Day 162-163 Ban Ban Springs – Fraser Island September 7th – September 9th

We knew that this was going to be a different experience when we drove onto Rainbow Beach and waited for a barge to take us to Fraser Island. The day's weather had improved and we looked as if we would have some good weather on the island.

Getting on the Mantra Ray barge at Rainbow Beach

Once we had completed the quick crossing we were left to our own devices to complete the 30km journey on the beach to Eurong and then a further 8km soft sand track to Central Station camping ground. At Eurong we bought a map of the island – this was essential as the tourist brochures simply didn’t have enough details to help us find our way.

Hey - where's the tarmac?

Soft sandy inland roads take you thru changing forest scenes

Central Station camping ground was set in the middle of a tropical forest, the tall, ancient trees blocked out most of the sun and the moisture in the air was permeable. We camped in our splendid piece of paradise for the night, with the kids providing plenty of noise to break the silence.

Central Station Camping Ground

My very own swing

Lush tropical forest

Roof canopy at night

After checking the tides the next day, we set out the for a day drive up the beach. It was surprising how different the feel was on the beach to the inland areas. Large numbers of weekend warriors lined the beaches, waiting to catch a fish or have a drink of XXXX. From Eurong Beach Resort we drove 66km along the beach to Orchid Beach on the north of the island, stopping on the way at several of its sights.

Robyn hooning down the beach

Pinnacles

Sandstone rock formations

Very yellow sand

Wild digoes in search of easy pickings

Indian Head - no not me!

Champagne Pools

Quick swim at Champagne Pools

The plane took off over our heads on the beach

Maheno shipwreck

Eli Creek

Letting the current take them downstream

In the afternoon we were also able to complete some of the Central Lakes scenic drive and we all had a great play in the brilliant blue freshwater of Lake McKenzie. 

Freshwater - Lake McKenzie

We only had a glimpse of the tranquil, solitary walks that criss-cross the island by completing one of the boardwalks.

Central Station Boardwalk

Srcibbly Gum

Fraser certainly felt like a different world, with the island made up mostly of sand, with incredible scenery and ancient rainforests. We'll look forward to coming back here again.

Soft sand on inland tracks

Waiting for barge back to the mainland

Bye-bye Fraser Island