Diver with Giant Clam

Tropical North Qld

The Tropic North is where the rainforest meets the reef. It comprises the World Heritage Queensland wet tropics and the Great Barrier Reef which extends for over 2 000 km. In 1979 the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park was established to protect this unique natural icon. The wet tropical rainforests provide a haven for a multitude of bird and wildlife species. The hinterland consists of rich agricultural lands, a fascinating Aboriginal and European heritage, numerous national parks and many charming towns and villages. The main Great Barrier Reef islands include Dunk, Fitzroy, Green, Lizard, Bedarra, Hinchinbrook and Orpheus. Cairns is the major city in the region and a highly popular tourist destination.

Visitor Information Centre: 51 The Esplanade, Cairns. Tel (07) 4051 3588.

Cyclone Yasi devastated large tracts of this region on February 3. 2011 with hardest hit towns being Mission Beach, Tully, Cardwell and Innisfail.