The Ultimate Guide to Driving the Great Barrier Reef - Nature's greatest gift to the world - Tropical ...

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The Ultimate Guide to Driving the Great Barrier Reef - Nature's greatest gift to the world - Tropical ...
The Ultimate Guide to
Driving the Great Barrier Reef
Nature’s greatest gift to the world

Bundaberg • Gladstone • Yeppoon • Mackay
Whitsundays • Townsville • Ingham • Cardwell
Tully • Mission Beach • Innisfail • Cairns • Cape York
The Ultimate Guide to Driving the Great Barrier Reef - Nature's greatest gift to the world - Tropical ...
Welcome to the World’s
     Greatest Natural Wonder!
     At approximately 350,000km2 in size, and stretching 2,300km
     along the Queensland coast (about the size of 70 million football
     fields or the size of Japan), the Great Barrier Reef is the biggest
     single structure on the planet made by living organisms. It is the
     only living structure on earth that can be seen from outer space
     and the first coral reef eco system in the world to be awarded
     World Heritage status.
     The Great Barrier Reef offers exceptional visitor experiences
     from every angle – underwater, above water, in the air, or on land.
     With the best local guides in the world, popular ways to experience
     the Great Barrier Reef include scuba diving, snorkelling, cruising,
     sailing, island resorts, coastal land and waterways tours or with
     a scenic flight.
     So, check out one of Australia’s epic road journeys
     and enjoy the near constant companion, the
     Great Barrier Reef – it’s a once in a lifetime
     experience not to be missed!

    Lodestone Reef, Townsville North Queensland
    Cover: Snorkelling, Great Barrier Reef

2      The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef
The Ultimate Guide to Driving the Great Barrier Reef - Nature's greatest gift to the world - Tropical ...
Contents
04       Our Region Map
         Bundaberg to Cape York

05       Accredited Visitor
         Information Centres

07       The Great 8
         Iconic marine encounters

08       Southern Great Barrier Reef
         From Bundaberg to Yeppoon

14       Mackay
         From Yeppoon to Proserpine

18       The Whitsundays
         From Proserpine to Bowen

22       Townsville North Queensland
         From Home Hill to Cardwell

28       Cassowary Coast
         From Cardwell to Innisfail

32       Tropical North Queensland
         From Innisfail to Cape York

Map Symbols

     Airport                             Shopping precinct

     Bike trail                          Stinger enclosure

     Boat ramp                           Swimming location

     Camp ground                         Tourist attraction

     Fishing spot                        Walking trail

     Playground                          Wildlife sighting

     Public toilet                       Wi-Fi

     Scenic lookout

                  The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef   3
The Ultimate Guide to Driving the Great Barrier Reef - Nature's greatest gift to the world - Tropical ...
Horn        Thursday Island
                          Island Bamaga
                                                                                                               DRIVING DISTANCES / TIMES

                                                 GR
                                                                                                                                           The                      Mission                             Port
                                                                         Bundaberg     Gladstone     Rockhampton         Mackay                      Townsville                     Cairns
                                                                                                                                       Whitsundays                  Beach                              Douglas

                                                    EAT
                                                                         4hrs 21mins   6hrs 7mins    7hrs 10mins       10hrs 50mins 12hrs 5mins      15hrs 5mins 17hrs 44mins 19hrs 10mins 20hrs 7mins
                                                              Brisbane
                                                                          (360km)       (515km)        (616km)            (951km)    (1,096km)        (1,330km)    (1,569km)    (1,680km)   (1,747km)
                                                                                       2hrs 19mins   3hrs 22mins        7hrs 5mins     8hrs 39mins 11hrs 14mins 13hrs 50mins 15hrs 12mins 16hrs 10mins
                                                                         Bundaberg
                                                                                         (187km)       (288km)           (623km)         (768km)    (1,000km)     (1,200km)    (1,350km)    (1,419km)
                                                                                                      1hr 18mins           5hrs        6hrs 40mins 9hrs 16mins    11hrs 54mins 13hrs 23mins 14hrs 19mins
                             Weipa                                                     Gladstone
                                                                                                       (107km)           (443km)         (591km)    (830km)         (1,063km)    (1,176km)    (1,241km)

                                                         BA
                                                                                                                       3hrs 47mins     5hrs 23mins      8hrs      10hrs 36mins 11hrs 57mins         13hrs 3mins
                                                                                                     Rockhampton
                                                                                                                         (335km)        (480km)       (720km)       (954km)      (1,066km)            (1,130km)

                                                               RI

                                                              R
                                                                                                                                       1hr 49mins 4hrs 24mins      7hrs 6mins    8hrs 34mins 9hrs 31mins
                                                                                                                         Mackay
                                              Coen                   ER                                                                  (149km)    (388km)         (622km)        (734km)    (800km)
                                                                                                                                           The     3 hrs 13mins   5hrs 54mins    7hrs 23mins 5hrs 23mins
                                                                                                                                       Whitsundays   (275km)       (509km)         (621km)     (412km)
                                                                                                                                                                  2hrs 54mins    4hrs 24mins 5hrs 23mins
                          Pormpuraaw                                          Lizard Island                                                          Townsville
                                                                                                                                                                    (234km)        (346km)     (412km)
                                                                                                                                                                    Mission       1hr 57mins        2hrs 57mins
                                                                                                                                                                    Beach           (139km)          (204km)

                                                                                 REEF
                                                              Cooktown                                                                                                                                1hr 8mins
                                                    Laura                                                                                                                           Cairns
                                                                                                                                                                                                       (67km)
                                                                                                                                   N
Mornington                                                                                                         0            100             200 km
Island                                               Mossman Double Island
                                               Port Douglas       Green Island

                                                                                                                                                                                   GREAT
             Karumba                            Cairns               Fitzroy Island                                                                                                    BA
                                                                                                                                                                                             RR
                                                           Innisfail
                                           Ravenshoe

                                                                                                                                                                                              IE
                             Croydon                               Dunk Island

                                                                                                                                                                                                  R R
                                               Mission Beach
                                                                      Bedarra Island

                                                                                                                                                                                                      EEF
                                                      Tully
                                     Georgetown Cardwell          Hinchinbrook Island                                                                                                         Brisbane

                                                     Ingham             Orpheus Island
                                                                          Magnetic Island
                                                          Townsville
                                                          Nome       Ayr
                                                                Charters
                                                              Home       Bowen Hayman Island
 Mount Isa                                                      Towers
                                                                Hill                 Daydream Island
                       Richmond                                                    South Molle Island
         Cloncurry                                   Prosperpine
                                                                       Airlie
                                                                       Beach         Hamilton  Island
                                  Hughenden                                           Linderman   Island
                                                                  Mackay
                                                               Marian                  Long Island
                                                                          Sarina     Brampton Island
                                                       Great                       Keswick Island
                           Winton                                                                    GREAT
            Middleton                                Dividing
                                                       Range                                BARRIER REEF
   Boulia                                                     Clermont
                                                                                              Pumpkin Island
                                     Longreach
                                                                                   Yeppoon          Great Keppel Island
                                         Barcaldine       Emerald
                                                                                                      Heron Island
                                                                     Rockhampton
Bedourie                                                                                                 Lady Musgrave Island
                                                                               Gladstone                    Lady Elliot Island
                                                                                   Miriam Vale Town of 1770
                                                                                   Agnes Water
                    Windorah                                                                     Bundaberg
Birdsville
                                                                                            Gin Gin             Fraser Island
                                                                                   Eidsvold                   Hervey Bay
                                                                                                 Childers Maryborough
                                 Quilpie
        SOUTH AUSTRALIA

                                              Charleville                 Roma                            Gympie
          QUEENSLAND

                                                                                  Miles
                                                                                                              Maroochydore
                                                                                         Dalby                Caloundra
                          Thargomindah
                                                                   St George
                                                                                                Ipswich      BRISBANE
                                         QU                                    Goondiwindi        Warwick      Gold Coast
                                                        EENSLAND
                                                   NEW SOUTH WALE
                                                                 S

                                                                                                                                                                                Ballina

  4    The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef
The Ultimate Guide to Driving the Great Barrier Reef - Nature's greatest gift to the world - Tropical ...
When travelling, look for this symbol
                       Accredited Visitor Information Centres offer friendly, professional holiday advice and booking assistance.

