Heading to Indian Head Fraser Island
While many tourists would tell you how ‘stunning’ Fraser Island is and how many times they have returned to it, most of them will fail to answer should you inquire about technical stuff, like how in the world could a huge rainforest thrive on sands? Why it is listed as a World Heritage site and what does it even mean? Or why there are lots of freshwater than saltwater. For starters, Fraser Island became a World Heritage in 1992 after voted by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, which is composed of 21 state parties of which are elected by General Assembly. Showing signs of continuous ecological and biological changes, the world-renowned location is the biggest sand island on the planet and uniquely the only place in which rainforest grows on sand. Over a thousand years, the deposited sand has provided an excellent record of the ageing of sand dunes which is essential to studies and other geological research. For tourists, Fraser Island’s stunning freshwater lakes, colored sand cliffs, rainforests, crystal-clear creeks, and the long white beaches are the drawing factors. The lakes and creeks are among the favorite attractions in Fraser Island. Eli Creek, as the most popular, pump millions of fresh water to the sea every day. On the other hand, Lake McKenzie is just so stunning travelers are always planning a return upon the first visit; surrounded by rainforest, the glistening white sand is complemented by McKenzie’s intense blue crystal water. Joining the ‘must-see’ beach attractions is Indian Head, which is located at one end of Seventy Five Mile Beach. The spot is a coastal headland on the eastern side of Fraser Island. It is christened by Captain Cook when he passed it on the evening of May 19, 1770 and saw the aboriginal folks assembled there; the term "Indian" was used at that era for the native people of many lands. Some historians have claimed Captain James Cook must have been in a pleasant mood that day when he named the place, which is contrasting Cape Tribulation, Black Mountain, Mount Sorrow, or Cape Disappointment, his earlier itineraries. Fast forward today, unsurprisingly, Indian Head is becoming a hot spot for beach-thirsty tourists. Aside from the crystal clear water and white sands, the outcrop consisting of rhyolite resulted from volcanic activity about 50 to 80 million years ago proves to be irresistible. Also, Indian Head provides 360° views and good wildlife spotting opportunities when on the highest point. Tourists, on clear ‘lucky’ days, can spot the graceful Manta Rays, busy sharks, dazzling dolphins, and turtles swimming in the water below. On whale season, Humpback Whales are passing mundanely as bus on streets, so it would be a loss if you don’t bring a camera to capture these gentle giants. On the other hand, camping around the headland is not permitted. There are approximately 40 lakes in Fraser Island, which include half of the worlds perched dune lakes. With over 120 kilometres long and over 30 kilometres across at its widest point, Fraser Island has developed for over 800,000 years and gave birth to spectacular natural sites. Most of them are water spots enchanting countless tourists from returning. Indian Head, with its historical charm and cozy beach setting, has definitely contributed to Fraser Island’s tourism impact.
Fraser Island Discovery: Fraser Island Tours - 186 Gympie Terrace, Noosaville QLD 4566 T (07) 5449 0393 email: info@thediscoverygroup.com.au