Page 46 - ELITE PLUS MAGAZINE VOL10

 Canoeing at the calm Kingfisher Bay on the Western side of Fraser Island13-20 kg. It is the largest terrestrial predator in Australia preying on kangaroos, rabbits, rats and other mammals. It has a prominent role in the culture of Aboriginal Australians, depicted on rock carvings and cave paintings.Our guide Martin told us that the coastal highway was the most plausible place to spot dingoes because there were several freshwater streams flowing from underground reservoirs into the sea providing dingoes and their prey endless supply of water. Martin’s words were proven true when we spotted a lone dingo walking on the beach on our return drive from Indian Head. We followed the dingo for a while until it headed into the shade of a big tall tree to join three more dingoes which were feeding on a prey. We were relieved that one of our objectives on Fraser44 Elite+Island was fulfilled.I’d like to caution those who planto visit Fraser Island with an intention to see dingoes that a danger from dingoes is real. In 2001, a boy was attacked and killed by several dingoes. Since then dingo-proof fences of metal bars were built around human settlements on the island to keep the dingoes out. Dingo management was formed and ranger patrols were increased. Signs of dos and don’ts when confronting dingoes are posted in public places where tourists frequent.Besides dingo, Fraser Island is teeming with birdlife. I saw and photographed several bird species – water birds, sea birds, waders, and shore birds.After driving on the coastal highway and on bumpy sandy roads through the rainforests and trekkingacross sandblows, there are a few places of relaxation on the island. The most popular site is champagne pools, a collection of natural pools formed by volcanic rocks located near Indian Head. It’s the only place on Fraser Island where saltwater swimming is allowed. The sea on the Eastern side of the island is a shark conservation area! This reason alone should discourage even the strongest swim- mer to swim there.Another place one can enjoy an outdoor activity is canoeing at the Kingfisher Bay on the Western side where the sea is mostly calm.If you plan a visit to the East Coast of Australia and look for a place to relax and enjoy soft adventure activities, don’t miss Fraser Island in Queensland.