North Stradbroke Island 4WD Safari

Highlights

• Small group 4WD safari on beaches & bush tracks
• Explore subtropical North Stradbroke Island
• Look out for koalas, kangaroos & marine life
• Aussie BBQ lunch on the beach

Description

Glorious sub-tropical Stradbroke Island – which is only 30km South East of Brisbane – is the second largest sand island in the world, after Fraser Island. Measuring 35km long and 15km at its widest, 'Straddie' is a heavenly oasis of golden surfing and swimming beaches, rock pools, and more than a hundred crystalline freshwater lakes.

There are three small townships on the island, nestled amid rocky outcrops, native bush and wetlands. Picturesque gorges and 200-metre sand dunes complete the picture of natural wilderness. Groves of eucalypts and areas of rain forest are home to a vast array of flora and fauna – much of which are endangered, threatened, rare, and vulnerable. With similar topography to Fraser Island, this is the ideal place for a 4WD adventure.

You will ferry across from Moreton Bay to begin your safari, flying along bush tracks, across sand dunes and along Straddie's long stretches of pristine beaches. Go fishing and swimming and observe the playful dolphins frolicking in the surf, with sea turtles and manta rays. During the migratory season, you will witness large pods of majestic humpback whales swimming past.

Minjerriba – or 'The Giant in the Sun' – is what local Indigenous people call North Stradbroke Island; a fitting name for a place with so much history. Learn of the Quandamooka people, the traditional owners of Minjerriba and Myora Springs – their sacred gathering site. Discover the unique Eighteen Mile Swamp – a coastal, freshwater wetland and habitat of numerous endangered species – and of the unique migration of the parabolic sand dunes, which are estimated to be upward of 300 000 years old.

Enjoy ancient lagoons and their amazing array of migratory wading birds and learn of the sand mining companies; whose presence on the island since the 1950's has had significant impact on the land's ecosystem.

You will enjoy morning and afternoon tea with cakes and biscuits, as well as a truly Aussie BBQ lunch on the beach with beer and wine. Marvel as a fascinating Aboriginal artefact presentation opens you up to a world of ancient lore. Departures are from your Gold Coast or Brisbane accommodation at approximately 7am, to ensure you have a full day of fun and adventure before returning at 5pm.

Trip Includes

• Return transfers from Gold Coast & Brisbane (and anywhere in between)
• Ferry across Moreton Bay to North Stradbroke Island
• 4WD Safari on bush tracks, sand dunes & beach driving
• Beach fishing & swimming
• Observe natural fauna & flora
• Observe marine life such as dolphins, sea turtles, manta rays & humpback whales (in season)
• Aboriginal artefact presentation
• Morning & afternoon tea with cakes & biscuits
• Aussie BBQ lunch with beer & wine on the beach

Duration

• Allow a full day

Departures

• 7am (return by 5pm)
• Complimentary transfers from your Gold Coast or Brisbane accommodation. You can also be picked up from anywhere between Gold Coast, Brisbane and North Stradbroke Island.
• Operates daily all year

Other Information

• Child rates apply (4-14yrs). Tour not suitable for those under 6 months old
• Wear comfortable clothes, bring towel & swimming costumes
• Maximum of 25 guests per safari