Cooktown was one of the lucky Far North Queensland towns spared by Cyclone Yasi. It is also one of the most picturesque towns in Queensland, sitting at the foot of Mt Cook and overlooking the magnificent Endeavour River.
Despite the fact that this is known as the ‘wet season’, Cooktown has a lot to offer and is open for business. The crystal creeks are full of fish, the birds are in abundance and you may even be lucky enough to spot the elusive Bennett’s Tree Kangaroo in its natural habitat. With the Barramundi season open again, those with a passion for fishing will find Cooktown a wonderful place to ‘bag a barra’.
Cooktown provides something for everyone including a unique history that began in 1770 with Cook’s arrival and expanded 100 years later with the Palmer river gold rush. There are museums, traditional old pubs and an Historical society that houses a fascinating display from the early days. There are the exquisite Cooktown Botanical Gardens, home to the Cooktown Orchid, beaches, waterfalls and magnificent bushwalking trails.
For the adventurous there are fishing trips up rivers, a chance of croc spotting or visit some original Aboriginal rock art sites. Or simply relax, sit back and watch the sunset over the Endeavour River from Grassy Hill.
Come and explore the beauty of Cooktown, only 4 hrs from Cairns by car or 45 mins by plane. For more information go to www.cooktownandcapeyork.com or call the Visitor Information Centre 1800 174 895.
