Saturday, March 2, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Cairns, Australia

Where in the World Are We?

In Cairnes on the northeast coast of Australia at the center of the Great Barrier Reef in the South Pacific Ocean

CAIRNS, AUSTRALIA
HOME TO THE ICONIC GREAT BARRIER REEF

Warmly welcoming you to the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is a treasure trove of rich tropical
beauty and incredible sea life. Swathes of rainforest spread out to the north, where you can soar over the canopy
in a cable car before looking down over narrow channels of water plummeting down gorges and crocodile-filled
waterways. The diverse lands of the Atherton Tableland lie to the west, but it’s the crystal-clear waters – and life-filled
reefs – of Cairns’ remarkable underwater world that draws universal adulation. Priding itself as the Gateway to the
Great Barrier Reef, explore Cairns’ constellation of color as you dive into the world’s largest and most spectacular
underwater universe.

Cairns is huddled in amongst abundant swathes of rainforests, giving way to glorious golden beach crescents.
Kuranda – with its scenic railway and heritage market stalls – waits to be discovered, cloaked within the depths of the
rainforest. Learn of the indigenous people of North Queensland during cultural performances, and hear the throaty
reverberations of digeridoos as you listen to eternal stories handed down through time, from generation to generation.

Back in Cairns, there’s always time for a coffee, a beer, or a feast of fresh oysters with glasses of Cairns’ white wines
– boldly flavored with mango and banana notes.

BARRON GORGE NATIONAL PARK
Experience a world-heritage rainforest, the spectacular Barron Falls, and the diverse wildlife in Barron Gorge National Park. Located in the Wet Tropics of Queensland’s World Heritage Area north of Cairns, the park is part of the traditional lands of the Djabugandji Bama (local Aboriginal people), who maintain a close spiritual connection with this country.

Before Europeans arrived, Bama traversed this country, developing trails linking the coast to the uplands. These historic trails now form sections of a walking track network.

SIGHTS

• Cairns Aquarium
• Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
• Cairns Botanic Gardens
• The Australian Armour & Artillery Museum
• Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Today’s Excursion – Aboriginal Rainforest Journey

Explore the Aboriginal culture amidst the pristine natural beauty of the Rainforestation Nature Park during this captivating sightseeing excursion.

Kuranda Range, Rainforest, Rainforestation Nature Park, Army Duck-Ride, Wildlife

We departed the pier for the scenic drive from Cairns, the heart of tropical north Queensland and home of nature, culture, and wildlife, up the Karanda range and through the rainforest. Upon arrival at the spectacular Rainforestation Nature Park, we boarded an authentic Army Duck, a heavy-duty, amphibious truck utilized during World War II, for a picturesque ride through the verdant rainforest.

Aboriginal Culture, Dancing & Musical Activities, Kangaroos, Koalas, Cassowaries

Next, we enjoyed a unique opportunity to learn about and experience the Aboriginal culture in the tropical rainforest first-hand through dancing and musical activities. Australia’s abundant wildlife is also on display during your time in the park. We watched adorable kangaroos hopping at our feet and looked for other Aussie favorites, including koalas and cassowaries.

Check out today’s Chronicle