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Embark on an unforgettable 4WD adventure around Bribie Island, exploring its scenic landscapes and rich history. This guide takes you on an anti-clockwise journey, starting and finishing at the Bribie Island Visitor Information Centre.
Start - Bribie Island Visitor Information Centre
Begin your journey at the Visitor Centre. Head east, turning right at the first roundabout and then left at First Avenue. Drive 6.0 km to the end of First Avenue at Woorim. Turn left onto North Street, travelling for 1.9 km before reaching the Beach Access Car Park. Here, deflate your tyres to around 20-25 psi (or as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer), engage low range or lock your hubs. Take a moment to visit the WWII bunker, which served as a signals post for Fort Bribie.
8 km - Ocean Beach Access
Once you reach the Ocean Beach Access Track, drive for 2 km along the rough track to reach the beach. Be prepared for deep sand and ridges—proceed carefully. Speed limit: 30 km/h.
10 km - Freshwater Creek
Named after the Freshwater family, this creek's lagoons are often brackish or salty, despite the name. Ideal for swimming, though caution is advised.
12 km - Norfolk Creek
A picturesque swimming spot, Norfolk Creek is a highlight for families. It’s one of the island’s most beautiful features.
15.2 km - Mermaid (Third) Lagoon
A popular swimming spot, but be cautious if the lagoons have breached into the sea, as the driving conditions could be hazardous. Always exercise care when driving through water.
19.3 km - Welsby (Fourth) Lagoon
Proceed north for 8.9 km to reach the Ocean Beach Camping Area, offering 64 campsites. Most sites are without toilet facilities, but campfires are allowed in the provided fire rings.
29.5 km - Fort Bribie Day Use Area
A great spot for a picnic. The deep sand in the parking area might present challenges for some vehicles. From the information shelter, two surfaced tracks lead up the dune towards Fort Bribie, a 5 km return walk. The toilet facilities here are wheelchair accessible, though the walk to the fort itself is not.
30.7 km - Southern Searchlight
View the two 36-inch searchlights that once assisted Fort Bribie’s cannons.
31.3 km - No. 1 Gun
The 6-inch Mk X1 cannon, weighing 36 tonnes, was once part of Fort Bribie’s defences. These guns were never used in combat but were a key component of the “Brisbane Line” defence system during WWII.
31.5 km - No. 2 Gun
Another impressive cannon from Fort Bribie. Please note that both guns are in disrepair and should not be entered or climbed on.
31.8 km - Mine Control Bunker
Exercise caution in this area as the bunker is teetering on the edge of a sand dune. Maintain a safe distance.
32.2 km - Northern Searchlight
Beyond this point, vehicles are prohibited. Turn around and head south along the beach for 2.8 km to the Northern Track Access. Remember to stay left of oncoming vehicles and use hand signals as you would on the road.
34.9 km - Northern Track Access
Proceed west past the Fort Bribie Day Use Area, where the track becomes more scenic. Enjoy the dense paperbark forest, followed by eucalypt forests with tall, ancient trees.
36.7 km - Lighthouse Reach Day Use Area
Travel 5 km further to a short path leading to the site of the lighthouse that once guided ships through Pumicestone Passage. All that remains is the concrete base, but it’s an excellent spot to stretch your legs. The day-use area has basic amenities, though no toilets.
42.7 km - Top Swamp Crossing
A rather uneventful stretch, with old plantation activity on both sides of the track. The scenery can appear quite desolate, but it’s an important part of the island’s natural history.
43.0 km - Westaway Lagoon
This section of track, leading to the Poverty Creek turn-off, is heavily trafficked, often deeply rutted, and can feature deep sand. Be vigilant to avoid getting bogged.
53.1 km - Poverty Creek Camping Area
This campground allows campfires in the provided fire rings, making it a great place to stop for a rest.
62.8 km - Gallagher Point Camping Area
A small, quiet area just north of White Patch, perfect for a break before continuing your journey.
66.6 km - Bribie Island Visitor Information Centre.
From Gallagher Point, continue on Gallaghers Rd and you will eventually turn left onto White Patch Esplanade, turn right onto Endeavour Drive for 1 km. Turn left and proceed along Sunderland Drive for 3.8 km, bringing you back to the Bribie Island Visitor Information Centre.
Total Distance: 74 km
This trek can also be done in the clockwise direction, depending on the tide.
Important Notes:
Important Reminder: Reinflate your tyres to road pressures once your adventure is over!
Discover the hidden gems and sun-soaked adventures waiting for you in Moreton Bay. Just up the road from Brisbane, our region is where the coast meets hinterland adventure, and the laid-back Queensland lifestyle takes centre stage.
