What to See and Do

Lake McKenzie

• Lake McKenzie is one of the most iconic and pristine freshwater lakes on K’gari (Fraser Island). Known for its crystal-clear waters and pure white silica sand, the lake is perched high above sea level, making it a “perched lake”—filled only by rainwater, with no streams or groundwater inflow.

  • Perched Lake Wonder
    Lake McKenzie is a perched lake, meaning it sits above the water table and is filled only by rainwater. It has no streams or groundwater inflow, making its water exceptionally pure.

  • Silica Sand Beaches
    The lake’s shoreline is made of pure white silica sand, which is so fine it can polish jewellery. The sand also acts as a natural filter, contributing to the lake’s clarity.

  • Water Too Pure for Life
    The water is so pure and low in nutrients that very few aquatic species can survive in it—making it a unique ecological environment.

• Cultural Significance
  Known as Boorangoora to the Butchulla people, the lake holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. Visitors are encouraged to respect its heritage and natural beauty.

• No Fishing or Boating Allowed
  To protect its delicate ecosystem, fishing, boating, and pets are not permitted at Lake McKenzie.

• Popular Swimming Spot
  The lake’s clear, calm waters and soft sandy bottom make it one of the most popular swimming spots on Fraser Island.

• Accessible Only by 4WD or Foot
  Lake McKenzie is located inland and can only be reached via 4WD tracks or hiking trails. It’s a highlight on many guided tours of Fraser Island.

• Part of a World Heritage Site
  Fraser Island (K’gari), including Lake McKenzie, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding natural beauty and ecological value.

  Basic facilities: non-flush toilets, parking facilities and fence dining areas.

How to Get There:

To reach Lake Mckenzie is located about 12.5 km inland from Kingfisher Bay Resort on K’gari (Fraser Island), and is only accessible via 4WD due to the sandy terrain.

🚙 By 4WD (Most Common Route)

1. Depart Kingfisher Bay Resort via the inland track.

2. Follow Cornwells Road → Northern Road → Lake McKenzie Road.

3. The drive takes approximately 30–45 minutes, depending on track conditions.

🛑 Important Notes:

• You’ll need a vehicle access permit for Fraser Island.

• Driving conditions can be challenging—soft sand, narrow tracks, and steep sections and 1 way roads.

• Check road conditions and closures before travelling.

🚌 By Guided Tour

If you don’t have a 4WD or prefer a stress-free experience:

• Join a guided 4WD tour from Kingfisher Bay Resort.

• Most tours include Lake McKenzie as a highlight along with other attractions like Central Station, Eli Creek, and the Maheno Shipwreck.

  🚶‍♀️ By Hiking

  Lake McKenzie is also accessible via the K’gari Great Walk:

  • Start from Kingfisher Bay Resort.

  • Approx. 20 km return hike (Grade 4), taking 5–6 hours total.

  • Best suited for experienced hikers with proper gear.

Eli Creek

• Eli Creek is one of the most beloved natural attractions on K’gari (Fraser Island)—and for good reason. Here’s what makes it truly special:

  • Largest Freshwater Creek on the Eastern Beach
    Eli Creek pours up to 4 million litres of crystal-clear water into the ocean every hour, making it the island’s most voluminous freshwater flow.

  • Natural Lazy River Experience
    Its gentle current creates a perfect setting for floating or wading downstream, making it a hit with families and adventurers alike.

  • Boardwalk Through Native Vegetation
    A scenic boardwalk winds through banksia and pandanus trees, offering peaceful views and easy access to the creek’s upper reaches.

  • Cultural Significance
    The creek holds importance for the Butchulla people, the Traditional Owners of K’gari. It’s said to be a site where Aboriginal women once baptized their children.

  • Consistent Water Temperature
    Eli Creek maintains a steady temperature of around 19°C year-round, making it refreshing but not too cold—even in winter.

  • Eco-Sensitive Zone
    Fishing and camping are not permitted at Eli Creek to protect its delicate freshwater ecosystem.

