Australian Natural History Safari is a small, very discrete, wildlife, birding, natural history day tour. We take a maximum tour group size of four people and provide you with a quality experience.

By utilising our own rainforest property in the mountains to the west of Port Douglas in North Queensland we can provide you with a unique rainforest experience. On this highly memorable day you will walk in the rainforest and encounter our native wildlife in it's natural habitat.

The tour also visits the ancient Mt.Lewis World Heritage listed rainforest and the dry outback of the Mitchell River.

In one easy going day we not only show you a diversity of habitats and forest types but we show you it's wildlife as well.

We invite you to come with us on a journey of discovery into one of the oldest and most biologically diverse rainforests on earth, the World Heritage Listed Wet Tropics of Far North Queensland, Australia.

Using a luxury Toyota Landcruiser GXL four wheel drive we venture off the beaten track into areas that are generally not seen by the mainstream tourist.

In the course of one day you will visit lowland and upland rainforest and a variety of eucalypt woodlands.

The morning is spent in the rainforest on our home property where a plethora of friendly birds, mammals and reptiles are generally observed. 

While here at 'Thylogale' you will experience one of the many highlights of our day.

An unforgettable morning tea or coffee break is held in the rainforest with the company of  free living mammals and birds.

During a slow and easy walk on our private rainforest trails you will encounter at close quarters some of Australia's rarely seen rainforest wildlife.

Departing 'Thylogale' our day continues with a four wheel drive excursion through the secluded wilderness of the Mount Lewis State Forest.

Mount Lewis is an ancient rainforest refuge site dating back to the evolution of the flowering plants on earth. It is also one of the few remaining intact habitats for the highly endangered Cassowary.

The coolness of this mountain wilderness provides an excellent locality for a barbecued lunch of reef fish and salads.

In the afternoon a short drive west delivers us into a vastly different ecosystem and wildlife.

The dry, stark reality of the open eucalypt forest of the Australian outback is a distinct contrast from the closed wet tropical rainforest of the morning.

A number of open forest birds and mammals can be seen here as once again we negotiate a four wheel drive track leading us down to the tranquil beauty of the Mitchell River.

The finale of the day is a refreshing cup of tea held under the shade of towering paperbarks on the banks of this idyllic river. Departing the Mitchell River we head for home and usually have you back at your hotel between 5 and 5.30 p.m.

We accept Bankcard, MasterCard & Visa.

Includes lunch, morning & afternoon tea and the use of binoculars & reference books.

Available from Silky Oaks Lodge, Thala Beach Lodge, Daintree Eco Lodge, and other Mossman & Port Douglas accommodation.

We take a maximum of four passengers and a minimum of two.

Australian Natural History Safari is owned and operated by local naturalists and wildlife enthusiasts David and Diane Armbrust.

Our experience in local tourism began in 1979 when we operated a small car ferry across the Daintree River on the road to Cape Tribulation.

A further six years were spent as launch master and naturalist guide on a cruise boat on the Daintree River. The 10 meter catamaran "Kingfisher" was an ideal vessel for interpreting the rainforest and mangrove ecosystems of the Daintree River.

For the past nine years, in association with Silky Oaks Lodge, we have been conducting four wheel drive land based safaris into the National Parks and State Forest of the Wet Tropics of Far North Queensland. Our twenty-one years in nature based tourism and a lifetime in this area has provided us with a wealth of knowledge and experience in our local eco-systems and it's wildlife. We have also gained a huge respect and appreciation for Australia's ecological diversity and unique wildlife.

In 1993 we perceived the need in the area for a small discrete local day safari which could deliver a quality experience to discerning visitors in both comfort and privacy. To ensure a personal day and to allow us to show our clients rainforest wildlife we took the decision to limit the group size to a maximum of four people. We also decided to include a visit to our home property 'Thylogale' in the tour itinerary. This was the beginning of Australian Natural History Safari.

Our initial commitment to quality has been ongoing and has led to the establishment of our reputation for providing excellence in both product and best practise ecotourism.

Thylogale Nature Refuge - a wildlife sanctuary of the future.

Your day begins with a short drive west into the mountains to our home property for an interpretive rainforest wildlife walk.

Our home property is one of those magical places on earth where man and wildlife share land and live together in a respective and harmonious relationship.

Thylogale Nature Refuge is an island of complex, lowland wet tropical rainforest situated in one of the most ecologically diverse regions of Australia.

In 1996 we instigated a voluntary conservation agreement with the Queensland Department of Environment to provide permanent protection to our rainforest and for itswildlife. Today over 75% of our property has been declared a Nature Refuge.A report prepared at the time by this Government department described Thylogale Sanctuary as being a significant habitat type which was not represented in Australia's existing National Park Estate.

However to us it is the diversity of native wildlife that is particularly significant for our own and our guest's enjoyment of our property.

Thiswildlife has regained its trust in man and with care and respect may be observed.

Geographically our property is located to the west of Port Douglas and over the Great Dividing Range in the western watershed. At an altitude of around 500m it is in what is generally recognised as being one of Australia's richest biological areas. Here you will find both upland and lowland rainforest, melaleuca wetlands, a variety of eucalypt forest and a huge diversity of wildlife. In birds alone something like 300 species have been recorded within a 30 kilometre radius of Thylogale Nature Refuge. This is almost half of Australia's known bird species and includes all 13 of the Wet Tropics endemics.

Most of the morning is spent here in the rainforest with the wildlife. 

Around mid morning we take a break and boil the kettle for tea/coffee and Diane's homemade biscuits. Morning tea in the rainforest surrounded by birds and mammals is an experience you are not likely to forget for some time.

Mount Lewis State Forest - a unique montane ecosystem.

We depart Thylogale Nature Refuge and embark on the next stage of our four wheel drive journey. This takes us to the rainforest wilderness of Mount Lewis and beyond.

Listed as World Heritage in 1987 this magnificent State Forest is one of the least visited of the accessible World Heritage areas in the Wet Tropics of Australia. At an altitude of over 1200 metres the area is home to many species not found in the lower altitude rainforests.

Found here are incredible creatures such as the rare white form of the Lemuroid ringtail possum, the Mount Lewis crayfish, huge blue earthworms, the endangered cassowary, the blue faced parrot finch and many plant species found nowhere else.

Although the area was once the domain of the logging industry the chainsaws have now been stilled and sanctuary has been restored to this majestic Gondwanan rainforest. Mount Lewis has become a haunt for lovers of the natural world, it is now a favoured retreat for scientists, naturalists, birdwatchers and those that simply enjoy the sheer magic of life on earth.

An hours drive through this lush rainforest brings us to Windmill Creek, our lunch destination. While lunch is being prepared you will have the opportunity for a half hours pleasant walk to experience the peace and tranquilty of this mountain wilderness.

On the bank of this crystal clear bubbling stream we set up the portable barbecue to prepare an excellent lunch of coral trout and salads.

In summer the midday coolness of this secluded upland rainforest is a welcome relief from the tropicalhumidity of the coastal plains.

The Australian Outback- a land of open spaces.

