On a typical day with minimal traffic and no road construction, the journey from Cairns to Ravenshoe township can be completed in under 2 hours by car. However, to fully appreciate the picturesque views of the Gillies Range and other notable attractions along the route, travelers are encouraged to allocate 3 to 5 hours for the drive to Ravenshoe township.
Taking the Gilies Range, south-west of Cairns, the drive from the bottom of Gillies Range your faced with a 19km windy road before reaching the summit and the vast landscapes and captivating natural beauty of the Atherton Tableands. When taking this windy road, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of the lush-greenery, landscapes and valley below as you begin to ascend. With each stop along the way, you get to appreciate the smell of the fresh air up the Gillies Range and the attractions of the area.
I decided to return to Ravenshoe for a day visit, after the gas explosion that rocked this tiny town. The incident became a nationwide news headline that lasted a week or so, attracting media from all over Australia to broadcast the devastating disaster.
With great anticipation, I began my road trip early to reach Ravenshoe town just before midday. Departing Cairns under clear skies hinted at a pleasant drive up the range. As I ascended from the bottom of the Gillies Range, the cool breeze and fresh air enveloped me, creating a perfect morning temperature. The sparse traffic allowed me to leisurely navigate the 19km winding road and truly absorb the experience.
As I ascended the range at a deliberate pace, it wasn’t long before I made my inaugural halt at Heales Lookout, nestled near the summit of the range. Heales Lookout lies along the Scenic Gillies Highway, linking the Atherton Tableland with Gordonvale and Cairns, as it meanders through the verdant Mulgrave Valley. The vista from this vantage point is truly awe-inspiring, compelling me to linger and fully absorb its mesmerizing beauty.
After admiring the awe-inspiring scenery, I proceeded to Lake Barrine and experienced the refreshing ambiance of the Atherton Tablelands. The lake, nestled within the World Heritage Rainforest, exudes natural beauty and charm. I indulged in a coffee and homemade scone, savoring the vistas of the lake and the unspoiled natural environment.
Since it was serene in the morning and with no storm in sight, I decided to take a moment to unwind and appreciate the tranquility of this exquisite, secluded environment. It was the perfect opportunity to savor some quality time alone. After a few moments of relaxation, I resumed my journey, passing the Yungaburra township turn-off and proceeding through the small townships of Malanda and Tarzali. I then took the turn off Evelyn Drive road to reach the MillaMilla Lookout, situated approximately 300 meters from the road. The MillaMilla Lookout offers an awe-inspiring view that is not to be missed. It provides a bird’s-eye perspective of the area and is a sight that one not only wishes to witness but also to capture in a photograph. The panoramic view encompasses the township of MillaMilla, other parts of the Tablelands, and Mount Bartle Frere, Queensland’s highest mountain.
From MillaMilla Lookout to Ravenshoe township, the journey only takes about 20 minutes by car. Along the way just before the township, I had the view of the farmlands and Windyhill Wind farm. The Windy Hill wind farm, which came into being on the extinct Windy Hill volcano in 2000. Comprising 20 wind turbines, this facility harnesses the consistent winds on the volcano’s slopes to generate enough electricity to power approximately 3,500 homes.
It was just before midday when I arrived in Ravenshoe. As I slowly drove along the sole main street in town, flanked by quaint shops and cafes housed in old-style buildings, I couldn’t help but notice the stunning strip of foliage running down the center of the road. It’s a sight to behold when the plants bloom, showcasing their exotic natural beauty.
The township lay in a hush, still reeling from the aftermath of the explosion. A palpable sense of sorrow hung in the air. Amid the quiet, a special spot caught my eye – a shrine nestled among the ground-cover plants in the middle of the road. It stood as a poignant reminder of the locals who tragically lost their lives in a gas explosion that had made national headlines in Australia. It served as a solemn testament to the devastating swiftness with which innocent lives can be taken away.
As I sat by the table in front of the cafe, sipping my coffee while observing the locals going about doing their normal daily activities, I couldn’t stop thinking about how such thing could happen in a small quite town. As I was about to leave, an old couple in their 80’s came and sat near to me and asked me if I was new in town. I promptly replied with a smile on my face and said, yes. As we carried on our conversation, they asked me why I had to drive all the way up from Cairns, just to see this place?
I told them the reason behind my journey from Cairns to this quaint town had multiple layers of significance for me. I didn’t want to intrude my main purpose incase of negative respond. I told them, I was just visiting new places, but rather an exploration of the unknown, a step towards embracing the unfamiliar and cherishing the unique experiences that come with it. The allure of discovering hidden gems tucked away in the heart of this small town was irresistible, and the prospect of immersing myself in its culture and traditions was nothing short of captivating. Moreover, the tranquil ambiance and serene beauty of the surroundings served as a welcoming retreat from the bustling city life, offering a refreshing perspective on the essence of simplicity and contentment.
As I engaged in conversation with the delightful couple, I found myself recounting the enchanting tales of my travels, each story echoing the spirit of adventure and the joy of embarking on a journey of self-discovery. Their curiosity and genuine interest in my reasons for venturing to their town ignited a sense of camaraderie, bridging the gap between strangers and weaving a delightful connection steeped in shared experiences and mutual appreciation for exploration. As I said farewell to them, I had a profound sense of appreciation and welcoming of how friendly this little town is.