Southern Great Barrier Reef Region
Bundaberg Visitor Information Centre                                Bundaberg         07 4153 8888       www.southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Childers Visitors Information Centre                                Childers          07 4153 8888       www.southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
RM Williams Australian Bush Learning Centre & Visitor Information   Eidsvold          07 4165 7272       www.southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Gin Gin Visitor Information Centre                                  Gin Gin           07 4153 8888       www.southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Agnes Water Visitor Information Centre                              Agnes Water       07 4902 1533       www.southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Gladstone Visitor Information Centre                                Gladstone         07 4972 9000       www.southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Miriam Vale Visitor Information Centre                              Miriam Vale       07 4974 5428       www.southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Central Highlands Visitor Information Centre                        Emerald           07 4982 4142       www.southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
The Spire Visitor Information Centre                                Rockhampton       07 4921 2311       www.southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Capricorn Coast Visitor Information Centre                          Yeppoon           07 4939 4888       www.southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au

Mackay Region
Mackay Visitor Information Centre                                   Mackay            07 4944 5888       www.mackayregion.com
Melba House Visitor Information Centre                              Marian            07 4954 4299       www.mackayregion.com
Sarina Tourist Art & Craft Centre                                   Sarina            07 4956 2251       www.sarinafieldofdreams.com.au

Whitsundays Region
Bowen Visitor Information Centre                                    Bowen             07 4786 4222       www.tourismbowen.com.au
Whitsunday Regional Information Centre                              Proserpine        07 4945 3967       www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au

Townsville North Queensland Region
Burdekin Visitor Information Centre                                  Ayr              07 4783 5988       www.burdekintourism.com.au
Charters Towers Visitor Information Centre                          Charters Towers   07 4761 5533       www.charterstowers.qld.gov.au
Burdekin Gateway Visitor Information Centre                         Home Hill         07 4782 8241       www.burdekintourism.com.au
Tyto Wetlands Information Centre                                    Ingham            07 4776 4792       www.tyto.com.au
Bruce Highway Visitor Information Centre                            Nome              07 4780 4397       www.townsvillenorthqueensland.com.au
Townsville Bulletin Square VIC                                      Townsville        07 4721 3660       www.townsvillenorthqueensland.com.au

Cassowary Coast Region
Cardwell Visitor Information Centre                                 Cardwell          07 4066 2412       www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/tourist-info
Innisfail Visitor Information I-VAN                                 Innisfail         0428 228 962       www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/tourist-info
Mission Beach Visitor Information Centre                            Mission Beach     07 4068 7099       www.missionbeachtourism.com
Tully Visitor & Heritage Centre                                     Tully             07 4068 2288       www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/tourist-info

Tropical North Queensland Region
Atherton Tableland Information Centre                               Atherton          07 4091 4222       www.itablelands.com.au
Babinda Information Centre                                          Babinda           07 4067 1008       www.babindainfocentre.com.au
Cairns & Tropical North Visitor Information Centre                  Cairns            07 4051 3588       www.cairnsgreatbarrierreef.org.au
Croydon True Blue Visitor Information Centre                        Croydon           07 4748 7152       www.croydon.qld.gov.au
TerrEstrial Georgetown Visitor Centre                               Georgetown        07 4062 1485       www.etheridge.qld.gov.au
Herberton Mining and Visitor Information Centre                     Herberton         07 4096 3474       www.herbertonvisitorcentre.com.au
Kuranda Visitor Information Centre                                  Kuranda           07 4093 9311       www.kuranda.org
Malanda Falls Visitor Centre                                        Malanda           07 4096 6957       www.malandafalls.com
Mareeba Heritage Museum & Visitor Information Centre                Mareeba           07 4092 5674       www.mareebaheritagecentre.com.au
Ravenshoe Visitor Centre                                            Ravenshoe         07 4097 7700       www.ravenshoevisitorcentre.com.au
Yungaburra Visitor Information Centre                               Yungaburra        07 4095 2416       www.yungaburra.com

Whilst holidaying in Queensland keep an eye out for    the sign. Accredited Visitor Information Centres are found all around Queensland.
They really know Queensland and can give great advice on where to stay, what to do and what’s on plus can help with booking
accommodation and activities. So drop in for maps, brochures, info – or just to have a chat!
For centre contact details visit queensland.com/vics or download the free This is Queensland app.

                                                                                               The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef   5
The Ultimate Guide to Driving the Great Barrier Reef - Nature's greatest gift to the world - Tropical ...
Where in the world would you rather be?
    RELAX | DIVE | SAIL | GOLF | LIVE | PLAY
    To book, call 137 333 or visit hamiltonisland.com.au

6    The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef
The Ultimate Guide to Driving the Great Barrier Reef - Nature's greatest gift to the world - Tropical ...
The Great 8
It’s the underwater equivalent to an African safari, and a trip to the Great Barrier Reef wouldn’t be complete without ticking off these
‘Great 8’ iconic marine encounters from your list!.

 1. Nemo (aka the clownfish)                      2. Sharks                                           3. Manta rays
 An iconic resident of the Great Barrier          The boss of the Great Barrier Reef food             The largest of all rays, mantas are like the
 Reef. Find the colourful cuties in sheltered     chain. The most common sharks found                 birds of the ocean with their wingspans
 reefs or shallow lagoons, hiding between         here are white tip, black tip and grey reef         of up to seven metres. Manta rays are
 the stinging tentacles of anemones.              sharks.                                             known for their graceful acrobatic skills.

 4. Maori Wrasse                                  5. Potato Cods                                      6. Giant clams
 These big-boned fish love to play and will       These gill-bearers like to get up close             Tough on the outside, but inside
 happily follow you around like a faithful        and personal, with their wide mouths                they’re just big colourful softies. Giant
 friend. Maori wrasses can grow up to two         constantly opening and closing as if                clams spend their days eating algae,
 metres in length and weigh up to 180 kg.         trying to have a chat!                              photosynthesising and looking beautiful.

                                                                                                      Get involved!
                                                                                                      Share your experiences on social
                                                                                                      media using:
                                                                                                      #thisisqueensland
                                                                                                      #seeaustralia
                                                                                                      #lovethereef
                                                                                                      include:
                                                                                                      @Queensland
                                                                                                      @Australia
                                                                                                      @GreatBarrierReefMarinePark
                                                                                                      Eye on the Reef is a reef monitoring and
                                                                                                      assessment program enabling anyone
 7. Turtles                                       8. Whales                                           who visits the Reef to contribute to its
 With six of the world’s seven turtle species     The ultimate playground and nursery for             protection by collecting information about
 calling the Great Barrier Reef home, it’s        humpback whales and their new calves,               reef health, marine animals and incidents.
 not hard to spot one.                            making an annual appearance along the               Download the Eye on the Reef App and
                                                  coast from June until September.                    get involved: www.gbrmpa.gov.au

                                                                                                The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef   7
The Ultimate Guide to Driving the Great Barrier Reef - Nature's greatest gift to the world - Tropical ...
SOUTHERN GBR

                                                                                                                                                                                                          Yeppoon

               Southern Great Barrier Reef
                                                                                                                                                                                                           Bundaberg

                                                  Marlborough

                                                                                                                                GREA
                                                           A1                              Byfield Nat Pk
  Mack

                                                River
                                                                                                        Pumpkin Island                                                            N
                                                                                 Yeppoon

                                                                                                                                 T
      enzie

                                                                                                                                                                  0               25              50 km

                                                Mt Etna Caves                   The 9                  8
                                                                                Caves
                                     y

                                                    Nat Pk                                         7
                               Fitzro

                                                                                                                                          North West
                                                                                           Emu Great Keppel Island                        Island
          Rive

                                                                                           Park
                                                           Hwy                  Rockhampton
              r

  To Emerald                                                                                                                                              Heron Island
                                                                                                                               Masthead
                                                    A4
                                         rico
                                             rn
                                                                          Hw
                                                                            y
                                                                                 Bajool                                        Island              6
                                Cap
                                                           Mt Morgan                                       Curtis Island
To Blackdown                                                                              Raglan                                                             Fitzroy Reef
 Tablelands
                                                                      t
                                                                   rd

                                                                                           Bru

                                                                                                                                            BA
                                                                ha

                                           Dululu                                             ce                     Facing Island                                Llewellyn Reef
                                                             ich

                                                                                Mt Larcom
                                                            Le

                                                                                                                  Gladstone
                                                                                                                                               RR
                         er

                                                                                                              5
                                                                                                                                                                           Lady Musgrave Island
                     Riv

                                                            Burn

                                                                                                                                                       IE
  To Carnarvon
     Gorge
                                                                                                                                                         R
                                                                ett

                                                                                                       Calliope
                                                                                     Hwy           Lake Awoonga                                                                    Lady Elliot Island
                     son

                                                                                                                                          Town of 1770
                   Daw

                                                                                                                                        4   Agnes Water
                                                                                                                       Hwy

                                                                                          Castle Tower                 3
                                                                                                                    2
                            Banana                                        Biloela             Nat Pk
                                                     son                                                     Eurimbula
                                                  Daw                                             Miriam                                                                      R
                                                                               Kroombit Tops        Vale     Nat Pk                                                               EE
                                                                                   Nat Pk     Many                    Deepwater                                                         F
                                                                              A3              Peaks        A1
                                                                                                                      Nat Pk
                                                                                                       Warro        Baffle Creek
                                                                                       Cania Gorge Nat Pk Rosedale
                                                                                                                                               Ro
                                                                                                                                                   sed

                                                                                          Nat Pk
                                                                                                                                                              Mon Repos
                                                                                                                                                    ale

              Theodore                                                            Monto
                                                                                                               Lake
                                                                                                          Monduran Littabella  Rd
                                                                                          Hwy                                                                   Bargara
                                                                                                                      Nat Pk                                  1   Bundaberg
                                                                                                           Bania                          Gin Gin
                                                                                                           Nat Pk          Mount
                                                                                                                           Perry            Childers                Woodgate
                      Precipice Nat Pk                                          Eidsvold                                                                      Burrum Coast     Fraser Island
                                                                                                                                                                 Nat Pk Hervey Bay
                                                                                                                                River          Hwy
                                                                                 Mundubbera                         Gayndah                                           A1
                                                                                                                                                         Biggenden
                                                                                                                                   Isis

                                                                                                       Burnett
                                                                                                                                                                            Maryborough
                                                                           Auburn River                                         Mount Walsh
                                                                             Nat Pk                                               Nat Pk

              MAP                                                                                                       MAP
              REF        ADVERTISER NAME                                           PAGE          TELEPHONE              REF     ADVERTISER NAME                                        PAGE             TELEPHONE