After lunch we depart the upland rainforest and head west into the land of giant termite mounds, kangaroos, goannas, bustards, cockatoos and parrots.

The afternoon is in contrast to the morning with a visit to the much drier eucalypt forest of the Australian Outback.

A short drive west takes us through a variety of forest types emphasising the rain shadow effect the Great Dividing Range has over the interior of Australia.

Once again we are back in four wheel drive territory as we travel through vastly different country down to the afternoon coolness of the Mitchell River. This river rises on the east coast of Cape York Peninsula and flows west into the Aufura sea in the Gulf of Carpentaria.

The Mitchell River is without doubt one of Australia's most impressive and ecologically diverse river systems.

This vast, dry land, scattered with termite mounds and gnarled eucalypt trees is used by Australia's pastoral industry for beef cattle grazing. However for us its major interest lies in the fact that it contains some of the richest complexities of birdlife to be found anywhere in the Wet Tropics of Australia.

We take time while here for a detour or two to see such things as the now rare, Australian Bustard, the display bower of the Great Bowerbird and perhaps even a glimpse of a Tawny Frogmouth.

The day concludes with a relaxing afternoon tea under the shade of towering paperbarks on the banks of the Mitchell River.

On our home journey we stop en route at a vantage point overlooking the coastal plains. You will return to your hotel by around 5.30 p.m.

Your visit to this major Australian water catchment will have provided you with fascinating insights into upland and lowland tropical rainforest, a variety of eucalypt woodland types, majestic riverine melaleuca forests and most importantly, many of the mammals and birds that inhabit these complex and diverse eco-systems.

Australian Natural History Safari
Phone/Fax : 61 07 4094 1600
Mobile : 041 7799 026
E-mail : anhs@tpgi.com.au
Or at:
Silky Oaks Lodge
P.O. Box 396
Mossman Gorge 4873
North Queensland
Phone : 61 07 4098 1666
Fax : 61 07 4098 1983.

Located just 15 nautical miles offshore from Cairns in Australia's World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef, Green Island is a beautiful coral cay which enjoys world acclaim as a tropical island paradise.

About Us :

Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises is owned and managed by experienced cruise operators, the Wallace family. Since 1979 the Wallaces have been perfecting the art of day touring on the Great Barrier Reef when they founded the renowned Quicksilver cruises from Port Douglas.

In 1990 the Wallace family purchased Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises and for nine years have applied their winning formula of friendly and helpful service aboard the vessels "Big Cat" (220 capacity) and the brand new "Reef Rocket" (120 capacity) and is one of Tropical North Queensland’s most popular cruise companies. April 2000 will see the arrival of a new "Big Cat" for the full day cruises.

Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises specialises in discovering the Great Barrier Reef. Visitors are encouraged to view the wonderful underwater world of marine life and corals by participating in a glass bottom boat or semi-submersible tour. The company also has a professional diving operator, "Scuba Green Island" on board the vessels offering passengers certified and introductory diving and supervised snorkelling trips to the outer edge of Green Island Reef.

Under the management of Paula Wallace, Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises operates year round from The Pier Marketplace in Cairns.

Reef and Island Activities :

Whether you want to stay for a whole day or spend only a few hours on Green Island, Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises has a Reef & Island cruise to suit you. We offer a range of packages where you can choose to include the activities you want to do or you can take it easy and relax on the idyllic sandy beach. Do as little or as much as you please!!!

There is so much to see and do :

Snorkelling :

If you can swim, snorkelling is a must for a great view of the reef’s abundant marine life and coral gardens, either snorkelling at your leisure from the beach or on a supervised snorkelling trip to the very edge of Green Island Reef.

Glass Bottom Boat and Coral Viewing Tours :

This commentated tour shows you the diversity of the reef’s coral gardens and their wonderful array of sea life, with the added fun of lively fish feeding.

Semi submarine :

Explore the underwater world of the reef in air-conditioned comfort on the "Yellow Sub"…without even getting wet. Seated below water level you are treated to a diver’s view of the coral reef and marine life with informative commentary and lively fish feeding.

Scuba Diving :

Dive the very outer edge of Green Island Reef. Certified Diving is available for accredited divers and Introductory Dives for those with no experience. Take this unique opportunity to enjoy the thrill of scuba diving on a beautiful coral island.

Aussie BBQ Lunch :

Selected packages include a delicious Aussie BBQ lunch which is served aboard the "Big Cat". The licensed bar on board "Big Cat" offers refreshments throughout the day.

Marineland Melanesia :

This fascinating nautical museum features live crocodiles and tropical marine aquariums along with an excellent gallery collection of rare Melanesian artifacts and historical displays.

Beach Hire :

Enjoy all the fun of Green Island’s beach and water activities with the hire of canoes, surf skis, sailboards, shade umbrellas, beach lounge chairs and beach volleyball gear.

Windsurfing Parasailing and lots more.

Enjoy watersports in one of the most unique locations in the world. Go parasailing and see the Great Barrier Reef from the air.

Underwater Obsservatory :

Visit the underwater observatory on Green Island Jetty.

Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises
Tour Vessel Terminal
The Pier Marketplace
Cairns  Qld Australia 4870

Bookings:
Phone :  (07) 4051 0444
Fax : (07) 4051 8896
Int Tel :  +617 4051 0444
Int Fax : +617 4051 8896
info@bigcat-cruises.com.au

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Established in 1985, BTS Tours operates small group, quality tours to some of the most stunning locations on the Reef And Rainforest Coast of Australia's tropical north.

From historic Cooktown and the pristine wilderness areas of Cape Tribulation and the Daintree Rainforest, to the colourful village of Kuranda and the Aboriginal culture of Mossman Gorge and Tjapukai, our experienced guides and purpose built vehicles will take you on a day full of discovery, scenic wonder and unique locations.

Tour Vehicles :

Private Charters :

Personalised tours for groups and families in a small air-conditioned 4 Wheel Drive vehicle (max 7 passengers).

Create your own itinerary or we will design one to suit your requirements. Fully-catered one day, overnight or extended tours with accommodation. Choose from tropical rainforest, outback goldfields, Chillagoe, Laura, Cooktown, Roaring Meg and Bloomfield waterfalls and the Tablelands.

Professionally guided Rainforest Walks :

We have a variety of destinations that require an adequate level of fitness. Explore deep into the rainforest with a small group, maximum 6 persons, or arrange an excursion to suit your requirements.

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Personal Snorkel and dive Adventures.

Your day trip to the Great Barrier Reef from beautiful Port Douglas, Queensland, Australia.

Snorkelling - no need for skill !!! Just swim a little and see it all.

Introductory Diving, Certified Diving, Quality Gear and equipment.

Expert Staff, Great Hospitality and Service, Guided tours

New Dive Boat "Calypso" with personalised service - a fun day Snorkeling and Scuba Diving amongst unspoiled corals and the spectacular fishes.

Out to the Reef !!

Only one hours travel time puts you on the Great Barrier Reef.

Snorkeling : Great Fun for Everyone.

Snorkelling equipment and flotation devices supplied. Tuition for those that require help. There is a guided snorkeling tour.

