookout at Hill Inlet for
27 barefoot bowl (including a Walk in the footsteps of the Ngaro 45
sausage sizzle!) at the Airlie 36 people at Nara Inlet on Hook Island
stunning views over Whitehaven
Beach.
Beach Bowls Club. and discover ancient Aboriginal
artworks on the fragile rock surface. Line up for a seafood feast at Bird's
46 Fish Bar at Bowen Fishermans
Walk, run or ride the 3.7 kilometres
37 Bicentennial Walkway from the
Seafood Company, and then visit
the sites of Bowen and spot where
Airlie Beach Lagoon, past the Australia the movie was filmed.
Botanic Gardens to Cannonvale
Beach (and check out the outdoor For the best morning brew with a
gym along the way!). 47 view, head to the Fat Frog Beach
Café at Cannonvale Beach.
Watch the sunset from the decks of
38 Sundowner Cruises’ flat-bottomed Visit the infamous Living Reef
boat and absorb the twilight hues 48 Lagoon for either a day or night at
with beautiful views. the newly refurbished Daydream
Island Resort.
Hire a set of fins and a snorkel
49 from the dudes at Catseye Beach
at Hamilton Island and snorkel the
fringing reef directly off the island
at low tide.
Re-enact the Hot Tub Time
28 Machine at the Pinnacles Resort Watch the sunrise and sunset from
and Spa. These oversized spas 50 your balcony at Bowen's 'island
offer sweeping views of the on the mainland' at Whitsunday
Whitsunday Islands. Sands Resort.
Cuddle a koala or any other furry
Dig into a degustation dinner 39 marsupial at Wildlife Park For more information on your perfect
29 at Tides Restaurant & Bar at Hamilton Island. next holiday to the Whitsundays, visit
Peppers Airlie Beach and taste queensland.com.
the local flavours. Walk one of nature’s gifts at
40 low tide and spot starfish, crabs, Image captions from top left to right: Whitehaven
Slide into total relaxation with a Beach, Whitsundays; Bowen Mangoes, Bowen; Ulysses
stingrays and other marine life
30 spa treatment Spa qualia at qualia along the myriad of Whitsundays’
butterflies at Butterfly Bay, Hook Island; Barefoot Bowls,
Airlie Beach; Wildlife Park, Hamilton Island; Fishing
Hamilton Island. sand flats. Charter, Murray Creek
19embark
Explore the Unexplored
Author: BOOBOOK Eco Tours
Outback Queensland Principal Ecologist, Craig Eddie, this stretch of the river, and we • We also found evidence
has discovered over 50 new sought to unlock its secrets. of where glossy black-
is host to some of species of land snails alone and cockatoos had been feeding
Here are some preliminary
Australia’s best-kept yes, he can describe and name
findings from our inaugural Eco-
under Casuarina (she-oak)
the 3000+ currently found trees – this is a rare and
secrets. This unique across Australia.
Science Expedition within the
threatened species in
Dawson River study area (results
country of ours is This thirst for more knowledge are still being analysed and it
Queensland
so vast that some and interest in the natural will take some months to fully • We also targeted several
environment has led to the prepare the report/data).
areas are yet to be initiation of our Eco-Science
invertebrate groups (animals
without backbones)
properly explored. Expeditions. The first of which
• We intensively explored a
including butterflies,
4-kilometre stretch of the
took place in September 2019, dragonflies and land snails
Dawson River which had not
With a keen interest in natural in the little-explored uppermost
previously been explored by • We found 15 species of
history and native animals and headwaters of the Dawson
biologists butterflies and at least six
plants, BOOBOOK ecologists River within the Carnarvon
love to explore the unexplored Ranges. • The terrain was rough in species of dragonflies
to further understand this places but included some • Land snails were
The Dawson River is the
wonderful state we call home. beautiful sandstone cliff represented by at least
lifeblood for both biodiversity
lines, caves and side gorges 10 species – although we
Over the past 20 years, our and agriculture, yet we know
– these provide numerous had previously done some
teams have discovered six new virtually nothing about the
hiding places for a range serious snail work nearby,
plant species and numerous ecology and biology of the
of animals which could one of our participants still
range extensions for both environment at the source of
potentially include rare and managed to find a ‘hairy
native plants and animals. the river. There have been no
endangered species such as snail’ which represents a
In addition, our Director and previous biological surveys in
the Northern Quoll (although range extension for the
we didn’t find any) species
• With seven pairs of keen • We found many significant
eyes (two guides and five waterholes – these provide
participants) we recorded refuge for plants and
approx. 50 species of birds, animals that depend on
10 species of reptile, and water in an otherwise very
several species of mammals
dry landscape. We mapped
and frogs
the extent of the waterholes
• This included several so that we know where to
sightings of the elusive target any future studies.
