Tropical North Queensland
Where Rainforest Meets the Reef
Home to the Reef to Reef, Tropical North Queensland is the only place where two World Heritage listed areas sit side by side, offering spectacular panoramas and once in a lifetime natural encounters in untouched wilderness.
Take the plunge into one of the Seven Wonders of the World and explore the underwater paradise that is the Great Barrier Reef; and, be enchanted by the beauty, life and tranquillity of Earth’s oldest surviving tropical rainforests, where you’ll stumble upon majestic waterfalls and refreshing waterholes.
Refine your senses with an exotic visit to a beachfront hideaway on one of the islands or dine alfresco at a picturesque waterside restaurant. Playing host to a number of exciting regional and major events throughout the year, Tropical North Queensland is a must for any social calendar. Immerse yourself in the rich Indigenous culture or revel in the outdoor lifestyle and vibrant energy that this region offers in abundance.
Whether you’re into nature-based activities or pure adventure, Tropical North Queensland has something for everyone.
For more information on all of the things to see and do please visit the official Tropical North Queensland Website
Climate
The festival is during the ‘winter’ of Tropical North Queensland, but don’t let that fool you! The weather offers welcoming temperatures 26 °C (79 °F) for an average high and 18 °C (64 °F) for an average low with low rainfall and humidity.
Cairns
Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s natural wonders.
The city is renowned for its relaxed, tropical climate and laid back ambiance. With islands, rainforests and stunning reefs on its doorstep, your post-race options are limitless.
Enjoy the oceanfront energy of the Cairns Esplanade and markets. Go white water rafting or drift above the stunning tablelands in a hot air balloon. Walk the mystical and ancient rainforests with the aboriginal traditional elders.
Getting there
The Cairns International Airport is the main airport to-and-from Cairns with direct flights to 20 international and 44 domestic destinations, handling more than 5.2 million passengers each year. Located just 10minutes/7kms from the CBD with regular shuttle services, both Domestic and International terminals offer comfort and ease of travel when passing through.
Port Douglas
Port Douglas is home to golden beaches, exclusive resorts, and world class restaurant dining. The quiet former fishing village of Port Douglas is both sophisticated and relaxed and the perfect place to escape and unwind. It is a great location to base yourself for exploring the reef and rainforest. Macrossan Street is lined with boutique shops and restaurants to peruse on the sunny days.
And a sweet piece of trivia for those of you playing at home - in 1877 Christie Palmerston carved the ‘Bump Track’ down to the coast in the rush to find a port for gold exports and that every same Bump Track now forms part of our Stage 4 course!
Getting There
Port Douglas is a one hour drive north of Cairns along one of the most scenic coastal roads in Australia. Hire a car and cruise along in style or sit back and relax as you take a private transfer or shuttle bus operating between Cairns and Port Douglas. For more information please visit the official Tropical North Queensland Website.
