QLD - Fraser Island, Going Local
From Heather Marshall - Going Local on Fraser Island
Hello I'm Heather from Portsmouth
[h_j_marshall@yahoo.com], England and this is my travellers tale.
One of my highlights when travelling the backpacker trail of
the East Coast, was Fraser Island. The most popular way to visit the
island is a 3 day self-drive camping safari, organised by one of the
hostels in Hervey Bay. They provide the camping equipment, the 4WD, a
suggested itinerary and a shopping list.
I have to admit that I was a little sceptical about being
marooned on an island with 8 strangers. I had visions of arguments over
who was driving and the usual drunken behaviour associated with
backpackers away from home for the first time. But at least on this
island there were no film crews and we couldn't vote anyone off.
The day before departure, I met my fellow comrades and my
fears subsided. "Yeah, I was worried I was going to be put with a bunch
of 18 year olds who would only be interested in getting drunk," said
Dave, 29 from England, our designated driver. I soon realised that
everyone was a little anxious about who was in their
group and whether we would all get on. As we all got chatting over a
few beers, it seemed that we all just wanted to have a good time
exploring the island. I couldn't wait to get there.
Our first challenge, after reaching the island was to figure
out what to do when the 4WD gets stuck. After driving along 75 mile
beach with no problems, as soon as we drove off the beach to go inland,
we hit some very deep sand. As we all got out to survey the damage,
another 4WD came racing along behind us and ended up in the same
situation. For some of us it was a chance to stop and chat to the other
group about their plans for the next couple of days. As we watched the
guys trying to show off their rally driving skills, the 4WD eventually
grinded its way along the track, spitting sand as it went.
We decided to set up camp on the edge of a campsite, just
past Indian Head. We were all excited about waking up on a deserted
beach. That evening after a successful barbecue, we got chatting to
some of the locals. In true Aussie fashion they joined us for a beer
around the campfire. I was fascinated to know what it was like to live
on such a beautiful island. We met a couple with 2 teenage children,
who have lived on the island for the last 5 years. "We just love it
here, but I hate doing the shopping. It can take all day to go to the
supermarket because you have to drive to the mainland." You also have
to check the tide times as the only route to the ferry is along the
beach. There's also no school so the children have lessons at the
famous "school of the air". Its not just kids living in the outback
that use the service.
Fraser Island really is a remarkable place. There's lots to
see on the world's largest sand island including stunning beaches,
rainforests and clear freshwater lakes. But watch out for the dingos.
Whether you visit the island on a self-drive trip, an organised tour or
rent your own 4WD, it's a fantastic way to spend a few days.
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