Packrafting in Queensland

The Queensland flat-water centrepiece is the upper Noosa River, better known as the Noosa Everglades. The water is stained dark amber by the wallum heathland it drains, and on a still morning it holds a reflection sharp enough to fool a camera. The route runs up through Lake Cootharaba into the narrowing river inside Great Sandy National Park, with campsites strung along the upper reaches. Permits and camp bookings are managed by the park, so the trip takes planning rather than luck. The paddling itself is calm and unhurried, which is exactly what a touring packraft is for. Heat is the hazard to respect: start early, carry water, and treat the afternoon sea breeze on the lake crossing with caution. A Seeka Solo, Tourer or Duo all suit this water.