Cape Hillsborough is one of the most scenic mainland locations on the central Queensland coast; it features rock-strewn, sandy beaches, hoop pine-dotted hillsides plunging towards the sea, subtropical rainforest and mangrove-fringed wetlands. But what visitors like best is the rare treat of viewing wallabies on the beach around sunrise or late evenings. They go down to the water's edge to nibble seed pods that have been washed up onto the beach overnight.
Cape Hillsborough National Park is also home to a colony of 150 – 200 ghost bats, one of four colonies identified in Queensland. They occupy at least three caves in the park during winter. Also observed at Cape Hillsborough is approximately 22 Mammals, 25 Reptiles and 8 Amphibians. The Eastern Grey Kangaroo and many types of Wallabies live in the park. The most common wallaby is the Agile (Sandy) Wallaby and Whip-Tail (Pretty face) Wallaby. The shy Brush-Tail Rock Wallaby can sometimes be seen in November on the far side of the causeway and beach.
The attractive beach is backed by a small parkland area featuring a picnic area and facilities. This is also where the Cape Hillsborough Resort is located, which offers budget to mid-range accommodation and facilities. Further camping facilities can be found at Smalleys Beach within the National Park. Camping spaces and water are limited, so you must register with the National Park before camping.
There is also a small shop where you can buy food and groceries.
A popular walk is out to Wedge Island via the Andrews Point walking trail, however, this can only be done at low tide. A recent addition to the Park is the Environmental Walk that starts about 500 metres inland from the picnic area. This 1.2 kilometre track is a self-guided walk along a boardwalk and through mangroves. It incorporates four elements of diversity - wildlife, genetics, community and culture.
Location: Cape Hillsborough National Park is about 50km north-west of Mackay by road. From Mackay, travel north on the Bruce Highway for 20km and turn right into Seaforth Road. Travel a further 20km and turn right into Cape Hillsborough Road. It is then 10km to the main park entrance.
From Proserpine, take the Bruce Highway south and travel 79km south to Mt. Ossa. Turn left into the partly unsealed Mt. Ossa Road and travel 15km towards Seaforth. Turn right into Seaforth Road then left into Cape Hillsborough Road. Drive another 10km to the main park entrance. Please note, the Mt. Ossa road is not suitable for caravans. Caravan owners travelling from the north should continue to the sealed Seaforth Road, 20km north of Mackay.
