Heavens Gate

While visiting in the Cairnes area, Babinda Falls in the Wooroonooran National Park, Far North Queensland, also aptly known as Heaven's Gate, was one of my favourite places.

The Boulders were spectacular with many trails and the mountain views were stunning. Behind the boulders you can catch a glimpse of Mt Bartle Frere rising in the distance. This is Queensland's highest mountain and the source of the water from Babinda Creek. There were plenty of swimming holes, and aside from watching out for the stinging trees, some caution was needed in regard to the Aboriginal Legend of the Devil's pool.

A young aboriginal woman from the Yidinji Tribe, Oolana was married to an elder of the tribe. However, she fell in love with Dyga, a young man from another tribe. They ran away, but were caught. Dyga was taken away with his tribe and Oolana threw herself into the creek (Devil's Pool). As she screamed out for Dyga to return to her, the waters of the creek became violent rising waters and she was not seen again. The Legend indicates that Oolana's spirit continues to lure men into the treacherous waters as she searches for her lost love. At least 19 people have reported died there since the 1950s and at least 17 of them were men. Needless to say there are signs restricting swimming at the Devil's Pool.

Images: Suzie Kirk