Queensland

PART 1 Blog & Pictures

PART 2 Video Clips

PART 1 Blog & Pictures

Queensland also known as the Sunshine State, is known for its Great Barrier Reef, tropical islands, rainforest, lots of great National Parks, perfect beaches, lots of bush camping, tourist hot spots such as Arlie Beach and the Whitsunday Islands, the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns and Port Douglas.

For those more interest into the bush and soft off roading head to Moreton Island, Stradbroke Island, Fraser Island, the Gulf Region, Cape York and the far western Part of Queensland between Birdsville and Boulia.

OUTBACK TRAVEL, Word of warning; for our international overlanders. The outback, Australian deserts and to some degree our beaches are very different to the terrain you are used to in Europe, Africa or South America. If you are travelling remote ensure one person in the vehicle has first aid knowledge, make sure you have proper communication equipment. Min Satellite phone, UHF radio, and if possible HF radio (available for rental) let people know where you are going and call in to advise them you have arrived. Travel well within your capabilities and when crossing rivers in the North be aware of Crocodiles, same applies to those who like fishing, Freshwater Crocodiles are not as dangerous however they bite and do a lot of damage. The beaches of Australia have some very soft sand in particular when you have to drive above the high water mark. Driving the beaches on a outgoing tide is what I recommend when turning on a beach always turn towards the water to avoid driving uphill and turning in soft sand. Tyre pressure very important in our land cruiser I have been down to 10 psi. My suggestion is start at 25 psi and go down in 5 psi lots as required and keep the speed down. Be aware of deep rutted tracks, bull dust, mud, soft sand on beaches and inland tracks, deep water crossings all combined in one day of driving can be a challenge and can break parts in your vehicle not to mention being stranded mid stream with a flooded engine. Be warned do not become one of those people who know it all Australia’s outback is unforgiving. 

Cape York

Cape York, located just north of Cairns, is a diverse and captivating destination offering much more than off-road adventures. This vast region features remote beaches, ancient Aboriginal art, and the chance to visit Australia’s northernmost point, just a few kilometers from Papua New Guinea. Cape York is known for its stunning landscapes, including crystal-clear creeks, abundant river systems, and a mix of rugged, graded, and rutted roads, making it a destination suited for all kinds of travelers.

The area is home to spectacular waterfalls, pristine beaches, and lush rainforests, providing a rich natural environment to explore. Whether you’re seeking adventure on challenging 4×4 tracks or simply looking to relax in a beautiful, remote location, Cape York has something for everyone.

 

Over the past few years, roads have been improved, and facilities are now open year-round, making it easier to explore this stunning region. For those seeking a challenge, the old Telegraph Line, Prince Charlotte Bay, and the beach run from Usher Point to Captain Billy Landing offer exciting off-road adventures. For those with sturdy 2WDs or soft off-roaders, the main tracks provide a more relaxed but still rewarding experience.

A must-see is Lakeland National Park, which is the first park you’ll encounter when traveling from Cairns via Cape Tribulation and Cooktown. From Cairns, it’s about 900 kilometers to the Tip of Australia, making for an unforgettable journey.

 

The Cape York Peninsula is home to just 18,000 people, with 99% residing in the towns of Laura, Coen, Weipa, Bamaga, Thursday Island, and Cooktown. About 60% of the population consists of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Over the years, much of the main track has been sealed, though the road can still be cut off during the wet season, particularly after heavy rains or cyclones. The Peninsula Development Road, which stretches 550 km from Lakeland to Weipa, serves as the primary route for all vehicles, including road trains.

The journey from Coen, 120 km north, offers a fork where the left leads to Weipa, and the right takes you toward Bamaga. From here, the road to Bramwell Station is called Telegraph Road, and after that, it becomes Bamaga Road. This marks the entrance to a vast, unspoiled wilderness. At Bramwell Station, you face a choice: follow the main road, which is suitable for 2WD, or continue on the Old Telegraph Track.

The Old Telegraph Track, when the rivers are low and the weather is dry, is manageable and a favorite among 4WD enthusiasts during the dry season. Some of the more challenging crossings now have bridges, making it slightly easier, but it still offers an authentic off-road adventure.

