Cairns

Tropical North Queensland is as diverse in natural treasures as the cosmopolitan mix of cultures and peoples that call this region home. There are so many unique attractions and activities to see when you visit us...cruise to the reef or islands, take a 4WD safari to the outback, trek into the rainforest or see it from the rainforest cableway above its green canopy on your way to or from Kuranda. Day touring in this region is so easy - there are over 600 trips to choose from, and our tourism industry and infrastructure is designed to ensure you, the visitor, will have a truly memorable holiday. Listed by the World Heritage Society and acclaimed as amongst the world's most wonderful assets are the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforests. These year round natural attractions are truly memorable and inspiring.

However, Cairns' future was secured as it developed into a railhead and major port for the exportation of sugar cane, gold, precious metals and agricultural industries from the surrounding coastal and Tableland regions. The city is rapidly expanding, with a population of 128,284 (as of June, 2005),^[3] and is reliant on the sugar and tourism industries.

Cairns is a popular travel destination for foreign tourists because of its tropical climate and proximity to many attractions. The Great Barrier Reef can be reached in less than an hour by boat. The Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation, about 130 kilometres (80 miles) north of Cairns, are popular areas for experiencing a tropical rainforest. It is also a starting point for people wanting to explore Cooktown, Cape York Peninsula, and the Atherton Tableland.