Lake Barrine

Infobox_lake
lake_name = Lake Barrine
image_lake = lakebarrinephoto.jpg
caption_lake = taken from the lake's cruise
image_bathymetry =
caption_bathymetry =
location = Far North Queensland
coords = coord|17|15|01|S|145|38|07|E|region:AU_type:waterbody|display=inline,title
type =
inflow = "precipitation"
outflow =
catchment =
basin_countries = Australia
length =
width =
area =
depth = 65 m
max-depth =
volume =
residence_time =
shore = 4.5 km
elevation = 730 m
islands =
cities =

Lake Barrine is a freshwater lake stituated on the Atherton Tableland in Far North Queensland, Australia, close to Yidyam (Lake Eacham).

Lake Barrine was formed over 17,000 years ago when a large volcano erupted, leaving a crater that over time filled up with water to create a lake. The crater was formed as a result of a series of volcanic explosions. These explosions were caused by the hot molten rock coming into contact with groundwater. This caused a buildup of steam, gases and pressure which blasted the central core from the volcano. This massive explosion left a huge crater, which filled with rain water to create Lake Barrine.

The lake is 730 m above sea level, on average it is 65 m deep, it is about 1 km in diameter, has a shoreline of almost 4.5 km and is the largest of the natural volcanic lakes in the area. No streams or springs feed the crystal clear lake; it is filled only by rainwater.

There are walking tracks around the lake and tour operators offer cruises on the lake. The surrounding rainforest contains giant kauri (Agathis microstachya), Red Cedar trees and flowering umbrella trees (Schefflera actinophylla). Wildlife common in the area include, Eastern water dragons, giant eels, Snapping Turtles, Amethystine Pythons (Morelia amethistina), Pied Cormorants , Black Ducks, Wandering Water whistler Ducks, Black Coot, Whistling Kite Hawks, Brahminy Kite Hawks, Black Kite Hawks, White Breasted Sea Eagles and Dusky Moorhens.

References

*Lake Barrine Visitor Information Guide

ee also

*Mount Hypipamee Crater
*Lake Eacham (Yidyam)
*Lake Tinaroo

External links

* [http://www.epa.qld.gov.au/projects/park/index.cgi?parkid=240 Lake Barrine] , Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service
* [http://www.ozstays.com/images/user/img_11537_700000011704.jpgImage of the lake, bird's eye view]
* [http://www.rosegums.com.au/images/map/Close.jpgMap of the area]
* [http://www.williamslodge.com/img12.jpgImage of the teahouse]