Lakefield National Park

As you explore this region, you’ll pass through three major national parks, with Lakefield National Park standing out for its natural beauty. This park features expansive billabongs, fish-filled rivers, towering termite mounds, and patches of rainforest, offering diverse landscapes. It’s also home to the historic Old Laura Homestead, where you can explore a piece of European history in this remote part of Australia.

 

Lots of great campsites, probably the most popular is Kalpowar from where you can cross the river and join the track to Cape Melville and Prince Charlotte Bay.

Iron Range National Park

Our favourite are Chilly Beach and Portland Roads.

Located just north of the Aboriginal community of Lockhart River, Chilly Beach is a stunning tropical paradise. With its white sand, coconut palms, and turquoise waters, it feels like a true Robinson Crusoe experience, especially when visited outside the busy season.

Jardine Rivers National Park

Jardine Rivers National Park is home to two fantastic swimming spots: Elliot Falls and Fruit Bat Falls, both of which are crocodile-free and perfect for cooling off. The park also boasts two incredible beach destinations—Captain Billy Landing and Ussher Point—where you can enjoy scenic views and the peaceful surroundings.

When traveling in North Queensland, particularly north of Townsville and some areas south of it, be aware that crocodiles are a real danger. In Cape York, crocodiles are not only found in rivers, creeks, and billabongs but also in the ocean, making them a serious threat. After the first heavy rains, National Parks typically close in mid-December. Ensure your vehicle is in top condition, with good tires, as some river crossings can be deep, with water over the bonnet. Always avoid crossing fast-flowing rivers. If you venture off the main tracks, carry a UHF or HF radio, or a satellite phone for safety. Also, stay vigilant and avoid lingering near riverbanks, as crocodiles are known to patrol these areas.

Fraser Island

As for Fraser Island, it’s about a 3-4 hour drive north of Brisbane, depending on traffic, and is one of the best soft off-road destinations in Australia. However, it’s important to note that many accidents happen here, often due to speeding, some even fatal. The beach on Fraser Island is considered a public road and a highway, which you share with small aircraft. The maximum speed limit on the beach (surfside) is 80 km/h, and on inland tracks, it’s 35 km/h. Be sure to lower your tire pressure for a safer, smoother ride.

 

Fraser Island is indeed a spectacular destination for off-road enthusiasts and nature lovers. The combination of its beach driving and inland tracks offers an exciting adventure, with plenty to explore in terms of natural beauty. The island’s diverse landscapes—ranging from its pristine 250 km of coastline to its lush rainforests and unique dune and water lakes—make it a must-see for travelers.

The whale watching on the west side of the island is another highlight, with humpback whales migrating through those waters. It’s definitely a great time to visit if you’re around August to October.

Remember permits are required for Fraser Island. Coming from the north follow the signs to Hervey Bay followed by signs to River head. For more info click https://www.kingfisherbay.com/getting-here/fraser-island-ferry.html

Coming from Brisbane you have several choices, but the easy way is to follow the signs from Gympie to Rainbow Beach and onto the beach to Inskip Point. The alternative would be to drive to Inskip Point from Cooloola National Park.

Coastal region north of the Sunshine Coast

The coast road from the Sunshine Coast to Cairns covers a variety of terrain from dry flat plains to tropical forest. Following the coast road, this road is sealed all the way to Cairns. You can stop off In Bundaberg at Mon Repos National Park, Cape Palmerstone National Park, Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays Islands, Townsville and Magnetic Island and Mission Beach before reaching Cairns.

Alternative you can follow the inland roads and make stops in Carnarvon Gorge National Park, Blackdown Tableland National Park before you follow the highway again till MacKay, where you can turn off to Eungella National Park and then return to the Coastal Highway.

Far Western Queensland

The Queensland Outback this is where you stop to talk to drovers, prospectors, pub owners, road train drivers and farmers. This is where you walk into an outback pub and have a beer with the locals and this could be a local farmer or the mayor of the town. The pub can be a grand old building or a tin shed.

