We visited Fraser back in early 2009 and fell in love with the place. Truth be told, the only reason we're getting married is for a good excuse to go back - and drag family and friends along with us. ;) No better place for a get-together!
A bit about Fraser....
Fraser Island is the biggest sand island in the world. Located just off the coast of Queensland, it's less than a 2-hour flight from Brisbane, 2 and a half hours from Sydney & within striking distance of Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef.
Fraser Island
(click to enlarge)
Lonely Planet describes Fraser Island as "a beautiful enigma that appears too lush and green to be the world's largest sand island. Rainforests and some 40 freshwater lakes dot the landscape and dunes tower up to 224 meters high. ...a location unlike any other on earth". The local aboriginals appropriately named the place 'K' Gari', or 'Paradise'.
Lake McKensie
75 miles long and 10 miles wide it's big enough for plenty of outdoor exploring and yet remote enough to escape throngs of tourists. Fraser's main road north and south is the island's east facing beach. Like the rest of the island it's accessible only by 4WD's and only when the tide it out - inland sand tracks are your best option the rest of the time. 4WD's can be picked up in Hervey Bay prior to reaching the island, or on the island itself if you're flash with the cash.
Fraser's Rainforest
The weather in September is in the mid-20's - so warm, but not scorching - and therefore perfect for an active day away from the cabin or a lazy afternoon by the lake. As for the wildlife, they make no secret of the fact that the sea around Fraser is a definite NO-GO - man-eating sharks and lethal jellyfish make the island's freshwater lakes, swimming pools and enclosed saltwater Champagne Pools a much more attractive option!
Less lethal wildlife includes wild dingoes, monitor lizards, dolphins, manta rays and Humpback Whales, commonly seen in September! Fraser itself is accessed via River Heads, just south of Hervey Bay on the mainland. Ferries from River Heads do the 30-45 minute crossing several times a day - so you're never too far from civilization or holiday supplies if you run out. Come prepared though and you'll have no reason to leave the island for the duration of the holiday.
Seventy-Five Mile Beach/Road
Back on the island, Eurong Resort will be our port of call with 2 family cabins booked to accommodate the Annetts and Stouts. Eurong is pretty basic by most 'resort' standards - but does include a range of accommodation, a swimming pool, a cafe, restaurant and beach bar with a healthy supply of booze and pool tables - if you can wrangle one away from the backpackers. :)
We'll leave you with a few of Fraser To-Do's and you can start imagining yourself lazing in the amazing Lake McKenzie! Less than 1 year to go! :)
Things to do on Fraser:
1. Watch for sharks, manta rays and dolphins from Indian Head.
2. Float downstream in Eli Creek in fast-moving crystal clear water.
3. Go whale watching off the coast.
4. Stop at Champagne Pool for some saltwater swimming.
5. Go snorkelling at the amazing Lake McKenzie.
6. Let fish nibble on your toes at the enchanting Lake Wabby.
7. Navigate the island's sand trails and beaches in a 4WD.
8. Stop at Maheno Beach's shipwreck on your way north to the Pinnacles.
9. Watch for dingoes, monitor lizards and exotic birds on walks through the forest.
10. Pitch a tent, light a camp fire and have a beer under the stars.
