Paronella Park x Oze Sun: Eco Tourism in Queensland Meets Ocean-Minded Sun Protection

Paronella Park x Oze Sun: Eco Tourism in Queensland Meets Ocean-Minded Sun Protection

Paronella Park x Oze Sun: Where Eco Tourism in Queensland Meets Sun Protection

 

Some places don’t just look magical — they operate with intention.

Tucked into the lush rainforest at Mena Creek Falls, Paronella Park is one of Queensland’s most iconic heritage attractions, known for its Spanish-style castle ruins, tropical gardens, and waterfall setting. But what many visitors love just as much is what happens behind the scenes: a genuine commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism.


That’s why we’re proud to share that Paronella Park is now an official reseller of Oze Sun sunscreen — and why this partnership makes sense on more than a “stockist” level.


Fast Facts: Paronella Park’s Sustainability Story

  • Location: Mena Creek Falls, near Innisfail in Far North Queensland
  • Signature feature: A heritage-listed pleasure garden and “castle” vision created by José Paronella in the 1930s
  • On-site renewable power: The park operates using hydroelectricity generated by the waterfall, based on the park’s original 1933 hydro system, restored in 2009/10
  • Eco credentials: Paronella Park is part of Ecotourism Australia’s long-term certified operators (including recognition in their Hall of Fame listings)


Why Paronella Park’s Values Align With Oze Sun

1) Sustainability that’s built into the experience

Paronella Park isn’t “eco” as a marketing label — sustainability is embedded into how the attraction runs. A standout example is their hydroelectric system, which generates the park’s electricity from the waterfall, with restoration efforts bringing the original concept back into operation.

At Oze Sun, we respect businesses that prioritise real-world, practical sustainability — the kind that reduces impact while still delivering an unforgettable experience.


2) Protecting nature, not just showcasing it

Ecotourism Australia describes ECO certification as recognising tourism operators that demonstrate best-practice sustainability, including environmental management and contribution to conservation.

That philosophy mirrors Oze Sun’s mission: helping people enjoy the outdoors—beaches, waterfalls, trails, and tropical destinations—while staying mindful of the environments that make those places special.


3) A shared “outdoors-first” lifestyle

Paronella Park is a destination for people who love:

  • rainforest walks
  • waterfalls and tropical landscapes
  • Queensland road trips
  • nature-based experiences

And those are the exact environments where sun safety matters most—especially in Far North Queensland, where UV exposure can be intense even on overcast days.


Why Sun Care Belongs in Eco Travel

When you’re exploring Queensland’s natural wonders, sun protection isn’t optional — it’s part of responsible travel.

For many visitors, Paronella Park is a full-day experience: walking paths, open viewing areas, outdoor tours, and time near the falls. Having sun protection available on-site makes it easier for guests to:

  • reapply during the day
  • protect kids and families while exploring
  • enjoy the outdoors more comfortably

This is one of the reasons we love being stocked at Paronella Park: it’s sun care that supports a healthy, outdoors lifestyle inside a destination built on heritage + nature + sustainability.


Visiting Paronella Park? You Can Now Grab Oze Sun There

If you’re travelling through Far North Queensland and Paronella Park is on your itinerary, you can now find Oze Sun sunscreen available in-park.

It’s a small moment of convenience that makes a big difference:

  • travellers don’t have to hunt for sun protection last-minute
  • families can top up before they explore
  • and it supports a sustainable tourism operator that’s doing things the right way


Common Questions

Is Paronella Park eco-certified?

Paronella Park shares information about its eco certification and sustainability achievements through its official channels, including details on ECO certification and related recognition.

Does Paronella Park use renewable energy?

Yes. Paronella Park operates using hydroelectricity generated from the waterfall via a system based on its original 1930s hydro setup, restored in 2009/10.

Where is Paronella Park in Queensland?

Paronella Park is located at Mena Creek, near Innisfail in Far North Queensland, in a rainforest setting beside Mena Creek Falls.

Where can I buy Oze Sun in Far North Queensland?

Oze Sun is now available at Paronella Park, one of Queensland’s most iconic eco tourism attractions.

References

  1. Paronella Park. About Paronella Park – History, heritage and sustainability.
    Paronella Park official website.
    https://www.paronellapark.com.au/about
  2. Paronella Park. Hydro-electric plant at Mena Creek Falls.
    Paronella Park official website.
    https://www.paronellapark.com.au/about/the-park/hydro-electric-plant
  3. Paronella Park. Eco certification and sustainability achievements.
    Paronella Park official website.
    https://www.paronellapark.com.au/about/achievements/eco-certification
  4. Ecotourism Australia. ECO Certification Program – Best practice sustainable tourism.
    Ecotourism Australia.
    https://ecotourism.org.au/our-certification-programs/eco-certification
  5. Ecotourism Australia. Hall of Fame – Long-term commitment to sustainability.
    Ecotourism Australia.
    https://ecotourism.org.au/community-resources/hall-of-fame
  6. State Library of Queensland. Paronella Park: The story behind Queensland’s Spanish castle.
    State Library of Queensland.
    https://www.slq.qld.gov.au/blog/paronella-park-story-behind-queenslands-spanish-castle
  7. Queensland Government. Nature-based and ecotourism experiences in Queensland.
    Business Queensland / Tourism and Events Queensland.
    https://www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/hospitality-tourism-sport/tourism/ecotourism
  8. World Health Organization. Ultraviolet radiation and human health.
    World Health Organization.
    https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ultraviolet-(uv)-radiation
  9. Australian Government – ARPANSA. UV radiation and sun protection in Australia.
    Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency.
    https://www.arpansa.gov.au/understanding-radiation/radiation-sources/more-radiation-sources/ultraviolet-radiation


This article references publicly available information from official tourism, sustainability, and government sources to support transparency, accuracy, and informed decision-making.

 

 

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