               1         Bundaberg Rum Distillery                                   10      07 4131 2999                   6    Heron Island                                             12           1800 837 168
              2          Sandcastles 1770 Motel & Resort                            12      1800 890 072                   7    Great Keppel Island                                      11           1800 675 785
              3          Agnes Water Beach Club                                     12      1300 731 667                   8    Pumpkin Island                                           12           07 4939 4413
              4          1770reef Great Barrier Reef Eco Tours                      12      07 4972 7222                   9    Villa Mar Colina                                         12           07 4939 3177
              5          Mercure Gladstone                                          12      07 4979 8200

      8             The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef
The Ultimate Guide to Driving the Great Barrier Reef - Nature's greatest gift to the world - Tropical ...
Heron Island, Southern Great Barrier Reef

Where it all begins                                        inspired by place. Wash it down with our
                                                           regional bounty of beverages, including                    Got three days?
                                                           world-famous Bundaberg Rum.
Southern Great Barrier Reef is where ‘great’
                                                           Cast-off on a fishing odyssey like no other –              Day 1     Bundaberg to Bargara
begins and your road journey kicks off. It’s                                                                          Sign up for the Bundy Icons Tour (it’s
                                                           from deep seas to remote beaches and fresh
where you dial back to Queensland pace                                                                                about much more than Bundaberg
                                                           water, from spear fishing to rod and reel,
and relax into the local vibe. Take your time                                                                         Rum). Every chance you get, indulge
                                                           from elusive barramundi and mud crabs, to a
to discover never-ending seasonal produce,                                                                            in exceptional local cuisine. Dec-Mar,
                                                           myriad of species. Yes, it’s a fishing fantasy.
inland detours to sapphire-rich gemfields                                                                             witness nesting or hatching turtles at
and sandstone wilderness, and a come-                      Detour westward to unearth natural                         Mon Repos Turtle Rookery.
find-me chain of tropical islands cresting                 wonders – wildlife you won’t see anywhere
Australia’s greatest natural wonder.                       else, ancient gorges, caves and pristine                   Day 2     Town of 1770 to Agnes Water
                                                           rainforests. Marvel at Cania Gorge, Kroombit               All aboard the LARC for an amphibious
In a nutshell, we’re sub-tropical sun,                     Tops, or go deeper to Blackdown Tablelands                 cruise across sandy beaches and
uncrowded beaches and secluded surf.                       or Carnarvon Gorge’s Aboriginal Art Gallery.               estuaries to remote Bustard Head
We’re paddock to plate, from fifth-generation
                                                           Fossick for fortune in the Sapphire                        Lighthouse in Eurimbula National Park.
farmers to new-age millennial tastemakers.
                                                           Gemfields near Emerald. Catch gemstone                     Get comfy for a truly spectacular sunset.
We’re history rediscovered. We’re open
                                                           fever on a walk-in mine tour, or a tag-along or            More time here? It’s another jump-off
spaces and endless possibilities.
                                                           self-drive fossicking tour. Sieve for treasure in          point for Lady Musgrave Island.
And we can’t wait to show you around.                      your own bucket of sapphire ‘wash’.
                                                                                                                      Day 3     Yeppoon to
                                                           Sink into country hospitality. Our locals on               Great Keppel Island
Just the place to …                                        the land welcome you, just a short drive off               Amble to Bluff Point lookout to watch the
Get up close and personal with turtles                     the Pacific Way. Take your pick of farmstays               sun rise over Keppel Islands as turtles
doing what turtles do. At Mon Repos Turtle                 on working cattle properties, then retreat to              bob by. Day-trip to Great Keppel Island,
Rookery witness mama turtles nesting or                    rural solitude or throw yourself into daily life           claim a beach for swimming, sunning
hundreds of baby hatchlings emerging from                  on the farm.                                               and reef-snorkelling. Dive in for skiing,
their sandy bed to complete the circle of life.            Tick off the Great Barrier Reef’s ‘Great 8’!               tubing, kayaking or jet-skiing. Stroll
Channel Robinson Crusoe strolling secluded                 Manta rays, clown fish, whales, maori wrasse,              Yeppoon’s esplanade and beach-chic
island beaches with the reef within easy                   turtles, potato cod, sharks and giant clams                cafés and boutiques. Can’t bare to leave?
reach. Soak up castaway freedom with a                     – all eight underwater creatures call the                  Find a coast or island stay and kick back.
stay on Heron, Lady Elliot or Lady Musgrave                Southern Great Barrier Reef home.
Islands or hang closer to the coast with a                 Commune with nature. Find your happy                     Step back in time. Tread where Lt
ferry ride to Great Keppel or Pumpkin Island.              place on a bushwalk or trek through one                  James Cook did at the Town of 1770 (aka
Taste the deep connection between locals,                  of our many pristine national parks. Close               the birthplace of Queensland). Wander the
land and sea. Our abundant natural food                    your eyes, point your finger at a map and let            390 million-year-old Capricorn Caves, the
bowl means cafés, restaurants and pubs                     wildlife, cultural and adventure experiences             National Trust town of Childers, or the longest
lovingly source and create amazing meals                   grab your imagination.                                   heritage-listed street at Rockhampton.

   www.southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au      @southerngreatbarrierreef    @southerngreatbarrierreef   # SouthernGreatBarrierReef
                                                                                                               The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef   9
The Ultimate Guide to Driving the Great Barrier Reef - Nature's greatest gift to the world - Tropical ...
B E H I N D A U ST RA L I A’ S M O S T I C O N I C R U M
                                             MUSEUM EXPERIENCE TOUR
                                             Located within a retired Bondstore that has
                                             previously aged some of Bundaberg’s nest
                                             rums; this self-paced interactive Bundaberg
                                             Rum Museum Experience will allow you to
                                             see, touch and smell your way through the
                                             rich history of Bundaberg Rum.

                                             DISTILLERY EXPERIENCE TOUR
                                             After exploring the Bundaberg Rum Museum
                                             Experience, join one of our expert Distillery
                                             Guides on a guided journey deep into the
                                             heart of our fully operational Bundaberg
                                             Rum Distillery.

                                             BLEND YOUR OWN RUM
                                             EXPERIENCE TOUR
                                             Ever wanted to become a Master Blender?
                                             Well, now you can! Following a Distillery
                                             Tour, Australia’s rst Blend Your Own Rum
                                             Experience teaches you the art of tasting
                                             and blending Bundaberg Rum straight from
                                             the Barrel. You will walk away with 2 bottles
                                             of your very own personalised blend.

                                                            BOOK YOUR BUNDABERG RUM EXPERIENCE TODAY
                                                                     www.bundabergrum.com.au

                                    AU S T RA L I A’ S M O S T AWA R D E D R U M D I S TI L L E RY

    World’s Best Retail &                     World’s Best Distillery Event          World’s Best Dark Rum      #1 thing to do in
  Educational Experience                          Drinks International                World Rum Awards             Bundaberg
Drinks International Distillery                  Distillery Experience                    2016 & 2017        with over 1000 reviews
   Challenge Awards 2017                             Awards 2016

                                     P: (07) 4131 2999 | E: distillery@bundabergrum.com | A: Hills Street Bundaberg, QLD 4670

                                            BUN
                                             U N DAB
                                                   B ERG
                                                      R RUM
                                                         RU
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                                                                                                                         R M D IST
                                                                                                                                STILL
                                                                                                                                   ILLERY
                                                                                                                                   ILL E
                                                                                                                                       ERY

10   The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef
Great Keppel Island
                              Where Great Begins

Your Barefoot Island Paradise...
Great Keppel Island is a barefoot           Great Keppel Island Hideaway offers a        relaxed accommodation to suit every
island paradise, with arguably the best     fully licensed bar and bistro, where you     traveller.
beaches of any Great Barrier Reef island    are sure to enjoy the casual atmosphere
and fantastic year round swimming.          and spectacular views.                       Ferries depart the mainland daily to
                                            - Open 7 days from 8am until late            Great Keppel Island with Freedom Fast
The island is home to 17 pristine white,    - Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner          Cats and Keppel Konnections. Drive time
sandy beaches and has an interior rich      - Island day guests welcome                  from Rockhampton to ferry departure
with native flora and fauna. If you enjoy                                                points at Rosslyn Bay Harbour is 45
a leisurely bush walk, chances are you’ll   Great Keppel Island Hideaway and Great       minutes.
find a beach all to yourself!               Keppel Island Holiday Village both offer

       There’s no shortage of activities... Jet ski tours l Kayak tours l Stand up paddle boarding l Fishing tours
        Snorkel l Tube rides l Water skiing l Coral Cruises & Sunset Cruises l Sailing l Bush walking l + More

ACCOMMODATION                                TRANSFERS                                         FULL DAY CRUISES
Great Keppel Island                          Freedom Fast Cats                                 Sail Capricornia
Hideaway                                     Pier One, Rosslyn Bay Harbour                     Keppel Bay Marina
07 4939 2050                                 07 4933 6888                                      07 4933 6244 / 0402 102 373
greatkeppelislandhideaway.com.au             freedomfastcats.com                               sailcapricornia.com.au

Great Keppel Island                          Keppel Konnections                                Freedom Fast Cats
Holiday Village                              Keppel Bay Marina (Red Jetty)                     Pier One, Rosslyn Bay Harbour
1800 537 735                                 07 4847 6350                                      07 4933 6888
gkiholidayvillage.com.au                     keppelkonnections.com.au                          freedomfastcats.com
          For tours & accommodation contact
          Capricorn Coast Visitor                  Freecall 1800 675 785
          Information Centre                       Open 7 Days
          Scenic Highway, Yeppoon                  www.capricornholidays.com.au

