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Georgetown

Located within the Ethridge River and situated 412 km south west of Cairns and 301 km east of Normanton is Georgetown. Known for its laid back atmosphere, this little town also houses most of the best gem fields in Queensland that attract a great number of gem fossickers across the globe. Within Georgetown also lies the Etheridge Shire Administrative Centre, a local government entity that also rules over neighboring towns of Einasleigh, Forsayth and Mount Surprise. Georgetown possesses one of the most luscious environments here on earth. Its eastern region, which is around Mount Surprise, stands on the edge of the massive Undara lava field, which is a result of an eruption by an ancient volcano in the McBride Plateau that occurred some 190,000 years ago.

Georgetown's neighboring country is flat wooded savannah grassland that radiates the golden glow of the afternoon and morning sun. Its immediate environment is also dotted by sporadic hills that are simply breathtaking during twilight. The entire region of Georgetown is also highly conducive for bird life. It houses a plethora of disparate fauna that ranges from wading and migratory birds to endemic woodland or grassland birds. As such, it is regarded as one of the hot spots for bird watching.

The Ethridge River, which lies close to Georgetown, was one of the sites of the gold rush in the 1870's. As such, Georgetown practically owes its existence to the booming gold mining industry during that time. Georgetown was primarily known as "Ethridge" until in 1871 when it was renamed to pay homage to Howard St. George, an early gold commissioner stationed in that area. By 1869, large deposits of copper, silver, lead and tin were subsequently discovered. These major discoveries eventually led to the founding of Georgetown and its neighboring towns of Einasleigh, Forsayth, Kidston, Gilberton and Mount Surprise.   Mining has been the prime source of livelihood in Georgetown until 1900 when it was completely replaced by grazing.

Georgetown's soothing and relaxing ambiance acts only as a prelude to the many wonders and surprises that await guests. This meek town acts as a springboard to various picturesque spots that North Queensland offers. One of these spots is the Agate Creek situated 120 km south of Georgetown. With its agate formations, most particularly the formations known as "thunder eggs" that boast of an array of vibrant colors ranging from red and blue to yellow and green, pink, macaroni and white, it's no doubt why gem fossickers are simply thrilled to visit this place. This utterly spectacular agate formation that exhibits vibrant colors results from vast quantities of volcanic batholiths in this area. A guided tour can also be arranged for this area to maximize your authentic fossicking experience. The typical guided tour covers an exploration of the lush Aboriginal art within the vicinity, a close examination of the vigorous flora and fauna, and a trip to the best places to fossick for agates, jasper and quartz.

If you find fossicking an unpleasant experience, it is imperative that you visit the Cumberland Chimney approximately 20 km from Georgetown. The Cumberland Chimney, which was built by Cornish Masons, lies on the road of Croydon. It was once a part of an industrial plant whose purpose was to crush or mull the gold produced by surrounding mining villages. At present, only the chimney of this plant remains standing and it is the only witness to Georgetown and its neighboring town's faded glory.

Also make sure that you visit the Cobbold Gorge, a mystical natural gorge located west of Forsayth. This gorge is one of the frequently visited tourist spots in Australia, and as such, the Cobbolf Gorge is manned by highly professional Savannah Guides to ensure that you experience the full grandeur visiting this site. The Georgetown people want to make sure that each and every visitor enjoys his or her trip with maximum comfort and ease. To provide for their needs, camping and cabin accommodations that boast of authentic Australian comfort and style are also available within the site, making Georgetown an excellent place to include in a travel itinerary.