Before you get behind the wheel and explore one of the many pristine beaches near Brisbane, or venture off the beaten track to find the perfect camping spot, there are a few things to keep in mind when travelling by 4WD.
The rolling, golden hills of sand dunes are not only beautiful to look at. Along with their vegetation, they play a vital role in the complex island ecosystem.
Here, we talk about why sand dunes are so important, and what you can do to help preserve our amazing beaches.
The vegetated areas on the dunes (consisting of grasses, deep root systems, and flowering shrubs) essentially hold everything together. They are a natural formation that help prevent erosion and provide habitat for local wildlife. Not only that, the dunes and vegetation reduce the impact of wind and water for visitors when camping in otherwise exposed areas.Some people are tempted by the pillowy terrain, thinking it’s safer to drive on the dunes and away from the saltwater. This is not the case. It can be very damaging to the beach landscape. Plus, no one likes a bogged vehicle before the holiday even begins.
So, where should island adventurers drive? The best place to navigate the beaches is on the hard sand, down towards the water. Be smooth with your steering, acceleration, and braking, and also make note of tidal changes.
If you spot some tire tracks leading from the shore up into the soft dunes, this may indicate a camping area is nearby.
When leaving the main beach to enter a campsite, ensure you stick to the tracks and don’t interfere with the surrounding dunes and vegetation. They have a very important job, after all.
Bribie Island National Park offers 4WD enthusiasts a great day out soaking up the sunshine and getting the adrenalin going on the tracks and beach. Driving routes include the 'loop', where you can experience bush and beach views, or stick to some off-road adventures along the shore.
Please note: A vehicle access permit must be purchased and displayed on your vehicle windscreen before driving and/or camping in the national park and recreation area on Bribie Island.
These are just some of the simple things you can do to help create a sustainable future for generations to come – so we can all continue to enjoy camping in the beautiful Moreton Bay Region.
Now, get out there and have some fun!
For the enjoyment of others and the sustainability of our treasured parks and wildlife, we ask that campers respect local ecosystems and tread softly when enjoying the outdoor experiences in the Moreton Bay Region. The ecology of our waterways and bushlands is important.
Video proudly supported by Austrack Campers, Australian Coastal and Marine Ecology (ACME), and Visit Moreton Bay Region. Spoken by Mat Davis of ACME.
Looking for more things to do and see? Pop into one of the region's Accredited Visitor Information Centres. The volunteers have a wealth of local knowledge.
Learn about the history of Moreton Bay region on a FREE tour through Woodford, Redcliffe and Samford guided by our local knowledgeable volunteers from Visitor Information Centres.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or a weekend hacker, Moreton Bay swings with opportunity for golfers of all stripes with championship golf courses, indoor golf simulators, driving ranges and mini golf courses.
While the Moreton Bay region is famous for its stunning marine park and hinterland activities, there’s also a thriving retail scene waiting to be explored.
Channel 7's Weekender Crew and Lee Carseldine embark on a brewery hop, exploring some of the region's finest breweries in Brendale. Watch SUNDAY MARCH 31 from 5.30pm.
Channel 7's Weekender Crew visit Moreton Bay's newest attraction Mathema Gallery and the stunning Ocean View Estate Winery and Accommodation that surround it. Watch SUNDAY MARCH 10 from 5.30pm.