One of Australia's most historically important towns, Cooktown comes alive every year during the Cooktown Discovery Festival. Held every Queen's Birthday Weekend (June 10/11/12 in 2000), the highlight is the re-enactment of Captain James Cook's beaching of his damaged ship, the 'HM Endeavour' at the present site of Cooktown on June 17,1770. With many of the local people in period dress, it's a truly colorful and unique event. Before the re-enactment on Sunday, there is a street parade on the Saturday which includes a gold delivery on horseback to the bank, a tug-of-war, wood chopping contest, a truck-pulling contest and a wet T-shirt competition. There is also a variety of food stalls and other novelty events, up and down the main street. Entertainment during the evening includes a dance and concert. The Discovery Festival is proving to be a hit with international tourists and it's a weekend not to be missed if you are after fun with an historical twist. Cooktown is about four hours drive north of Cairns.