Mackenzie - Killymoon Through Walk 22 April 1979
Hike the Mackenzie–Killymoon through walk, a rare day traverse in Townsville’s Bluewater Range. This 1979 trail follows two scenic creeks with waterfalls, pools, wildlife, and views to the Haughton River mangroves. An easy–medium walk offering a classic North Queensland bushwalking adventure.
(Note: This is one of the very few day through walks possible)
Map: Mt ELIOT SPECIAL (1:50,000)
Rating: Easy - medium Allow time for car shuttling, to permit plenty of time for walk (1 hr extra).
Access: (See map).
LEAVE one car near junction of Townsville Rifle Club (TRC) road & Killymoon Creek. Turnoff from Highway to TRC is obvious, approx 1/2 Km north of Killymoon Creek. Gate is sometimes locked, and permission from caretaker should be obtained. See Alan Watson for details.
Turnoff to Quarry beside MacKensie Creek is approx 200 m. before MacKensie Creek.
Route details:
There was no need to carry water. There was plenty of running water in both creeks.
At 900' level take junction to left - the saddle can be seen from here. (The map shows this left creek as a tributary. However it appears to be the main creek).
All other junctions take the main creek.
At the 1200' level, the creek bed peters out temporarily. Take junction to left.
The Saddle at 1500 ft of the Bluewater Range
From near the saddle (Elev. approx 1300'), a 60° view can be obtained of an expansive mangrove area at the mouth of the Haughton River. Feltham's Cone (Mt Burrumbush) can also be seen.
Killymoon Creek is easily picked up after walking only a few hundred metres on the other side of the saddle.
Killymoon Creek has water in it even at the saddle level.
Lunch may be eaten at any of the big Killymoon Creek pools.
A large pool with an overhanging tree (the "Guiness" ... TEST CUT OFF
When reaching the bottom of Killymoon the creek bed widens. Stay on the right side, and pick up the road on the right bank.
Times:
Quarry to saddle: 3 hours.
saddle to Guinness Pool: 2 hours.
Guinness pool to TRC road: 1 1/2 hours.
Wildlife: The lower part of MacKenzie Creek had many birds, signs of animals (rock wallabies, pigs), and fish.
Caution: Be very careful in segment of Killymoon Creek directly above (200') Guinness Pool. This area is extremely slippery when wet.
Summary: Two delightful creeks for the price of one; ability to behave like a rock-wallaby advantageous.
R. Simmis
