Great Sandy Straits
One of the most amazing ecosystems in Australia
The Great Sandy Straits is one of the most amazing ecosystems in Australia with mangroves, sandbanks, fresh and salt-water creeks, and abundant marine life. Starting at Tin Can Bay in the south, it follows the Western shore line of Fraser Island to Hervey Bay in the North.
It is recognized by the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance and was declared a Ramsar site in 1999. The Strait is also a designated dugong sanctuary and these majestic mammals may be seen as they surface from feeding on sea grass on the sandy bottom. Turtles and playful dolphins are also frequently spotted.
This area is also a valuable roosting area for migratory trans-equatorial shorebirds with almost 30,000 birds stopping annually on their journeys to places as far as Siberia.
The hydrological and nutrient flows between fresh and marine wetlands are highly significant to flora and fauna in the Strait and contribute to its vast numbers and diversity of species.
The area is a haven for fishermen with summer and winter whiting, blue swimmer, mud and sand crabs, mangrove jack, estuary cod, bream, parrot fish, sweet lip, flathead and threadfin salmon prominent in the surrounding waters.
The Great Sandy straits has a very rich history and just one trip through the Straits can uncover remnants of old ships and jetty’s used throughout the timber logging days and World War 2, artificial reefs and 2 of the oldest lighthouses in Queensland.
Whether you are looking to do some serious fishing or just a relaxing cruise exploring the passage, River Heads is the perfect place to begin your journey.