I first heard about Paronella Park on the news after Cyclone Larry and followed the story of the clean up that followed.
My husband and I planned a driving holiday to North Queensland in July last year and we had Paronella Park on our “places to visit list”.
Neither of us really knew much about the history of Paronella Park but the stories I had seen on TV had me intrigued.
We arrived not knowing what to expect. We took advantage of the free camping offer (we were in a motorhome). The first point of contact was with a staff member who took us to our camp site and gave us some brochures and a time table of events.
We did the bush tucker tour, which was fantastic and then returned for the evening tour of the park.
Our guide was great and gave a detailed account of the life of Jose and his family.  We spent most of the next day exploring the grounds ourselves.
Paronella Park is impossible to describe accurately as words cannot express the feelings and emotions that you have whilst walking around this magnificent property. I even found myself day-dreaming about being there as a visitor on a hot summer day in it’s heyday. Having s swim, gazing at the waterfalls, enjoying a picnic or an ice cream on the river bank, or even attending one of the dances or concerts in the ball room.
He was a truly amazing man and was born way before his time.
I would and have recommended to family and friends to visit Paronella Park, although I must admit I don’t give too much information away as I want others to be as surprised and amazed as I was.
Neither of us really wanted to leave but when we did we knew that the Paronella Park experience was one that would remain very special in our memories.

Anne