Canecutter Way Gateway | Attractions | History | Scenery
highlights Paronella Park Swimming and Picnicking Murdering Point Winery Mamu Rainforest Canopy
Mamu Rainforest Canopy and Walkway
From the tropical coast, the mist encircled mountains rise flanked by cane fields, creeks and scenic byways. The Canecutter Way is a fascinating gateway to the Cairns Highlands/Atherton Tablelands with its own award winning attractions such as Paronella Park and Murdering Point Winery where you can taste medal winning wines made from fruits and native exotics such as Lemon Aspen and Davidson Plum. History Before there were the cane harvesters you can see today, cane was cut by hand using a panga or cane knife, and manhandled into railway shuttle bins to the rail heads and into the region’s sugar mills where the sweet, distinctive smell of molasses can still be identified during the crushing season. Visitors with time to explore can stay overnight in a choice of accommodation. There are quaint country pubs, retreats, guest houses and B&Bs with country style cooked breakfast, and even a relaxed no-fuss camping and caravan park. Gateway to the Cassowary Coast
Mamu Rainforest Canopy Walkway Easily accessible and highly popular, the Mamu Rainforest Canopy Walkway is mid-way between Millaa Millaa and Innisfail on the Palmerston Highway. Elevated walkways, a cantilever and 37m high observation tower provide visitors with the exhilarating experience of being high in the rainforest canopy as well as spectacular panoramic views of World Heritage rainforest landscapes. Paronella Park A standout attraction at Mena Creek is Paronella Park, voted No. 1 in the 2009 RACQ poll for 150 Must Dos. A fantasy creation from the mind of immigrant José Paronella in the 1930s, today the dream continues at this beautifully restored, intriguing venue. By day, visitors are charmed by guided tours including such fancies as the Tunnel of Love, the entrancing gardens and the picnic area beside the wide waterfall. By night, the park presents a dramatic evening tour. Stay over at the caravan park and camping grounds that are part of the park, which is now powered by its fully restored original 1930s’ hydro electric generator.
Mena Falls at Paronella Park
Walks and Trails The Canecutter Way marks the start of the Misty Mountain Trails. Pause at Mena Creek to walk the Gorrell Track - an easy 3.7 kilometres to MacNamee Creek’s lush rainforest swimming and picnic spot. Henrietta Creek to Goolagan Creek is part of a network of walks in the Palmerston section of Wooroonooran National Park.
44 Discover the Atherton Tablelands /Cairns Highlands and Gulf Savannah. For more information visit our website www.athertontablelands.com.au