Lake McKenzie (Boorangoora) in Australia 2024

One of the most beautiful freshwater lakes in Australia

Best time: April–October (all year round)

The water in this lake is so blue and pure that's it's impossible to resist the temptation to dive in. Lake McKenzie, also called Boorangoora, is a perched lake located on Fraser Island in Queensland. The perched lake sits well above the water table and is thus comprised mainly of rainwater. Lake McKenzie is located 100 meters above sea level in the Great Sandy National Park. The sands around the lake consist of white silica, and the water in the lake is so pure with high levels of acidity, that it becomes unsuitable for many water species.

Lake McKenzie is 1,200 m long and 930 m wide. It covers approximately 150 ha. In 1944 during World War II several training camps for soldiers were established at the lake. It also served as the finish line of the competition series The Amazing Race Australia 2.

Although the lake is accessible all year, the best period to visit is from April to October, that's when it's not too hot or rainy. Fraser Island can be easily reached by ferry. When you get to the lake, pay attention to the famous heart-shaped tree. And remember: sunscreen, soaps, and lotions are the only things that degrade the pristine blue lake.

Practical info

When is the ideal time to plan a visit to visibility unlimited Lake McKenzie?

The best time to plan a visit to Lake McKenzie is between April and October as the temperature is comfortable and there is fewer rainfall. Although the lake is open throughout the year, it's recommendable to avoid visiting between November and May as it's stinger season with possibilities of jellyfish around.

Where exactly is Lake McKenzie located?

Located in Great Sandy National Park, Lake McKenzie is a perched lake also known as Boorangoora. Fraser Island is the exact location and ferry-ride is the easiest way to reach it. It's at a height of about 100 meters above sea level.

Why is the water in Lake McKenzie too pure and not suitable for several water species?

Being situated above the water table, Lake McKenzie is a perched lake with a tight package of grains of pure silica that filter and make the incoming water slightly acidic. This makes it unsuitable for many water species as the water is exceptionally pure with no contaminations. Its purity is due to the sand consisting of 100% silica grains.

What other purposes did Lake McKenzie serve apart from being a training camp in World War II?

Apart from being a World War II training camp, Lake McKenzie served as the finish line of the competition series The Amazing Race Australia 2 in recent years. Today, the site with its white silica sands and blue waters suitable for swimming and snorkeling, attracts tourists worldwide.

Having reached Lake McKenzie, are there specific landmarks visitors can identify?

The prominent landmark at Lake McKenzie is the famous heart-shaped tree that visitors love to find. However, the picturesque blue water and surrounding white silica sands make the perfect spot for visitors to take memorable vacation photographs.