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Moreton Island National Park and Recreation Area

  • Nature, culture and history
  • Park alerts and park summary

    Getting there and getting around

    Cape Moreton lighthouse and headland. Photo: EPA.
    Cape Moreton lighthouse. Photo: EPA.

    Moreton Island is 40km offshore from Brisbane. The island can be reached by barge or boat. Barges for vehicles and passengers run daily. If you are not taking a vehicle, choose your island destination point and book the barge from the corresponding departure point. Extra services operate in school holidays and at long weekends. Bookings are essential. See the further information links below for details.

    Private boat access

    Moreton Island is in exposed waters. Large seas can be experienced between Moreton Island and the mainland. Consider your experience and the suitability of your vessel, and take into account currents and predicted weather and sea conditions when planning your trip. No public moorings are available at Moreton Island. Weather forecasts are available from the Bureau of Meteorology.

    Vessels, anchors and ropes should not restrict the safe thoroughfare of four-wheel-drives or pedestrians between the high and low water mark on Moreton Island beaches.

    Four-wheel-drive access

    Four-wheel-drive vehicles are essential for driving on the island. All vehicles must be registered and have a valid Moreton Island Recreation Area vehicle access permit and fees apply.

    Wind-powered vehicles are not permitted on the island.

    Please read Driving safely before you drive on Moreton Island. This section also lists driving times between major features on the island.

    Wheelchair accessibility

    There are no areas accessible by wheelchair in the Moreton Island National Park or Recreation Area.

    Park features

    Moreton Island features crystal clear creeks and lagoons, coastal heath, rocky headlands, abundant wildflowers, tall sand dunes, an historic lighthouse, ruins of coastal forts and miles of sandy beaches.

    Most of Moreton Island is both national park and recreation area, which covers the national park and beaches to low water mark. Tidal wetlands and waters around the island are protected as part of Moreton Bay Marine Park.

    The sheltered bay waters are home to various marine animals. Dugong feed on its seagrass communities while migratory and resident shorebirds feed and roost on the island's beaches. Humpback whales can be seen from Cape Moreton during their migration from June to November.

    Indigenous cultural heritage includes shell middens that are evidence of thousands of years of Aboriginal occupation. Ruins of coastal defence bases from World War II are a reminder of Australia's involvement in world conflict.

    Camping and accommodation

    Camping

    Moreton Island provides a variety of coastal camping experiences, some accessible by four-wheel-drive, others accessible by boat or close to barge landing points. You will need a vehicle access permit to drive on Moreton Island. Preferably bring a fuel stove. Open fires are not permitted at North Point campground. Bring your own firewood, as it is illegal to collect firewood on the island.

    Large groups staying away from facilities should bring a portable toilet. Chemical or treated waste from portable toilets must be removed from the island. It is an offence under the Recreation Areas Management Act 2006 to bury, dispose of, or leave a noxious, offensive or harmful substance, such as portable toilet waste. Do not pour your portable toilet waste into any toilets on the island, as it destroys the bacteria in the composting systems used by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

    You will need a camping permit to camp in the national park or recreation area. All camping permits must be obtained before you arrive on the island (there is no self-registration on site). Fees apply. Camping is permitted at a number of sites behind the foredunes. Protect the dunes by using existing campsites and access tracks.

    Nearby accommodation

    There is a range of holiday accommodation on Moreton Island. For more information see the tourism information links below.

    Things to do

    Walking

    There are many walking tracks on the island, ranging from short easy strolls to half-day hikes. Walking is one of the best ways to appreciate the island's features and discover some of the various wildlife habitats. Take care when walking over sandblows or up steep sections of tracks, particularly on hot days.

    Take care of yourself — carry a map, compass, food, drinking water and first-aid kit. Wear protective clothing, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and insect repellent.

    Blue Lagoon — 500m return (Allow 20 minutes) Grade: Easy

    The track winds through heathland to the dune sandblow on the lake. Blue Lagoon is a window lake, created where the watertable is exposed at the land surface. Access to Blue Lagoon is from the ocean beach, north of the Bulwer-Blue Lagoon track. Toilets are located before you reach the carpark.

