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Packers Camp Cairns
The area known as Packers Camp is located just south of Cairns, in the traditional lands of Yidinji people in Far North Queensland. Today, this little known locality has a population of approximately 250 people.
Packers Camp is bounded by Pine Creek to the north, Pine Creek Yarrabah Road to the east and south, and Mackey Creek to the west. Additionally, Simmonds Creek runs through the locality from south to north. All these creeks become tributaries of Redbank Creek, which flows into Trinity Inlet and eventually reaches the Coral Sea near Cairns City.
Packers Camp Cairns History
Originally known as Highclere, the area was renamed Highleigh in 1896. It later became known as ‘Packer Camp’ because it served as a loading point for horse, mule, and bullock teams transporting supplies over the range to the goldfields.
A post office opened in 1895 but closed in 1898. Later, in 1951, the Packers Creek Post Office opened, operating until its closure in 1971.
Packers Camp Map
Local Land Use
Land in this area is primarily used for sugarcane cultivation. Cane train lines cross the locality, with small locomotives transporting the harvested cane to the sugar mill. There are also several rural residences, mostly situated along Redbank Road.
Packers Camp is low-lying (less than 10 metres above sea level) and almost entirely freehold land.
The area falls under Division 1 of the Cairns Regional Council and is part of the state electorate of Mulgrave. Federally, it lies within the Kennedy electorate in the Australian Parliament.
Cairns Crocodile Farm
Located on Redbank Road, the Cairns Crocodile Farm has operated as a commercial crocodile farm since 1989. Saltwater crocodiles are raised for their meat and skins. Visitors can arrange tours by contacting Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures.
Packers Camp Boat Ramp
The Packers Camp boat ramp is suitable for all tides, featuring four lanes and a floating walkway to serve the local fishing and recreational boating community.
The ramp and walkway have significantly improved safety and accessibility, making boat launching and retrieval more efficient while providing better access for pedestrians.
Transport
Cycle and Pedestrian Access
Local roads and pathways can get you to the Cairns Southern Access Cycleway. Indeed this cycleway provides safe off-road cycle access into Cairns CBD or south all the way to Gordonvale.