Approximately 70 km north-east of Rockhampton lies the Byfield National Park and Byfield State Forest.
The coastal scenery, massive sand dunes, mountains, rainforest-edged creeks, pine plantations and ancient cycads make a visit to the area a must do.
Due to the postponement of the 4WDQLD Corroboree this year members of the Bundaberg Four Wheel Drive Club headed up to explore the Byfield area and what it had to offer the offroad enthusiast.
Trips out into the state forest saw vehicles negotiating some testing obstacles, with plenty of water lying on the tracks after recent rains.
The rocky terrain made for some technical driving.
The National Park section had not got the rains from previous days, so the infamous “Big Sandy” proved a challenge to some.
The incline and the powdery sand climb were negotiated with tyre pressures dropped and the right driving line chosen.
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.
The group had a forced delay at Corio Bay with one of the vehicle's wiring harness coming adrift and hitting the engine fan.
After rejoining the multitude of broken wires and modifying a blown fuse to get power on, the group headed back to the main beach.
Speaker wire and insulation tape saved the day. Camping options are varied in the area. Our group based itself 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 hosts, Jordan and Elodie, gave an informative tour explaining 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” is a local species and the only place in the world it is found is a 35 km radius of the township.
The Byfield 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 and activities we have on, contact us via email info@bundaberg4wdclub.com on the net at www.bundaberg4wdclub.com or catch us on Facebook or Instagram.
