Visiting Newry Islands safely

Getting there and getting around

Eight islands are protected in Newry Islands National Park: Newry, Rabbit, Outer Newry, Acacia, Mausoleum, North Red Cliff, South Red Cliff and Rocky islands. Newry Islands National Park is very close to the mainland and just 5km from the Victor Creek boat ramp near the small township of Seaforth. The islands provide shelter from most winds and there are many safe anchorages. You must arrange your own transport if intending to visit this scenic park. Boat ramps to launch vessels are located at Seaforth, Mackay Marina, Murray Creek and Laguna Keys.

All the national park islands off Mackay’s coast are within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. A Marine Conservation Park Zone (Yellow Zone) encompasses the Newry group, while a Marine National Park Zone (Green Zone) centres on Acacia, Mausoleum and Rocky islands. Fishing restrictions apply in these zones. Ensure you obtain and consult your zoning map before fishing around Newry Islands National Park.

Wheelchair accessibility

There are no wheelchair-accessible facilities or tracks in Newry Islands National Park.

Staying safe

Newry Islands National Park is a great place to visit, but it can have hidden dangers. Follow these tips to enjoy a safe visit.

• Be prepared for an extended stay. Rough weather can occur unexpectedly. The cyclone season is typically from December to March but can be longer.
• Keep a close check on the weather forecast. Forecasts are available from the Bureau of Meteorology or by calling 1300 360 426.
• Leave your itinerary with a friend or relative. Remember to advise them of your return.
• Beware of marine stingers. Dangerous stinging jellyfish (marine stingers) may be present all year. Visit beachsafe for latest safety advice.
• Beware of estuarine crocodiles. They inhabit mainland estuaries. Heed safety signs and never swim where crocodiles might be present. Always be croc-wise in croc country.
• Protect yourself from the elements. Remember to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, protective clothing and insect repellent.
• Treat all water before drinking. Rainwater tanks may be empty in dry times, so bring sufficient water with you (at least five litres per person per day).

For more information, please read the guidelines on safety in parks and forests.

Before you visit

Our precious Great Barrier Reef World Heritage islands are among the most pest-free islands in the world. They need your help to stay this way. Please Be pest-free! (PDF, 573.6KB) before your visit.

Essentials to bring

You must be self-sufficient and bring all supplies with you from the mainland. Generators, open fires and domestic animals are prohibited. Please bring:

• drinking water—allow at least five litres per person per day
• sun protection
• first-aid kit—and know how to use it
• marine radio in case of emergency
• fuel stove and spare fuel—open fires are not permitted on the islands
• torch or headlamp
• sturdy, reliable footwear
• insect repellent and clothing to avoid insect bites
• strong, animal-proof containers for rubbish.

Opening hours

Newry Islands National Park is open 24 hours a day, all year round. Closures may be enforced in extreme weather conditions.

Permits and fees

Camping permits are required and fees apply. A camping tag with your booking number must be displayed at your campsite.

• Book your campsite online.
• If you cannot book online, see camping bookings for other options.

Commercial photography permits are required if you intend to sell any photographs taken of Newry Islands National Park. Organised event permits may be required for organised group activities that may interfere with general public use. Pets

Domestic animals are not permitted in Newry Islands National Park.

Climate and weather

Newry Islands National Park has a mild tropical climate. In summer, daytime temperatures can exceed 30ºC, although daytime temperatures and humidity can be high at any time of the year and nights can be cool.

The Newry Islands lie within the Queensland tropical storm (cyclone) zone. Cyclones commonly occur between December and March, but can develop outside of these times.

Pets

Leave dogs, cats and other animals at home. Domestic animals are not permitted in national parks.

Dogs are not permitted on beaches and intertidal areas within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and adjacent to an island national park, or areas prohibited under a regulatory notice.

Fuel and supplies

Visitors should be well prepared and self-sufficient before setting off from the mainland. Fuel and supplies are available at Mackay and Seaforth. For more information see the tourism information links.