Strangely enough, Cairns was first internationally ‘noticed’ as a tourist destination after many years of high profile visitors coming here for Marlin Fishing. From the 1940’s, Cairns was widely recognised as one of the premier Marlin Fishing destinations in the world. Now of course, we are far better known as being the gateway into two of the most spectacular World Heritage sites in the world. This has not diminished the quality of the fishing available in this region though. Choose from freshwater, saltwater estuary (calm water), and reef fishing. Although there are many quality fishing charter companies in the Cairns region, a company we have been recommending for many years is Fishing the Tropics.

Did we say spectacular…? Yes, the Tropical North is world famous for its scenery and World Heritage listed natural wonders, but imagine seeing them from the air! There are many companies offering scenic flights over the reef and rainforest, by Helicopter or small fixed wing aircraft. You can also choose from flight times of varying lengths and destinations, ensuring a stunning experience to suit everyone’s budget! Down Under Helicopters offers heli-scenic flights over the Great Barrier Reef, and also the flexibility of being able to land on a permanently moored heli-pad at the reef! Barrier Aviation can take you on a very personalised scenic flight by fixed-wing aircraft out over parts of the Great Barrier Reef, or Tropical rainforests. Enquire now for fixed-wing scenic flight options.

Some of Australia’s premier indigenous cultural experiences have their bases in Australia’s Tropical North.

The infamous story of the ‘stolen generation’ is a hot political issue in Australia, as the Government policy during the white settlers’ colonization of Australia dictated that the “Aboriginal” be bred out of the Aboriginal. To achieve this inhuman end, children were forcibly removed from their families, and brought up in white households, or Christian Missions. Any form of contact with their Aboriginal Heritage was strictly forbidden, and slowly, all knowledge of language, culture and traditions slowly slipped away in only a few generations. Imagine 40,000 years of perfect harmony with their natural surroundings, and completely unevolved society torn away in a few short years!

The Tropical North areas of Australia were settled relatively later compared to southern regions. Thanks to the ongoing secretive cultural teachings of a brave few during those dark days, and subsequent hard work by a few special people in the years since, many ancient traditions, languages and bush culture have survived, or been revived in the Tropical North.

Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park offers a fascinating historical and educational insight into the local rainforest Djabuganji and coastal Yirrganydji peoples. This IS a must see attraction in Cairns for anyone with am interest in indigenous cultures. Adventure North offers several touring options incorporating the traditional indigenous cultures of the Djabuganji and Yirrganydji’s northern neighbours.