                                                                                       The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef   11
SOUTHERN GREAT BARRIER REEF

                           Heron Island                                                                                          Agnes Water
                            Great Barrier Reef
                                                                                                                                  Beach Club
                                                                                                                            Discover Agnes Water now
                                                                                                                          Nestled in the heart of our natural
                                                                                                                          paradise Agnes Water enjoy your
                                                                                                                          1 or 2 bedroom fully self-contained
                                                                                                                          apartment, including your own private
                                                                                                                          balcony with BBQ, reverse cycle AC,
                                                                                                                          full kitchen facilities and spacious
                                                                                                                          rooms. Indulge in the heated pool or
                                                                                                                          enjoy a casual BBQ with your family
                                                                                                                          and friends amongst the landscaped
                                                                                                                          surrounds. There’s an abundance of
                                                                                          3 Agnes St, AGNES WATER         activities and tours to explore our
                                                                                              1300 731 667                beautiful region.
                                                                                     www.agneswaterbeachclub.com.au

                                                                                                                          Mercure Gladstone
 One of nature’s greatest journeys begins here.                                                                             When only the best will do
 From September to March, Heron Island is the breeding home for hundreds
 of Loggerhead and Green sea turtles.                                                                                     Winner of the Best Accommodation
 These giants of the sea return to lay their eggs, some 30 years after they were                                          and Resort in the 2016 Best in
 hatched, in the exact same spot.                                                                                         Business Awards, the Mercure
                                                                                                                          Gladstone features 60 rooms covered
 To be part of one of nature’s greatest journeys, join us this turtle season.
                                                                                                                          parking and contemporary meeting
 For further information or to book please contact your travel agent, or our                                              facilities. Adjoining the Yaralla Sports
 Heron Island turtle loving team on 1800 837 168 or + 61 2 9538 0755.                                                     Club, a community run organisation,
                                                                                                                          guests have access to two restaurants
                                                                                                                          and bar, plus a fully equipped fitness
                                                                                                                          centre. The Mercure Gladstone also
 1800 837 168 or + 61 2 9538 0755                                                    Cnr Wood and Bell St, BARNEY POINT   provides transfers for guests travelling
 or book direct at:                                                                           07 4979 8200                to Heron Island from the airport to the
 www. heronisland.com/turtle                                                                 www.mercure.com              hotel and to the marina.

                                                Pumpkin Island                                 1770reef                       Sandcastles 1770
                                                    One of Australia’s               Great Barrier Reef Eco Tours              Motel & Resort
                                                    best-kept secrets…                                                      Where the surf meets the reef
                                            This tiny gem – the ultimate ‘get        Spend a day discovering Lady           As you drive down the hill into
                                            away from it all’– offers secluded       Musgrave Island and its unique         Agnes Water, your first glimpse
                                            accommodation for up to 34 guests        lagoon. Day tours depart from          is of the ocean, Sandcastles 1770
                                            in 7 self-catering cottages, powered     the Town of 1770, the closest port     Resort awaits your arrival, whether
                                            by the wind and sun. See dolphins,       to Lady Musgrave Island and the        for an overnight or extended stay.
                                            turtles and whales in season. Fish the   Outer Great Barrier Reef. This         Sandcastles 1770 gives you the
                                            rich waters, snorkel or experience       all-inclusive tour includes boat       enjoyment of beach frontage,
                                            the coral reefs from a glass bottom      transfers, snorkelling, a guided       close proximity to the shops, onsite
                                            kayak or SUP board, harvest your own     island nature walk, glass bottom       restaurant, secure parking and
                                            oysters off the rocks or simply wander   boat viewing and buffet lunch.         access to the Great Barrier Reef.
       Pumpkin Island, YEPPOON              secluded beaches.                        535 Captain Cook Dr, TOWN OF 1770       40 Captain Cook Dr, AGNES WATER
           07 4939 4413                                                                       07 4972 7222                           1800 890 072
      www.pumpkinisland.com.au                                                             www.1770reef.com.au                 www.sandcastles1770.com.au

      Villa Mar Colina
     Breathtaking ocean views

 Surrounded by lush tropical
 gardens, stunning illusion pool and
 set high on Bluff Point in Yeppoon.
 Villa Mar Colina boasts magnificent
 views across Keppel Bay, providing
 unique accommodation on the
 Capricorn Coast.
 150 meters walk to Yeppoon beach,
 CBD, restaurants and shops.

      34-36 Adelaide St, YEPPOON
           07 4939 3177
      www.villamarcolina.com.au

12     The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef
SOUTHERN GREAT BARRIER REEF & THE MACKAY REGION

Share your Southern Great Barrier Reef experiences with our hashtag!

           #southerngreatbarrierreef

                                               The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef   13
MACKAY

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Mackay
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       Sarina

          Mackay

                   Peter Faust                                                          Whitsunday
                      Dam                                                               Island Nat Pk
                   Proserpine                                    Conway
                                                                 Nat Pk
                                                                                                Lindeman                       GREAT
                                                                                                Islands
                                               A1                                                                           BARRIER REEF
                                       Bruce

                                                                                        Brampton Island
                                                         Cape
                      Eungella                      Hillsborough Cape                                             Keswick Island
                      Nat Pk                            Nat Pk   Hillsborough
                                                    H wy
                                                                        20
                                                                                   Dolphin Heads                            Scawfell Island
                    Finch Hatton                                                   19
                                                                                    17 18 Blacks Beach
                   Eungella 21 Mackay Eun
                    Dam                   gella Rd                                  14 15 16 Andergrove
                                                                                                                                                                                                          13

                   Broken River                    Mount                                                Mackay
                                                 Pleasant                                                                                                                                                     Pioneer
          Homevale                                                                                                                                                       12 River                              River
          Nat Pk
                                                                                                2       Hay Point                                                                 St
                                                                                                                                                                              8
                                                                                                    1    Sarina                    Bru

                                                                                                                                                                                                St
                                                                                                                                       ce
                                                  y

                                                                                   Rd                                                                                         11
                                                Hw

                                                                                                                                                                Gordon
                                                                                                                       Beverley              Hw
                                                                                                                                                 y                                             St                       Victoria
                                                                             ina                                       Group                                                                                                              St
                                                                                                                                                         St

                                                                          r
                                                                        Sa                                                                                                                                9
                                                                                                Koumala                                                             Mackay                                                                       10
                                                                                                                                                              Shakespea
                                       s

                                                               s

                                                                                                      Cape                                                               re                                   8
                                      Down

                                                             wn

                                                                                                                                                                                           Sydney
                                                Oxford

                                                                                                                                                                                                                              St
                                                                                         Br

                                                                                                                                                                                                              St
                                                           Do

                                                                                                      Palmerston
                                                                                                                                             y

                                                                                                                                                                    7
                                                                                                                                            Hw
                                                                                           uc
                                                                                             e

                                                                                                                                                     Milton

                eak                                                                                   Nat Pk                       3
                                                                                                                                         e

               P
                                                                                                                                       uc
                                                                                                                                     Br

                                                                                                    A1                                                              Evan                                                              East
                                                                                                                                                                                   Juliet St

                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Goldsmith
                                                                                                                                   4                                                                 St
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     Mackay
                                                                                                         Carmila
                            Fitzroy

                                                              Marlb

  To Clermont                            Dipperu
(& Isaac Region)                         Nat Pk                                                                                                      5                                                                                6
                                                                oroug

                                                                                                        Hw
                                                                     h

                                                                                                                            Long
                                                                                                          y

                                                                                          Clairview
                          De

                                                                                                                            Island
                            ve
                            lop

                                                                      Sarin
                               me

                                               Mack                                      St Lawrence                                                                                  N
                                 nta

                                                                           a

                                                     enzie
                                                                                                                                                                0                     25                          50 km
                                    l

                                                                              Rd

          Dysart                                                                                                                         Shoalwater
                                                             Riv
                                 Rd

                                                                er

         MAP                                                                                                                 MAP
         REF        ADVERTISER NAME                                                      PAGE             TELEPHONE          REF   ADVERTISER NAME                                                             PAGE                  TELEPHONE

          1        Sarina Sugar Shed                                                      16            07 4943 2801          12   Lanai Riverside Apartments                                                     17             07 4957 4401
         2         SeaEagles Beach Resort                                                 17            07 4956 3322          13   BIG4 Mackay Marine Tourist Park                                                16             07 4955 1496
         3         Shamrock Gardens Motel                                                 17            07 4963 2333         14    Reeforest Adventure Tours                                                      17             1800 500 353
         4         White Lace Motor Inn Mackay                                            17            07 4951 4466          15   Elizabeth EII Cruises                                                          17             07 4955 2563
         5         IBIS Mackay                                                            17            07 4898 0000         16    GoWake Cable Park Mackay                                                       16             07 4805 6143
         6         Ocean International Hotel                                              17            07 4957 2044          17   Comfort Resort Blue Pacific                                                    17             07 4954 9090
         7         Shakespeare Motel                                                      17            1800 075 057         18    The Shores Holiday Apartments                                                  16             07 4954 9444
         8         The Oaks                                                               17            136 257              19    Dolphin Heads Resort                                                           17             07 4944 4777
         9         Quest Mackay on Gordon                                                 17            07 4842 1800         20    Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park                                          16             07 4959 0152
         10        Potter’s Oceanside Motel                                               17            1800 188 133          21   Rainforest Scuba                                                               17             0434 455 040
         11        Quest Mackay                                                           17            07 4829 3500

