The slowest but, one of the most popular

Press, 22 September 1987, Page 35

The slowest but, one of the most popular

The train between Cairns and Kuranda could well qualify as Australia’s slowest. Nevertheless the 33 kilometre journey, which takes a mammoth one and a half hours to complete, is one of Queensland’s top tourist attractions.

The Kuranda Tourist Train, described as being one of the world’s most exciting rail journeys, makes regular departures from Cairns. It terminates at Kuranda’s picturesque railway station which is known for its immaculate gardens and lush hanging plants. In 29 kilometres, from Redlynch to Barron Falls, the twisting railway climbs 318 metres and passes through 15 short tunnels. At Stoney Creek the train curves slowly across a trestle bridge which is situated only metres away from an impressive waterfall.

This section of the journey is especially dramatic after heavy rain and with a sevenkilometre speed restriction over the trestle, there is plenty of time to take photographs. The train usually con-

sists of about 15 carriages and one of them provides refreshments and a commentary for passengers willing to pay a higher fare. The return trip from Cairns can be made within a morning, or the rail trip can be incorporated into a more comprehensive tour of the Atherton Tablelands. An excellent day tour is provided for just $35. Over the years, North

Queensland has become popular for those wishing to try alternative lifestyles which includes living off the land and enjoying the sun. Many of the inhabitants of Kuranda have, therefore, gone in for crafts, such as weaving and pottery. Their Karunda market, which operates three days of the week, has recently become a popular tourist attraction.