Cape Pallarenda Conservation Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cape Pallarenda Conservation ParkQueensland |
|
---|---|
![]() View of Cape Pallarenda Conservation Park, with parts of the Townsville Airport and RAAF Base Townsville visible in the foreground
|
|
Nearest town or city | Townsville |
Established | 1994 |
Area | 0.44 km2 (0.2 sq mi) |
Managing authorities | Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service |
Website | Cape Pallarenda Conservation Park |
The Cape Pallarenda Conservation Park is a special protected area in Queensland, Australia. It is located about 10 kilometers (6 miles) north-east of Townsville. This park covers 44 hectares (about 109 acres) and is part of the suburb called Pallarenda. It's a great place to explore nature and learn about history.
Contents
Fun Things to Do at Cape Pallarenda
There are many exciting things to do when you visit Cape Pallarenda. You can explore different walking tracks that wind through the park.
Explore Walking Tracks
One popular walking track takes you past two old searchlight stations from World War II. These were used to spot enemy ships or planes. This path also leads to a quiet and beautiful spot called Shelley Beach.
Another path leads to a special graveyard and memorial. This place remembers 13 Vietnamese immigrants who sadly died in August 1920. They were staying at the former Cape Pallarenda Quarantine Station at the time.
Beach Fun and Swimming
Pallarenda Park also has a boat ramp. This makes it easy for people to launch their boats directly into the water. You can also enjoy swimming safely at the beach. There is a special stinger enclosure, which is a net that protects swimmers from marine stingers.
A Look Back in Time: History of the Park
Cape Pallarenda has an interesting history, going back many years.
How the Name Came About
The name "Cape Pallarenda" was given in 1864 by Lieutenant George Poynter Heath. He was exploring and mapping the area around Cleveland Bay. People believe the name comes from an Aboriginal language, but its exact meaning is not known today.
Cape Pallarenda During World War II
During World War II, Pallarenda Park was changed into a military hospital. This hospital was very large, with 500 beds. It was spread out along the sandy beach area of Pallarenda. Many injured soldiers were brought here for care, especially those from New Guinea. The hospital played an important role in helping soldiers recover during the war.