    14        The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef
Keswick Island, The Mackay Region

Nature reserved                                                Dwell on the scenery at Finch Hatton Gorge
                                                               – a wonderful landscape of waterfalls, fresh           Got three days?
                                                               water, lush flora and volcanic boulders. Dial
Escape to a perfect getaway for families,                      it up with a zipline through the canopy or a           Day 1       Sarina to Mackay
couples or singles. Our region serves up                       scuba dive in rainforest waters.                       Before reaching Mackay, visit the Sarina
natural brilliance and fun-filled adventures                                                                          Sugar Shed – Australia’s only miniature
                                                               Reel in a big one. The Mackay Region
with a side of pure relaxation. All against                                                                           sugar mill and distillery. Take a tour and
                                                               offers some of east coast Australia’s best
a backdrop of gorgeous scenery and                                                                                    discover how sugar is grown, milled
                                                               fishing. Cast into local dams for insta-worthy
sunsets. We promise you’ll never tire of our                                                                          and distilled, then taste-test the delish
                                                               barramundi, catch colourful reef fish off
region’s eye-candy. Locals say it gets better                                                                         products produced on-site. Yum! Head
                                                               the islands or dangle a line from a fishing
the longer you look!                                                                                                  on into Mackay and live it up with our
                                                               pontoon in the city centre.
What’s to see on a road trip? Discover                                                                                city’s fine dining and boutique shopping.
                                                               Find your own island paradise on Keswick
national parks, bushwalk to waterfalls and lap
up a beach sunrise alongside wallabies and
                                                               Island, nestled in Great Barrier Reef Marine           Day 2      Mackay to Eungella NP
                                                               Park. A short plane or boat ride and you’re            Road-trip an hour west of Mackay to
kangaroos. Inland, on the coast and in the                     dipping into tropical rainforests, white               Eungella National Park to experience
city centre, see nature come to life in ways                   sandy beaches and a coral reef bursting                Australia’s longest stretch of sub-tropical
that will leave you lost for words.                            with marine life. Swim, snorkel, dive, paddle          rainforest, amazing waterfalls, Finch
                                                               or bushwalk. For overnight, try glamping,              Hatton Gorge and even the chance to
Just the place to …                                            camping or beach house options.                        spot an elusive, billabong-swimming
Go natural. Strap on your boots and hit the                    Beach out for the day at Mackay’s northern             platypus. Wind your way back to the
bushwalking trails of Cape Hillsborough                        beaches, where sun, sand and sensational               coast and spend the evening relaxing at
National Park, a rugged, natural paradise                      ocean views will soothe your soul. Beach-              ultra-scenic Cape Hillsborough.
that’s home to wallabies, kangaroos and killer                 side parks, playgrounds and accommodation
                                                               abound and lunch at Eimeo Hotel promises
                                                                                                                      Day 3    Wake up to an
beach sunrises.                                                                                                       Aussie experience
                                                               a million-dollar view.
Glimpse a platypus. Eungella National Park                                                                            Wake up early to share the sunrise on
is Australia’s longest stretch of sub-tropical                 Dig into local lifestyles. Take the Peak               the beach with wallabies and kangaroos.
rainforest and the world’s most reliable                       Downs Highway inland to the Isaac Region.              Treat yourself to a day exploring
place to spot a platypus. More than 20km of                    Discover our local mining communities –                bushwalking tracks, swimming or fishing,
bushwalking tracks, 860 plant species and                      we’re big on history and hospitality. Get to           then indulge in our local produce at the
abundant wildlife.                                             know us at a race day, rodeo or camp draft.            nearby teahouse.
Sweeten things up at Sarina Sugar Shed, a                      Stroll through history. Discover more of
multi-award-winning agri-tourism attraction                    Mackay’s rich pioneering past with a CBD             Make a splash at Mackay City’s Bluewater
loved by young and old. Learn how sugar                        heritage walk exploring beautifully preserved        Lagoon – all the fun of the beach, in the city.
is grown and processed then taste the                          buildings and art. Guided tours run                  Swim in three tiers of lagoon pools with BBQ
finished products including sauces, liqueurs,                  Wednesdays and Thursdays, May to Sept.               facilities, water playground and public work-
schnapps, fairy floss and (of course) rum.                     Or grab a brochure and go it alone.                  out equipment in the surrounding park.

   www.mackayregion.com             Visit Mackay, Queensland    @visitmackay                                    The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef   15
MACKAY

     Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park
     Home of the wallabies and kangaroos
     A haven nestled in the beautiful Cape Hillsborough National Park, Cape Hillsborough
     Nature Tourist Park is the ultimate destination to seek refuge from the pace of
     everyday living. Situated less than an hour from Mackay and with absolute beach
     frontage, our unique location has it all. Wake up to see kangaroos on their morning
     beach hop at sunrise and keep an eye open for turtle and whale sightings during
     migration season. Enjoy the solitude of peaceful beaches and bays or perhaps try
     your luck at fishing. There are a variety of spectacular scenic walks in the surrounding
     national park, showcasing a wide array of Australian native flora and fauna.
     With self-contained private accommodation, and powered or unpowered sites, this is
     the ideal home base from which to explore Eungella National Park, Sarina, Finch Hatton
     and Keswick Island, all within an hour of this beautiful destination. With a shop, three
     amenity blocks, pool, barbeques, laundry, internet and a TV and reading room –                    51 Risley Pde, CAPE HILLSBOROUGH
     Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park is your perfect home away from home.                                 07 4959 0152
                                                                                                     www.capehillsboroughresort.com.au

                                            BIG4 Mackay Marine                                                                       GoWake Cable Park
                                                Tourist Park                                                                             Mackay
                                                 Family and pet friendly                                                                 Mackay’s own wakepark
                                            Ideally located centrally between                                                        The Cable Park is perfect for beginners
                                            Mackay’s great beaches and the city                                                      wanting to learn how to kneeboard,
                                            centre, we offer a wide range of cabins                                                  ski or wakeboard in a safe, controlled
                                            and sites for all.                                                                       environment. Participants are provided
                                            During our winter season, you may be                                                     with all the equipment required along
                                            lucky enough to join us for our pancake                                                  with comprehensive safety briefing
                                            morning teas, campfire nights, or our                                                    and on dock coaching.
                                            food nights. Make use of our pools,                                                      GoWake boasts 8 rails and jumps
                                            water park, inflatable pillow, mini golf, or                                             which keep even the most talented
                                            even catch a barramundi!                                                                 riders busy learning new tricks and
        265 Harbour Rd, MACKAY                                                              Lot 504 Michigan Way, ANDERGROVE         pushing the limits. With fully licensed
                                            Family friendly, pet friendly and of
           07 4955 1496                     course… our friendly staff to look                          07 4805 6143                 bar, craft coffee and gourmet burgers
          www.mmtp.com.au                   after you.                                            www.gowakemackay.com.au            its the perfect day out.

                                                Sugar Shed Rum                                                                       The Shores Holiday
                                           Liquid gold distinctively distilled                                                          Apartments
                                              for your drinking pleasure                                                              Beachfront accommodation
                                            Bathed in Queensland sunshine and                                                        Looking for somewhere special to
                                            soaked by summer rains, the lush                                                         stay on the beach? Then stay at The
                                            green cane fields of Sarina produce                                                      Shores Holiday Apartments at Blacks
                                            Mother Nature’s sweetest treats of                                                       Beach. A perfect holiday destination
                                            all. Uniquely handcrafted at Sarina                                                      for beach lovers and those wanting to
                                            Sugar Shed, Australia’s only miniature                                                   stay in comfort away from the centre
                                            distillery, our fine beverages and                                                       of Mackay. Offering spacious, fully self-
                                            liqueurs are perfected for your pure                                                     contained apartments with views to
                                            enjoyment.                                                                               the southern Whitsunday islands.
                                            Take the Tour – Taste the Action                                                         A place to enjoy the peace and quiet,
        Railway Square, SARINA              Open 7 days a week.                                 9 Pacific Dv, Blacks Beach, MACKAY   hear birds chirping, and gentle waves
           07 4943 2801                     Tour times: 9.30am 11.00am 12.30pm                         07 4954 9444                  lapping the beach. Nature. Reserved.
     www.sarinasugarshed.com.au             and 2.00pm. Closed Public Holidays.                      www.theshores.com.au

16    The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef
MACKAY

   Comfort Resort                         Dolphin Heads                              Elizabeth EII                                 IBIS Mackay
    Blue Pacific                             Resort                                     Cruises                                      24hr reception
        Beach location                     Full ocean frontage                  Live-aboard charter vessel
Ideally located on the beach at       Dolphin Heads Resort overlooks the       We love the amazing Great Barrier            Queensland Tourism Gold award-
Blacks Beach, Mackay. We are fully    spectacular Southern Whitsundays.        Reef and so will you. Our crew               winning Ibis Mackay has 152
self-contained, studios, one, two     Come relax in our sparkling lagoon       have the expertise to take you to            premium economy rooms. Each
and three bedroom apartments.         pool and heart shaped spa. We take       the most amazing locations on                room has a specially designed ibis
Set in 3 acres of tropical garden.    pride in our exceptional beachside       the Queensland coast, Coral Sea &            Sweet Bed, access to our gym,
Beachfront BBQs, pools, ½ tennis      location. Try our 5-star poolside bar    Great Barrier Reef. Suitable for any         complimentary car parking and
court and games room. If sun, sand    and modern cuisine SALT Café, Bar        type of custom charter, from fishing         Wi-Fi. Our restaurant, Turbarlence, is
and sensational ocean views are       and Restaurant.                          charters to cruises and dive trips or        a proud advocate of local produce
what you crave in a holiday, then                                              spearfishing charters we can tailor a        and we are excited to show what
consider us.                                                                   charter to suit your needs                   the region has to offer!
   26 Bourke St, BLACKS BEACH                6 Beach Rd, MACKAY                 10 Zamia Ct, Andergrove, MACKAY               Christensen Cct, SOUTH MACKAY
        07 4954 9090                           07 4944 4777                                07 4955 2563                             07 4898 0000
  www.bluepacificresort.com.au        www.dolphinheadsresort.com.au                 www.elizabetheii.com.au                       e: h9266-re@accor.com

