The Atherton Tablelands, west of Cairns in Tropical North Queensland, is a fertile volcanic plateau of rainforest, waterfalls, crater lakes, and farmland. It sits within the Great Dividing Range and includes protected areas like Curtain Fig National Park and Malanda Falls. The region is an Important Bird Area with several endemic species and rich biodiversity. Traditional owners include Aboriginal groups such as the Djirrbal, Ngadjonji, Djabugay and Yidinji. Today the economy blends agriculture (dairy, fruit, coffee) with tourism focused on scenic self-drive routes, hiking, wildlife watching, and visiting villages and markets. Signature sights include Lake Barrine, Lake Eacham, and the famous Curtain Fig Tree.

Rae Matthews Gordon Matthews

The Tableland Tour. A photographic experience in natural beauty. Atherton Tableland, N.Q., Australia