Signage showcases history of natural attractions

The stories of some of the region’s most loved natural attractions will be shared with visitors following installation of a new suite of signage at Crystal Cascades, Copperlode Dam and Behana Gorge.

Cairns Mayor Bob Manning said the interpretive signage was part of a larger project to upgrade outdated and irrelevant signage at all Council’s Water and Waste facilities in order to improve the customer experience and make the workplace safer.

“This larger package included things like clearer directional signage for the community to enable more efficient drop off at transfer stations, as well as workplace health and safety signage relevant to both staff and visitors,” Cr Manning said.

“Copperlode Dam, Crystal Cascades and Behana Gorge are some of our region’s most popular recreational areas; an update of the interpretive signage was needed, with safety signage also included in the project.”

Division 6 Councillor Linda Cooper said the new signage incorporated local history and indigenous stories, as well as information on the amazing flora and fauna of the areas.

“The history behind Cairns’ water supply is only one of the interesting aspects of these new signs,” Cr Cooper said.

“The stories of the first people and information on the Wet Tropics Heritage Area are really insightful.”

Cr Cooper said the new signs and guides would be a benefit to tourists and locals alike.

“For visitors to the Copperlode Falls and Lake Morris Reserve, there is also a self-guided trail includes the dam wall, spillway and viewing platforms,” she said.

“The Copperlode pamphlet allows people to do a self-guided tour at the Copperlode site, which is a good activity for an excursion or for families.

“This project was really about engaging with stakeholders in order to tell a story and create a memorable experience for everyone visiting the area.”