   Lanai Riverside                          Ocean                                    Potter’s                                    Quest Mackay
    Apartments                        International Hotel                        Oceanside Motel                                  Multi award-winner
   Bluewater Trail location                 Beachside location                         #
                                                                                           1 on TripAdvisor
Whatever the occasion, Lanai          Ocean International is a peaceful        More than you would expect from a            Quest Mackay welcomes you to
Riverside Apartments have a range     and relaxing hotel, ideally positioned   motel. King beds, quality inclusions,        Mackay, a vibrant and thriving
of spacious apartments to suit        on beautiful Illawong beach in           free Wi-Fi, free gym access. Onsite          tropical city located on the Central
your travel needs from overnight      Mackay. Unwind and indulge with          restaurant with hearty cooked                Queensland Coast.
to extended stays. You simply can’t   ocean views, beach walks, pool and       breakfasts and barista-made coffee.          Located in the heart of Mackay’s
beat the location, convenience and    spa. Enjoy a delicious meal and          Number one in Mackay on                      city business district Quest Mackay
comfort plus friendly personalised    great service dining at Galleons,        TripAdvisor. Discover exceptional            features studio, one bedroom and
service. Call now!                    being one of Mackay’s most               service at Potter’s, a short stroll from     two bedroom apartments.
                                      popular restaurants.                     the beach.

        20 River St, MACKAY                  1 Bridge Rd, MACKAY                    2C Gordon St East, MACKAY                     38 Macalister St, MACKAY
        07 4957 4401                          07 4957 2044                                 1800 188 133                              07 4829 3500
  www.lanaiapartments.com.au           www.oceaninternational.com.au           www.pottersoceansidemotel.com.au                 www.questmackay.com.au

    Quest Mackay                       Rainforest Scuba                             Reeforest                                 SeaEagles Beach
     on Gordon                        Dive where the playpus live                Adventure Tours                                  Resort
Best Deluxe Winner 2015 & ‘16                                                  An unforgettable experience                           Salonika Beach
Welcome to Quest Mackay on            Rainforest Scuba world 1st offer         Reeforest Adventure Tours do tours            Situated just a 25 minute drive
Gordon! We pride ourselves on         dives in crystal clear rainforest        to Eungella National Park, Cape               from the Mackay Airport is beautiful
offering our guests a personalised,   waters where platypus live and play.     Hillsborough, Farleigh Sugar Mill,            Salonika Beach (between Mackay
relaxed and comfortable               We give you a unique Australian          Paddock to Port which is the only             and Sarina). SeaEagles Beach
accommodation experience.             adventure ideal for everyone. Learn      one of its kind in Australia, 2-hour          Resort on the beach offers 19
Quest Mackay on Gordon features       about the platypus and other             city tour, Australian Wildlife Safari         fully self-contained townhouse
115 studio one, two and three         aquatic animals in the billabong         and a new tour, breakfast with                apartments that can accommodate
bedroom apartments.                   knowing this experience is suitable      kangaroos on the beach.                       up to 5 people. Relax and unwind in
                                      for both divers and non-divers of                                                      our restaurant and bar open 6 days.
                                      all ages.
       27 Gordon St, MACKAY              55 Anzac Pde, FINCH HATTON             PO Box 8373, MT PLEASANT 4740                  149 Rasmussen Ave, HAY POINT
        07 4842 1800                          0434 455 040                                 1800 500 353                               07 4956 3322
www.questmackayongordon.com.au            www.rainforestscuba.com                    www.reeforest.com.au                      www.seaeaglesresort.com.au

Shakespeare Motel                           Shamrock                                       The Oaks                          White Lace Motor
 ‘Great location… Great food’             Gardens Motel                                                                        Inn Mackay
                                      Shamrock Hotel is next door                                                                 Best motel deals &
Centrally located only 1 km from      Featuring 28 air-conditioned, FSC        Oaks Hotels & Resorts is one of                   restaurant discounts
city centre and 300m to MECC and      rooms, each with a queen and             Australia’s largest self-contained,
                                                                                                                            Free Wi-Fi, complimentary light
showgrounds, the Shakespeare          single bed, Austar and free Wi-Fi.       accommodation providers,
                                                                                                                            breakfast bar, cooked breakfasts
Motel with its fantastic restaurant   We offer disabled facilities, pool,      currently incorporating a portfolio
                                                                                                                            Monday-Friday, dinner discounts
and bar, Romeo & Juliets, is the      and of course, right next door is        of 46 properties across Queensland,
                                                                                                                            and Foxtel.
place to stay when visiting Mackay.   the Shamrock Hotel. The Shamrock         New South Wales, Victoria, South
Landscaped gardens and outdoor        Hotel is a multi-purpose destination     Australia and Western Australia as           Great position – just 5-10 minutes
pool make your stay a pleasure.       venue with extensive bar, dining,        well as New Zealand. To Book go to           drive to the airport, train, hospitals
                                      gaming, sports bar and function          www.oakshotels.com.au and enter              and CBD.
                                      facilities for you to enjoy.             GBRDRIVE in the promo code area.
   309 Shakespeare St, MACKAY              48 Donaldson St, MACKAY                                                                  73 Nebo Rd, MACKAY
        1800 075 057                           07 4963 2333                                   13 62 57                               07 4951 4466
 www.shakespearemotel.com.au            www.shamrockmackay.com.au                    www.oakshotels.com.au                        www.whitelace.com.au

                                                                                                        The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef         17
WHITSUNDAYS

                                                                                                                                                                                                                        The Whitsundays

          The Whitsundays

   Guthalungra
                                                       Abbot Point
                        A1       Bru
                                    ce                                                      Queens Bay
                                                                                            Horseshoe Bay                                                                        GREAT
                                                                       Hwy             10
                                                                                          9 Rose Bay                                                                          BARRIER REEF
                                                                                           Bowen      Gloucester Island                                                                                           To Heart Reef
                                                                                               Stone Hydeaway Bay
                                                                                                                                                                                         Hayman Island
                                                                   Rd

                                                                                               Island                                                                    Armit
                                             h    e                                                                              Dingo Beach
 Mt Aberdeen                              ot                                                                                                                             Island
                                       lem
 Nat Pk                           De

                                                                                                                                   Rd
                                                                                                 A1
                                                                                                                                                           Grassy Island         Hook Island
                                                                  k

                                                                                                         Br
                                                                  e

                                                                                                                                Dingo Beach
                                                                                                           uc

                                                                                                                                                               Daydream Whitsunday Islands
                                                              Cre

                                                                                                             e

                                                                                                                 Gregory
                                                                                                                  River                                        Island South            Whitsunday
                                                                                                                                                  Dryander               Molle Island Island
                                                                                                                                                  Nat Pk Airlie Beach
                                                                                                                              Hw
                                                           n

            ter                                                                                                                                                                        Whitehaven
                                                        Menilde

          Pe
                                                                                                                                y

                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Beach
                                                                                                                  ine River
                                                                                      Lake Proserpine & rosperp                                                                Shute Harbour       Whitsunday Island
                                                                                                        P
                                                                                      Peter Faust Dam            rook d
                                                                                                                         R                        Sugarloaf                                        National Park
                                                                                                        Crystalb
                                                                                                                          Rd
            Sanoma                                                                                                 Cree
                                                                                                                        k
                                                                                                                                                                         Conway Nat Pk
                                                                                                                                                                                                          1
                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Hamilton
                                                                                                                               Proserpine                                                                        Island
                                                                                                                     Kelsey

          State Forest                                                                                                                                                     Cedar Creek
                                                                                                                                                                              Falls
Collinsville                                                                                                                                                       Conway Beach            Long Island
                                                                                                                 Pauls
                                                                                        Proserpine               Pocket                                                                                       Linderman
                                                                                        State Forest                                                      Lethebrook                                          Island
                                                                                                                                                    Hwy
                                                                                                                                                e
                                                                                                                                              uc

                                                                                                                                                          Midge Point
                                                                                                                                       Br

                                   5
                                                                  Pioneer                                                                           Bloomsbury
                                                                    Bay
                             4                                                                                                                                                               N
                                       Shu
                             3
                                             te                                                                                                                                     0        25                 50 km
                                                                                      The
                                                       Mai                                  Beacons
                                                           n S
                                                               t

                     ne
                                                                                         Boat Haven                 Cathu
                                                      k

                                                                        6
                   pi
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      2                                                                                                                                                   A1
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                                                  Cr

                                                                             Rd

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                                                           Ha

                                                                                                                                                                             Mount
                                  lie

                                             Airlie Beach                                                                                                                    Ossa
                                 Air

                                                                                        6

                                                                        To Shute Harbour

   MAP                                                                                                                                 MAP
   REF            ADVERTISER NAME                                                        PAGE            TELEPHONE                     REF           ADVERTISER NAME                               PAGE             TELEPHONE

