Rainforestation Nature Park
50th Anniversary
From a humble orange orchard on the Atherton Tablelands to one of Far North Queensland's most iconic attractions. Join us as we celebrate half a century of rainforest adventure, wildlife encounters, and cultural connection.
View CelebrationsFrom Orange Orchard to Rainforest Icon
This milestone is particularly special to the Woodward family, who founded Rainforestation Nature Park as Mountain Groves in 1976. The late Charles Woodward — a third-generation Cairns local — returned from his travels abroad with a vision of developing world-class tourism showcasing the region's unique rainforest environment. Purchasing what was then a functional orange orchard, he developed an idea unlike anything else — touring guests through the rainforest aboard amphibious World War II Army Ducks.
Officially opened by Premier Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen on 26th July 1976, those humble beginnings have grown into one of the region's largest and most beloved tourist attractions, offering iconic Australian experiences to millions of visitors for half a century.
"It's a far cry from nursing in London and the Royal Navy, but this has been my life for the past 50 years, and I wouldn't have it any other way. What a great industry to be in." Pip Woodward, Co-Founder
Fifty Years in the Making
Anniversary Celebrations
A series of milestone events honouring our history, our wildlife, our culture, and the community that has been part of our journey from the very beginning.
Aussie Wildlife Weekend
Our Koala & Wildlife Park celebrates its own milestone — 30 years of connecting visitors with Australian wildlife. Join us for a full weekend of exciting and educational activities, including an opportunity to meet the newest addition from our koala breeding program.
Army Duck Fundraiser
A day to celebrate where Rainforestation began — with its iconic Army Duck Rainforest Tour — while showing appreciation to Australia's veterans. Today, Rainforestation operates the largest fleet of 12 DUKWs in Australia.
Pamagirri Didgeridoo World Record
For over 30 years, the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience has been preserving and sharing Indigenous culture with visitors from around the world. Now, we're inviting the entire community to be part of something historic — gathering 500 participants to break the record for the largest simultaneous didgeridoo performance.
Leading up to the event, free cultural workshops will be offered to schools where students can create and learn to play their own PVC didgeridoos. The day will also feature indigenous art, traditional dance workshops, live cultural performances, and traditional food.
Be Part of Our Story
Whether you've visited once or a hundred times, we'd love you to join us as we celebrate this milestone. Stay up to date with event details and announcements.
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