If you find yourself traveling down the east coast of Australia on the picturesque Bruce Highway, take some time and explore Frank Guerra’s hometown, Innisfail! Located just over 1,000 miles away from Brisbane, this traditionally agricultural region is branching out and developing burgeoning fishing and tourism industries.
With a very small population of just under 10,000 people, Innisfail offers a quaint village feeling with friendly people and lots of sights to see and exciting activities to partake in.Innisfail is well kwown for 3 great rugby league players lional Williamson, Kerry Boustead and Current Australian representative player Billy Slater in 2008 he was voted best player in the world, to catch up with the local rugby league team go to http://www.brothersinnisfail.com.au/
Originally inhabited by aboriginal people for thousands of years, a shipwreck off the coast in 1872 forced Europeans ashore to seek shelter. Dazzled by the beauty of this area as well as it’s abundance of natural resources, the Europeans decided to settle here. The settlers started developing the sugar industry, which was the driving force behind the eventual development of this town. More and more European immigrants began to settle here, helping to further develop the sugar cane and banana industry. There are large populations of Italians, Greeks, and many other ethnic groups who form a diverse and culturally compelling community here.
If you are an avid fisherman, or just want to spend some time on the water, Innisfail does not dissapoint. Located near two major rivers and relatively close to the ocean, Innisfail offers some of the best freshwater as well as saltwater fishing anywhere in Australia. You can charter a small fishing boat with a guide to take you offshore, but there are also numerous locations on shore that offer action packed fishing.
A great attraction to visit while around the Innisfail area is the Paronella Park. Just outside of town, this Spanish inspired tourist location has survived fire, several floods and a cyclone to continue wowing visitors with it’s beautiful botanical gardens and multiple waterfalls. This is a beautiful place to wander through and soak in the sights. You can go exploring alone, or take one of the many daily guided tours of the grounds.
Innisfail gained worldwide notoriety when in 2006, Cyclone Larry ripped through the town causing severe damage. Not only were many homes severely damaged or destroyed altogether, the banana and sugar crops, which are the main economic drivers of this small community, were wiped out. And the town has since made a very strong recovery.
Innisfail is a great town to visit. To really understand what Australia is all about and to appreciate locations off the usual tourist path, you should really spend some time in small towns like Innisfail. You will gain a greater appreciation of the history and importance of the area!