Atherton Tablelands

We have always wanted to visit this area. A rich fertile plain full of large farms on a sweeping table land. The earth is solid deep red - it exudes richness. Of course a lot of rainforest has been cleared to create the farmland so this area is now a mix of the two. We were there principally for the rainforest and the crater lakes which are full of fresh rainwater. 

We loved the walk around Eacham lake and swam in it - fresh and invigorating in spite of the warnings to not disturb the fresh water croc which is suspected of inhabiting the lake as well.  

The track around the lake is through thick and tall rainforest trees with wonderful birdsong. 

Our next stop was the Nerada Tea Plantation which has an interesting story of how it was established and destroyed several times - now a thriving tea factory and teahouse standing side by side.In the car park where there is a line of tall trees, tree kangaroos hang out. Such a joy to see these shy but sweet animals. On this particular day it was a mum and a baby who were visible, though my photos are poor. 

Here is one from a fellow traveller. 

Not so lucky in Malanda where there was a rather mature Cyppie acting up. 

The Malanda falls when not overflowing. 

In lake Barrine we sipped a tea in the historic teahouse and then walked to the twin Kauris. These giants in the forest which grow to such majestic heights. 

These two giant forest trees, over 50 metres in height, are considered to be one of the earliest species of rainforest tree and estimated to be about 1000 years old. They are Bull Kauris and even though they don't have a the characteristic leaves of a pine tree they belong in that family. There is so much more to explore in this area, we will certainly return. 

My next blog will be about all the wildlife we saw here.