Entertainment
5 April, 2025
Action man to star at carnival
RENOWNED survivalist, adventurer, former military pilot, author and filmmaker Mike Atkinson will take Cooktown Discovery Festival-goers on a thrilling journey of resilience and self-reliance this year.
Best known for pushing the limits of human endurance as a contestant on ‘Alone Australia’, he will showcase the handmade dugout canoe he crafted and used to sail up to the tip of Australia, through the treacherous waters of the Great Barrier Reef, armed with nothing but his survival expertise.
He will also unveil his latest book, ‘Modern-Day Castaway’, and host a special screening of his documentary ‘Surviving the Great Barrier Reef’, both of which are gripping accounts of his extraordinary solo expeditions, detailing the raw challenges of battling the elements, sourcing food from the ocean, and surviving entirely off the land and sea.
“Imagine paddling up the Great Barrier Reef in a handmade dugout canoe, battling the elements with nothing but your wits and survival skills,” said Cook Shire Council’s regional development manager Sally Eales.
“That’s exactly what Mike Atkinson did and now festival-goers will have the chance to hear his incredible story and meet Mike firsthand,” she said.
The 46th annual festival returns June 20-22, 2025.
The iconic event brings together locals and visitors to celebrate Cooktown’s rich heritage, culture and vibrant community spirit.
Attracting thousands of visitors each year, the festival is a major economic driver for local businesses, with a significant boost to tourism, hospitality and retail across Cape York Peninsula. Accommodation providers, cafes and tour operators all benefit from increased visitation, reinforcing the festival’s value to the region.
Mayor Robyn Holmes said the festival was more than just an event.
“It’s a chance to bring our community together, celebrate our unique history and drive economic activity that supports small businesses across our region,” she said.
“Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this festival has something for everyone.”
Festival favourites, including the iconic Cooktown re-enactment of Captain Cook’s landing, the street parade, the big run for Little Athletics and the mad-capped, unfenced asylum challenge are also returning in 2025, as is Cook Shire’s ‘Got Talent’, and an incredible music line up featuring the Hussy Hicks – a powerhouse duo renowned for their electrifying blues, rock and roots performances – plus local legends Black Image Band and The Road Trippers, with more to be announced.
With three months to go, planning is in full swing. Entertainment, market vendors and logistics are being finalised to ensure a seamless festival experience.
The festival family committee, local businesses and community groups are working behind the scenes to deliver an event that honours Cooktown’s heritage while creating lasting experiences for visitors and residents alike.
For the latest updates and the full festival program, visit
For sponsorship opportunities, market stall applications or to volunteer contact the council via email to mail@cook.qld.gov.au or by phoning 4082 0500.
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