Malanda
Malanda is a small rural town in North Queensland, Australia. It is located in Atherton tablelands, an hour drive from Cairns. The town is famous for its signature milk. The town’s main attractions include the charming Malanda Falls with the swimming pool, Dairy centre and museum, Malanda Falls conservation park and rain forest.
Malanda Falls
Malanda Falls located on the North Johnstone River at the northern entrance to the town. The Malanda Falls is small but rather elegant. The waterfalls no more than four metres over a basalt rockface, and the town’s swimming pool lies at the bottom. It is a popular swimming hole with the surrounding area being used for picnics and social gatherings. The pools were upgraded during World War II by Australian soldiers who were living in the area.
Malanda Falls Conservation Park
The conservation park is located on the Malanda-Atherton Road just opposite the Malanda Falls. The park offers a short walk (1 km return – about 30 minutes) through a remnant of the tropical rain forest and an opportunity to see a wide range of rain forest trees. It is a place to see saw-shelled turtles and rainbow fish in the North Johnstone River. You can also see the Lumholtz’s tree kangaroo, Australian brush turkey and Boyd’s forest dragon.
Malanda Dairy Centre and Heritage Museum
Malanda Dairy Centre located at 8 James St, Malanda. It cleverly combines café, museum and art gallery in the heart of the town. Malanda is considered to be the headquarters for one of the largest and longest milk runs in the world. Visit the dairy cantre for fine coffee, exquisite lunches, impeccable friendly service and dinner too if you find yourself in Malanda.