Discover Weipa
Weipa is situated on the western coast of Cape York on the shores of the Gulf of Carpentaria is the site of the world’s largest bauxite mine. With a population of approximately 3,500 Weipa enjoys a typical northern Australian tropical climate, with the wet season occurring from November through to April with the remainder of the year predominating dry.
A BRIEF HISTORY
The first recorded contact between Aboriginal and European people occurred near the Pennefather River about 50km north of the township in 1606.
Here, the Yupangati people first sighted sailors from the Dutch vessel “Duyfken” under the command of William Jantz.
Weipa township development began in 1965 when Comalco began to mine the extensive bauxite deposits that had been discovered in the area.
TODAY
Today the town boasts the best and most comprehensive facilities on Cape York Peninsula, a real oasis for travellers and cattle station personnel.
The town is well serviced with a Woolworths shopping centre and a dozen specialty shops, a hotel/motel and a resort and also a dedicated fishing lodge and camping ground with self contained cabins.
A new hospital, 2 private doctors and a daily plane service from Cairns. A nine hole golf course, bowls club, pistol range, squash courts, and motorcycle and speedway racing also compliment the town’s attractions.
Today, Weipa is the hub of Cape York and a great place to visit.
CLIMATE
Weipa has a tropical monsoonal climate with a distinct wet ("rainy") and dry season.
The mid winter months are milder with daytime temperatures ranging from 16 to 30 degrees Celsius, providing a very comfortable climate to escape the southern winters.
On average, Weipa receives 2,051mm of rain annually, with 97% of that falling in the wet season. Weipa receives very little rainfall from May to September, making it perfect for fishing.
