THE Summer Solstice Light Spectacle, a dazzling light display just north of Rockhampton, is a natural phenomenon seen nowhere else in the southern hemisphere.
It occurs throughout December and early January when, due to the alignment of the sun over the Tropic of Capricorn, brilliant direct sunlight penetrates the darkness of the Belfry Cave through a 14-metre vertical shaft in the cave roof at noon.
The effect is electrifying. Standing in the beam, you will see the colour of your clothing reflected around the cave. A disco ball makes light dance all around you, creating patterns on the roof.
The experience is available on the 11am Cathedral Cave tour.
Proposals of marriage have been made in the light and 2008 saw the first solstice wedding. It’s a special experience for visitors, and a delight for photographers.
Light shows aside, the Cathedral Cave is one of the complex’s most spectacular. The one-hour tour is packed full of information about ancient geology, early explorers, the wonders of wildlife and cave acoustics.
Leaving through the Zig Zag passage and suspension bridge, you finish with a sense of adventure.
All caves are well lit and Cathedral Cave is wheelchair-accessible. Tour bookings are essential. Tickets $32/$28.80/$16.
Capricorn Caves, Olsen Caves Road, The Caves. Accommodation is available in modern self-contained two-bedroom cabin nestled amid dry rainforest. Phone (07) 4934-2883, www.capricorncaves.com.au