Atherton

ATHERTON

LOCATION: 131 km west of Cairns

POPULATION: Approx. 4200

Atherton is the central town of the tablelands which grew out of the camps of timber men and built

along a hillside in a bowl surrounded by mountains. The town was named after John Atherton, a pioneer

in the region who also foresaw the agricultural potential of the tablelands. Attractive gardens and palms

divide the split-main street which was once was the track from Port Douglas to the Herberton tin field.

A joss house built in 1900 is all that remains of Chinatown, a separate development. It has been

recently restored by the National Trust. Although Atherton is a pleasant and prosperous town which is

fascinating in its own right, there are also a number of places worth exploring which are within the

vicinity. From Atherton it's only a short drive to Tolga or Lake Tinaroo which is noted for its water

sporting activities (including skiing, wind surfing, canoeing, swimming, etc.) and great camping

grounds. Also nearby is Yungaburra and Lake Barrine which is surrounded by lush rainforest and an

abundance of wildlife. From here you can picnic, swim, canoe, cruise the crystal waters or explore the

interesting walking tracks which surround the lake.

Lake Barrine (A Volcanic Crater Lake)

Tinaroo Dam

Fresh Water Swimming Holes

Carrington Falls

Tolga Woodworks

Crystal Caves

Bush Walks

Camping Grounds

Backpackers Hostel

Black Forest Hill Cuckoo Clock Centre

AREA POST CODE: 4883

AREA PHONE CODE: 07

International 61 7 ....

SHOPPING FACILITIES

Local Shops, Supermarket, Service Station & Post Office Available

TOURIST FACILITIES

Lake Barrine Cruises 07 40953 847 / 07 40953 474

Black Forest Hill Cuckoo Clock Centre 07 40953 424

Fascinating Facets & The Crystal Caves 07 40913 285

BANKING & EXCHANGE

ANZ, Commonwealth Bank, National Australia Bank, Suncorp, etc.

EMERGENCY SERVICES

Ambulance 000 or 07 4091 1911

Hospital 07 4091 1211

Police 000 or 07 4091 1200