Location
Eungella National Park
What it is?
Eungella (pronounced yuhn·guh·luh) is a National Park approximately 1 hour 15 mins West of Mackay.
Wheelchair Access?
The toilets and picnic tables at the Broken River information centre and Sky Window are wheelchair accessible.
What we did?
We did a few different trips to Eungella.
On the first trip, we explored Finch Hatton.
The Araluen Cascades track is a Grade 3 track that was a comfortable walk.
The Wheel of Fire track is a Grade 4 track that was a bit more difficult. Add to that that it was a really hot day, and I just melted into the freezing cold water upon arrival at the waterhole at the top.
On the second trip, we went exploring around Eungella itself. We completed a few of the hikes and drove out to see what was at the dam. It is a great spot for camping, boating, and fishing. It was quite busy, so plan for school holidays and public holidays as I’d imagine it would be packed on those occasions.
On our third trip, we went out to the Pinnacle Pub for a Pinnacle Pie. It was so worth the trip as it was amazing. After lunch, we went Forest Flying at Finch Hatton. The Forest Flying was fun, and the owners were very knowledgeable about the area. Only one other couple was doing the forest flying with us, so there wasn’t a lot of waiting between sections.
We were planning on doing an overnight trip and staying at the Finch Hatton campground, but after calling twice and receiving no reply, it didn’t end up happening. We did check out the campground and walk up to the platypus viewing area. It looked as though it would be a lovely spot.
Highlight?
The Pinnacle Pie and Forest Flying.
Would I do it again?
I would definitely drive out for another pie. It was delicious.
If I had more time to follow up, a stay at the campground would be nice, but only if I was passing through the region.
What do you need?
As a couple: Pre-downloaded maps on your phone (reception is patchy); water bottles; healthy snacks for the trails; wide brim hat: sunscreen; bug spray; good sturdy shoes; swimmers and towels; picnic and picnic blanket. If you want to do the Forest Flying, you will need closed in shoes.
With Kids: water; snacks; wide brim hat; sunscreen; bug spray; good sturdy shoes.
With Pets: Domestic animals are not permitted in National parks. Eungella Dam is owned by Sunwater and Dogs are allowed, but are required to be on a leash at all times.
Yearly Events
The Eungella Community Market is held on the 2nd Sunday of the month from 9am to 1pm at the Eungella Memorial Hall.
King and Queen of the Mountain – annual event in July