SS Maheno
Fraser Coast
Great Sandy National Park (K'gari - Fraser Island)
A famous landmark of K’gari, the SS Maheno is a must-do when travelling along 75 Mile Beach.
This heavily trafficked location is a tour group staple, meaning a steady stream of visitors will be clamouring around the wreck, taking photos all day.
The shipwreck is located on 75 Mile Beach, north of Eli Creek and south of the Pinnacles.
The Maheno – Maori for ‘island’ – is undoubtedly the most famous of K'gari’s many wrecks. The ship was built in 1905 and was used to carry passengers between Australia and New Zealand, before being commissioned as a hospital ship during World War One.
In 1935, the ship was sold to the Japanese for scrap and was washed ashore after encountering a cyclone while being towed to Osaka.
Track: The shipwreck is located on the shoreline and so there is no track.
Difficulty: Suitable for all fitness levels.
Direction: The shipwreck is located on the shoreline and so there is no track.
getting there
The SS Maheno is located on 75 Mile Beach, north of Eli Creek and south of the Pinnacles, on K’gari (Fraser Island). The trail is located about 30 minutes drive north of Eurong via the beach track. A high-clearance 4WD is required to get to the walk.
K’gari (Fraser Island) is located 300kms north of Brisbane and is accessed via ferry from either Rainbow Beach or Hervey Bay. A high-clearance 4WD is required to visit the island if not going with a tour.
Parking is ample.
best time to go
The location can be visited year-round.
Remember, whenever venturing into the outdoors, practice the Leave No Trace principles and be considerate of others. This means: dispose of your waste properly, don't remove things or move things from their natural position and respect all wildlife. Also be sure to plan ahead and adequately prepare for any adventure.
I respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which all activities listed on this website are found, as well as Elders past, present and emerging. I strive to not promote sites where requests have been made for people not to explore due to the cultural significance of the site to Indigenous peoples, or note how to respectfully visit a site. If I have a promoted a site with cultural significance, please send me a message and let me know.