Visit the local rodeo or the annual horse race. In Longreach visit the birthplace of Qantas and the Stockman’s Hall of Fame, also interesting is the school of Distance Education which provides education to those on the outback stations up 1000 kilometres away. In Winton you will learn about the song “Waltzing Mathilda” and “Once a Jolly Swagman camped by a billabong”. Both originated in Winton and you can visit the combo waterhole. Also visit the Waltzing Mathilda Centre where you will learn about Banjo Patterson. You can visit Queensland oldest Opal fields in Opalton and Lake Quarry where you find 90 million years old dinosaur fossils. The major parks in the area are Diamantina National Park, Bladensburg National Park, Wellford National Park and Elizabeth Springs.

It is here where you learn the Outback salute to keep the flies away. Boulia is the home of the mysterious Min Min Lights. In July Boulia host the famous Camel races. South of Boulia is the small outback town of Bedourie, (Bedourie means sand storm) with a population of just over 100 people. This is also near the Diamantina National Park an area that covers treeless plains and sand dunes. If in the Park must do stops are Janet’s leap lookout, and the Warracoota drive. Another must do town when in this area is Birdsville, Queensland’s most remote town with a population of 100 and a famous pub and the gateway to the Simpson Desert. This has made Birdsville to a thriving community with a caravan park, service station all to serve the large amounts of 4WD drivers crossing the Simpson Desert. During the annual Birdsville races (September) up to 10000 people visit the town for 2 days of fun and alcohol.

The Simpson Desert is an incredible place, and Big Red, the first sandhill you encounter after leaving Birdsville, is an impressive sight at around 80 meters high. It’s part of the world’s largest parallel sand dunes, some of which stretch over 200 kilometers long and reach heights of more than 90 meters. From there, you can travel west, crossing 1140 more dunes in the desert. The Queensland portion of the Simpson Desert spans over 1 million hectares, making it Queensland’s largest protected area.

Due to the extreme temperatures, the park is closed in summer when temperatures can exceed 50°C and rarely drop below 40°C. Poeppel’s Corner, where you can stand in three regions at once—South Australia, Queensland, and the Northern Territory—is another unique highlight of the area. It’s a fascinating place for anyone looking to experience the vastness and natural beauty of the desert.

Cameron Corner – Where Three States Meet

Southwest of Quilpie lies Cameron Corner, a truly unique spot where Queensland, New South Wales, and South Australia meet. This remote corner of Australia is home to a small but fascinating museum detailing the history of the legendary Dog Fence—the world’s longest fence, stretching over 5,500 kilometers.

There’s now even a small store, making it a more welcoming stop than in years past. One of the quirkiest and most memorable experiences here is a round of tri-state golf—with three holes in each state.

And if you’re lucky enough to be here on New Year’s Eve, you can celebrate three times in three time zones—where else in the world can you do that?

From Cameron Corner, it’s an easy drive to Innamincka in South Australia or Tibooburra in New South Wales—both full of Outback character and history.

Moreton and Stradbroke Islands – Brisbane’s Island Escapes

Just off the coast of Brisbane, Moreton Island and Stradbroke Island are both easily accessible and offer beautiful getaways from the city.

Moreton Island, made up almost entirely of silica sand, is just 36 kilometres long and boasts stunning beaches. On the Moreton Bay side, keep an eye out for dolphins, dugongs, and turtles, especially around sunset.

But be warned—this is a popular tourist hotspot, especially on weekends and during holidays, so solitude might be in short supply. Nevertheless, it’s a great destination.

Stradbroke Island

The more residential and more populous Stradbroke—also known as “Straddie”—still has a lot to offer. Located just one hour from Brisbane by ferry, it’s an easy escape from the city. Go off-road to explore some of the island’s more remote areas. Visit Point Lookout for stunning scenery—between June and November, you might even spot migrating whales. Flinders and Main Beach are both open to 4WD vehicles, but a permit is required. Just be mindful of the tides when setting up camp on the beach—make sure you’re above the high-water mark!

