R&H Suburb Profile GORDONVALE

Gordonvale is a small sugar-growing suburb at the southern end of Cairns (about 30 mins drive) on the Mulgrave River. At the 2006 census, Gordonvale had a population of 4420.

Gordonvale, historically a sugar town, is today a quintessential Australian country town. It has courteous storekeepers, well-preserved streetscapes, historic buildings and a great sense of community. Its most famous natural landmark is Djarragun Mountain (also known as Walsh's Pyramid), which rises steeply to 922m. It is the highest free-standing mountain peak in the world (not part of a mountain range).

The suburb is surrounded predominantly by sugarcane fields and is a short drive from many places of interest. From Gordonvale there is access to the Tropical Tablelands via the Gillies Highway, while south the Great Green Way extends south to Mission Beach.

Sport is popular in the town. Gordonvale Golf Club is located centrally in the town and has an 18-hole golf course. The course is unusual as nine holes are shared with a horse-racing track, with the other nine going through bushland to run up against the Bruce Highway. There is also strong touch football community.

Local schools include Gordonvale Primary School, St Michael's School and Djarragun College.

The suburb is home to Gordonvale Memorial Hospital and Palliative Care Unit/Respite Centre. There are public and private hospitals in Cairns itself.