Millaa Millaa Falls facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Millaa Millaa Falls
Millaa Millaa Falls in September 2008
Location in Queensland
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Location	Far North Queensland, Australia
Coordinates	17°29′44″S 145°36′36″E / 17.49556°S 145.61000°E / -17.49556; 145.61000
Type	Plunge
Total height	18.3 metres (60 ft)
Number of drops	1
Watercourse	Theresa Creek

Millaa Millaa Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in Far North Queensland, Australia. It's found near the town of Millaa Millaa in the Tablelands Region. This stunning natural spot is a "plunge waterfall," meaning the water falls straight down without touching the rock face.

The falls are about 18.3 metres (60 ft) (60 feet) high. At the bottom, there's a cool pool perfect for swimming. The name "Millaa Millaa" comes from the local Mamu Aboriginal language. It refers to a rainforest vine called Elaeagnus triflora, whose fruit was an important food source. Many people mistakenly think the name means "waterfall" or "plenty water," but it actually honors this special plant.

Millaa Millaa Falls is a very popular place for tourists. It's easy to reach by road, just a short drive from Millaa Millaa township.

Milla Milla Falls

Exploring Millaa Millaa Falls

Millaa Millaa Falls is a true gem of the Atherton Tableland. It's famous for its natural beauty and is a favorite stop for many visitors. You can enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear pool at the base of the falls.

The area around the falls is surrounded by lush rainforest. There's a grassy spot where you can relax and admire the view. Concrete steps lead down to the main viewing area, making it easy to access.

A Look at the Falls' History

The Millaa Millaa Falls area has been important for a long time. Early explorers found the falls while looking for routes to connect mining areas with coastal ports.

In the late 1800s, the clearing near the falls was used as a rest stop. Horse and mule teams would pause here while traveling to and from the Herberton mining fields. Later, in the 1920s, it became a camp for workers building the railway line to Millaa Millaa.

Protecting the Falls

During the 1920s, a quarry was started near the falls. This quarry dug up stone for building roads. There was a risk that the blasting work could damage the beautiful falls.

However, local groups like the Millaa Millaa Progress Association worked hard to protect the falls. Their efforts helped save this natural wonder. By the mid-1920s, the falls were already a popular spot for tours of the Atherton Tablelands.

Making it Visitor-Friendly

In the late 1950s, more improvements were made to the falls area. The road leading to the falls was upgraded, and a small car park was built. Public facilities like toilets, a shelter, and barbecues were added for visitors.

More upgrades happened in 2002 and 2005. The old quarry was turned into a car park, and new walking tracks and steps were created. Today, you'll find modern facilities, including biological toilets and bus shelters.

Millaa Millaa Falls is now part of a popular "waterfall circuit." This circuit also includes the nearby Zillie and Elinjaa Falls, offering a fantastic day out exploring nature.

Why Millaa Millaa Falls is Special

Millaa Millaa Falls is a very important landmark for tourism. It's well-known not just in Queensland but also around the world. Pictures of the falls are often used to promote the region.

The falls have even appeared in movies, documentaries, and TV commercials! This shows just how iconic and beautiful this place is. It's also a popular spot for community events.

The natural beauty of the falls has stayed much the same over the years. This makes it a truly special place to visit and enjoy.

Heritage Significance

Millaa Millaa Falls is listed on the Queensland Heritage Register. This means it's recognized as an important part of Queensland's history and culture.

Historical Importance

The falls show how the Atherton Tableland region grew and developed. The area around the falls was used as a rest stop, a survey depot, a railway workers' camp, and even a quarry. All these activities played a part in the region's history.

Aesthetic Beauty

The falls are valued for their incredible natural beauty. Their picturesque look makes them one of the most recognized natural features of the Atherton Tablelands. This beauty is why it's used to attract tourists.

Cultural Connection

Millaa Millaa Falls has a strong connection with the people of Far North Queensland. Since the 1950s, it has been a popular spot for picnics and swimming. It's also culturally important to the local Mamu Aboriginal people, who used the area for food and camping. The falls were a key landmark in the area even before the town of Millaa Millaa was established.