Bamaga Qld 4876 (Pop 2 000)

Bamaga is Australia’s northernmost town located 2 670 km n-w of Brisbane at the tip of Cape York Peninsula. This isolated settlement is home to mainly Torres Strait Islanders although 4WD tourist numbers who visit between May-Oct are growing each year. Additionally there is some cattle production, a small retail sector and a concrete batching plant.

Nearby:
Jardine River NP (20 km south of Bamaga) rich in Aboriginal heritage, this wilderness park encompasses a large portion of the river’s catchment, as well as heathlands, woodlands, swamps and coastal dunes. See the carnivorous pitcher plants here as well as a number of stunning waterfalls. Bush camping in several locations. Visit May-Oct. Thursday Island (39 km north) also known as TI or Waiben is the Torres Strait Islands’ administrative and commercial centre with a population of about 3 500. There are a number of historical sites including Green Hill Fort containing the Torres Strait Historical Museum, abandoned bankers and tunnels and a number of churches. Lions Lookout affords sweeping water views. The Torres Strait Cultural Festival (June). Horn Island covers an area of 53 sq km - population about 650. Thursday Island’s airport is located here therefore making it a gateway for travelers in the area.  Residents make the daily Thursday Island commute to work or school by ferry. The Heritage Museum, WWII relics and a 1860s goldmine are all worth a visit. Badu Island located 60 km north of Thursday Island and is also known as MulgraveIsland. Pearling bases were established here in 1870s and peaked in 1950s. The boat trip to reach Badu passes many scenic islands and coral reefs. Birdlife is prolific and Green turtles may also be spotted. Cape York (32 km north) the very tip of the Australian continent. Somerset (22 km north) established in 1863 then moved to Thursday Island in 1877 and only ruins now remain. Seisia (6 km north) provides a number of retail and tourist facilities as well as excellent camping and fishing.

Accommodation:
Bamaga has a resort & two lodges. Bamaga Island Council Information Centre: Adidi St. Tel (07) 4069 3211.