  Eli Creek is a gentle, crystal-clear freshwater stream flowing into the ocean. You can walk along the boardwalk through pandanus and banksia trees. Its perfect for floating with inflatables or wading through cool waters.

  Basic facilities: non-flush toilets and beachside parking.

How to Get There:

To reach Eli Creek from Kingfisher Bay Resort on K’gari (Fraser Island), you’ll need a high-clearance 4WD and a sense of adventure. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

🚙 By 4WD (Most Common Route)

1. Start at Kingfisher Bay Resort, located on the western side of the island.

2. Drive east across the island via inland tracks toward Eurong (approx. 1 hour depending on conditions).

   • This route includes sandy tracks that require low-range 4WD and reduced tyre pressure.

3. Once at Eurong, head north along 75 Mile Beach—this is a designated beach highway.

4. Drive approximately 26 km north to reach Eli Creek, located between the Maheno Shipwreck and Happy Valley.

🛑 Important Notes:

• Only drive 2 hours either side of low tide to avoid getting bogged or stranded.

• A vehicle access permit is required for driving in the K’gari recreation area.

• Check current track and tide conditions before departure.

🚌 By Guided Tour

If you don’t have a 4WD or prefer a stress-free experience:

• Join a guided 4WD tour from Kingfisher Bay Resort.

• Most tours include Eli Creek, Lake McKenzie, Maheno Shipwreck, and more.

Maheno

The Maheno is one of Fraser Island’s most iconic landmarks—its rusting hull a haunting reminder of maritime history, wartime service, and the island’s wild coastline. Here's the story behind it:

🚢 Origins and Luxury Beginnings

• Built in 1905 in Scotland, the SS Maheno was one of the world’s first turbine-driven steamships—a technological marvel of its time.

• She served as a luxury ocean liner between New Zealand and Australia, boasting first-class amenities like a music room with a Bechstein grand piano.

• Maheno could carry up to 420 passengers across three classes and was known for her speed, setting a Tasman Sea record that stood for 25 years.

🏥 Wartime Service

• During World War I, Maheno was converted into a hospital ship by the New Zealand government.

• She was repainted white with green stripes and red crosses, in accordance with the Hague Convention.

• Maheno served at Gallipoli, transporting wounded soldiers from battles like Hill 60 to Malta, and later operated in the English Channel and Western Front.

🌪️ The Wreck on Fraser Island

• In 1935, Maheno was sold for scrap and began her final voyage to Japan, towed by another ship, the Oonah.

• A cyclone struck during the journey, snapping the towline and leaving Maheno adrift with eight crew aboard.

• She eventually washed ashore on Fraser Island’s 75 Mile Beach, where she remains today—a skeletal monument to her storied past.

📍 Today’s Legacy

• The Maheno wreck is a must-see for visitors to K’gari (Fraser Island), offering a dramatic photo opportunity and a tangible link to both luxury travel and wartime sacrifice.

• Though time and tide have eroded much of her structure, fragments of teak decking and portholes still peek through the sand.

How to get There:

1. Start Point: Kingfisher Bay Resort (west coast of Fraser Island)

2. End Point: Maheno Shipwreck (east coast, along 75 Mile Beach)

3. Estimated Drive Time: ~1.5 to 2 hours depending on conditions

🚙 Driving Directions

1. Depart Kingfisher Bay Resort via the inland track toward Eurong.

   • This track is sandy and bumpy—reduce tyre pressure before starting.

   • Drive cautiously and allow ~45 minutes to 1 hour.

2. At Eurong, turn left onto 75 Mile Beach and head north.

   • The Maheno wreck is located about 35 km north of Eurong, roughly a 45-minute beach drive.

   • Drive only two hours either side of low tide to avoid soft sand and rising water.

3. Landmark Tips:

   • You'll pass Eli Creek before reaching the Maheno.

   • The wreck is clearly visible from the beach—no signage needed.

⚠️ Important Notes

• Vehicle Access Permit: Required for all vehicles on K’gari. Get it online via Queensland National Parks.

• Tide Times: Check tide charts before departure. Avoid beach driving near high tide.

• Safety: Carry recovery gear, water, and a first aid kit. Mobile reception may be limited.