Georgetown
A historic mining town and Etheridge Shire administrative centre, Georgetown is located:
- 412km south west of Cairns
- 301km east of Normanton
- 40km north of Forsayth
- 92km west of Mt. Surprise on the Gulf Development Road.
Population
- 300 - Georgetown
- 923 - Etheridge Shire
Economy
Prime grazing country; mining and tourism also contribute to the local economy.
Climate
There are two seasons in this part of Queensland:
Dry/Winter (April to September):
- Little or no rainfall with mild to warm conditions
- Average temperatures are maximum 24°C, minimum 2°C
- Humidity levels are low, averaging between 20% - 60% in July
Wet/Summer (October to March):
- Heaviest rain falls from January onwards
- Average maximum temperature 45°C
- Humidity levels average between 50% - 80%
Current weather forecast for Georgetown
Environment
The shire presents a mecca for the amateur prospector, overlaying a vast formation of ancient Pre-Cambrian rock which remains rich in minerals and semiprecious stones. Some of the stones to be found include topaz, sapphires and garnets. Today, gold can still be prospected in the region.
The eastern part of the region (around Mt. Surprise) sits on the edge of the immense Undara lava field caused by ancient volcanic eruptions in the McBride Plateau some 190,000 years ago.
The surrounding country is flat wooded savannah grasslands with isolated hills. The whole region is highly regarded by bird watchers; the varied ecosystems providing an ideal habitat for an unusually high number and variety of wading, migratory and resident wood/grassland birds.
History
- 1860s - Pastoral leases (sheep and cattle) were being granted in the area.
- 1869 - Rich deposits of alluvial and reef gold were discovered in the locality. The area became known as the Etheridge Gold Field
- 1870s - Subsequent discoveries of vast deposits of copper, silver, lead, and tin led to the founding of the towns of Mt. Surprise, Georgetown, Einasleigh, Forsayth, Kidston, and Gilberton.
Things To See And Do
- Explore ghost towns: One of the most famous is the Gilberton site.
- Visit the Cumberland Chimney: Built by Cornish masons, it is all that remains of a crushing plant, or mill, that contracted to surrounding mines to crush their gold bearing ore.
- Browse through history at Teresa's Museum, an eclectic mix of memorabilia.
- Visit Cobbold Gorge: Located west of Forsayth this fascinating and unique natural gorge is staffed by Savannah Guides to provide you with access to the site and relate the history of the region. Cabin and camping accommodation is also available at the site.
- Go fossicking: a permit is required which can be obtained in Georgetown.
- Have a free swim! The public swimming pool at Georgetown is a open all year round in daylight hours and may be accessed free of charge with tokens available from the businesses on the highway or from the Council offices.
Services
- Service station (RACQ agent)
- Hospital
- Post Office (agent for Commonwealth bank)
- Pub, butchery, bakery, and grocery store
- 1 motel, 2 caravan parks
- Internet access is available at the Tourist Information Centre, Georgetown.
Access
- Air: There is an airstrip at Georgetown.
- Bus: Regular passenger and freight services operate between Cairns and Karumba.
- Self Drive: For self-drivers, the road is sealed from Cairns through to Normanton. This road which extends through the Gulf Savannah into the Northern Territory is known as the Savannah Way. The road from Georgetown south to Forsayth (40km) is a well-maintained unsealed road. Check road conditions before travelling- call the RACQ's 24 hour information service on 1300 130 595 or check online.
Further Information
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