Welcome to Gumburu

Located in the breathtaking World Heritage-listed Paluma rainforest - just 90 minutes north of Townsville - Gumburu Environmental Education Centre is a unique place of learning, reflection, and connection with nature.

Owned and operated by Townsville Catholic Education, Gumburu was established to provide school and Church communities with opportunities for retreat, environmental education, and spiritual renewal.

Since opening its doors in 1995, Gumburu has welcomed more than 45,000 visitors - students, educators, families, and faith groups - each discovering the tranquility and transformative power of this remarkable rainforest setting.

Nestled atop the Paluma Range, the village of Paluma is surrounded by ancient rainforest, spectacular geological formations, and rich biodiversity. Here, learning takes place under the forest canopy, beside creeks and waterfalls, and around shared campfires under starry skies.

The area is not only rich in natural wonder but also in cultural heritage. For tens of thousands of years, the North Queensland Wet Tropics have been accessed and cared for by eighteen Indigenous tribal groups, whose deep connection to Country continues to guide our understanding of stewardship and respect for the land.