South of Cairns

Just north of Innisfail is the township of Mirriwinni the home of Brad Bevan (champion Australian athlete). Shortly after that the town of Babinda comes up. This is actually the southern boundary of the municipal area of Cairns. Babinda is a sugar town but an industry of banana farming has also been established in the area. The Babinda Sugar Mill has guided tours during the crushing season. A beautiful picnic area known as the Boulders lies 6km west of the town.

Imposing Bellenden-Kerr National Park (79,500 ha) extends more than 60 km from Gordonvale in the North to inland of Innisfail. At the southern end of the park are Mt Bartle Frere (Queensland's Highest peak. 1615m) and Josephine Falls a picnic and swimming place. Access by conventional vehicle to Josephine Falls is possible throughout the year and should be suitable for road bikes with care. Queensland's second highest peak (1561m) lies in the mid northern section of the park.

Approaching Gordonvale is Walsh's Pyramid because of its shape. It is an imposing landmark and is right beside the highway. There is a foot race held each year from Gordonvale to the top of the Pyramid and back. You can walk, run or stagger up if you want to but the writer would not recommend it. Orchid Valley, along the Little Mulgrave specialises in orchids. The writer recommends a visit if you like orchids. The tour is interesting and informative. It should take no more than half an hour from Cairns. From Gordonvale you travel a short way to Edmonton and then into Cairns.

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