Make your great escape

Need a quick, refreshing change of scene? These long weekend options will have you raring to go.

- WORDS by BERNARD O'SHEA

For sheer variety

Innisfail, Qld

Halfway between Cairns and Townsend, on the Johnstone River estuary, the 'Art Deco Capital of Australia' makes a great base for enjoying the Cassowary Coast and hinterland. Just 15 minutes to the west, the Mamu Rainforest Canopy Walkway offers stunning panoramic views of World Heritage rainforest landscapes and the North Johnstone river gorge. Waterfalls abound nearby: Tchupala Wallicher, Nandroya, Serendipity, to name a few. For cute and quirky, don't miss the Spanish-style manor and gardens at Paronella Park (right, below), next to Mena Creek Falls. Popular beaches south of Innisfail include Etty Bay, Cowley and Kurrimine, but your real mission is to stake out world-famous Mission Beach and take the ferry to Dunk Island (right). cassowarycoasttourism.com.au

For a romantic getaway

Lake Keepit, NSW