Paronella Park

On another trip to Innisfail in North Queensland for some flying lessons, we had some time throughout the day to visit the award-winning Paronella Park. A place on my wish list since my travel agent days it exceeded my expectations.

Mena Creek Falls and  Hydro Electric Station

While we momentarily balked at the admission price, the free night's camping, return entry for two years and the inclusion of several tours was what sold us. Plus the friendly, knowledgeable, well trained, professional staff. No wonder this place has been voted the Number 1 Must Do in Queensland.

We parked Delvy around the back of the visitor centre in the small, shaded 1950's designed caravan park. Your manoeuvring abilities will be challenged in this park, but the serenity will soon wash over you. 

Paronella camping ground

Stepping back in time, we joined the day tour of the 13 acre site, immersing ourselves in the story of the Spanish creator Jose Paronella. Purchasing the virgin scrub alongside Mena Creek in 1929 for 120 pounds, Jose laboured for six years to build his dream.

The Castle

Museum in original residence

Using river sand to make concrete and old railway track for reinforcement, a Grand Staircase, Castle and Tea Gardens emerged out of the jungle for the enjoyment of tourists. People came from far and wide to swim beneath Mena Creek Falls, play tennis, promenade the gardens and cool off with refreshments served on the balcony. Movies were shown in the Theatre every Saturday night, and the Hall was the place for dances and functions.

Refreshment rooms in the Tea Gardens

Up to 7000 trees were planted by Jose, creating a garden wonderland. Traverse the creek over hand made concrete bridges and stroll through the lush rainforest, bamboo jungle, and the majestic Kauri Avenue. The soothing sound of water can be heard throughout the park; major natural and man-made features are creatively placed with views of the falls. This truly is a place of tranquility.

Grand Staircase - built first to cart sand up from the river

Picnic area

Kauri Avenue

For a different perspective, the night tour encompasses some wildlife spotting and spectacular photo opportunities as the floodlights shine on the park's best features. Using electricity generated by the restored 1930's Hydro Electric Plant, the whole park is powered by Jose's pioneering vision.

Night tour- note the lit windows of the Hydro Station on right

In 1933, Jose, with the help of engineers from the South Johnstone Sugar Mill, designed and installed the first hydro-electric system in North Queensland by harnessing the waterfall. Join the dedicated Hydro tour to learn about this magnificent creative and technical achievement.

Paronella Park is an extraordinary place; not only for its visual appeal but its history. The current owners, Judy and Mark Evans, have preserved and maintained this site as a work of art and it is well worth a visit, or two. 

Jose & Margarita - married 1925 in Spain and honeymooned in Australia