Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Do we need a four-wheel drive to go to Fraser Island?

Yes. Fraser Island is four-wheel drive access only, there are no sealed roads only rough sand tracks that require high clearance vehicles to access. The main highway on Fraser Island is the eastern beach (75 Mile Beach), driving on the beach also requires a four-wheel drive.

Why are there only certain times we can drive along the beach?

Driving on the beach is dictated by the movement of the tides, tides change by about 1/2 hour to 1 hour every day. Put quite simply, the beach becomes impassable at high tide. People who drive on the beach at high tide are at a high risk of submerging the vehicle if a wave comes up higher than expected. They are also forced to cross salt water frequently causing damage to the vehicle and often they will be driving through very soft sand. Do not stress about this, we factor the tides into all pick up and drop off times and we will always help you come up with an itinerary to work around these tides and not have your experience on the Island hindered by them.

How long should we go to Fraser Island for?

In an ideal world we recommend 3 days on Fraser Island, this allows you to experience the main highlights at a relaxing pace without rushing. However we understand that many people have time restrictions while travelling and you can fit in most highlights in a two day trip. One day is possible, but we recommend contacting us first to see what the tides are doing to maximize your time on the island.

Can we leave our personal car with you while we are on the island?

Yes, we provide free CCTV monitored parking for the duration of your vehicle hire.

How long does the barge across to Fraser Island take?

From our office it is about a 25 minute drive to Inskip Point where you line up and take the barge. The barge itself is only a 5 – 10 minute ride and drops you off at Hook Point (the most southern end of the island)

How frequently do the barges go?

The barge operates from 6am – 5pm every day and they run every 30 minutes roughly.

Do I need to pre-book my barge?

No. The barge is a first come, first serve basis. When you come to collect your car we will help you fill out the necessary paperwork to go get your barge ticket next door. Or you can even just buy a ticket when you are on the barge (with card or eftpos)

What do we do if we get stuck?

We will provide you with a Beach Driving Tuition before your departure where we show you getting the vehicle stuck and show you the correct way of getting yourself out.

What do we do if we break down?

One of the benefits of hiring with our company is that we have a full time mechanic and a spare vehicle based on Fraser Island 24/7 as we also own Fraser Island Towing ? If you have any troubles with your vehicle you should call our 24/7 emergency number and we will come help you.

Do we need extra fuel while we are on the island?

Our vehicles have 2 fuel tanks; this gives you a combined total capacity of roughly 145 litres of fuel. Generally this is enough to get through a 3-day hire without needing to top up. However, you will have access to 4 fuel stations on Fraser Island if need be, they are all marked on your map (Eurong, Happy Valley, Cathedral Beach and Kingfisher bay).

Is there mobile reception on the island?

If you have a phone on the Telstra network you will occasionally receive some service however it is rather intermittent. Both Eurong and Happy Valley have Telstra tours so you will receive 3G signal there. If you are with any other network provider, you will not receive any service from around Dilli Village onwards unless you are on the western side of the island near Kingfisher Bay.

Is there any free camping on Fraser Island?

Unfortunately, there is no free camping on Fraser Island, camping fees in any of the national parks camping areas are $6.55 per person per night. If you are wanting to stay in a privately-owned camping area the prices are higher. If you have a question about where to booking camping please do not hesitate to ask us otherwise please find more information here : https://rainbowbeach4x4hire.com.au/camping-on-fraser-island/

Are there toilets and showers at all the camping areas?

Dundaburra & Central station: both are Dingo Fenced, and have toilets and showers

Lake Boomanjin: Is fenced and has toilets

Are the showers free?

No, you will need gold coins to operate the showers.

Are there shops where we can buy food on Fraser Island?

There are stores in Eurong, Happy Valley, Cathedral Beach and Kingfisher Bay, however the prices are usually marked up quite considerably in comparison to the main land. Many of the resorts also have restaurant facilities as well. It is recommended that you purchase whatever you may need before heading over to the island. If you have forgotten something you will still have the option of buying it on the island.

What are the best places to visit on Fraser Island?

The main attractions on Fraser Island are:

Lake McKenzie
Lake Birrabeen
Lake Boomanjin
Central Station
Lake Wabby
Kirrar Sandblow
Eli Creek
The Maheno Shipwreck
The Pinnacles
Lake Allom
Woralie Creek (Western Beach)
Lake Garawongera
Indian Head
Champagne Pools

What are the accommodation options on Fraser Island?

There are a number of accommodation options on Fraser Island, however, just be aware that some of them can only be accessed during the low tide period as they do not have access to any inland tracks.

Kingfisher Bay Resort: ‎ Choice of Self-Contained Villas & Resort Rooms. www.kingfisherbay.com/resort

Fraser Island Beach Houses: (Two night minimum) self-contained houses. https://www.fraserislandbeachhouses.com.au

Eurong Beach Resort: Offers restaurant facilities (overnight accommodation available off peak). https://www.eurong.com.au/

Sailfish: offers restaurant facilities (overnight accommodation available off peak). Located in Happy Valley www.sailfishonfraser.com.au/

Fraser Island Retreat: Located in Happy Valley. www.fraserislandretreatqld.com.au/

Cathedrals On Fraser: Enclosed private camping https://www.cathedralsonfraser.com.au/

Dilli Village: Cabins, bunkhouses, camping sites (no camping permit required if staying in Dilli Village)

http://www.usc.edu.au/learn/theuscexperience/uscspaces/fraserislandresearchandlearningcentre/accommodationbookingandfacilities

What do we do if we see a Dingo?

Do not try to interact with the animal, while they are quite used to the presence of humans on the island, they are still wild animals and have been known to be aggressive at times. If you see a Dingo just stand back and take some photos. Never feed the Dingoes. Always walk in groups while on Fraser Island and if need be carry a stick with you to make yourself look more intimidating. Always dispose of rubbish in the designated Dingo fenced areas and keep it locked up in the vehicle until you are able to dispose of it. Keep Eskys or other food stores in your vehicle as well, Dingoes are known to raid camps and Eskys if not kept in the vehicle. Do not leave food scraps lying around, always bury them deep in the sand so as not to invite Dingoes to your camping area. If you are attacked by a Dingo, stand your ground and fight back aggressively to discourage the animal. Never run when dingoes are present, running can cause a negative Dingo interaction and they are likely to chase you.

Can we swim in the ocean on Fraser Island?

It is not advisable to swim in the ocean on Fraser Island, the beach is unpatrolled and there are many strong rips and currents that can pull you out to sea. There is also a massive population of large sharks off Fraser Island along with various species of jellyfish. In the warmer months of the year there is also the possibility of Marine Stingers (Box Jellyfish) and Irukandji Jellyfish in the waters off Fraser Island.

Is there crocodiles on Fraser Island?

Occasionally there are sightings of Salt Water Crocodiles on the western side of the island and throughout the Great Sandy Straights. However, it is quite rare to see them this far south. They generally inhabit areas North of Bundaberg. But this does not mean that you should become complacent, as they can still be around.

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Frequently Asked Questions