Introductory Diving :

Experience Scuba Diving and explore beneath the sea - "The Great Barrier Reef", truly an amazing place.

Our Dive Instructor will brief you on all safety requirements prior to diving. Some Medical Conditions may exclude you from diving.

Certified Diving :

Your Day on the Great Barrier Reef ..

Welcome - Depart Mirage Marina, Port Douglas at 0845
Direct to the outer Barrier Reef
Reef Care and Dive Safety Briefing
Water activities - Scuba and Snorkelling
Morning Tea
Introduction to Scuba Diving - water activities
Lunch
Activities continue
Afternoon Tea
Return to Mirage Marina 4.00 pm.

What to Bring ...

All trips are subject to weather conditions and trips may be cancelled at the discretion of Calypso Reef Charters.

The Calypso was launched in 1999 and is a fast 18 mtr (60') alloy monohull especially designed for snorkelling and diving.

The vessel conducts day operations and may be chartered privately for the day or overnight.

Phone : 0413 388444
Fax : 0740 993377
Email : calypsodive@internetnorth.com.au

Why travel to the remote tropics of North Queensland to Cape Tribulation to experience mediocrity on a boardwalk shared with mass tourism, when you can see the best of the World Heritage lowlands with Cooper Creek Wilderness?

1) The Ultimate Daintree Experience :

A two-hour Walk through the 135 million-year old forest with an expert rainforest guide, on a natural trail. A One-hour Cruise on the only boat permitted in the mangrove estuary of Cooper Creek in search for the elusive crocodile. A Delicious Lunch in a rainforest setting and A Refreshing Swim in the crystal clear blue water of a rainforest pool (weather permitting).

Times: 9.00am or 11.30am
Duration: 6 hour

2) Cooper Creek Wilderness Guided, Interpreted Day and Night Walks :

Cooper Creek Wilderness Two-hour Guided, Interpreted Day Tours.9.00am, 2.00pm

Cooper Creek Wilderness Two-hour Guided, Interpreted Night Tours.8.00pm

Walk times and length of walk tailored to suit Walks range from 1 hour to 6 hours.

3) Advanced, Extended One Day and Two Day Expeditions into World Heritage Rainforest :

Advanced Extended Expeditions into World Heritage Rainforest. This is a unique pilot program being trialled by Cooper Creek Wilderness. Participants will be required to assist in the reporting and to accept that special rules apply for entry into this exciting program. The expeditions showcase exceptional rainforest from lowlands to higher levels with an extraordinary array of magnificent vegetation communities, waterfalls, rock pools and giant strangler figs. An experienced local guide who knows the area will provide expert interpretation. Participants are required to be fit and experienced bush walkers.

Walks will be one-day (8 hour) expeditions or 'two or more'-day expeditions with overnight stay (six per year only).

4) Private Charters :

Combinations of Two Hour Day Walk and Two-hour Night Walk with Evening Meal and Swim.

It is possible to put together a combination of day and night walks plus meal and swim to suit you.

Transfers from Cape Tribulation by arrangements.

Cooper Creek Wilderness is developing its web site to attract tourists who have a special interest in the rainforest. This is a vined complex mesophyll rainforest in the wet tropics of North Queensland. It has exceptional bio-diversity, rarity, natural beauty and intriguing social justice issues involved in the management of a privately owned world heritage estate.

Prior booking is required to be sure of a place on a guided walk or Package.

Cooper Creek Wilderness
PO Box 590
Mossman QLD
Australia   4873
Phone : (07) 4098 9126
Fax : (07) 4098 9097
Email : ccwild@qld.cc

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Daintree River and Reef Cruises offer One Hour and Special one and a half Hour Cruises on this special part of the Daintree River.

Enjoy the beautiful flora and fauna ... mangroves, rainforest, and wildlife such as crocodiles, snakes, flying fox, butterflies, egrets, ibis and sea eagles.

Personalised Tropical Rainforest Cruises with a professional biologist guide on the loveliest part of the Daintree River aboard the MV Matilda.

Departing our private jetty, see the beautiful Daintree River from rainforest shrouded banks to dense mangrove forests - (binoculars are provided free of charge)

The incredibly reasonable price includes morning and afternoon teas of freshly brewed coffee and local tea.

See flying fox, butterflies, egrets, ibis, and sea eagles to mention a few.

The views on the River are spectacular whatever the time of day.

Walkway through the lush tropical growth.

Open 7 days.

Don’t forget your camera.

Find us 3.9 kms beyond the Cape Tribulation turn-off on the Daintree Road.

Daintree River and Reef Cruise Centre
Phone  : (07) 4098 6115

Experience one of Australia premier ultimate nature adventure safaris operating in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Region of tropical North Queensland. De Luxe Safaris takes you from Port Douglas into the fascinating World Heritage Rainforest and the vast Australian Outback.

With personal attention to your group, De Luxe ensures a really enjoyable adventure, a true wilderness experience. You are picked up from your lodging at Port Douglas, from the comfort of your vehicle exposed to some of natures best offerings and then safely returned to your accommodation with the sights and sounds of your environmental experience vivid in your memory.

De Luxe Safaris operates 6 seat 4 wheel drive Toyota GLX diesel powered Land Cruisers, true bush limousines, made for comfortable travel over rugged off-road tracks, the means to escape for a day or more into the Great Australian Wilderness. All safaris are designed to show visitors some very wonderful special country, wildlife, people, history and many other attractions. Give us a try, we work harder at making your day just that extra bit special.

We are more than pleased to take you on day tours, but safaris on the road are the best way to see this country, and with good quality accommodation along the way it often works out cheaper than spending five days in one place and doing day tours.

Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation.

Nothing prepares you for this fascinating journey into a primeval tropical rainforest, a twilight zone where an endless struggle for survival endures among the verdant flora. This is nature's true garden, dating before the age of the dinosaurs, where colourful birds, insects and butterflies, reptiles and marsupials dwell.

Here you will find some of the world's oldest plants, fungi, ferns, cycads, palms and flowering plants, the ones which scientists refer to as dinosaur plants. The Daintree Rainforest is over 125 million years old, perhaps the world's oldest continual rainforest, yet in terms of evolution, it's youngest, where time has been exiled for millions of years.  Indeed a living fossil forest. Gondwana in exile.

Safari One: Mossman Gorge, Daintree River, Cape Tribulation & Twin Falls.

Our day takes you to the beautiful Mossman River Gorge, through sugar cane farms, before you enjoy a Daintree Rainforest River Trains cruise on the magnificent Daintree River, see extensive tidal forests, learn about the river, its flora and fauna and perhaps spot an Estuarine Crocodile, the world's largest living reptiles, true survivors of the reptilian age.

The day continues with strikingly beautiful views from the high upland ranges which overlook the Daintree River delta, the islands of the Coral Sea, Cape Tribulation and the breath-taking vistas of the Thornton Peak Range.

