Why a Gumboot?

Originally a rubber boot was awarded to the wettest town in Australia, according to which had the most rainfall in the past year. Tully, Innisfail and Babinda vied for the prize.

The Dream

The idea of a Big Gumboot to enhance Tully’s image and welcome visitors was embraced by Tully community bodies in 1997 and funding was raised in 2002. Tully Lions Club and Tully Rotary, under Ron Hunt, Community Service Director of Tully Rotary, obtained funding and donations from various sources. The Gumboot was designed, fabricated and installed by Brian Newell.

More information

Download the Gumboot Information document.

Gumboot Facts

• The boot stands 7.9 metres high which represents the record annual rainfall of 7,900mm (311 inches) in 1950.
• Made of fibreglass.
• Contains a spiral staircase and viewing platform
• In the floods of 1967 and 1973 this gumboot at this location would have been standing in 800mm of water.
• Project cost including in-kind contributions: $90,000.
• Official opening: 10th May 2003.

Gumboot Festival

The next Gumboot Festival is scheduled for the 1st of September 2007.