COOKTOWN -341 km north of CAIRNS is (the
gateway to some of our very own local history) - was founded
in 1873 as the main port for the Palmer River Goldfields,
although this wasn't until more than a century after, "Captain James
Cook" spent 48 days in 1770 on the banks of the Endeavour
River repairing his ship, after damaging it on the Great Barrier
Reef.
Every June on the Queen's birthday long week-end the town
and surrounding areas celebrates Cooktown's status as Australia's
first, if brief, European settlement at a "Discovery Festival" which
includes a colourful re-enactment of Cook's landing. |
This festival is not only popular with
the locals it also attracts visitors from far and wide.
It's only a short 35 minute flight from the Cairns airport.
For those wishing to drive there is the scenic route
via the coast which is not suitable for caravans or
trailers and a 4wd is recommended. The inland road,
which is almost completely sealed,passes through the heart
of the lower Peninsula and the famous Palmer Goldfields. |
A highlight of a visit to Cooktown is an extended
tour of the James Cook Museum - built in 1888 as a convent school
run by Irish nuns. The Museum documents not only Cook's voyages
it also gives information about Aboriginal and natural history,
the gold rush days and their Chinese legacy. Walking tracks
in the area allows for visitors to explore areas of beach, bush
and mountains. Closer to town is Grassy Hill where one can share
the same view as Captain Cook. |