Walk trough rich fan palm glens and along Oliver Creek where both rain and tidal forest meet to give a true insight into the botanical wonders of a mountain stream ecosystem and its stimulating flora and fauna. Delight in the world of epiphytes, the orchids, ferns and the giant Strangler Fig (Banyan) trees.

Enjoy the magnificent Cape Tribulation beach or experience the pleasure of swimming in the gin-clear refreshing mountain stream of Emmagen Creek a short distance up the Bloomfield Track.  See one of the largest trees along the route and hear the story of the Blockade, the catalyst which led to the declaration of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.

There is of course more, always the unexpected and the unknown in this wonderful pristine wilderness region. But come and see it for yourself in a small fully personalised group, which does not exceed 6 people and get away from the maddening crowd.

Full personalised sole charters a speciality. Unsuitable for children under 8 years.

Safari Two: Bloomfield River Falls  :

Arguably the most magnificent waterfall in the Greater Daintree Rainforest Region, the Bloomfield Falls can only be reached via the rugged Bloomfield Track, which continues on from Cape Tribulation.This is true 4 wheel drive country, rugged to the extreme.

While this safari combines most of the highlights of Safari One, it's true value lies in experiencing the last of the untouched rainforest found in the region. This safari includes a Daintree River cruise and Cape Tribulation.

Enjoy a great swim in the Woobadda River and see some of the best coastal and rainforest scenery in the whole of the Wet Tropics of North Queensland and it rich variety of flora and fauna.

This is Aboriginal land, and we visit the Aboriginal Community of Wujal Wujal, which is combined with splendour of the permanently flowing Bloomfield River Falls nearby.

This safari combines a variety of environments, ranging from rain and tidal forest, coastal to upland monsoon forest and riverine environments. Its perhaps the ultimate rainforest adventure when enjoyed in company with a small group not exceeding 6 people.Please note that this tour is not suitable for small children.

Full personalised sole charters a speciality. Unsuitable for children under 8 years.

Safari Three: Daintree Outback - A Bird Lovers Dream  :

If you love birds and other animals, then this true Australian nature safari is made for you.  It's also an escape from the coast when it is raining and a true alternative to coastal and rainforest tours out of Port Douglas.  We unashamedly boast that this is the best offroad 4 wheel drive day tour in the region.

Some remarkable members of the kangaroo family can be seen, pademelons, wallabies and wallaroos. This safari takes you trough what is recognised as the richest bird region in Australia with habitats ranging from coastal, upland rain and woodland forests to the beginning of the Great Australian Outback.

Let us take you up to the 1,200 metre elevation mark of the Mount Lewis cloud forest through 27 km of rainforest and back.It has some of the richest diversity of plant and animal species found in the Wet Tropics.  This is a restricted area, open only to a small number of tour operators and very exclusive.

It's the home of the cassowary, tree kangaroo, dingo and the incredible beautifully coloured parrot finch and many other species. Unlike the lowland rainforests, this upland rainforest is alive with birds, their rich songs sounding through the forests as we drive through it.  Bring a jacket during June to September, it's always cool up here, even during the hot summer months, an incredible escape from the often humid lowlands.

Our worst day on bird species has been 64 species and our best 112 species ranging from Port Douglas to the Julatten Tableland, Mount Molloy region and the Mount Carbine Valley where the mighty Mitchell and McLeod Rivers flow.

Species which occur here included the giants of the Australian birds like the :

All the raptors, including the Wedgetail Eagle and the White-breasted Sea Eagle occur in the coastal and inland localities we visit -

The views from the Main Coastal and Great Divide Ranges are magnificent and incomparable in their splendour. Experience the Great Australian Loneliness of the early explorers who first travelled this great empty landscape- yes we know the history of those bygone days of yesteryear.

Enjoy a swim in the cool mountain streams of the Mitchell and McLeod Rivers, see giant termite mounds and monitors and perhaps even the frilled lizard. There is also the failure of man in the abandoned mines of Mount Molloy and Mount Carbine and other subjects which never cease to amaze on this very fascinating journey of nature and history. We can arrange early departures, on request, for keen bird watchers to enjoy the morning chorus as the birds wake up.

Maximum 6 people. Unsuitable for children under 8 years.

All day Safaris include morning and afternoon smokos (teas), delicious tropical lunch, river cruise, ferry fees and all national park and forests fees.

Two passengers needed for any day tour to operate-excepting charters.Maximum one to four persons for sole charters.Normal day fare applies if number exceeds 4 people.

All day tours only available from Port Douglas, Mossman and Daintree regions.

We cater to special interest groups, outdoor and wildlife photographers, bird watchers, rainforest visits and more.We are the only specialist bird watching operators with permits for the Daintree National Park.

De Luxe Safaris operate in remote regions where roads and tracks may become unsafe due to adverse weather conditions. In the interests of personal safety, we may alter the route, or even cancel the safari. In the event of a safari being cancelled, we will provide a complete refund.

Cooktown and Cape York Safaris :

About Cooktown And Its Environments .

Cooktown can be reached either from Cairns or Port Douglas, via the coastal Cape Tribulation-Bloomfield Track or by the inland Peninsula Development Road.It's a long way and best experienced by staying overnight in one of Cooktown's large range of excellent holiday accommodation.Daily air services operate from Cairns.

The town, houses some 1,800 people and is located on one of the most beautiful river reaches in the tropics.Lieutenant James Cook, master of the ship HMS Bark Endeavour and his crew spend 48 enforced days here from the 17 June, 1770 onwards after the ship had been badly damaged on Endeavour Reef.

The locality can be seen from Archer Point. Cook named Cape Tribulation (because it was here our tribulations began), Mount Sorrow and Weary Bay.

While Dutch explorers had landed on New Holland as it was called then since very early in the 16 the century.They reported strange animals which hopped about on their rear legs.But, no one believed the tales of common sailors and it was left up to the scientific crew on the Endeavour to "discover" the kangaroo, an animal the local Aborigines called "gangurru," today's Black Wallaroo, a large member of the kangaroo family.Cooktown still has it's kangaroos as many Agile Wallabies hop around the town in the morning and evening without fear.

Gold opened up the region in 1873, when the Endeavour River became the disembarkation point for thousands of eager gold seekers as they headed inland to the Palmer River.By 1876 over 35,000 people had passed through the township which boasted over 50 hotels.But, by this time Cooktown was in decline as the townships of Port Douglas and Cairns took over the role of providing access to the hinterlands beyond the rugged rainforest clad coastal ranges.

The region is rich in wildlife with many species occurring in large flocks.During the dry season, Keatings Lagoon is almost hidden by masses of Magpie Geese and other waterfowl, brolgas and jabirus.Parrots and cockatoos occur in myriad numbers, the vast flocks an awake call each morning, especially at the Lotus Bird Lodge and Mary Valley Station.

The region is wild, rugged and beautiful, where hidden caves and shelters guard the mythology of the Aboriginals in the many friezes of rock art which covers the walls. Cooktown still has that pioneering feel, while many original colonial-style buildings remain, giving a sentient of stepping back to yesteryear.

Some of the most remarkable rock formations occur south of the town in the rugged Annan River Gorge and the Black Mountain National Park, where huge granite boulders have formed an eerie forbidden range of black rocks devoid of vegetation.

