Town Overview
Explore Weipa: A Coastal Gem
Welcome to Weipa, a thriving coastal community nestled along the picturesque Albatross Bay on the western shores of Cape York Peninsula, in the heart of the Gulf of Carpentaria. With a population of approximately 4,000 residents, Weipa offers a vibrant and sustainable lifestyle amidst breathtaking natural surroundings.
Situated roughly 200km from Australia's northernmost tip and accessible by an 800km road journey from Cairns (or a 500km flight), Weipa may seem remote, but it boasts all the modern facilities and conveniences you'd expect from a bustling town.
Discover the allure of Weipa, where pristine beaches, untouched wilderness, and world-class fishing opportunities await. This region of the western Cape York Peninsula is a haven for nature enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike, offering a rich tapestry of landscapes and traditions. With diverse Traditional Owner groups calling this area home, Weipa embodies a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural splendor.
Join us in exploring the wonders of Weipa and uncover the treasures of the Cape's many attractions from our welcoming and vibrant community.
Climate
Experience the tropical allure of Weipa, where the weather dances between two distinct seasons: the 'wet' and the 'dry'. From November to April, the wet season envelops Weipa in monsoonal rains and lush humidity, while the dry season, spanning May to October, brings warm, dry days.
Annually, Weipa receives an average of 2,051mm of rainfall, with a staggering 97% of it pouring down during the wet season. Throughout the year, temperatures hover between a comfortable 19ºC and a balmy 36ºC, offering a consistently pleasant climate for residents and visitors alike.
Mining Operations
The Weipa region is extremely rich in bauxite, with much of the surrounding land around the township leased to the mining company Rio Tinto. Rio Tinto Weipa is a major contributor to the regional economy, making significant investments in local infrastructure.
Rio Tinto owns and operates the Weipa bauxite mine, holding three leases that span 3,860 square kilometers of western Cape York.