Cairns Plywood Pty Ltd Sawmill Complex

The Cairns Plywood Pty Ltd Sawmill Complex is a heritage-listed industrial site along Eacham Road consisting of multiple buildings for timber processing and plywood manufacturing. The facility still displays machinery and structures that were needed for producing various wood products.

The mill was founded in 1910 by the Williamson brothers and began plywood production in 1940 before closing in 1988 due to environmental regulations. Its story shows how the timber industry evolved in Queensland over nearly a century.

The complex shows how the timber industry shaped the region and what role processing local wood species played in the local economy. Visitors can still understand today how important this factory was for the development of Yungaburra.

The site is best explored on foot, allowing you to view the various buildings and the old chimney structure. Information panels explain the work processes and help you understand the industrial past of the place.

The mill used an unusual combination of steam and electric power for timber processing, which was technologically advanced. This dual energy approach allowed it to produce butter boxes and plywood at the same time until 1963.

Location: Queensland

GPS coordinates: -17.26930,145.58500

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:44