Cape Hillsborough National Park

Cape Hillsborough National Park is located on the northeast coast of Queensland, Australia, about 50 kilometers north of Mackay. It is situated along the Coral Sea, offering a mix of coastal and rainforest environments. Nearby towns include Seaforth and Ball Bay, with Mackay being the closest major city. The park was established in 1985 and is named after Cape Hillsborough, which was explored by Captain James Cook in 1770. The area has long been significant to the Yuibera Aboriginal people, and cultural sites can be found throughout the park. There are a few parking areas within Cape Hillsborough National Park, mainly near the beach and walking tracks. Parking is free, but visitors are encouraged to stay within designated areas to avoid disrupting the natural environment. Cape Hillsborough is famous for its wildlife, particularly the eastern grey kangaroos and agile wallabies that visit the beach at dawn. Visitors often come to watch these iconic animals feeding along the shoreline. Other notable wildlife includes the kookaburra, white-bellied sea eagles, and various reptiles. The park's flora is equally impressive, with a mix of eucalypt forests, vine thickets, and coastal vegetation. Mangroves are common along the tidal areas, while hoop pines and ferns thrive in the rainforest sections. The park’s diverse plant life supports a wide range of ecosystems. Notable features of Cape Hillsborough include the beach where kangaroos gather, Andrews Point lookout, which offers stunning views of the coastline, and the Diversity Boardwalk, an easy walking trail that showcases the park's plant and animal life. Public transport to Cape Hillsborough is limited, so most visitors arrive by car. There are organized tours from Mackay, providing a convenient option for those without their own transportation.