Bundaberg 4WD Club members recently enjoyed a visit to Byfield National Park and state forest about 70km northeast of Rockhampton.
The coastal scenery, massive sand dunes, mountains, rainforest-edged creeks, pine plantations and ancient cycads make a visit to the area a must do.
With this in mind members of the Bundaberg 4WD Club headed up to explore the area.
Trips into the State Forest saw vehicles negotiating some testing obstacles with plenty of water laying on the tracks after recent rains being negotiated.
The rocky terrain made for some technical driving, using the vehicles for what they are designed for.
In the National Park section the rain made the tracks easier to drive, as they are mostly sand.
The infamous “Big Sandy” proved no challenge due to the conditions.
However, it has been known to catch out many a driver due to the incline and the powdery sand climb when dry.
Past the climb the coastal community at Stockyard Point sits atop a rocky headland with views up and down the coastline.
The campsites at Five Rocks are tucked in amongst the trees and provide facilities.
A drive down to the beaches, on either side of the headland, gives you an opportunity to explore even more.
Corio Bay, being tucked out of the way, offers protected waters.
Plenty to see and do
Camping options are varied in the area. Our group based ourselves at the historic Waterpark Farm.
The eco friendly Tea Tree plantation is situated in the shadow of the Byfield Range on the banks of the Water Park Creek.
Our host, Jordan, gave an informative tour.
Jordan explained the process to get the oil from the trees and how every piece of the plant is used for various products.
The oil is a natural remedy for ailments such as minor cuts, tinea, acne, burns and insect bites and is known as “First Aid in a bottle”.
A highlight of our stay was a boat trip on Waterpark Creek.
The “Water Dance”, a six metre long, electrically powered, purpose built vessel, glided us along the sections of the rainforest lined creek taking in an array of wildlife.
The “Byfield Fern” was pointed out to us.
The only place in the world it is found is a 35km radius of the township of Byfield.
The Byfield National Park area is a hidden gem, with plenty to keep the four wheel driver busy.
To find out more on the Bundaberg Four Wheel Drive Club contact us via email at bundy4wd@bigpond.com, on the net at www.bundaberg4wdclub.com or on Facebook or Instagram.
Brad Praed
Bundaberg Four Wheel Drive Club
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