Cairns, The Great Barrier Reef & Cape Tribulation

This is where we live, so I might be a little biased! The main reason we chose to settle here is the wonderful tropical climate and the unbeatable proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, the rainforest, and the outback and great off road driving. This region offers it all—with the lush, rainforest-clad mountains as a backdrop and the azure blue waters of the Coral Sea at your feet. Our home is in Palm Cove, about 20 kilometres north of Cairns. The city of Cairns has something for everyone except a beach: Our village Palm Cove has great restaurants, bars, shopping centres, and beautiful a beautiful palm-fringed beach.

60KM north of Cairns you find Port Douglas, not far from the Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation. Port Douglas is a small village with a great village atmosphere. From both Port Douglas and Cairns many boat trips are available to the Great Barrier Reef. The Daintree National Park is a World Heritage listed area and with 1200 square kilometres it is the largest tropical rainforest in Australia. Part of the area is Mossman Gorge and River with plenty of nice rock pools. The coastal road north of Cairns to Port Douglas is argument able one of the most scenic drives in Australia.

The Great Barrier Reef

A visit to the Great Barrier Reef is a must—it’s one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and the largest reef system on the planet. Spanning over 2,600 kilometers, it comprises nearly 3,000 individual reefs and around 900 islands. The reef’s crystal-clear waters offer an unforgettable snorkeling experience where you can marvel at vibrant coral gardens, swim alongside sea turtles, stingrays, and encounter hundreds of species of tropical fish.

From Cairns, two easily accessible reef islands are Green Island and Fitzroy Island. Green Island is a stunning coral cay with golden sandy beaches and a resort, perfect for a day trip or an overnight stay. Fitzroy Island is a favorite with locals and visitors alike, offering hiking trails, beachside relaxation, and live entertainment on weekends and during school or public holidays.

Off the coast of Port Douglas, you’ll find Low Isles, a picturesque set of two small islands surrounded by a magnificent coral reef—ideal for a more intimate snorkeling adventure.

The Atherton Tablelands

Heading southwest from Cairns, you’ll drive up the scenic Great Dividing Range to reach the lush and elevated plateau of the Atherton Tablelands. Known for its cooler climate and rich volcanic soil, the region is a hub for agriculture—famous for its coffee, mangoes, macadamia nuts, and dairy farming.

The Tablelands are a refreshing escape from the coastal heat and humidity, especially between October and May. Highlights in the northern part of the Tablelands include:

  • Rainforestation Nature Park – An award-winning attraction blending wildlife encounters with Indigenous culture.

  • Kuranda Rainforest Village – A charming village nestled in the rainforest, home to markets, art galleries, and scenic walks.

  • Australian Butterfly Sanctuary – The largest butterfly aviary in the Southern Hemisphere.

  • Granite Gorge Nature Park – Known for its unique rock formations and friendly wallabies.

  • Mareeba Wetlands – A birdwatcher’s paradise with guided tours and serene scenery.

  • Coffee Works – A haven for coffee lovers, offering tastings and a fascinating coffee museum.

  • Mount Mulligan – A remote ghost town rich in history and Outback charm.

  • Tyrconnell Historic Goldmine – Step back in time to when over 10,000 people once lived around this bustling mining community.

 

 

In the central Tablelands areas to visit are Irvinebank, Herberton, Lake Eacham in Lake Eacham National Park, Lake Barrine, Lake Tinaroo, Malanda Falls in Malanda, The Fig Tree in Yungaburra but also visit the Cathedral Strangler Fig Tree and the Giant Red Cedar Tree. In the southern part of the Atherton Tablelands you find Mt Bartle Frere (Highest mountain in Queensland) and Mt Bellenden located in Wooroonooran National Park, Millstream National Park, Tully National Park, Millaa Millaa waterfall and the Millaa Millaa Waterfall Circuit.

The Gulf Region

From either Mt Garnet or Chillagoe, you enter the Gulf Region. This area covers the shores of the Gulf of Carpentaria and the country surrounding the many rivers between Chillagoe and the Northern territory border all the way South to the line Camooweal, Mt Isa, Cloncurry Julia Creek and Richmond. All up over 430000 square kilometres of mostly arid and savannah country. You will find great camp spots near rivers and in deep gorges.