Herbert’s rock-wallaby which Lots of evidence of the
has a very patchy occurrence presence of Rakali (water
in the Carnarvon Range rat) was observed and one
queenslandrailtravel.com.auescape
was spotted in a water hole What happens next? ROMA’S OWN DR DOLITTLE
unusually during the middle
of the day (normally seen at All the information we collect
is recorded electronically Craig Eddie, BOOBOOK Principal Ecologist, loves
night) conversing with animals. He has been face-to-face
following each expedition and
• We found one spring which the analyses of data provide a with the endangered Northern Hairy-nosed Wombats
had not been previously summary report highlighting in Central Queensland and a less-intimidating,
documented the area's values. Information though equally intriguing leaf-tailed gecko in the
collected is also used to form Carnarvon Ranges. On ecological surveys throughout
• We recorded approximately
180 species of plants along the bases of scientific papers. Outback Queensland, he has found new species of
the river – quite a large This will contribute to a much land snails, scorpions, fairy shrimps and plants.
total which included some better understanding of
the upper reaches of one of Should you get the chance, let Craig be your guide
exciting finds such as: on a BOOBOOK “Discover Carnarvon Ranges” tour to
Queensland’s most important
– A species of wattle which river systems. The information explore the hidden wonders of secluded gorges, see
is likely to be the first is valuable too and can be amazing rock formations, uncover cool Australian
record for this species used by multiple organisations wildlife, rare plants and visit unique Aboriginal rock
from the Carnarvon Range including the landowner/ art sites.
– A new population of a managers and Natural
Or if you’re interested in seeing the many industries
rare species of bottlebrush Resource Management Groups.
that support our outback towns, join in our “Wheat
(Melaleuca)
Wells and Wildlife” tour. During the day we take a
– A range of spectacular behind the scenes guided tour through a major coal
wildflowers was
seam gas field and visit a family-owned working
photographed including
cattle and cropping property which is also home to
grevilleas, wattles and
an array of wildlife including playful platypus, Sturt’s
native peas. Image captions from top left to right:
Arch Rock, Carnarvon; Agriculture Farming, Desert Rose and a critically endangered turtle.
The weather was superb with Rural Outback Queensland; Bottle Tree,
very warm days - even warm Roma; Ëcho Hills, Roma – Peter Bellingham; If you want something a bit shorter than the “Explore
Richard Johnson on an Eco Tour, Outback
enough for a swim and paddle Roma Town” half-day tour may be just what the
Queensland; Craig Eddie finding local snails.
in a canoe. Our exploring Images supplied by BOOBOOK Eco Tours doctor ordered. Share a few hours with a local guide
participants also learnt for an insight into the colourful history and present-
about animal identification day goings-on in and around Roma. Uncover how
and observation techniques, the town transformed, learn about the industries it
plant collecting and using supports while keeping an eye out for some of our
identification keys and flora local characters. Find our hidden treasures like Hero’s
survey techniques. We had Avenue, specular stain glass windows, our biggest
great food in an awesome base Bottle Tree and the Roma Bush Gardens.
where we could share our daily
discoveries!
21embark
10 things
you didn't know
about the Wet
Tropics Rainforest
Author: Tourism Tropical North Queensland – Hannah Statham
RIDDLE ME THIS… 2. The Wet Tropics have for the chance to spot them. if judged by plant species type
distinct precincts You’ll be looking for a small and structure. As if this isn’t
Considering the Wet Tropics worm, not unlike a caterpillar, credential enough, it’s also
What do Kylie Minogue,
runs for 450 kilometres, it’s no save for its clawed legs, an home to some of the world’s
Nicole Kidman and the surprise to find that this mega adaptation worthy of most primitive flowering plants.