Archer Point has one of the most beautiful coastlines in Australia with far reaching views out to the inner fringes of the Great Barrier Reef.Cooktown is also the closest town to the reef while the river and offshore fishing is second to none.The Cooktown wharf provides year-round action for anglers, but is also noted for the huge Queensland gropers which have made their home under it.Some of these fish are over 400 kg in weight.

The town has an extensive network of historic, bush and rainforest walks, while Grassy Hill affords the best sunsets in Australia and provides unparalleled coastal, reef and hinterland views.It is the site of one of the oldest lighthouses in Australia. The James Cook Museum is rated as the best museum outside any capital city and well worth a browse-through on any Cooktown visit.

Check De Luxe Safaris charters on how to get there and enjoy as much as possible from one of the most unspoiled accessible wilderness regions. Australia's best-kept secret.

2 Day Cooktown Safari  :

We travel north to Cooktown through the Daintree Rainforest, and enjoy an early morning Daintree River cruise, Cape Tribulation, Bloomfield River Falls and Wujal Wujal.

En route we visit Cedar Bay, Black Mountain National Park and the Lions Den before watching the sun set over the Endeavour River from Grassy Hill.  We overnight at Cooktown in the colonial style Sovereign Resort. Next morning we visit Cook's Lookout, the Endeavour and Annan Rivers, James Cook Museum, historic cemetery, botanical gardens, and Keatings Lagoon, before returning via the Mulligan Highway.

The return safari route follows the "inland" road, visiting Archer Point, Annan River Falls, Palmer River Gold field, Lakeland Downs, Mount Carbine Valley and Julatten Tablelands on our return trip back to Port Douglas or Cairns.

This is a great safari that allows you to see most of what the region has to offer in terms of outstanding scenic locations, wildlife, people and towns. There is also plenty of opportunity to experience the history of what was, and in some ways still is, a raw frontier.

3 Day Cooktown Safari  :

We can extend the overnight Cooktown Safari by an extra day to take in a trip along the Battle Camp Track and enjoy the magnificent mountain and unique monsoonal forests scenery of lower Cape York.

We visit the historic Lakefield Homestead section of the Lakefield National Park and experience the awesome display of millions of giant fruit bats as they leave the colony to the feeding grounds in the evening at Mary Valley Station where we enjoy true outback hospitality where we overnight in comfortable accommodation at the ranch. Every mornings is glorious on the Cape as the birds of the region will make you feel as if you are reborn each new and bright day.

This is also the home of the endangered Golden Shouldered Parrot which nests in the giant magnetic termite mounds that dominate the monsoonal woodlands and plains.

At Laura, the Quinkan rock art site represents one of the largest primitive rock art collections in the world and dates back to about 13,000 year ago.The entire history of the local people are painted on the many friezes which adorn the cavern and rock overhang walls.These are rated as some of the best rock art in Australia, indeed in the world. We know the area, its people, culture, history and the stories well.

4 Day Cooktown-Lotus Bird Lodge Safari  :

We can also do a 4 day safari taking in Daintree Rainforest to Cooktown, Lakefield National Park to the Lotus Bird Lodge and back through Musgrave Telegraph Station to Laura.  We overnight at the very comfortable Lotus Bird Lodge for two nights. You won't need an alarm clock to wake you up here as the wonderful morning chorus of the myriad birds of the lodge do a very fine job.

There is time to take in many activities, bird watching, kangaroos, wild boars and other animals and the fantastic atmosphere the lower Cape York Region has to offer. It includes most and more what the two, or three-day safaris offer.

Charters Only :

Overnight safari prices are for sole charters only. First in - first served. It includes twin share accommodation charges. The price box below shows the complete charter cost for one to 6 persons. Person price increase only relate to on-road and accommodation costs. The vehicle/driver cost does not alter as it is not a regular tour. When you book, it's your tour only and as such we can alter it for you in many ways if you so desire, whether it is for bird watching, photography, history, Aboriginal rock art or fishing or any other interest.

2 Day Safari: Includes Twin Share Accommodation Sovereign Resort-Cooktown.

3 Day Safari: Includes two nights accommodation as on 2 day charter.

4 Day Safari: Includes one night accommodation at Sovereign Resort, Cooktown and two nights at Lotus Vale.

Note: On overnight charters only we collect from Cairns and Northern Beaches.An extra fee of $70 is charged for this. Vehicle charge only. For families or larger parties we can cater up to 12 people in two State of the Art, Toyota Land Cruiser 4 wheel drives.

Chillagoe/Mungana National Parks :

Located 315 km west from Port Douglas, the Chillagoe and Mungana National Parks are noted for their fossil reefs and rocky hills of granite boulders. When the land rose and the sea retreated sometime back in the late Silurian times (416-434 million years ago) it left behind some remarkable coral reefs which have fossilised into 80 metre high limestone tors and rise over the monsoonal forest clad plains.

Rain, which contains acid, has leached huge caverns and tunnels trough these hills, forming some of the most unusual caverns in Australia. There is an extraordinary range of stalactites, stalagmites and helictides formed into many wonderful formations. Cave fossils from animals which lived in the sea during this era can also be seen. Many Chillagoe limestones have mildly metamorphosed into marble which is mined near the small outback town of Chillagoe. Huge 22 tonne blocks can be seen at these mines.

First cattle, and then mining, built Chillagoe, and others we pass through. Today only the ruins of forgotten copper mines and smelters remain while the red backs of cattle browse tough sparse grasses.

The region lacks in surface water. But, where it occurs, wildlife abounds. Kangaroos, wallabies, euros and dingoes and over 70 species of birds call the Chillagoe-Mungana region-home. Take a walk through some caves, lunch in another, look at rare fossils and enjoy a drink with some real Australian bushmen. Chillagoe is the Australian Outback, and an incredible experience.

Please note that this safari is not suitable for small children.

At least four cave systems can be explored on a two-day safari, including one where a National Park Ranger guided one and half kilometre walk is involved, most of it under a mountain, with open caverns to break the darkness.

Return Via Mount Mulligan .

The return journey is via the Mount Mulligan, Mitchell River, Carbine Valley route. We visit the Tryconnel Mine, which was established in 1876.Today the mine has lovingly been restored and is a true working museum. It still retains the original machinery which is in full working order. The 120 year old, ten head stamp battery will be fired up and you can see first hand how the early pioneer diggers crushed their gold.

Nearby are the awesome bastions of Mount Mulligan, large than Uluru Rock. Coal was once mined under the mountain but one sad day the mine blew up killing all 74 people who were underground that faithful day.It is still largest mining disaster which has ever occurred in Australia. The nearby township was sadly and suddenly filled with orphaned children and widows.

The country around this region is incredibly rugged, with its many dry rivers, high sandstone escarpments and ranges. Wildlife is present here in all its form.If you are looking for utter isolation, and the total serenity the Australian outback presents in its many forms, don't miss this very important historical outing.

