Mount Mulligan
Magnificent: Mount Mulligan is just as spectacular as sites such as Uluru (Ayers Rock) but much less known. Picture: TTNQ
The rugged rocky cliffs of Mount Mulligan provide a sharp contrast between the reefs and rainforests that Cairns is best known for.
The massive mountain's cliffs are around 10 times the size of Australia's most well-known rock, Uluru (Ayers Rock), but is largely unknown outside of the region.
An integral part of aboriginal history, Mount Mulligan is known by many tribes as the birthplace of the Rainbow Serpent and is regarded as one of the most sacred sites in Far North Queensland.
The sandstone bluff is Queensland's oldest Aboriginal site and is owned by the KuKu Djungan people.
But indigenous legend isn't the only thing Mulligan is noted for - the mountain holds some rather grim history for white settlers too.
The small town that flanks the mountain was a coal mine until in 1921, Queensland's worst mining disaster struck, with an explosion killing all 75 miners trapped underground.
Today little remains except a graveyard and the some historical artefacts, but the mountain remains as one of the most spectacular sites in the Cairns region (as long as you are prepared for a bit of a drive!)
If you would truly like to explore this rugged terrain, the best option is a stay at the Mount Mulligan Station, owned by cattle farmers Owen and Roma Rankine.
The 28,000 hectare property offers a unique view into outback Aussie life, far detached from the crowds and hustle and bustle of Cairns and other more well-known attractions.
Guests are accommodated in the homestead, which offers five bedrooms with shared bathroom and kitchen facilities.
Guests can partake in 4WD cattle mustering and various other farm activities and the region also has some fantastic fishing and hiking trails as well, so make sure you pack tough boots and clothes to suit.
For the avid adventurer, flights are available to Mount Mulligan through Downunder Helicopters, with a minimum of two passengers.
Otherwise, the mountain is located around 3-4 hours drive west of Cairns.
A 4WD is advised as the last section of road is quite rough and smaller cars won't have a good chance of making it intact.
For more information about Mount Mulligan or other outback tourism options in the Cairns region, please follow the links below:
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