Visiting Cape Upstart safely

Getting there and getting around

Cape Upstart is located on the coast between Ayr and Bowen. There is no vehicle access within the Cape massif section of the park.

Coconut Beach bush camping area is remote and accessible by boat in good weather only. Launch your boat at the ramp located south of the township of Gumlu, at Molongle Creek.

Wheelchair accessibility

There is no wheelchair accessible tracks or facilities in the park.

Staying safe

To enjoy your visit, keep yourself safe and help look after Cape Upstart National Park it is important to follow these guidelines.

Stay informed, regularly check:

• park alerts
• bushfire alerts
• marine warnings
• current weather forecasts and conditions

Plan carefully

• Ensure your boat and equipment are safe and in good working order. Remember to follow boat and fish with care guidelines Always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
• Take plenty of drinking water and snacks with you—and pack extras encase of emergencies.
• Carry a first aid kit and medical supplies
• Coconut Bay is remote and exposed to the prevailing weather, be alert and prepared for changes in conditions. Access from Upstart Bay is weather dependant.
• Always read and heed access warning, on-site information and signage.
• Use dependable communications. Mobile phone coverage is unreliable. Satellite phones are best, and a marine VHF radio is very useful. A personal locator beacon (PLB) is highly recommended.
• Severe weather and cyclones are common along the Queensland tropical coastline. Never recreate during or after severe weather and always be prepared for an emergency.
• Never swim or snorkel alone, stay alert and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Follow water safety advice and remain SharkSmart.
• Protect yourself from marine stingers, especially from October to May, although some may be present year-round. See marine stingers for more information.
• Be aware that estuarine crocodiles occur in the waters around this national park. Always—Be Crocwise in Croc Country.

In an emergency

In an emergency, phone Triple Zero (000). You could try contacting other vessels in the vicinity on VHF radio.

VHF marine channel 16 and 67 (distress and urgency calls). See Maritime Safety Queensland for further details.

We recommend you visit the Triple Zero website before visiting the national park. You can download the free emergency + app before your leave home, the GPS functionality can provide critical location details to emergency services. Important: if there is no mobile coverage on any network, you will not be able to reach the Emergency Call Service via a mobile phone.

Before you visit

Opening hours

Cape Upstart National Park is open all year. Severe weather may cause temporary closures, especially during the wet season generally from December to March. The park may be closed at other times for management activities. Check park alerts for information on park conditions, access and closures.

Essentials to bring

If planning to visit Cape Upstart National Park, you must be self-sufficient and prepared for all emergencies. Ensure you bring:

• a first-aid kit and reliable communication equipment
• enough drinking water for your visit
• fuel or gas stove for cooking (bring extra fuel)—fires are not permitted
• sealable rubbish container—bins are not provided
• insect repellent and sun protection

Permits and fees

Camping permits

If you intend to camp you will need to obtain a camping permit and fees apply. A tag with your booking number must be displayed at your camp site. Penalties apply for camping without a permit.

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

Other permits

Various activities in national parks require a permit. Activities include commercial tours, social events, organised group visits, school excursions, scientific research, and the sale of photographs or vision of the national park. Visit permits and fees for further information.

Climate and weather

The region has a well-defined dry season in winter, with average temperatures of 10–20°C. Between January and March, high humidity, strong seasonal rainfall and average temperatures of 20–35°C making recreating less comfortable.

Weather forecasts are available from the Bureau of Meterology.

Pets

Dogs and other domestic animals are not permitted in Cape Upstart National Park.