      1           Hamilton Island                                                           06        137 333                                 6      at Hotel Group                                  21          1300 847 244
      2           Waterfront Apartments Shingley Beach Resort                               21        07 4948 8300                            7      Cruise Whitsundays                              20          07 4846 7000
      3           Tall Ship Reef Adventures                                                 21        07 4946 7124                            8      Lady Enid Sailing                               21          0407 483 000
      4           Hemingway’s Abell Point Marina                                            21        07 4946 4277                            9      Rose Bay Resort                                 20          07 4786 9000      Mack
      5           Ocean Rafting                                                             20        07 4946 6848                       10          Queens Beach Tourist Village                    21          07 4785 1313

 18        The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef
Heart Reef, The Whitsundays

A coast fringed by                                    Be charmed by an Aussie town. Experience
                                                      Proserpine’s art deco architecture then                Got three days?
                                                      venture off the main street to discover shops
74 island wonders                                     like Colour Me Crazy, a quirky gift store you
                                                      must see to believe. At nearby Peter Faust
                                                                                                             Day 1     Airlie Beach to Bowen
                                                                                                             Driving from Airlie Beach, you soon
Just beyond resort town Airlie Beach on               Dam, let locals show you how to land a                 reach Conway National Park. Stretch
Queensland’s Whitsunday Coast are the                 barramundi.                                            your legs on a bushwalk, then stop for a
Whitsunday Islands, one of Australia’s most           Go it alone. Discover the charming hamlets             dip at Hydeaway Bay, ahead of feasting
stunning regions.                                     and secluded long, sandy beaches of                    on seafood from the Seafood Co-op and
                                                      Hydeaway Bay and Dingo Beach where                     homemade fudge from Le Sorelle Coffee
From Airlie Beach, make your way to Bowen’s
                                                      there’s often not another soul in sight.               House and Florist in Bowen.
secluded bays in the north, and west through
Proserpine’s cane fields to the rolling hills of      Snorkel straight from the beach at Bowen               Day 2     Bowen to Collinsville
historic Collinsville. You’ll uncover our special     where some of the best fringing reefs and              Take the one-hour drive slowly and
places and hidden gems: lip-smacking food             coral gardens of the Queensland coast lie              savour every sight. Pull-over to grab
trails, character-filled towns and wonderful          just a few metres offshore.                            fresh-plucked produce from roadside
wildlife. Along the coastal drive, verdant                                                                   farmgates and stop for lunch at historic
                                                      Savour local flavours. At the Big Mango,
hinterland rainforests contrast brilliantly with                                                             Bowen River Hotel before checking into
                                                      pay homage to ‘Bowen Mangoes’ and lick
the blue of the Coral Sea.                                                                                   the Pit Pony Tavern in Collinsville.
                                                      your way through a mango ice-cream. Grab
Wind down the windows, pull-over, stay a day          a traveller’s pack of fresh local seafood from
or two. Set your camera to pano and capture           the co-ops at Bowen Marina while checking
                                                                                                             Day 3     Collinsville to Proserpine
every lovely inch of it.                                                                                     Spend the morning exploring Collinsville,
                                                      out the live tanks for the day’s catch.
                                                                                                             snapping Instagram pics with the pit
                                                      Get off the beaten track to explore the true           ponies, before delving into mining
Just the place to …                                   Australian outback town of Collinsville, where         heritage at the Coalface Experience
Take a lofty scenic flight over Great Barrier         farming, mining, and cattle grazing sustain            Museum. On the way back to Airlie
Reef islands, including romantic Heart Reef.          the economy and unspoiled bush soothes                 Beach, fish for barramundi at Lake
There’s no better way to appreciate the               the soul. Visit the Coalface Experience                Proserpine, or enjoy some shopping
reef’s magnitude. End the day: land for a             Museum and Pit Pony Experience,                        in the variety of boutiques Proserpine
champagne picnic on the pure white sands              celebrating Australia’s last working mine              offers.
of Whitehaven Beach.                                  pit ponies. Take a break at Pit Pony Tavern
                                                      and scan for ‘selfie walls’ where you can put        Clamber up Bowen’s Flagstaff Hill for
Chase waterfalls and wildlife. Explore the
                                                      yourself in the picture with ponies.                 panoramic 360-degree views across the
walking trails meandering across Conway
                                                      Trip down memory lane. Explore Bowen’s               bays. During winter months, keep vigil for
National Park. With panoramic views and
                                                      long, lively history as told through our             humpback and minke whales cruising on by.
stunning seasonal waterfalls like Cedar Creek
Falls, it’s one of our best-kept secrets. Feeling     famous murals. Top it off with a visit to            Marvel at movie nostalgia. Scope out
lucky? You might spot an endangered                   Bowen Historical Museum and Bowen River              local locations used in Baz Luhrmann’s
Proserpine Rock Wallaby.                              Hotel for a nostalgic jaunt into the past.           blockbuster film Australia.

   www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au    /WhitsundaysQLD      @whitsundaysqld   # lovewhitsundays           The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef   19
THE WHITSUNDAYS

     Cruise Whitsundays
     Experience the Great Barrier Reef
     and the Whitsundays
     If you truly want to experience the Whitsundays and all its natural beauty, Cruise
     Whitsundays is the region’s largest and most experienced marine operator offering a
     range of day cruises and Island Resort connections.
     Cruise Whitsundays visit Australian icons such as the Great Barrier Reef, Whitehaven
     Beach and islands, and the multi-award winning Reefsleep overnight experience is
     one of Australia’s most unique accommodation venues. ‘Resort Connections’ provide
     services between island resorts and the Whitsunday Coast, and connect the region’s
     airports arrivals and departures.
     Cruise Whitsundays also offer bespoke activities for the conference, incentive and
     weddings market.
                                                                                                               24 The Cove Rd, Port of Airlie, AIRLIE BEACH
     Facebook: Cruise.Whitsunday | Instagram: @CruiseWhitsundays #cruisewhitsundays                                        07 4846 7000
                                                                                                                     www.cruisewhitsundays.com

                         Ocean Rafting                                                                          Rose Bay Resort
                  The ultimate access to Hill Inlet                                               Absolute beachfront – absolutely stunning

 Multi-award-winning Ocean Rafting visits the “Wild Side” of the Whitsunday                 Nestled in a secluded beach away from the rest of the world, Award Winning
 Islands, the uninhabited islands with beautiful natural scenery brimming with              ROSE BAY RESORT offers a perfect getaway to relax and enjoy the peace and
 marine, bird and animal life.                                                              tranquillity.
 We offer two exciting tour options, the Northern Exposure and Southern                     Situated on absolute waterfront with unsurpassed sea and island views over
 Lights. Each day offers three days in one, including an exhilarating ride                  sparkling turquoise waters, you will be totally mesmerised by the proximity of
 to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet, pristine snorkelling reefs and guided                  the ocean.
 Whitsunday Island National Parks walks. Access to beautiful Hill Inlet beach,              With only a few footsteps, you will find yourself on the beach, snorkelling,
 and special snorkel sites at Hook Island and Border Island ensure a memorable              fishing or just relaxing. Studios, one and two bedroom apartments or luxury
 underwater experience. The fleet of six semi rigid inflatable vessels are super            penthouses, whatever your accommodation requirements, Rose Bay Resort
 fast, allowing guests to experience a fun ride, adventure and education                    have it covered.
 amongst the natural beauty of the Whitsundays. 25-32 passengers per vessel.

 Abell Point Marina North, Shingley Dr, AIRLIE BEACH                                        2-4 Pandanus St, BOWEN
 07 4946 6848                                                                               07 4786 9000
 www.oceanrafting.com.au                                                                    www.rosebayresort.com.au

20    The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef
THE WHITSUNDAYS

                               at Hotel Group                                                               Hemingway’s
                              Experience Airlie Beach                                                     Abell Point Marina
                              Whitsundays at its best                                                     Ultimate Whitsunday dining
                          The most exciting and stylish                                                 Experience incredible views over the
                          contemporary collection of hotels                                             award-winning Abell Point Marina as
                          and penthouses in Airlie Beach,                                               you dine on the very best in modern
                          Whitsundays. Offering the very finest                                         Australian cuisine. Our contemporary
                          locations coupled with extraordinary                                          menu can be enjoyed for lunch or
                          hospitality, our properties offer a                                           dinner daily, as you soak up the
                          unique difference for the discerning                                          waterfront atmosphere. With a great
                          traveller.                                                                    selection of fine wines, boutique
                          Our properties offer FREE parking,                                            beers and an extensive cocktail menu,
                          FREE Foxtel movies, FREE Foxtel                                               Hemingway’s is the perfect place to
      AIRLIE BEACH        sports and FREE Wi-Fi to ensure          Abell Point Marina, AIRLIE BEACH     enjoy first-class service, quality cuisine
    1300 847 244          a great value holiday in the                    07 4946 4277                  and the ultimate Whitsunday dining
 www.athotelgroup.com     Whitsundays.                             hemingwaysairliebeach.com.au         experience.

