Locations that inspired my debut novel
One of the best things about writing is the excuse it gives you for some fabulous holidays all in the name of, ahem, research. Here are some of the wonderful far north Queensland destinations that inspired the town of Granite Creek in my debut novel, The Whispering:
Paluma
Nestled 70km north of Townsville, at the top of Mt Spec, lies the sleepy village of Paluma. The long, windy road up the range becomes progressively greener the higher you climb, swapping peeling brown trees for the lush greens of the tropical rainforest. The birdlife is rife here, and the rainforest encroaches on all of the tiny cottages dotted around the village.
Paluma is one of those rare north Queensland gems that gets cold enough in winter to wear a puffy jacket and drink endless cups of tea. Fog will snake around your ankles and tree frogs will croak at anyone who dares to leave the comfort of their fireplace at night.
Babinda Boulders
Stunningly beautiful, Babinda Boulders offers a refreshing place to cool off south of Cairns. Huge granite boulders lay dotted throughout fast-flowing creeks as the water weaves around them forming rock pools and swimming holes perfect for a dip. Surrounded by the vibrant rainforest this place is the picture of tranquillity. However, the beauty is matched by brutality with numerous accidents and even fatalities occurring at the boulders.
Cairns
Not exactly a best-kept secret, but a wealth of inspiration for writers, is Cairns. I lived for several years in Cairns and during the editing phase of The Whispering managed to sneak in another trip. When driving north, out of the city, constant walls of green sprout up out of the ground, blocking the horizon and consuming your entire field of vision.
Driving along winding backroads, you’ll often find yourself surrounded by green on all four sides. With nothing but a slither of road visible in front, and more green in your rear-view mirror, it’s exciting and alarming at the same time. After all, who knows what lies beyond the green?
Photo credit: Annie Sprat via Unsplash