Welcome to the Chillagoe Caving Club!

Caving in Far North Queensland is very different from caving in in many other parts of Australia. Perhaps the most striking difference is the pleasant temperatures that one experiences. Caves in Far North Queensland typically have an air temperature of 21 – 22 degrees and are very pleasant to spend time in. It’s being outside that can be hot, unpleasant and prickly! Our caves also tend to be a little shorter and have more entrances than other regions, due to the tower karst nature of our landscape. Primary karst regions include Chillagoe, Mitchell Palmer, Broken River and many small limestone outcrops dotted in between. There are also large areas of limestone further west such as Camooweal and around Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill Gorge).

The Club has discovered and tagged almost 600 cave entrances in Chillagoe to date and there are still new caves being found. Many of the caves are within the National Park areas and require a permit to visit. Chillagoe Caving Club has an annual permit which allows members to participate in caving expeditions.

There is often a vertical component to the caves, requiring either freeclimbing or the use of wire ladders or ropes and descending/ascending equipment. There is also often a fair bit of grovelling in the mud or dust and squeezing through tight spots. A reasonable level of fitness is required.