Alwal National Park facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Alwal National Park Queensland
IUCN Category II (National Park)
Alwal National Park Location in Queensland
Nearest town or city	Laura
Established	2010
Area	42.510 km2 (16.4 sq mi)
Managing authorities	Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service
Website	Alwal National Park
See also	Protected areas of Queensland

Alwal National Park is a special protected area in Australia. It is located on the Cape York Peninsula in Far North Queensland. This park helps protect important natural areas and rare animals.

What is Alwal National Park?

Alwal National Park is a national park in the Shire of Cook, a region in northern Australia. It was created to protect the unique environment and wildlife found there. The park is managed by the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service.

Exploring the Park's Geography

This park protects a part of the Morehead River. You can also find steep cliffs, rolling hills, and wetlands that fill with water during certain seasons. There are also areas with thick groups of climbing plants called vine-thickets.

Diverse Landscapes

Alwal National Park is part of the Cape York Peninsula's natural region. It has about 30 different wetland areas. These wetlands cover a small part of the park, less than 1%. In the eastern part of the park, you'll see many sandstone cliffs and rocky slopes.

Amazing Animals of Alwal

Alwal National Park is a very important home for several rare animals. It helps protect some of Australia's most endangered species.

Rare Birds and Mammals

The park is one of the last places where the Golden-shouldered parrot lives. This bird is one of Australia's most endangered species. The park also protects the homes of other threatened animals. These include the Cape York rock-wallaby, the red goshawk, and the black-necked stork.

A Look at the Park's History

Alwal National Park was officially opened in May 2010. The name "Alwal" comes from the Kunjen language. It is the name for the Golden-shouldered parrot, which is very important to the park.

Traditional Owners and Management

The traditional owners of this land are the Uw Olkola people. The park is managed in a special way. The state government works together with the Olkola Aboriginal Corporation Land Trust. Before it became a national park, this area was known as Mulkay.

Visitor Information

Alwal National Park does not have roads for vehicles. There are also no special facilities for visitors. This helps keep the park wild and protected.