A Wonderful Rainforest Experience

Supatcha Ploy (PJ) is from Thailand and studying a Masters of Marine Biology with JCU @James Cook University in Townsville. PJ is one of the 2025 Study Townsville Student Ambassadors and in September participated in a unique and memorable weekend experience with a group of the Study Townsville Student Ambassadors visiting the Paluma Rainforest area, located an hour and a half by car from Townsville. PJ shares her experience with us.

I had an amazing weekend getaway with @Study Townsville and @Hidden Valley Cabins & Tours.

On Saturday, we started with a short hike at Paluma Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was fascinating to see how the atmosphere changed so quickly—from the dry eucalyptus trees we’re used to in Townsville, to a dense, misty green rainforest. 🌱 It reminded me so much of the rainforests back home! The lush, vibrant landscape was full of life, and Kurt, our guide, shared so many interesting facts about the ecosystem along the way. We ended the hike with a beautiful lookout, and this time the view was clear (unlike last time, when thick sea fog covered everything).

Afterwards, we headed to Hidden Valley Cabins for lunch and some downtime. Staying there was a real treat—it’s completely off-grid and powered by solar energy, which made it feel even more connected to nature. We explored the area around the cabins, checked out a small creek and waterfall nearby, and some of us even went birdwatching. So many cute birds out there! 🐦

On Sunday, we set off for the Gorge Walk, which was a longer hike through a completely different landscape—the dry tropics. Along the way, we passed by Brahman cattle (super common here because they can handle drought and cattle ticks) and learned about the local flora, like spear grass. Kurt showed us how the tips of the grass spin when wet, which is cool but also dangerous for sheep. The hike was challenging, but so worth it when we reached Running River—a big, beautiful creek surrounded by stunning rock formations. A lot of us jumped into the water to cool off after the long trek. It was such a refreshing and rewarding way to end the hike! 🏞️

Before heading back, we even spotted a tiny frog hiding in the cracks of the rocks—it was the cutest little thing 🐸

This weekend was all about exploring the diversity of nature, learning about the environment, and enjoying some great company. Can’t wait for the next adventure!

September 2024

Photo Credit: Supatcha Ploy Japakang