On first glance the small town of Babinda, south of Cairns, may to be nothing more than a sugar mill, pub and a few houses. If you look a bit deeper into the area, you will discover it contains some of the region's most special treasures.

The Boulders is a spectacular swimming and picnic spot about 7km west of the township. 

While naturally traquil and beautiful, local aboriginal legend paints a more tragic picture of this special place.

The story goes like this: A long time ago, the Yidinji tribe were the sole occupants of the Babinda Valley. 

The isolation created by the surrounding hills and jungle made visitors rare.

Hovever, there came a time when a wandering tribe entered the lush green valley and was made welcome by the Yidinji people, who were in a state of celebration.

It seems an elder of the Yidinji tribe named Waroonoo was about to marry the beautiful Oolana. 

The marriage had been arranged to combine the knowledge and wisdom of Waroonoo with the youth and beauty of Oolana.

The wedding went ahead as planned, but the following day it became obvious that something was wrong. 

Oolana had disappeared, as had Dyga, a handsome young member of the visiting tribe. 

A search party comprising both tribes searched the area for the missing lovers.

It was not long before they were found camping by a stream running through Churichillam, now known as Mount Bartle Frere.

After a furious struggle Dyga was captured, but not Oolana. 

Overcome with emotion, she threw herself into the stream.

From then on, the previously peaceful waters erupted into swirling torrents of white water as the ground burst open, spewing forth huge boulders to mark the place of the terrible happenings.

Aboriginal legend says the spirit of Oolana remains in Devil's Pool to this very day, calling to any young single male visitors to the area who may go to the mysterious waters.

Spookily, the boulders have claimed the life of many young males over the years, giving credit to the legend.

Visitors to the area are warned to take care and heed any warnings given by signage.

The M&J Aboriginality tour is a perfect way to experience the magic of the boulders with a unique cultural perspective.

On arrival you may select your very own didgeridoo in its raw and natural state.

There is a great variety to select from and the guides will advise the one that is most suited to you. 

Next is the cleaning process and preparation of the wood for your chosen method of decoration.

Either painting or burning are the options. 

The family will help with design and guide you through the several phases of decoration to the finished article. 

During the day lunch is provided followed by a tour to The Boulders. 

You can enjoy a picturesque rainforest walk, hear Dreamtime stories and legends and take the opportunity to swim in the cool, pristine waters of Babinda Creek. 

This uniquely unforgettable day culminates with your finished Didgeridoo, with a great selection of other assorted Aboriginal artifacts available in the gift shop. 

All have been created by the family or by local indigenous artists and craftsmen and contribute to the local ecomony.

Another popular spot near Babinda is Josephine Falls, renowned as one of the region's most spectacular waterfalls.

If you are seeking a bit of excitement as well as sight-seeing, white water rafting companies also operate in the area.

Another funny fact about Babinda is that it boasts the only pub in Australia to be built by the government.

This local watering hole is a classic example of a North Queensland pub and a great way to round off a great day of fun and adventure in the area.

For more information about the M&J Aboriginality tour, please call (07) 4067 1660.

If you would like to know more about tourist attractions in the Cairns region, please follow the links below:

> Cairns Rainforest

> Cairns Aboriginal Culture

> Cairns Swimming

> Cairns White Water Rafting

 

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