Hi all.
I am starting my trip north from Lake Macquarie to Townsville soon and was wondering if any members have any information on Pancake Creek, about 30nm south of Gladstone.
I have traveled this part of the coast several times and never ventured in there but I hear that it is a worthwhile stop over.
Any information appreciated.
Rick.

Well protected in a S/Easter but can get a bit of swell in a Northerly. You can get access to the mouth in just about any tide but if you want to go further up the creek (where the calmest anchorage is) it's best to wait for the tide to come in a bit. Anchorage near the mouth is sand but there are some shaley patch further up. Watch out for discarded crab pots that may could the anchor. There are a few nice beaches in the creek (when the tides in) and even fresh water near on of them. You can walk across to Aeroplane Beach for a swim or do a tour of the light house for a few $$. The area is frequented by locals who usually camp/ fish/drink. The navigation markers were all correct late last year when I passed through.

I've never attempted entry with a big northerly blowing but no problems with a S/E.

Cheers and enjoy yourself.

Hi there.

Thanks for the information.

I won't be heading north for several weeks yet but now I am retired and have more time on my hands I plan to spend more time enjoying some of the places I have bypassed on other trips. It sure makes a difference if you have an open time schedule.

For those in the path of cyclone Marcia. Best wishes. We all value our boats but just remember, our lives are just so much more important. Boats can be replaced, your life can't.

Another thing. Our house was in the path of Cyclone Yasi. We evacuated. Our house came through the cyclone undamaged but looters cost us several thousand dollars. (Thanks Suncorp, for treating us like criminals when we made our claim, really appreciate your lousy payout). My point is, It's not just the cyclone that you have to worry about in times like this.

Kind regards and thanks.

Rick.