Crisis Looms Over Cape Tribulation as Landslide Cuts Off Tiny Tourist Town

Secluded and serene, Cape Tribulation in Far North Queensland is facing a dire situation as a recent landslide has severed it from the rest of the country. This tiny tourist town, where the Daintree Rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef, has become isolated, turning paradise into a prison for the locals left behind.

Following the destructive path of Category 3 Cyclone Jasper in December, the road to Cape Tribulation has been rendered near impassable due to landslips that occur every few kilometers. Major road damage, particularly at Noah Range, just minutes from the township, has left residents and businesses struggling to survive.

Julian and Jackie, owners of a campground in Cape Tribulation, expressed despair over the situation, highlighting that without a clear timeline for road repairs, they may have to shut their doors, leading to the potential collapse of Cape Tribulation as a tourism destination. The lack of action and communication from the Douglas Shire Council has further fueled frustration among the locals.

Local businesses like Cape Tribulation Farm, run by Jeremy and Merran, have been severely impacted not only by the empty tourist cabins but also by the inability to export fruits, resulting in significant financial losses. Merran’s struggles to ensure students attend school reflect the wider community’s challenges in accessing essential services.

Council Mayor Michael Kerr assured residents that the road to Cape Tribulation would be reopened before Easter, pending favorable weather conditions. However, the uncertainty surrounding the road’s accessibility, especially during the upcoming peak season, has left residents fearing for the town’s future.

The ongoing efforts to repair the road, involving intensive monitoring and restoration work, are aimed at ensuring safe access for residents and visitors. Despite the hardships faced by the community, there is a collective call for support and unity to preserve and revitalize Cape Tribulation’s tourism industry.