Australia: The Land Where Time Began
Moreton Island National Park
What's special?
Moreton Island is the most natural of the large sand islands protecting Moreton Bay’s sheltered waters. Most of the island is national park and a recreation area managed for nature-based recreation.The park contains freshwater creeks and lakes, coastal heath, rocky headlands, paperbark swamps, an historic lighthouse and the ruins of coastal forts. Mt Tempest, the highest sand dune on the island, is the highest stable coastal sand dune in the southern hemisphere.
Migrating wading birds flock to the island between September and April, and nesting turtles occasionally come ashore in summer. The adjacent bay waters are protected in Moreton Bay Marine Park.
Exploring Moreton Island
Explore the island by four-wheel-drive and walking. Look for migrating humpback whales in late winter and spring. Go birdwatching. Cool off in Blue Lagoon. Enjoy the wildflowers in spring.See the remains of coastal defences at Toompani Beach and Cowan Cowan. Discover the island’s special stories in the information centre at the Cape Moreton lighthouse complex.
Camp at Blue Lagoon, Eagers Creek, Ben-Ewa, the Wrecks or Comboyuro camping areas or specific sites along the beach. (Check with the rangers before setting up camp along the beach.) Be prepared for busy holiday times, especially Christmas, New Year and Easter. Get supplies (fuel, groceries and bait) at Bulwer and Kooringal.
Fresh water points are provided at the Big Sandhills (western beach), Rous Battery track (eastern beach), North Point and the campgrounds at Blue Lagoon, Eagers Creek, Comboyuro Point, the Wrecks and Ben-Ewa. Boil the water before drinking.
Walking
Walking in sand can be tiring. Wear sturdy shoes, a hat and sunscreen. Always carry drinking water.Getting there
Access to the island is by barge or launch. The barge trip from Whyte Island near Lytton or Scarborough takes two hours. Tangalooma Resort operates a passenger launch from Pinkenba. Pre-booking is essential for all transport. Four-wheel-drive is necessary to get around the island.
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