    Honeyeater Lake — 60m return (Allow 5 minutes) Grade: Easy

    Enjoy a short stroll to a viewing platform looking over this perched lake — created when water collects in a depression with a solid bottom which prevents rainwater filtering down to the watertable. Honeyeater Lake, a good place to see a variety of waterbirds, is surrounded by the sounds of the honeyeaters feeding on banksia flowers. Musk ducks are occasional visitors and are sometimes seen on the lake. You can view the lake from a platform located near the carpark.

    Cape Moreton — 1.5km return (Allow 1 hour) Grade: Moderate

    See Queensland's first lighthouse, built in 1857 of island sandstone. Access into the lighthouse, the grounds and the lighthouse keeper's wife's grave is not permitted, however Cape Moreton is a good viewing point for watching marine life. See whales (June — November), dolphins, sharks and turtles as well as magnificent island scenery. The walk up the hill can be very hot in summer.

    The Desert — 4km circuit (Allow 2 hours) Grade: Moderate

    Walk along a track from the western beach south of the resort, over a large sand dune, and watch for wildlife that lives in this harsh environment. This walk has many steps and a moderate level of fitness is required.

    Five Hills lookout — 1km return (Allow 30 minutes) Grade: Moderate

    From North Point Road the track heads up through low heathland to the top of a large sand dune. Do this walk in the cooler part of the day. You'll be rewarded with views of Heath Island, the Five Hills area and some of the island's coastal swamps.

    Mount Tempest lookout — 2.5km return (Allow 2 hours) Grade: Difficult

    Walk up Mount Tempest — the highest sand dune on the island, 280m in elevation. Expect many steps. Seats are provided along the way and at the lookout. After your steep climb, be rewarded with 360-degree views of the island, Moreton Bay Marine Park and, on a clear day, the Glass House Mountains. Read about Moreton Island's indigenous people — the Dolphin clans. This walk is best done in the cooler part of the day or in winter. Take plenty of water.

    Telegraph Road — 16km return (Allow 6 hours) Grade: Difficult

    Discover interesting habitats and relics of the old telegraph line. The track goes through several vegetation types including heathland and eucalypt woodland. Look out for the perched swamp found on top of the dune ridge. In spring, the track is lined with heathland flowers. This long track is best walked in winter and spring, or in the early morning during summer. A one-way walk option is to arrange to be dropped off at the end of the Bulwer-Blue Lagoon Road and walk through to Mount Tempest, meeting your lift at the Mount Tempest carpark.

    Rous Battery track — 9.8km one-way (Allow 3.5 hours each way) Grade: Moderate

    See the remnants of a World War II fort scattered around the dunes. The walk follows the old Rous Battery service road. This is the only walk on the southern end of the island. You'll wander through scribbly gum forest and patches of the green, feathery ground plant called foxtails (Caustis blakei). Always carry sufficient drinking water. Bore water is available along the track near the ocean beach but should be treated before use.

    Guided tours and talks

    Commercially operated guided tours are available; see the tourism information links for more information.

    Boating and fishing

    Moreton Island is surrounded by Moreton Bay Marine Park, a multiple use marine protected area, which protects the high natural, cultural, recreational and amenity values of the bay. Two conservation zones adjacent to Moreton Island add greater protection to sensitive areas.

    North Moreton Island conservation zone includes Heath Island Lagoon which provides a critical high tide roost site for shorebirds and supports a high density of soldier crabs.

    Peel Island-South Passage conservation zone includes extensive seagrass beds which provide significant habitat for turtles, dugong and benthic invertebrates. The zone also contains shallow sandbanks, which are exposed at low tide and provide significant low tide feeding sites and high tide roost sites for shorebirds.

    In these conservation zones, jet skis and similar motorised personal watercraft are only permitted within navigation channels. No trawling is permitted. See the Moreton Bay Marine Park map for boundaries.

    Tailor, flathead, dart, bream and whiting are often caught on the beaches and headlands. Reef and surface-feeding fish are caught offshore. Crabs are seasonal. Bag limits and size limits apply to some species. For more information about recreational fishing rules and regulations see the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries.

    Spearfishing is prohibited within the waters of the artificial reef area off Moreton Island. Approximate reef boundaries extend from Tangalooma Point to Comboyuro Point, with a 700m offshore boundary out from the beach. For more information see the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries.

    Viewing wildlife

    Moreton Island provides great opportunities to view wildlife. Over 180 species of birds, including seabirds, waders, forest birds and birds of prey, can be seen. Avoid disturbing shorebirds on the beach by giving them a wide berth. Forty species of reptiles have been recorded on the island including blue-tongued lizards, goannas, major skinks, various snakes and marine turtles. Take care not to disturb nesting turtles in summer. Keep clear of any sea snakes washed up onto the beaches, and report them to rangers.