Distances: Port Douglas to Chillagoe/Mungana is 640 kilometres, while Port Douglas to the Undara Lava Tubes is 760 kilometres.

We can do overnight charters to the Undarra Lava Tubes, the largest lava tube system in the world.

Port Douglas Gateway, Gateway to the Daintree :

There is nothing on earth which can match the beauty of Australia's Great Barrier Reef, but closely matching is the nearby Daintree Rainforest. Port Douglas is located 60 km north from Cairns and gifted with having two of the earth's richest and most diverse ecosystems at it's front and rear doors.

It is the closest major resort town near the Great Barrier Reef, making it a perfect base to explore the magical marine wonderland. Half and full day cruises available from the Port, make for an ideal introduction to this World Heritage Marine Park. You can charter private vessels, board a high speed state of the art catamaran to take you out to the outer reefs, or hail a leisure sail-away to the nearby Low Isles.

There is a hive of activities with diving and snorkelling (Poseidon Dive), swimming, or just lazing on an island beach (Willow Sailing), or perhaps go fishing, with choices ranging from light tackle estuary fishing (Fishing Cairns) for Barramundi and Mangrove Jack in the Inlet or on the Daintree River, party boat reef fishing or charter a luxury deep sea game fishing vessel for marlin and sailfish.

It's all possible from Port Douglas, tours to the outback which begins beyond the rugged coastal ranges with cave exploration at Chillagoe/Mungana, Aboriginal rock art, ancient volcanic lava tubes, hot springs, crater lakes, waterfalls, horse trail rides, cable car and mountain train tours over the rainforest to Kuranda, birds and kangaroos watching at Mount Lewis and the Carbine Valley, the must-visit Port Douglas Rainforest Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary, golf on one of the three courses in the region, lawn bowls and many other activities-just to numerous to mention.

The laid back, relaxed tropical lifestyle and atmosphere makes Port Douglas the ideal base for your holiday with a wide selection of resorts, hotels, apartments (Tropical Reef Apartments) and budget accommodation. Or experience the Daintree rainforest first hand by staying at the Daintree Ecolodge in the hearth of the rainforest. Take a cruise or fish the verdant Daintree River.

And when the sun sets, you can enjoy an enticing selection of national and international dinner cuisines. The Port boasts some of the very finest seafood restaurants in Australia which offers fresh fish and crustaceans from the bountiful supply the Coral Sea provides.  Or perhaps enjoy a barramundi lunch, one of the world's finest fish, at the Daintree Village, only a 40 minute drive to the north.And all of it to be enjoyed by one of our fine Australian wines.

Only ten minutes away, rising above fields of lush sugar cane lands is the Main Coast Range, at 1,378 metres, the third highest point in Queensland. These ranges of cloud and rainforest dominate the landscape. They are the beginning of the Greater Daintree Rainforest Region, the oldest continual rainforest in the world and one of its most diverse.

According to the Wet Tropics Management Authority, the people responsible for managing the 900 sq, km. Wet Tropics Rainforests, some 1,000 species of trees occur here, 900 species of shrubs, 450 species of vines, 40 species of palms, 330 species of ferns, including the world's largest and smallest tree ferns and cycads, 130 species of epiphytes, 33 species of mangroves and some 400 species of herbs. Also, present are the masses of micro plants, the epipmites.In comparison, the entire number of tree species of Europe and North America number less than 150 species.

And Port Douglas is the means of seeing much of it, rainforest, the reef and the outback. It's a magic place and well worth considering on any Tropical North Queensland getaway.

Climate :

Tropical northern Australia is located in the South-Asian monsoon belt and subjected to the whims of the annual wet or green season. It begins with storm activity in October-November and drifts into a general rain pattern in January, tapering off at the end of April. Most of the Wet Tropics annual rainfall occurs during this period, over 70 %.

From April onwards the Trade wind blows in from the south-east, bringing showery conditions which keep the rainforest fresh and verdant during the northern dry season. In other parts of northern Australia no rain may occur for up to 8 months as the outback dies a little awaiting, the life bringing rains of the monsoon.

Rainfall varies in the Wet Tropics with annual falls of about 2,600 mm at Port Douglas and about 4,000 mm at Daintree and Cape Tribulation. But the high mountains exceed this with rainfalls from five metres or even double that during some very wet seasons.

But, some of the finest diving weather can be had on the reef during this period as the seas are calm, while the warm rain makes the rainforests radiant and refreshing, making any walk trough it an adventure in itself. But it's not all rain during the Wet, as long days, even weeks of great sunshine occur.

The winter in the Wet Tropics is warm and balmy and totally of what you would expect in a tropical region. This is the time when southern Australians flock north, like the migrating masses of magpie geese, to enjoy what Port Douglas, the reef and rainforest and it's hinterland offers.

De Luxe Safaris provide the means to escape into the Daintree rainforest, the outback or lower Cape York Peninsula on day safaris and charters. However, we also do tours which take in both outback and rainforest during two days or more of travel from Port Douglas to Cooktown on a ring road of adventure and amazement.

Or even farther north and west from Cooktown to take in the beautiful Aboriginal Quinkan rock art at Laura, overnight at the Lotus Bird Lodge on lower Cape York Peninsula, go west into the rugged and remote outback national parks of Chillagoe and Mungana, or the kangaroo country of the Undarra Lava Tubes.

On any visit we recommend a cruise or sail to the Great Barrier Reef or a one to four-day tour with De Luxe Safaris to other regions. Spend some days relaxing in Port, go shopping, visit the Rainforest Habitat and have breakfast with the birds.

Safaris on the road are the way to see the country, while accommodation is normally excellent and cheaper than spending several days in one place and taking day tours. But, we are more than pleased to take you on day tours if you wish to enjoy the comfort and atmosphere of the Port during your stay in beautiful tropical north Queensland.

We guarantee it will be the highlight of your Australian holiday. Please contact us for more information.

De Luxe Safaris
PO Box 681
Mossman
Queensland   4873
Australia
Phone : 61 7 4098 2097
Fax : 61 7 4098 2878
Email : info@deluxesafaris.com.au

Buff Breasted Paradise Kingfisher.

Fine Feather Tours is owned and operated by Del and Pat Richards, and is based in Mossman North Queensland, between Port Douglas and the Daintree River, and is adjacent to the richest birding area in Australia.

Well over half of Australia’s species have been recorded within a distance of 200 kilometres. Our tours, which operate daily, visit up to eight different habitats including :-

Your guide, Del Richards, has accumulated over forty years experience birding in all Australian states, and is able to locate the vast majority of the local species.

Del is also fully qualified as a bird bander and, with author/ornithologist Lloyd Nielsen, has recently discovered a new bird for Australia - the Pacific Swallow. This is the first new permanent species in at least 16 years, and it has only been found in the Mossman region.

During 1998 we encountered 274 species whilst on tour.

Pat provides a wholesome brunch which is prepared in our mobile kitchen beside a rainforest stream mid-morning. Vegetarians are catered for upon request.

