Mossman

Obscured by its bigger and more popular neighbors, little is known about the town of Mossman. To the majority of tourists staying in Far North Queensland, Mossman is just a little town they pass by on their way to Cape Tribulation and the Daintree National Park. It is somewhat sad to know that only a handful of people are keen on taking a good look at what Mossman has to offer. Unknown to many, Mossman abounds in spectacular vistas and fascinating places of interest that are just waiting to be explored and admired.

Situated just 20 kilometers away from one of Queensland's most touristy places, Port Douglas, Mossman is the seat of Douglas Shire's local government. It was George Dalrymple who named the town in 1873 after Hugh Mosman, a minerals explorer. Mosman became famous when Jupiter, his Aboriginal help, stumbled upon gold in the Charters Towers. However, a suburb in Sydney was also named Mosman; this prompted the locals to change their town's name to Mossman to avoid mix-up and confusion.

Attractions

A typical North Queensland town, Mossman does not boast of tall buildings and wide roads. What Mossman is proud of is its lush scenery, tranquil surroundings and friendly people. Even though more than a century has already passed since the first village was established in Mossman in 1876, the town managed to remain distinctively rural up to the present. The town's rustic appeal is just one of the things that make Mossman an ideal place for people who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of more-frequented tourist towns.

Ideally located in the midst of Mossman valley and surrounded by nothing but resplendent landscapes, this picturesque town is home to some of Queensland's most famous natural attractions. Five minutes away from downtown is Mossman Gorge, a paradise-like site that features crystal-clear freshwater rivers and breathtaking rainforest vistas. The Mossman Gorge is actually a part of the huge Daintree National Park which covers a 110 million-year-old rainforest. It is located in the southern area of the park that is believed to be the homeland of the Kuku Yulanji people.

The Mossman River is another natural attraction that will undoubtedly wow tourists. Surrounded by tall trees, exotic plants and huge boulders, the Mossman River is a haven for tired hikers. Just sitting on the large rocks by the river can be a very refreshing experience. Likewise, taking a pause to marvel at the beauty of Mother Nature can be very overwhelming. Other things that can be found within the area is a suspension bridge and a 2.7-kilometer loop trail which encourages further exploration of the rainforest.

A town with rich heritage, Mossman also features several historical sites. The hub of the sugarcane industry in the area, the town's history is somewhat intertwined with its trade's humble beginnings. The Mossman Central Mill is a silent witness of the town's history. Established in 1896 and opened in August 23, 1897, the Mossman Central Mill is the sole sugar manufacturer in the entire district. The mill still operates at present and is open for tourists who want to learn about Mossman's sugar industry history.

Mossman's history is also reflected on its various structures. Downtown Mossman features old buildings that still bear the classic North Queensland architecture. Visitors can drive through the town's back roads and immerse themselves in this wonderful display of edifices that stood the test of time.

Apart from historical and natural attractions, Mossman also provides a good number of leisure destinations. The town boasts an exclusive 18-hole golf course for those who are fond of the game. Meanwhile, a one-of-a-kind theater can be found in Whyanbeel for those who want to experience watching stage and musical acts in an exceptional outdoor setting. Mossman also boasts dazzling seascapes in Newell Beach, where tourists can lie in the sand to work on their tans. With all these and more, Mossman is certainly a place that should not be missed.