    The island has a rich array of plant communities from stunted heathlands to open eucalypt forests. Freshwater lakes, creeks and swamps provide havens for frogs and native fish. For panoramic views of the island's plant life and Moreton Bay take a walk up Mount Tempest. Cape Moreton is a good viewpoint for watching marine life such as whales (from June to November), dolphins, sharks and turtles.

    Snorkelling and diving

    The waters around Moreton Island provide a chance to explore some marine life, with a number of well-known snorkelling and scuba diving sites. Tangalooma Wrecks and Flinders Reef provide good snorkelling and diving. Curtin artificial reef is also popular with divers. Strong rips and currents are often present; check local site information when planning your trip. Always take care in the water and never swim, snorkel or dive alone. There are no patrolled beaches and no measures to protect swimmers from sharks around Moreton Island.

    Things to know before you go

    Essentials to bring

    First-aid kit and prescription medicines

    There is no pharmacy or resident doctor on the island. Bring adequate supplies of any prescription drugs you need and a well-equipped first-aid kit. It's always wise to have at least one person with a current first-aid certificate in your group.

    Drinking water

    Bring your own water and containers. Drinking water can be collected from the Big Sandhills on the western beach, Rous Battery on the eastern beach, the road to North Point and all established campgrounds. Always treat water before drinking. Pack water treatment tablets or boil water for at least 10 minutes.

    Fuel stoves

    Bring a fuel stove and firewood. Open fires are not permitted at North Point campground. Test your fuel stoves before leaving on your trip. Never use them in confined spaces such as tents.

    Vehicle Fuel

    There is no fuel for purchase on Moreton Island. Visitors will need to ensure they carry adequate supplies from Brisbane for the duration of their trip.

    Extra hints


    Opening hours

    The park is open 24 hours a day. The opening hours of the EPA Moreton Island office and Cape Moreton Information Centre are variable and dependent upon conditions in the park.

    Permits and fees

    Vehicle permits

    A vehicle access permit must be purchased and displayed on your vehicle windscreen before driving on the island. Fees apply.

    Monthly and yearly permits are available and must be attached to the left side of the vehicle's windscreen. If the vehicle does not have a windscreen the permit must be displayed in another prominent position.

    Camping permits

    All campgrounds and camping zones within the national park and recreation area require a camping permit, which must be obtained before you arrive on the island (there is no self-registration on site). Fees apply. A tag with your booking number must be displayed at your campsite.

    Permit refunds

    Refunds are granted only if requested before the permit commences or in extenuating circumstances. Notify the Senior Ranger at the EPA Cleveland office in writing and include any unused permits.

    Pets

    Domestic animals are not permitted in the national park or recreation area.

    Climate and weather

    Moreton Island has a mild, subtropical climate. The average daily temperature range is 22-30 degrees Celsius in summer and 12-22 degrees Celsius in winter. For more information see the tourism information links below.

    Fuel and supplies

    There is no fuel available on the island. General supplies are available at several locations on Moreton Island.

    Bulwer township

    Not all shops are open every day. Most stores in Bulwer are closed on Tuesdays outside holidays.

    Kooringal township

    Kooringal store is closed on Mondays outside holidays. Open all other days.

    Tangalooma Resort

    Staying safe

    Read all information

    Many safety and regulatory signs warn visitors of dangers, rules and regulations and ways to help conserve Moreton Island's special features. Walking track entrances, campgrounds and day-use areas have information and orientation signs including site-specific interpretive materials. For your safety, please read and heed signs.

    Walking safely

    Pig safety

    Feral pigs may carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans. They may become aggressive if their young are threatened. Feral pigs digging for food damage natural ecosystems. Moreton Island rangers are undertaking a feral animal management program focussing on feral pigs.

    Please tell the rangers about any feral pigs you see around the island. In particular, note the location, time of day and number of pigs.

    Ensure your campsite is pig safe

    Pigs learn to scavenge for food. They easily find and scatter rubbish and eat anything including bread and biscuits. Do not encourage them into campsites.

    Make sure you:

    Water safety

    People have suffered serious injuries in water-related accidents. There are no patrolled swimming areas on Moreton Island. Avoid tragedy.

