1. The Wet Tropics World Heritage Area is a 450km stretch of rainforest in north-eastern Australia that is over 100 million years old and home to an astounding array of plants and animals. The area was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1988 due to its exceptional natural beauty and the significant ecological processes it supports. Some interesting facts about the area include:

- It is one of the oldest rainforests in the world and has remained largely unchanged for millions of years.

- It is home to some of the largest and most ancient ferns on the planet, including the king fern, which can grow up to 5 metres tall.

- The Wet Tropics is one of the best places in Australia to see wildlife, with over 400 species of birds, 13 species of marsupials, and 60 species of bats residing in the rainforest.

- The area is also home to the endangered cassowary, a flightless bird that can grow up to 2 metres in height.

Cairns and the Tropical North is the gateway to the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, as well as a popular tourist destination in its own right. Cairns is a bustling city with a laid-back atmosphere that serves as a hub for exploring the region’s natural wonders and cultural sites. Some popular attractions in the area include:

- The Great Barrier Reef, one of the most famous natural wonders in the world and a must-see for any visitor to the region.

- The Daintree Rainforest, another World Heritage-listed area of tropical rainforest that is even older than the Wet Tropics.

- Kuranda, a picturesque village nestled in the rainforest that is home to markets, galleries, and stunning views.

- The Atherton Tablelands, a lush plateau that boasts sparkling lakes, towering waterfalls, and an array of wildlife.

2. The Wet Tropics Management Authority, which oversees the management of the World Heritage Area, can be contacted by phone on +61 7 4241 0500 or by email at info@wettropics.gov.au. Cairns has a number of information centres that can provide visitors with more information on local attractions and activities. Some centres and their opening hours include:

- Cairns Visitor Information Centre: 8:30am-5pm daily, phone +61 7 4051 3588

- Kuranda Visitor Information Centre: 9am-3pm daily, phone +61 7 4093 9311

- Daintree Gateway Information Centre: 8:30am-5pm daily, phone +61 7 4098 9184

3. Admission to the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area is free, however, some national parks within the area may charge a fee for entry. Visitors to Cairns and the Tropical North can get around by car, public transport, tours, or by foot depending on their preferences. Car rentals are available from Cairns airport and various rental car companies in the city. Public transport includes the Sunbus network and the Cairns Tilt Train, which runs from Cairns to Brisbane. There are also many tour companies that offer tours to local attractions such as the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest.