Wave and Bustard Lookouts
Gladstone
Joseph Banks Conservation Park
A relaxing stroll around the Round Hill Headland to two lookouts with incredible ocean views and plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities.
This heavily trafficked walk starts from the carpark at the end of Sir Raphael Cilento Drive in Seventeen Seventy.
The walk explores the Round Hill Headland. It is a short stroll to Wave Lookout, which provides stunning views over a small sandy cove surrounded by rocky cliffs below from a viewing platform.
The walk to Bustard Lookout is through tussock grasslands and coastal woodland, with the viewing platform at the tip of the headland offering panoramic views to Bustard Bay and the ocean.
Wildlife abounds, with dolphins and turtles often seen in the clear waters below (and whales during the season), or birds of prey flying overhead.
The headland is a particularly beautiful spot for sunset.
It is essential to stay on the track and keep well clear of cliff edges, and to supervise children at all times.
For those looking to stretch their legs further, the nearby Round Hill Creek Track (closed at the time of my visit) takes you through sheltered valleys and across freshwater creeks, with more coastal views.
Remember, this is a national park, so dogs and domestic pets are not permitted.
Track: The track is mostly well-maintained paved paths, with occasional stairs. It is well-signed and easy to follow.
Difficulty: The track is suitable for all fitness levels, with only minimal elevation gain. It is essential to stay on the track and keep well clear of cliff edges, and to supervise children at all times.
Both lookouts are wheelchair accessible, however would likely require assistance due to the grade of the path – especially Bustard Lookout, which also includes a few single steps (spaced about 1.5 metres apart at the viewing platform.
Direction: This is an out-and-back track that returns the way it came.
getting there
The trailhead is located at the carpark at the end of Sir Raphael Cilento Drive in Seventeen Seventy. It is approximately 6 hours drive north of Brisbane or 3 hours drive south of Rockhampton.
It is recommended to break up the drive to the park and consider the impact of fatigue on driving safety.
Parking is relatively ample but can get busy during peak periods.
best time to go
The walk can be completed 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.