    Driving safely

    Beach safety zones have been implemented at key locations.

    Beach closure areas and other zones

    Hazard areas

    Drive only when you are safe

    Before heading off

    Load your vehicle correctly

    Keep below the speed limit

    Obey all road rules

    Give way to

    When sand driving

    Watch the tides!

    Tide variations:

    Travelling times

    Cape Moreton to:

     

    Bulwer via North Point

    45 minutes

    Bulwer via Blue Lagoon Road

    55 minutes

    Little Sandhills via ocean beach

    50 minutes

    Tangalooma via Middle Road

    50 minutes


    Tangalooma to:

     

    Bulwer via Cowan Cowan

    35 minutes

    Kooringal via Toulkerrie

    55 minutes

    Times will vary depending upon beach and weather conditions and tide height at time of travel. Inland track conditions deteriorate as sand dries out. After rain, track conditions often improve. But when dry, expect a slow bumpy trip!

    In an emergency

    Stay with the injured person — keep them calm and protect them from the elements.

    Looking after the park

    Firewood

    Collecting firewood is prohibited. Bring your own firewood or purchase it at barge departure points or the Bulwer General Store. Chainsaws are prohibited in the national park, but an axe may be brought to split your own wood. Cut kindling from your firewood, do not collect twigs and branches from the bush.

    Gas and fuel stoves

    Use a gas or fuel stove whenever possible. This will allow efficient cooking during poor weather conditions or during fire prohibitions, which can be declared at short notice. Test the stove before leaving home. Never operate it in confined spaces, such as inside tents.

    Rubbish

    There are no bins on the eastern side of the island. Rangers do not collect rubbish from campsites and can issue on-the-spot fines for littering. When planning your trip, pack to minimise rubbish. Rubbish bins are located near The Wrecks campground and Comboyuro Point campground.

    Campsites

    Use existing campsites only and don't clear new ones. Use only existing entry tracks to reach the beach camping areas.

    Generators

    Keep your noise down. Contact the EPA Moreton Island office for information regarding the use of generators on the island.

    Keep it clean

    Soaps, sunscreens, insect repellents, shampoos and bodily wastes pollute the water and harm the wildlife. Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a hat and shirt in the water.

    Feral pests

    Avoid exotic introductions by checking that your camping gear and supplies are not contaminated with soil, cane toads, ants, insects or plant seeds.

    Take care around shorebirds

    Drive slowly and go around flocks of resting shorebirds. Watch out for their unexpected movement.

    See Caring for parks for more information about protecting our environment and heritage in parks.

    Park management

    The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) manages Moreton Island National Park and Recreation Area to conserve its natural and cultural resources. The whole island is national park (other than freehold areas such as townships) and is protected under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 and the Recreation Areas Management Act 2006 to the low water mark.

    Tourism information links

    Brisbane Visitor Information Centre
    Redlands on Moreton Bay Visitor Centre

    For tourism information for all regions in Queensland see www.queenslandholidays.com.au.

    Further information

    EPA information and permit issuing centres

    EPA Customer Service Centre
    • 160 Ann Street, Brisbane
    • PO Box 15155, City East QLD 4002
    • ph 1300 130 372
    • fax (07) 3227 8749
    • email csc@epa.qld.gov.au
    • (Open 8.30am–5pm Monday — Friday, except public holidays and Christmas to New Year)
    Smart Service (for camping and vehicle permits)
    EPA Moreton Island National Park
    EPA Cleveland
    • 127 Russell Street, Cleveland
    • PO Box 402, Cleveland QLD 4163
    • ph (07) 3821 9000
    • fax (07) 3821 9001
    • email cleveland@epa.qld.gov.au
    Cape Moreton Information Centre
    • ph (07) 3408 4652
    Marine animal hotline
    • 1300 130 372 (1300 130 EPA)

    Barges

    Micat
    • From Whyte Island (Brisbane River southside) to Tangalooma Wrecks
    • www.micat.com.au
    • ph (07) 3909 3333
    Kooringal Trader
    • From Stradbroke Island to Kooringal
    • ph 0448 602 218
    Daily passenger launch
    • From Pinkenba (Brisbane River northside) to Tangalooma Resort
    • www.tangalooma.com
    • ph (07) 3268 6333

    Shops

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    Last updated: 20 February 2009