Is it safe to swim?

Protected by K’gari (Fraser Island) our bay is quite safe to swim. Theodolite Creek to the north is great for kayaking and paddle boarding.

Are there sharks? Well, it’s the ocean. There hasn’t been any recorded nasty encounters but be sensible. Not all fins are sharks – Dolphins and Guitarfish (which are rays but often mistaken for sharks due to their large dorsal fins) are common.

Are there stingers? Bluebottles can blow in on a northerly wind but we don’t have a stinger season. There are Stone Fish in the creeks; wear shoes when exploring.

Where can I fish?

Fish off the beach, at Theodolite Creek or at Walkers Point (Burrum River). Small boats can put in at Theodolite Creek or on the beach at the southern 4WD access (off Acacia Street), otherwise use the boat ramp at Walkers Point. (Tip: avoid using the larger ramp opposite the pub).

Protected habitat and go slows zones are in the area; visit the Great Sandy Marine Park website for zoning and all you need to know about fishing responsibly.

Where can we eat/shop?

Woodgate Beach Hotel and Woodgate Club (bowls club) offer meals and entertainment.

Takeaway is available from the Woodgate Beach General Store and similar at the Friendly Grocer. Grab a fresh sandwich or sausage roll from Childers Bakery on the Esplanade.

Get essentials from the Friendly Grocer, Home Hardware and Woodgate Pharmacy along Frizzells Road. Goodwood Produce stocks local farm fresh fruit and veg (see Facebook page for open hours).

Fuel is temporarily unavailable in Woodgate. NRMA Woodgate Beach Caravan Park will re-open their kiosk and fuel pumps from 17 May 2025. Closest fuel is Childers or along the Bruce Highway at Buxton and Apple Tree Creek or, Bundaberg.

Markets are held first and third Sundays of the month at the Woodgate Club.

Is Woodgate pet friendly?

Dogs are welcome on-leash at the beach, the pub, cafes and bowls club. Yes, your dog is friendly and well behaved, but please keep them secure.

Council regulations require your dog to be leashed. There are two designated off-leash areas.

And…do pick up your dogs’ poo and bin it. Kicking a bit of sand over it is not OK.

Where can I stay?

You’ll find accommodation options from camping in the National Park to luxury holiday homes and caravan parks.

If you’re keen for a holiday home to fit the whole family, contact one of Woodgate’s real estate agents (they manage holiday rentals), the Woodgate Beach Houses (two-bedroom villas) or check out AirBnb.

If camping is more your thing, you can camp in the National Park (permit required) or opt for the NRMA Woodgate Beach Holiday Park or Woodgate Beach Hotel. Both have camping and caravan sites and rooms/villas.

Is there any public transport?

The hotel and bowls club operate free courtesy buses. The Woodgate Community Bus runs scheduled trips to Childers or Bundaberg (0473 798 031).

Can I have a fire on the beach?

No. As part of the Great Sandy Marine Park fires are prohibited.

What’s the siren for?

Shark? Tsunami? Air raid? Keep calm. It’s the siren our Rural Fire Brigade use to alert members to an activation. Our volunteer Rural Brigade publish updates on their Facebook page.