From the wet tropics to the edge of the outback, this tour is designed for the dedicated ornithologist who has restricted time, and wishes to observe a wide range of avian fauna. Regular sightings include:

In addition to brunch, afternoon refreshments are available, and we return to Mossman/Port Douglas about 4.30pm.

Experience the majesty of the Daintree on an early cruise. We locate crocodiles and the abundant birdlife, and tour tropical habitats. This is a small personalised tour with an ornithologist and river guide.

We encounter many bird species including:

We return to Mossman/Port Douglas about 1.30pm.

Tours depart Mossman or Port Douglas at 7.00am for Full Day Safari and 6.30am for Daintree Cruise/Tour.

Reference books, binoculars, insect repellent available.

We recommend that our guests wear comfortable footwear and bring a hat.

Extended tours and sole charter for target species welcome.

Further information, brochures and bird lists available by request.

With your enquiry enclose your postal address for bird lists.

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Tropical North Queensland offers some of the best light tackle sportfishing opportunities on the globe. Be it rivers, lakes, estuaries or off-shore reefs, you can experience the thrill of chasing that elusive "big one" while surrounded by World Heritage listed rainforests or the magic of the Great Barrier Reef.

Join our experienced guides aboard our 6 metre custom built vessels featuring padded seating, full shade canopy, built-in ice box and live bait tank - the ideal calm water fishing platform.

Visitors and locals alike are treated to some of the best natural scenery and fishing conditions, all within a few minutes of the heart of downtown Cairns, while further afield are pristine rainforest rivers such as the mighty Daintree to the north , or the Russell and Mulgrave River systems south of Cairns.

And then there's the Great Barrier Reef - a fisherman's lure too big to miss. Whether it be bottom bouncing for prime eating fish such as red emporor or coral trout, or light tackle sportfishing with spanish mackerel or small marlin in mind, the offshore scene can be very hot.

While all of our tours are designed with light tackle sportfishing in mind and encourage "catch and release", we do not object to the avid angler taking a feed of fish home to enjoy. In fact we will even clean the fish for you, and offer a few handy tips on the best method of cooking.

So while you are in the Cairns region, don't miss out on the world's favourite pastime, dangle a line with a local guide, and you might just catch the fish of a lifetime.

Adventure Angler Great Fishing Page .

Lure and Fly Fishing :

For the more experienced/discerning/keen angler, lure and fly fishing our magnificent jungle clad rivers and mangrove lined estuaries is the way to go.

Custom built "punt" style boats built right here in Cairns specifically for my operation, offer the comfort and practicality for this style of fishing.

With the assistance of our experienced guides, you will be taken to the best fishing locations in Tropical North Queensland.

The mighty rainforest river, the Daintree, is just 1½ hours drive north of Cairns in our comfortable late model 4WD vehicles along the scenic coast road past Port Douglas with spectacular views of the Coral Sea.

Its near pristine waters offer the keen angler the chance to tangle with quality fish on a more consistent basis than any other northern waterway.

During the cooler months (June-Sept), majestic queenfish up to 10 kilograms patrol the sand bar edges and drop-offs and are an exhilarating catch on surface poppers and fizzers. Giant Trevally also accompany these fish at this time of year.

The summer months of December to March see our prime target fish entering spawning mode. They become very active in the warming waters, and barramundi - Australia's number 1 light tackle sports fish - can be caught up to 10 kgs in the tidal reaches.

The wet season sees smaller fish to 4 kgs congregating around the many drains and gutters bringing "fresh water" run-off into the river proper.

This is also mangrove jack time, and many an angler is left weak kneed and minus a lure following a "jack attack" from one of these little battlers. Other species encountered include flathead, estuary cod and barracuda in the salt, and sooty grunter, tarpon and jungle perch in the sweet water sections.

An hour south of Cairns are the Russell and Mulgrave River systems with conditions similar to the Daintree. Other areas including Mourylian Harbour, and the South and North Johnstone Rivers can also be fished in consultation with our guides.

All quality Daiwa tackle is provided, both spinning and overhead reels matched to light 3 to 6 kilo top range rods, or 8-9 WT fly outfits, sinking tippets preferred with 4-6" streamer flies.

Accurate casting of a 6 inch Gold Bomber lure or fly will usually entice a crashing strike from barramundi, GT's, mangrove jack, flathead and even barracuda in the salt water sections. If conditions are right, a visit to the fresh "sweet" water sections of our rivers can yield tarpon, sooty grunter, jungle perch and still more barramundi.

Light refreshments, soft drinks, and lunch are provided, and the starting and finishing times of these full day tours are adjusted to match the tides to provide peak fishing conditions. Half day charters are also.

These charters are operated on a "sole charter" basis and rates quoted are per boat (maximum of 3 clients per vessel).

River Fishing :

Within an hour and a half drive from the city of Cairns flows some of the finest tropical waterways to be found anywhere in the world. These rivers rise in the Northern Great Dividing Range and flow majestically through ancient rainforest up to 125 million years old.

Our skilled guides will take you to some of the best fishing locations in the Wet Tropics coastal lowlands where the estuarine crocodile - the last remaining dinosaur - can be readily viewed.

The local tidal river systems offer excellent fishing, and the physical and structural nature of their tidal flows, sand bars, rock holes, weed beds and gutters can yield some prime sportfish.

Seasonal conditions play a major part in the range of species available at any given time, with barramundi more active during the warmer months of September to March as they prepared for spawning. The barramundi season is, however, closed during the actual breeding season of November to January inclusive, and all fish caught must be released.

Other target species at this time of year include mangrove jack, fingermarks, tarpon and grunter.

The cooler months are particularly good for queenfish and the 4 species of trevally encountered locally. These great sportfish can be caught up to 10 kgs, and on light 3-6 kgs tackle offer even the experienced angler a great work out.

This is also a prime time for flathead, bream, whiting, king and blue salmon, and estuary cod. In all, 20 or so species can be encountered.

While all of our tours are designed with light tackle sportfishing in mind and encourage "catch and release", we do not object to the avid angler taking a feed of fish home to enjoy. In fact we will even clean the fish for you, and offer a few handy tips on the best method of cooking.

During the closed barramundi season from November 1 to February 1, fishing for this species is definitely only "catch and release".

This tour commences at 7.00am with a scenic drive either north to the Daintree, or south via the Mulgrave Valley to the Russell or Mulgrave Rivers where we launch our boat and go about gathering that all important live bait.

Once settled into fishing, morning tea and light refreshments are provided. A bit more fishing then it's time for a lunch of fresh bread rolls, cold meats and salad that can be taken in a shady spot on the bank, or "on the go" as you keep reeling them in.

We pack up the rods at about 4.00pm for the drive back into Cairns in the comfort of an air-conditioned 4WD chatting about the ones that didn't get away, and get back into Cairns by 6.30pm.

Estuary Fishing :

Only 5 minutes from the heart of the beautiful city of Cairns and you will be treated to some of the best natural scenery and fishing conditions available in Tropical North Queensland.

Imagine fishing the upper reaches of the Trinity Inlet (Cairns Harbour) surrounded by lush greenery, rainforest clad mountains, and one of the worlds most diverse and productive ecosystems.