                               Queens Beach                                                                Lady Enid Sailing
                               Tourist Village                                                                    Be our guest,
                              Top of the Whitsundays                                                           not just a passenger
                          Enjoy seven acres of garden                                                   A true sailing experience through
                          surrounds just a short stroll to a                                            the Whitsunday islands on board the
                          beautiful sandy beach, playgrounds,                                           classic Australian Yacht Lady Enid.
                          golf course, tennis courts, lawn                                              Sailing to Whitehaven Beach, a guided
                          bowls, cinemas, hotel, takeaway and                                           walk to Hill Inlet, swimming in the
                          convenience store. We have it all at                                          crystal-clear waters of Whitehaven
                          our finger tips.                                                              Beach and snorkelling pristine
                          Stay in a self-contained ensuite cabin                                        Whitsunday island reefs.
                          or bring your own caravan, camper                                             With small numbers, gourmet meals
                          or camping gear. Relax and refresh in                                         and attentive crew at your service, you
  160 Mt Nutt Rd, BOWEN   or around our crystal clear swimming                                          will want for nothing more.
    07 4785 1313          pool or in the cool of a shady tree.           0407 483 000
 www.qbtvbowen.com.au                                                   www.ladyenid.com.au             Barefoot luxury at its best.

                                                                                                                  Waterfront
                                                                                                                  Apartments
                                                                                                               Shingley Beach Resort
                                                                                                           Closest accommodation to Abell
                                                                                                           Point Marina. Affordable self-
                                                                                                           contained studio, 1, 2 & 3 bedroom
                                                                                                           apartments. Onsite café, massage
                                                                                                           and boutique stores. Relaxing pools
                                                                                                           and surrounds. A favourite for
                                                                                                           bareboat charters – the perfect base
                                                                                                           to explore the Whitsundays.
                                                                                                           Book direct and save.

                                                                                                               115 Shingley Dr, AIRLIE BEACH
                                                                                                                    07 4948 8300
                                                                                                             www.shingleybeachresort.com

                                                                                                                 Tall Ship Reef
                                                                                                                  Adventures
                                                                                                            Derwent Hunter day sailing
                                                                                                           Get involved help sail an Australian
                                                                                                           tall ship to stunning Whitsunday
                                                                                                           reef locations. Multi award-winning
                                                                                                           for Adventure & Ecotourism, come
                                                                                                           and see why.
                                                                                                           Includes courtesy bus transfers,
                                                                                                           snorkelling equipment, morning tea,

Get connected
                                                                                                           afternoon snacks and smorgasbord
                                                                                                           lunch.

www.thewhitsundays.com.au | #lovewhitsundays
                                                                                                            Abell Point Marina, SOUTH VILLAGE
                                                                                                                    07 4946 7124
                                                                                                             www.tallshipadventures.com.au

                                                                                       The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef       21
TOWNSVILLE

                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Townsville

         Townsville North Queensland

                 1
                                                                        Innisfail

                                                                         Mission Beach                                                                                                                                   Cleveland

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                                    t                                                                                                                                                                                        6
                                             Kirrama

                                                                                                                                      Percy
                                                                 Cardwell
                                             Nat Pk                                                                                                       Castle Hill                                              4 5
                                                                        Hinchinbrook
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     3
                                                                 A1     Island Nat Pk
                                                                                                              GR
                                                       River

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                                                                        Ingham         Island                                                                 St
                                                                                                                                                                                     Bound
                                                                                                                                                                                                  ary                  South
                     Greenvale                                                     Palm Island                                                                                                                       Townsville
                                                 Paluma                                     Lodestone
                                                 Nat Pk                     Rollingstone Reef

                                                                                      Magnetic Island
                                                                          Br
                                                                            uc

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                                                                    Bluewater         8
                                                                                                                                                          A
                                                                                                          Townsville Town Common                              R
                                                                                                                                                                  R
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                                                                                                              Townsville                                                   R
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                                              Harvey
                                                                               Rd
                                        ry

                                                                                                                  2
                                                                    Range                         Lake                 Cape Cleveland
                                                                                                  Ross
                                                                                 Mingela
                                                                                 State Forest                                                 Ayr
                                                        Hw                                                  Bowling Green                     Home Hill                                                                   RE
                                                          y
                                                                                                            Bay Nat Pk                                                                            N
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 EF
                                                                                          y
                                                                                                                                 er

                                                                                      Hw                                                                                    0                     25               50 km
                                                                                                                                Riv

                                                                               A6                                                                   Hw
                                                                                                                                                      y
                                                                1
                                                                        Charters           Bu                                                                                                           Bowen
                                                                                              rde
                              ers
                                                                        Towers                    kin
                       Flind

                  A6                                                                                      River                                                                                           A1

                                                                                                                                                                       Proserpine
                                                                                                                           in
                                                                                                                          ek
                                                                                                                       rd
                                                                                                                      Bu

                                                                                                        Dalrymple
Torrens Creek                                                                             River           Lake                                      Collinsville
                                                                               Cape

      MAP                                                                                                                 MAP
      REF       ADVERTISER NAME                                                PAGE             TELEPHONE                 REF     ADVERTISER NAME                                                          PAGE             TELEPHONE

         1      Charters Towers Regional Council                                 24           07 4761 5533                 6      SeaLink                                                                   25            07 4726 0800
         2      Billabong Sanctuary                                              24           07 4778 8344                 7      Beach House Motel                                                         25            07 4721 1333
         3      Grand Hotel & Apartments Townsville                              26           07 4753 2800                 8      Bluewater Caravan Park                                                    26            07 4778 6118
         4      Rambutan Townsville                                              25           07 4771 6915                 9      Hinchinbrook Shire Council                                                25            07 4776 4792
         5      Reef HQ Aquarium                                                 26           07 4750 0800

    22       The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef
Magnetic Island, Townsville North Queensland
Photo by: @barekiwi

Northern magic                                               Immerse yourself in our lifestyle. Sync into
                                                             our relaxed yet energetic vibe at The Strand,            Got three days?
                                                             Townsville’s thriving beach foreshore with
You don’t have to dig deep or go far to                      spectacular views across to Magnetic Island.             Day 1     Explore Townsville
uncover our authentic Aussie way of life.                    With activities, water park and playgrounds,             Get your bearings in our thriving city of
We’re the real deal – an ultra-drivable                      it’s hours of fun for the whole family.                  Townsville with a stroll up Castle Hill to
region you’ll never forget.                                  Get your bearings atop Castle Hill, the                  take in amazing views. Recharge with
Buckle in and explore romantic villages                      giant pink granite monolith standing proud               brekky and ocean views on The Strand.
nestled in the rainforest, discover the magic                in the centre of town. Drive to the top for              Zero in on underwater wonders at Reef
in the Great Barrier Reef, fall in love with                 spectacular 360-degree views or take one of              HQ Great Barrier Reef Aquarium then
                                                             the walking tracks frequented by more than               pop next door to fire the old cannon at
the vastness of the Australian outback,
                                                             2,500 locals each day.                                   Museum of Tropical Queensland.
encounter native wildlife, be intrigued by our
rich history and experience waterfalls that                  Be tempted in paradise. Magnetic by name,                Day 2      Island Hopping
leave you breathless.                                        magnetic by nature. Magnetic Island, in the              Rewind to island time – head across
Townsville North Queensland is just the                      middle of the Great Barrier Reef, lures visitors         to Magnetic Island. Day-hire a topless
place to ignite your wanderlust and liven up                 with wild koalas, stunning hiking trails and             car to go spotting koalas, snorkelling
your sense of adventure!                                     pristine palm-fringed beaches. Townsville’s              the fringing reefs, hand feeding rock
                                                             most accessible island is just a 20-minute               wallabies and putting your feet up at one
                                                             ferry ride away.                                         of our 23 bays and beaches.
Just the place to …
                                                             Find your own Fern Gully. Paluma Range
Explore the reef without getting wet at the                                                                           Day 3       Townsville to Puluma
                                                             National Park is a quaint rainforest village
world’s largest coral reef aquarium, Reef HQ                                                                          Swap islands for waterfalls. Just north
                                                             only 40 minutes north of Townsville. Explore
Great Barrier Reef Aquarium. It’s so close to                                                                         of Townsville find the rainforest village
                                                             heritage-listed wet tropics rainforest and
the real thing, you’ll forget you’re on dry land.                                                                     Paluma and dip into refreshing water
                                                             swim in the waters of Little Crystal Creek.
                                                                                                                      under the stone bridge at Crystal Creek.
Dive or snorkel the Great Barrier Reef. The                  Come face-to-face with native critters at                Head further north to Wallaman Falls
stuff of bucket lists. Day-trip to Lodestone                 Billabong Sanctuary, an interactive wildlife             and be prepared for jaw-dropping sights.
Reef to cruise colourful coral beds or do a                  park midst 11 hectares of wilderness. Let a              At 268m, this sheer drop waterfall is the
diving and camping safari on Pelorus Island.                 keeper help you arm-cradle a koala, cuddle               tallest in the southern hemisphere.
Go deep and experience the SS Yongala                        a wombat, smile at a crocodile or wrap a
wreck – one of the world’s top wreck dives.                  python around your neck.
Turn-up your tropical know-how. Ever                         Take a step back in time. Be charmed by the            Fall in love with a waterfall. Located in the
wanted to fire a cannon, get savvy about                     town of Charters Towers, just an hour and              Girringun National Park, the Wallaman Falls
life aboard an old sailing ship or learn more                a half west of Townsville. Driving through             are a sight to behold! We promise you’ll be
about the rainforests and reefs? Add the                     the streets is like a living montage of Aussie         awed by the power of nature and dwarfed
Museum of Tropical Queensland to your                        heritage, with more than 60 buildings of               by the grandeur of Australia’s highest
road-trip itinerary.                                         historical significance to ogle.                       permanent single drop waterfall.

   www.townsvillenorthqueensland.com.au        @visittownsvilleaustralia   @townsvillenorthqueensland   # townsvilleshines
                                                                                                               The Ultimate Guide to Driving The Great Barrier Reef
                                                                                                                             /TownsvilleAus                           23
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