Weipa
Weipa located in the Gulf of Carpentaria in Queensland and is the largest town in the Cape York Peninsula with a population of about 3000 people. Its main industries are mining and cattle exports.
Originally the town began in 1898 as a Presbyterian Aboriginal mission outpost. In 1955 a geologist discovered the huge amounts of bauxite leading to large expansion in population as the mining industry began.
Tourism is a fast developing industry with some great treasures to be discovered. If you like fishing, then Weipa is one of the best spots to visit as the town is small in population but the fish are plentiful.
Nature and Eco enthusiasts will appreciate the many hundreds of unique bird and wildlife species in the area. The area being relatively untouched by mankind provides an outback experience with the convenience of a large town centre. Take a stroll through the Jardine National Park to amaze your senses.
There are also tours available on the mine tour. Bauxite is the main ingredient in making aluminium and once you have taken a mine tour you will never look at a can of coke in the same way again. How big and efficient the mining industry has grown is very impressive.
The aboriginal culture is also one to enjoy when visiting Weipa. One magnificent place to see is the Western Cape Cultural Centre. Be impressed with the stunning and truly authentic aboriginal artwork and learn about the Aboriginal culture.
Every year in September the Malaruch Aboriginal Corporation holds the Weipa fest. Thousands of tourists from around Australia visit the event to experience indigenous performances, culture, nature, arts, crafts, food and history. There is even a workshop fully equipped for local and regional artists to develop their decorative and traditional aboriginal art.
For more information on Weipa you may want to search Weipa Wikipedia, Weipa visitor centre, Weipa tourism or about Weipa.
