Queensland location profile
El Arish QLD 4855
Small rural township in the Cassowary Coast known for cane fields, rainforest backdrops and a friendly, laid-back vibe. Acts as a gateway to Mission Beach and the Tully Valley, appealing to outdoor lovers and families seeking quiet country living.
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Why families consider El Arish
Agricultural community with a mix of farming families, tradies and retirees; lifestyle centers on outdoor recreation, community clubs, and nearby beach and rainforest attractions.
Amenities & services
- Local general store and post office
- El Arish Tavern and bistro
- Service station
- El Arish State School (primary)
- GPs and pharmacies in Tully and Mission Beach
- Tully Hospital and Innisfail Hospital
- Supermarkets and retail in Tully and Innisfail
- Cafes and restaurants in Mission Beach
- Tully Library (Cassowary Coast Regional Council)
- Mission Beach Library, Wongaling Beach
Transport & connectivity
- Coach services along Bruce Highway (Cairns-Townsville) with stops nearby
- School bus links to Tully and Mission Beach
- Bruce Highway (A1)
- El Arish-Mission Beach Road (State Route 98)
- Nearest rail: Tully and Innisfail stations (Queensland Rail Travel)
Lifestyle & recreation
- El Arish Country Golf Club (9-hole)
- Community hall and sports grounds
- Beaches, boating and fishing at Mission Beach
- Hiking in Djiru National Park and Licuala forest
- Rafting and swimming in Tully Gorge National Park
- El Arish Diggers Memorial Park
- Djiru National Park
- Tully Gorge National Park
- Licuala Day Use Area (Djiru National Park)
- Clump Mountain National Park
Education context
Limited in-town childcare; long day care and kindy available in Tully and Mission Beach (Wongaling Beach), plus family day care across the Cassowary Coast.
- James Cook University - Cairns (Smithfield campus)
- CQUniversity - Cairns City campus