Discover the Legacy of José Paronella at Paronella Park
Step back in time and be captivated by the remarkable journey of José Paronella, the visionary behind Paronella Park. This enchanting destination celebrates the achievements of the Paronella family, especially its founder, José Paronella.
Upon arrival, embark on a captivating 30-minute storytelling tour, setting the stage for your visit. José’s story began in 1913, when he arrived in Australia from Catalonia, Spain. Over the next 11 years, he toiled in various jobs, from cutting sugar cane to buying and improving cane farms. In 1924, he returned to Spain, married Margarita in 1925, and embarked on their honeymoon to Australia.
A Visionary’s Journey
José first laid eyes on the 13 acres of pristine bushland along Mena Creek in 1914, eventually purchasing it in 1929 for £120. This marked the beginning of his dream to create a pleasure garden and reception centre for the public.
The journey commenced with constructing the Grand Staircase, which was designed to transport river sand for concrete. The park’s structures, except for the stone house, were crafted from poured, reinforced concrete using old railway tracks for reinforcement. The concrete was hand-plastered with clay and cement, leaving behind the indelible prints of dedicated workers.
An Immigrant’s Dream
In 1935, Paronella Park officially opened to the public, featuring a theatre that screened movies and a hall perfect for dances and parties. A unique attraction was the myriad reflectors, adorned with 1270 tiny mirrors, creating a mesmerising snowflake effect. The theatre eventually transformed into a venue for functions, including weddings.
The park also housed a projection room, the Paronella Museum, and lower refreshment rooms, where delicious meals were served. The lower tea gardens and swimming pool, surrounded by well-laid avenues and paths with distinctive planters, became popular attractions.
José planted over 7,000 trees, including the magnificent Kauris along Kauri Avenue. A tunnel led to Teresa Falls, named after his daughter, while the creek featured cascades and bridges, creating a serene soundscape. A hydroelectric generating plant, commissioned in 1933, provided power to the entire park.
In 1946, disaster struck when debris from upstream blocked the creek, causing extensive damage. Undeterred, the family rebuilt, and the park thrived once more.
José passed away in 1948, and Margarita and their children Teresa and Joe continued the legacy. In time, Joe married Val, and they had two sons, Joe (José) and Kerry. Renovations, maintenance, and floods posed challenges, but the family persevered.
Nature’s Fury
In 1977, the park fell into the family’s hands, and in 1979, a fire damaged the castle. Paronella Park faced further setbacks with Cyclone Winifred (1986), a flood (1994), Cyclone Larry (2006), and Cyclone Yasi (2011).
A New Era
1993, Mark and Judy Evans took over, embarking on a mission to restore and preserve the Park’s unique charm. Their dedication restored the park’s original hydroelectric system in 2009. Environmental initiatives earned Paronella Park the GECKO awardor for ecotourism in 2011.
Today, Paronella Park stands as a testament to the enduring vision of José Paronella, offering visitors a chance to explore its lush gardens, marvel at its architectural marvels, and immerse themselves in the park’s incredible story. From the fully restored 1930s hydroelectric generator to wildlife encounters and a delightful café, Paronella Park has something for everyone. Your visit promises fantastic photo opportunities, a remarkable journey through history, and cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
More Fun things to do in Cairns
Paronella Park by Day
On arrival, you will be taken on a 45-minute tour of the grounds to get you started. Then you have as long as you like to wander around. You will have many fabulous photo opportunities. Be impressed by the remarkable architecture. Learn all about the history in the museum. Wander through 5ha of tropical gardens. Visit the fully restored 1930s hydroelectric generator. Enjoy the local wildlife, feed the fish and eels.
Paronella Park by Night
In the evening, you can join The Darkness Falls Tour, included in your entry fee. Paronella Park comes alive at night when all the structures are glowing from the floodlighting. There will be spectacular photo opportunities on this tour.
- Souvenir Guide Book/Map
- Fish food to feed the fish and eels.
- Umbrellas to explore the park if raining.
- A 35 minute guided walk of the park. Your guide will point out the highlights and tell you the amazing story of Jose Paronella and his dream. These frequently depart throughout the day.
- The Darkness Falls Tour. Unlock the secrets of Paronella Park at night. A 1-hour tour, departing at 6:15 pm every night.
- Botanical Walk. 16-page self-guiding booklet and map.
2 Park Pass Upgrade (Paronella Park AND Mamu Tropical Skywalk entry)
Paronella Park is open daily from 9.00 am to 7.30 pm. It is located 1671 Innisfail Japoon Rd, Mena Creek QLD 4871
Driving from Cairns (120 km)
When driving from Cairns, be sure to head to Mena Creek; take the “OLD” Bruce Highway after Innisfail rather than turning right and heading for Townsville along the Bruce Highway.
Driving from Atherton Tablelands (106 km)
When driving from the Tablelands, go down the Palmerston Highway. Turn right at the bottom of the hill onto Japoon Road. Follow the signage to Paronella Park.
Mobility Restrictions
- The park is set on two levels, joined by a 47-step staircase. There is a courtesy vehicle available for guests to use if they can not use the stairs. It is a 4WD vehicle, so the guests will need to get in and out of the car.
- If visiting with a pram or stroller, we advise you to bring a carrier. If you bring a pram, it’s better to have one with larger wheels.
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