Barron Gorge National Park, National park in the Cairns Region, Queensland, Australia
Barron Gorge National Park is a protected area in the Cairns Region of Queensland, Australia, mainly within the locality of Barron Gorge. The Barron River cuts through the eastern escarpment of the Atherton Tablelands, and Barron Falls drop 265 m into the gorge. Slopes reach 45°, and Stoney Creek Falls and Surprise Creek Falls lie on tributaries within the park.
Barron Gorge National Park lies in the traditional country of the Djabugandji Bama, known as Djirri Nyundu Nyrrumba. On 17 December 2004 ownership of the park returned to its traditional owners, the first native title determination for a park in Queensland; visitors saw no change, but Aboriginal people could again hold religious ceremonies there. In 1935 the Barron River was harnessed at the Barron Gorge Hydroelectric Power Station, Queensland's first hydroelectric power, with an underground station cut into the cliff 200 m from the base of the falls.
The Djabugandji Bama are the traditional owners of the area they call Djirri Nyundu Nyrrumba, which includes the park. Ownership returned to them on 17 December 2004, the first native title determination for a Queensland park, after which they could again hold traditional religious ceremonies there.
Several walking trails connect main areas with marked observation points and parking available at key entry spots. The park is most accessible during drier months when paths are easier to navigate and water features are clearly visible.
The 1935 Barron Gorge Hydroelectric Power Station was Queensland's first hydroelectric plant, carved into the cliff face 200 metres from the base of Barron Falls. Water reached its two 1,200 kW turbo-alternators through pipes; the old substation and staff buildings now sit around the Skyrail station.
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