Danbulla
QLD 4872 • Queensland
About Danbulla
Danbulla is a scenic rural locality in the Tablelands Region of Far North Queensland, situated approximately 28.6 kilometres east-north-east of Atherton and 56.7 kilometres south-south-west of Cairns, within the lush Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. The locality encompasses 109 square kilometres of tropical rainforest, eucalypt forest and the shores of Lake Tinaroo (Tinaroo Dam), a major freshwater reservoir created on the Barron River in the 1950s. The 2021 census recorded just 88 residents, primarily living on rural properties and conservation land around the lake's forested margins. Danbulla is celebrated for the Danbulla Forest Drive, a 28-kilometre scenic loop through the Danbulla State Forest that passes volcanic lakes, ancient kauri pines and rainforest.
Danbulla's lifestyle revolves around its extraordinary natural setting, offering world-class barramundi and bass fishing on Lake Tinaroo, lakeside camping, bushwalking and birdwatching in the surrounding Wet Tropics rainforest. The crater lakes of Lake Barrine and Lake Eacham (Yidyam) are nearby natural landmarks within the Crater Lakes National Park. Atherton (approximately 29 km) provides the nearest town services including supermarkets, schools, hospital and commercial facilities, while Cairns (57 km north) offers the full range of city services and international airport connections. The area attracts eco-tourists, anglers, campers and retirees seeking a tranquil lifestyle surrounded by tropical wilderness.
Danbulla falls under postcode 4872 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Hill electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Nearest Train Stations
Bus Services
- Tablelands Transit local routes — Atherton / Malanda ~35–45 min to Atherton
Commute to Cairns
🛣️ Atherton (29 km) is the primary local service hub. Cairns (57 km) is the nearest city with airport and full urban services. The Gillies Highway connecting the Tablelands to Cairns can be slow and winding.
Danbulla is a dispersed locality within state forest and lakeside land. There are no local shops; all daily needs require a car trip to Atherton or nearby Tablelands towns.
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
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48-50 Kennedy Street
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9 Hyde Street
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McGeehan Street
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Garnet Street
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33 Marsterson Street
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40 Wattle Street