Fraser Island lies along the Southern Coast of Queensland, just over 200 kilometers north of Brisbane. Being a World Heritage Site (as designated in 1992), it is an attraction of significant importance for both local and international tourists.
Access: To get to Fraser Island, one must take a ferry from River Heads, Inskip Point or Hook Point if travelling with a vehicle. As an alternative flights are available from Maroochydore Airport (charter flights) and vehicle rental can be arranged on the Island. A permit is required for all 4WD vehicles and available on line from DERM and outlets at Rainbow Beach.
Driving Conditions: The drives are only suitable for 4WD vehicles with many tracks demanding at least intermediate levels of 4WD skills.
Attractions: On a motoring perspective, Fraser Island offers many a temptation. There are four noteworthy drives:
- Central Lakes Scenic Drives: A drive that crosses tall open forest and allows a stop at the Lake Wabby lookout for great views of the lake below as well as Hammerstone Sandblow
- Southern Lakes Scenic Drive: A 30 km drive which takes you through pine plantations, native tall forests, across banksia woodland as well as local heathlands and swamps.
- Lake Garawongera Scenic Drive: This particular drive includes woodland driving as well as beach driving. The shores of the lake are a great spot to stop for a picnic.
- Northern Forests Scenic Drive: This drive connects Happy Valley and Yidney Scrubs. It also connects Boomerang Lakes and Lake Allom. Further, it incorporates the lookout over Knife Blade Sandblow, eastern beach and The Pinnacles.
- Speed: Slow and steady is the best way to enjoy this Island, speed has been a key contributing factor in many serious accidents. The speed limits for inland tracks is 30 Km/h and should be strictly adhered to.
- Vehicle Loads: Take care when loading the vehicle and as far as possible, try and keep the roof free of weight. This will reduce the chance of vehicle roll over.
- Cross waterways cautiously: Where unsure of the depth of a creek, walk into it first to ensure it is not too deep for your 4WD. Once you proceed ensure you never stop mid creek, conditions do change rather quickly and there is a great chance of the vehicle getting stuck.
- Vehicle Checks: Perform all basic mechanical checks on your vehicle prior to commencing your journey. If you have arranged car rental in Sydney, if possible, it is advisable to pay extra to obtain a car with ABS brakes and Vehicle Stability Control.