Wet Tropics Rainforest all forest is actually made up of 29 a Frankenstein movie. If thinking about visiting, buy a
have in common? different national parks. In fact,
4. Civilisation dates back plant book, because you’ll run
this rainforest stops and starts out of fingers to count the 3000
They’re all Australian, the oldest more than 5000 years
along the coastline and has six vascular plant species in this
in their family and more famous If ever you thought cooking
different precincts, each with its forest, which is just one of the
than the rest of their bloodline. practices have never been so
own identity and microhabitat. refined, we take your molecular ways this rainforest contributes
Yep, serious overachievers. From the Daintree in the gastronomy and raise it an to the “outstanding universal
However, for all the trivia facts north to Paluma Range in overnight stay in the Wet value” criteria for UNESCO.
you might know about our Kylie the south, of the entire Wet
and Nic when it comes to the Tropics. Before European 6. Some of the animals are
Tropics landmass, 79 percent settlement, there were 18
Wet Tropics, we reckon you rarer than a panda bear
is a national park, making this different Aboriginal groups
might draw a blank if asked a Don’t be alarmed if you haven’t
World Heritage-listed area living in the Wet Tropics World
question about Australia’s A-list heard about this very rare,
accessible and affordable, Heritage area, with over 20,000
rainforest, which grows from white variety of the lemuroid
since all national parks are nomadic people, speaking
Townsville to Cooktown. Get to ringtail possum – it’s so rare,
completely free to visit. All six languages and living in
know the famous forest, which that its plight for survival is more
you need is a pair of boots to their various precincts. Even
spans 8940 square-kilometers, damned than the panda bear.
discover this rainforest, with more mind-blowing than the
with this list of 10 things you So endangered is this white
roots so deep that it predates number of communities is the
didn’t know about the Wet Tropics. and fluffy emblem of the forest,
the Amazon. fact they were living among that it’s thought that there are
3. The oldest creature you'll 14 different toxic plants, which just four of them alive today.
1. The Wet Tropics are find isn't the Cassowary they were able to eat, thanks This endangered species is only
crawling with animals Contrary to what your pub to highly advanced cooking found 1000 metres above sea
Despite the Wet Tropics only trivia team might have you techniques – the kind that level in the Carbine Tablelands
taking up 0.2 percent of believe, the oldest animal took western civilizations and parts of the Atherton
Australia’s landmass, it’s habitat in the Wet Tropics is not the years to perfect. Evidence of Tablelands. It’s main threat
to more than a quarter of the Cassowary or the Crocodile… leaching, fermenting, and to survival is global warming,
marsupial species in the country it’s about 400 million years sun-drying is well documented as these white puffs of fluff
– a factoid worthy of professor more senior and looks like a among Aboriginal people who
can’t survive for more than five
Stephen Williams labelling cross between a worm and a lived sustainably among the
hours at temperatures above
the Southern Atherton area crab. Introducing… the velvet forest until the early explorers
30 degrees. With evolution,
“the most biodiverse location worm, which measures 10 disrupted their 5000 years of
they’ve been climbing higher
in Australia”. More than just existence. A Dreamtime Walk
centimeters (at best) and has and higher to escape the heat,
marsupials, the Wet Tropics at the Mossman Gorge Centre
more than 500 million years to but once they reach the tallest
is one of the best ways to hear
has plenty of winged creatures its species’ name. Despite their branches of the forest, there will
these ancient rainforest tales.
in its habitat – in particular, soft and cuddly moniker – velvet be nowhere else for them to go.
58 percent of all Australian worms are far from it – they’re 5. You'll need an While your chance of seeing
bat species, 58 percent of the carnivorous critters, which Encyclopaedia to spot all them would be like spotting
butterfly species and 40 percent probably explains why they’ve the plants a needle in a haystack, you
of bird species. The best way done so well for themselves It’ll come as no surprise that the can discover more about
to spot the lot is to join a throughout the ages. Keep your rainforests of the Wet Tropics them at the Malanda Visitor
nature tour. eyes peeled on the forest floor are the most diverse in Australia Information Centre.
queenslandrailtravel.com.auYou can also read