With over 90 kilometres of winding waterways to explore in our custom built vessels, our guides will take you to the best locations.

Depending upon the prevailing weather and tide conditions, up to a dozen species can be pulled from the one spot.

Daily tours operate throughout this extensive mangrove lined estuary which is home to a great diversity of species including the famous barramundi, mangrove jack and trevally, salmon, grunter, flathead, fingermark and gold spot cod to name just a few. In all, over 40 species of fish can be regularly caught in this magnificent waterway.

Our half and full day charters are designed to cater for all ages and skill levels, and children are most welcome.

No experience is required, all bait and tackle is supplied, and our experienced guides will show the novice angler the right technique to catch the best fish.

The guide will also show you how to catch live bait in a cast net at the start of the charter, and explain the important interaction between tide and moon that is so important for successful estuary fishing.

Transfers can be arranged from your accommodation. Special pricing for children accompanied by an adult is available on application.

Half and full day tours are available that begin with the gathering of live bait before moving up into Trinity Inlet, and its 90 kms of channels, gutters, creeks and open places. Actual fishing locations will be chosen based on prevailing weather and tidal conditions.

You will find a virtual smorgasbord of species to target using light sportfishing tackle on 3 to 6 kilo outfits including grunter, king and blue salmon, trevally, queenfish, flathead, estuary cod, mangrove jack, fingermark, and of course barramundi.

Light refreshments, tea coffee, biscuits, soft drinks and cold water are all provided, however lunch is not included.

The morning trip runs from 7.30am to 12 noon, with an afternoon trip leaving at 1.30pm and returning at 6.00pm. The two trips can also be combined into a full day of fishing if you wish.

PO Box 109
Trinity Beach
Queensland   4879
Australia
Phone : 61 7 4057 8289
Fax : 61 7 4057 8280
info@fishingthetropics.com.au

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Hartley’s Creek is one of the longest established wildlife attractions in Far North Queensland as well as being a working crocodile farm producing skins and meat for export and domestic consumption. The history of Hartley’s Creek dates back to the great depression of the 1930’s. It is also one of the first places in Australia to hold crocodile shows and is renowned for presenting ‘the Best Crocodile Show in Australia’.

At Hartley's Creek Crocodile Farm you will see hundreds of crocodiles – Freshwater crocodiles (Crocodylus johnstoni) and Estuarine or Saltwater crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus).

Hartley's Creek Crocodile Farm is not only home to hundreds of crocodiles but also Koalas, Kangaroos, Cassowaries, Dingoes, snakes, reptiles and other species native to Australia.

How to find us!

Hartley’s Creek Crocodile Farm is situated at Hartley’s Creek on the magnificent Cook Highway, a coastal road running between Cairns and Port Douglas. The Cook Highway travels north from Cairns, through cane fields, surrounded by spectacular mountains of rainforest, past the Northern Beaches. It is one of the world's great scenic ocean roads.

The highway continues on along the coast to Hartley's Creek Crocodile Farm and then on to Port Douglas. Next stop is Mossman, an authentic rural town with a proud history of sugar cane farming.

Just prior to entering Mossman when travelling north, is the turnoff to the Rex Range, an interesting alternative access point for a day tour of the Atherton Tablelands, via Julatten, Mount Molloy and the Peninsula Development Road. Newell Beach, just north of Mossman is a lovely spot for a picnic lunch or an economical overnight stay.

Beyond Mossman lies the Daintree River, which must be crossed by ferry to reach Cape Tribulation and the historic town of Cooktown. This is the site where explorer Captain James Cook beached his ship the ‘Endeavour’ for repairs after striking a reef, whilst navigating a passage through the Great Barrier Reef.

The Reef and Rainforest Coast is one of the only places in the world where one can experience such a variety of different environments. Tropical rainforest, reef and rugged outback exist virtually side by side and each is easily accessible.

Eighty per cent of the Port Douglas Shire is included within the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, which covers nearly 90,000 hectares between Townsville and Cooktown. It includes the Daintree and Cape Tribulation National Parks.

The Mossman Gorge, (part of the Daintree National Park) features cool freshwater swimming holes and excellent walking tracks, just five minute's drive from the centre of Mossman. About half an hour's drive further north is the Cape Tribulation National Park, whose diverse and ancient beauty may be explored along educational boardwalks which wind their way through the park's rainforest and mangrove communities. The Mossman Gazette can help you with information about this area.

Showtimes:

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An experience in Northern Queensland :

N.Q. Heritage and Interpretive Tours operates a classic Landrover safari wagon, fully air conditioned, specialising in small groups of people - maximum six. Peter Baxendell, owner/driver and an ECO accredited guide and naturalist, is East African born. He graduated as a forest officer, followed by terms as a tracker for the Kenya Security Forces. Pete worked as a professional guide in the safari industry and latterly plantation management in Tanzania and Papua New Guinea. His life long interest in bush medicines and bush foods has been expanded since moving to Tropical North Queensland.

Tuesdays and Saturdays are reserved for Bushwalks:

In an area of pristine, privately owned rainforest, surrounded by the Daintree National Park. Scramble up an unspoilt stream to a series of waterfalls. Soak up the atmosphere and cool off in the rockpools. See giant buttresses, liana vines, epiphytes and other fascinating flora; learn to recognise stinging trees. Be the first to spot shy forest dragons, harmless tree snakes and frogs - even an elusive cassowary. Hiker’s lunch, morning and afternoon teas provided. Small backpack, raincape and water bottle are available at no extra cost. Free pick up and drop off (Port Douglas environs), Cairns northern beaches add $30 per person.

You will require sandshoes (your feet will get wet), hat, camera, insect repellent, swimming gear & towel.

Our charters are designed to be fun, flexible and affordable, with no hidden costs. It is the perfect solution for those wishing to choose their own destination, follow their own agenda and do something different.

27 Marlin Drive
Wonga Beach
Queensland 4873
Phone/Fax : 61 7 4098 7897
Mobile : 0419 789 943
Email : info@nqhit.com.au
Web : www.daintree-specialised-tours.com

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Jungle Adventure Tour.

You are offered the best chance to see the most tropical lowland species, both animals and plants. This is achieved by traversing through the Daintree and Cape Tribulation National Parks both by day and night. A holistic approach is adopted where both estuarine and freshwater habitats are thoroughly explored.

In the afternoon we journey through the World Heritage Rainforest to Cooper Creek Wilderness in the heart of the Daintree National Park. Once aboard the only river boat with access to this area you will wind your way from Cooper Creeks Coral Sea mouth towards the panorama of Thorton Peak, Queensland's third highest mountain . Here you will participate in a mangrove discovery tour, and the visual hunt for crocodiles.

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Welcome to great company - a personally escorted Luxury 4WD drive adventure from Port Douglas to Cooktown, Queensland, Australia. Or if you only have a day to spare take a Port Douglas day trip - experience the Rainforest and the Australian Outback in one easy day.

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A day aboard Phantom with a maximum of 11 people. Uncrowded, intimate, what a perfect introduction to the Great Barrier Reef.