Malanda

  • Population: 1,985 (2016 census)
  • Area: 44.7 l,2
  • Founded: 1908
  • Postcode: 4885
  • Distance from Cairns
  • Elevation: 732 m
  • Drive time from Cairns: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Malanda is a country town in the Atherton Tablelands.  Pop in and enjoy a pie at the Malanda Bakery or a cool drink at the historic pub.

Then make your way to see the Malanda Falls.

Malanda Falls

Malanada Falls

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Malanda Falls are a “must visit” item on your Tablelands’ “to do” list. A favourite with birdwatchers and bushwalkers.

The falls are ideal for family fun, swimming, and a relaxing barbecue picnic.

Situated on the North Johnstone River, the falls cascade over basalt rock formed by an ancient lava flow spread from the Mount Hypipamee area.

Malanda Falls Conservation Park preserves surviving vestiges of what was once the region’s dominant rainforest. Here you will find two short, guided walks available to visitors. Wildlife enthusiasts are sure to spot many unique species.

Not far from Malanda on the Upper Barron Road is the extinct volcanic crater known as Bromfield Swamp. A roost to hundreds of cranes each winter.

While you are in this region, dusk and early morning are the best time to see the stunning dancing displays of the sarus cranes.

Nerada Tea Plantation

The Nerada Tea Plantation and Factory offers presentations about tea-growing and processing.  You can purchase tea from the gift shop and sample some with Devonshire Tea during a visit. You will often catch a rare glimpse of a Lumholtz Tree Kangaroo here!

Explore a town steeped in history

The Tulip Oak Walk features signage depicting the area’s Aboriginal and European history. Written and designed by local Aboriginals. They also describe the local Ngadjon-Jii culture and lifestyle.

Wildlife

Platypus, fish, and turtles are visible during the Rainforest Circuit Walk from the viewing deck. Follow the track along the river before heading back through the forest.

In the heart of town is the majestic Malanda Hotel. The largest timber hotel in Australia, built-in 1911. Look in awe at the extensive use of local timbers. Particularly the magnificent silky oak staircase.

The milk and cheese heart of the Tablelands

Malanda is a small, rural pasture country town that anchors a highly successful dairying industry.

On James Street, you will find the  Dairy Farmers milk processing factory. This centre includes an interpretive centre, museum, gift shop, and cafe. It takes bookings for guided tours of the factory, which produces a million litres of bottled milk a week.

Malanda map