Event: Australia

Fraser Island

When:	Daily
Where:	Fraser Island

The world's largest sand island, Fraser Island - part of the Great Sandy National Park - was the first of Queensland's designated recreation areas. Despite its shifting sands, which are not without danger (beware the dingos too), the island possesses incredible natural wonders.

Being built from life-sucking (albeit beautifully soft) sand has not stopped Fraser Island from supporting a dense vegetation - spores and seeds carried from the mainland by wind and birds have created a deep covering of humus. In turn this now supports astonishingly beautiful life in a variety of guises. This is what makes the place (now a UNESCO World Heritage Area) unique - with its tall rainforests, colourful wildflowers, thick ferns, ponds of waterlilies, and midnight-blue freshwater lakes (about 40 of them) it's a special place to spend some time.

Interesting creatures live here too, including cheeky - but potentially dangerous - dingos (Australian wild dogs), brumbies (wild horses), possums, echidnas, and wallabies. Bird lovers are well catered for too - about 240 species have been spotted so far.

It's no surprise that the island has become a popular camping and walking area. If you don't want to camp, there are "environmental retreats" to look after you. Four wheel-drive trips, horse riding and camel treks are popular (although, thankfully, the latter are not obligatory). Be sure to choose a trek that respects the delicate ecosystem - there is stiff competition amongst all those who make it their business to get you out there.

The Fraser Coast experiences mild winters and warm summers, with the coast cooled by sea breezes - making it a great place to see throughout the year. Most rain falls between November and March, but launches leave from Maryborough or Hervey Bay throughout the year.