This area is home to some large mines including the Mount Isa Copper Mine, McArthur River and Century Lead-Zinc mines. Also, fishing is a major industry in this region. The major city in this region is Mt Isa. This whole area is also called the Gulf Savannah and is crossed by the tourist Savannah Way. must stop towns are Normanton, Karumba and Croyden. The number one tourist attraction in the area are The Undara Lava tubes in Undara Volcanic National Park, one of the country’s most spectacular geological wonders. The Park is home to one of the largest lava tube cave systems that stretch over 160km.

Explore North Queensland’s Outback.

Lawn Hill National Park & Camooweal Region

One of Queensland’s hidden gems, Lawn Hill (Boodjamulla) National Park, sits approximately 200 km north of the Barkly Highway. It’s the number two tourist attraction in the region—and for good reason. The stunning Lawn Hill Gorge is fed year-round by Lawn Hill Creek, which flows from freshwater springs and streams emerging from the limestone plateau to the west of the park. The rivers here don’t dry up, making this a lush oasis in the Outback.

Guided cave tours are available in Camooweal Caves National Park, giving visitors a chance to explore the underground wonders of the region. As with all destinations in the Far North, road conditions can vary with the weather—be aware of seasonal flooding and patches of bulldust.

Other must-see spots include:

  • Moorrinya National Park

  • Porcupine Gorge National Park

  • White Mountains National Park

  • Riversleigh World Heritage Fossil Site – one of the most significant fossil sites in the world

  • Charters Towers – a gold rush town rich in history

  • Mount Isa – home to the Royal Flying Doctor Service base, an underground hospital, and the not-to-be-missed Hard Times Mine Tour

  • Cloncurry – the birthplace of John Flynn, founder of the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Don’t miss the John Flynn Museum

  • Chillagoe – explore the Chillagoe Caves, Montana National Park, and nearby Cobbold Gorge

Brisbane, the Gold Coast & the Sunshine Coast

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is a vibrant outdoor city with a laid-back cosmopolitan vibe. It also serves as the gateway to both the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, as well as their scenic hinterlands.

In Brisbane, don’t miss:

  • South Bank – the former Expo 88 site is now a sprawling riverside parkland with restaurants, bars, a man-made lagoon, and lush greenery. It’s a perfect place to relax and soak up the atmosphere.

  • Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary – located in Brisbane’s northwest, this is the world’s largest koala sanctuary, home to nearly 200 koalas. Visitors can hold a koala, feed kangaroos, watch a platypus, or see working sheepdogs in action.

South of Brisbane lies the Gold Coast—often dubbed the “Miami of Australia.” Nearly 80 kilometers of coastline are lined with hotels, high-rise apartments, restaurants, bars, theme parks, and some of the country’s best beaches. Don’t miss the scenic hinterland escapes like Tamborine Mountain, Springbrook National Park, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Lamington National Park, and the Gondwana Rainforests, a World Heritage-listed treasure.

SUNSHINE COAST

North of Brisbane is the Sunshine Coast, a stunning blend of over 100 kilometers of long sandy beaches and a lush, green hinterland. Some of the most famous beaches include Noosa, Caloundra, Maroochydore, Mooloolaba, and Cotton Tree. The area is also rich in natural beauty, with Noosa National Park, the striking Glass House Mountains, and beautiful waterfalls and 4WD tracks around Kenilworth.

The picturesque region around Maleny offers incredible views and charming country vibes, perfect for a hinterland retreat. Nearby is the renowned Australia Zoo, founded by Steve Irwin’s parents and later operated by Steve (22-02-1962 – 04-09-2006) and his wife Terri. Steve tragically died just off our own coastline near Batt Reef, when a stingray barb pierced his heart while he was swimming in chest-deep water. A must-do when visiting the Zoo is taking a selfie with the famous Steve Irwin sign at the entrance.

Other top spots to explore in the region include Conondale National Park, Mapleton Falls, and the vibrant Eumundi Markets, best visited on a Sunday for their full atmosphere and variety.

PART 2 VIDEO CLIPS