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Cooktown Tourist Information: FREECALL 1800 174 895
Laura Races
The annual
Laura Rodeo and Races
are the
premier social events for many people who
call Cape York Peninsula home. The Horse
sports are also held over the same weekend,
with locals and visitors competing in traditional
events such as the barrel races. See our Events
section to find out more.
Rinyurru
(
Lakefield
)
National Park
Rinyurru (Lakefield) National Park is of
considerable
Aboriginal cultural significance
,
and the park has many places associated with
occupation, ceremonies and ancestral spirits.
Hann Crossing and Kalpowar Crossing
are
two such significant sites.
During the dry season large waterholes,
lakes and lagoons are interspersed by vast
floodplains which attract a
huge diversity of
birdlife
, including magpie geese.
Crocodiles
can be seen resting on the river banks, and in
open woodland and grassland areas wallabies
are easily seen.
Red and White Lily Lagoons
, located 8km
north of the Lakefield Ranger base on the main
road, have amazing displays of lotus lilies.
Fishing is permitted
at all camping grounds
with
barramundi
and
catfish
the most
common species caught. Boat tours and hire
are not available, but you are welcome to bring
your own boat.
Getting There
The Park is located in the Laura Basin 6-7 hours
north of Cairns. There are several access points:
via Laura and the Peninsula Development
Road; from Cooktown along Battle Camp Road,
or from Coen via the Musgrave Roadhouse.
Access is only during the dry season
,
normally May to November, but early or
late rains might render some of the tracks
impassable, so when travelling early or late
in the season it is wise to check first that the
roads are open.
4WD is essential.
Rock art site in Laura
rinyurru national park
laura races