GUIDED SELF-DRIVE TAG-ALONG TOUR – TERMS AND CONDITIONS

At Drop Bear Adventures, safety and respect for K’gari’s environment are our top priorities. By booking and joining this tour, you agree to the following terms and conditions.

Tour Cancellations Due to Weather or Park Closure

1. 1. On the rare occasion we cannot safely conduct a tour due to weather conditions or park closure, we will notify you as soon as the decision is confirmed.

   2. We will offer to reschedule your ticket for another date.

   3. If you are unable to reschedule, we will provide all the details you need to claim through your travel insurance.

Safety & Responsibility

1. 1. Safety is a shared responsibility—please listen to and follow all instructions from your Guide.

   2. If anything is unclear, ask your Guide. They are always happy to explain further.

   3. You are deemed to have accepted these Terms & Conditions upon booking.

Vehicle Reliability & Mechanical Failure

1. 1. All tour vehicles are maintained to the highest safety standards.

   2. While we minimise the risk, mechanical issues may still occur due to K’gari’s extreme conditions.

   3. In the event of a breakdown, we have contingency plans to continue your tour safely.

   4. Please remain patient and trust that we will resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

Guest Responsibilities

All guests must:

1. 1. Listen to all instructions from the Guide, either in person or via walkie-talkie.

   2. Follow the wheel tracks and direction of the lead vehicle, keeping at least 3-car lengths apart.

   3. Travel only in the convoy order set at the start of the tour.

   4. Wear seatbelts at all times. Drivers are responsible for ensuring all passengers are buckled up.

   5. Comply with Queensland road rules. Police DO patrol the island.

   6. Ensure vehicles are not overloaded and nothing is stored on the roof.

   7. Accept that the Guide has the authority to refuse anyone from driving who is suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 

   8. Understand that the Guide/Management may remove guests from the tour for unsafe or disruptive behaviour.

   9. Notify the driver immediately if you feel unsafe or believe damage could occur to the vehicle.

   10. Take care of all provided accommodation and camping equipment. Damages caused by negligence will be charged.

   11. Take responsibility for your own belongings; Drop Bear Adventures accepts no liability for lost or damaged items.

   12. Understand that itineraries and accommodation may change due to tides, weather, seasonal factors or park closures.

Driver Eligibility & Responsibilities

All drivers must:

1. 1. Be 21+ years old.

   2. Hold a current full, valid driver’s licence for at least 12 months.

   3. Have no drink-driving convictions or major driving offences resulting in licence suspension/revocation within the last 5 years.

Driver obligations:

1. 1. Drivers are responsible for their own traffic fines and for damages caused by negligence.

   2. Follow the wheel tracks of the lead vehicle, except when avoiding hazards or seawater.

   3. Match the speed of the lead vehicle. Use headlights or radio to signal any problems.

   4. Inform the lead driver when changing drivers.

   5. Never drive in sea/salt water. A $100 fine applies if this rule is broken or if no attempt is made to avoid it safely.

   6. Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

   7. In the event of an accident where the driver is at fault:

      • Driver is liable for 100% of repair costs, capped at $5000.

      • If the vehicle is a write-off, liability is capped at $15000.

      • Charges will be placed on the driver’s credit card immediately. A full damage assessment will be sent within 14 business days and any overpayment will be refunded.

      • Optional insurance is available for $30 per driver, reducing liability to $500 for damage and $2500 for a write-off.

Limitations of Liability

Drop Bear Adventures will not provide compensation for:

1. 1. Missed connecting travel arrangements.

   2. Changes to itinerary or missed tour components.

   3. Damage to personal items such as cameras, clothing or bags.

   4. Personal stress or inconvenience caused by breakdowns.

   5. Time lost due to mechanical issues or severe weather.

   6. Impacts from natural disasters or extreme weather events.

Behaviour & Removal from Tour

1. 1. Your safety and the care of your property are important to us but your actions are your responsibility.

   2. If you fail to follow instructions or behave in a dangerous or unacceptable way, you may be removed from the tour with no compensation.

   3. Additional transport costs to remove you from the tour will be charged to you.

4WD HIRE AGREEMENT – TERMS AND CONDITIONS

1. Driver Eligibility

All drivers must:

1. Be 25 years of age or older.

2. Hold a full/open, valid driver’s licence for a minimum of three (3) years.

2. Unauthorised and Prohibited Use

2.1 Persons Prohibited from Driving the Vehicle

The vehicle must not be driven by:

1. 1. Anyone not identified on the Terms of Hire.

   2. Anyone not licensed for that class of vehicle.

   3. Anyone with a blood alcohol level exceeding 0.05%.

   4. Anyone who has provided false information about their name, age, address or driver’s licence.

   5. Anyone whose driver’s licence has been cancelled or suspended in the last 3 years.

   6. Anyone who has held a driving licence for less than 3 years.

   7. Anyone under the age of 25 years.

2.2 Prohibited Use of the Vehicle

At no time may the vehicle be driven:

1. 1. In saltwater or seawater.

   2. On the West Coast of K’gari (Fraser Island) or north of Champagne Pools.

   3. On the beach during restricted hours (two hours either side of high tide) as outlined in this agreement.

   4. Outside the approved scenic drive areas specified by the Company.

   5. On unsealed roads or off-road conditions between sunset and sunrise (in darkness).

   6. To carry persons for hire or passengers exceeding the specified capacity.

   7. To transport flammable, explosive or corrosive materials.

   8. To tow any vehicle, trailer or boat.

   9. To transport animals or pets.

   10. For racing, speed trials or similar purposes.

   11. In a dangerous manner or for any illegal purpose.

2.3 Tidal Restrictions

• • The vehicle must not be driven on the beach two (2) hours either side of high tide, as per the high tide timetable provided.

  • Exceptions require prior written authorisation from the Company.

2.4 Tyre Pressures

• • 35 psi for sealed roads.

  • 24 psi for sand driving.

Liability for Single Vehicle Accident 

1. 1. In the event of a single-vehicle accident, the Hirer(s) accept full financial liability for the market value of the vehicle. Payment must be made within 14 days.

   2. The Hirer may opt to purchase additional insurance for $15/day per listed driver, reducing liability to:

      • Maximum $750 for damages.

      • Maximum $5000 for a total write-off.

   3. For multi-vehicle accidents, the Hirer is liable for the third-party insurance excess, as confirmed in writing by the insurer.

Termination of Agreement

The Company reserves the right to terminate the agreement and reclaim the vehicle without notice if:

1. 1. The Hirer breaches any terms of this agreement.

   2. The Hirer fails to comply with National Park entry rules.

   3. The vehicle is illegally parked, used in violation of the law or abandoned.

Assessment of Loss or Damage

The Company is the sole arbiter in determining loss or damage related to this agreement.

Vehicle Condition

1. 1. Vehicles are supplied in good working order and tidy condition.

   2. The Hirer must return the vehicle in the same condition.

   3. Any damage (accidental or otherwise) beyond normal wear and tear will be charged to the hirer.

Vehicle Return

1. 1. Vehicles must be returned by 6:00pm on the final hire day unless otherwise approved in writing.

   2. Late returns without consent incur $100/hour.

   3. Vehicles returned late without approval may be reported stolen to Queensland Police.

Return Location:

• • 3 Sanders Street, Noosaville QLD 4566.

  • Keys must be placed in the lock box.

  • All hire packs, audio guides and eskies must remain in the vehicle.

Extension of Hire:

1. 1. Must be requested at least 24 hours before the end of the agreement.

   2. Approval must be confirmed in writing.

   3. Failure to request and receive approval will result in the vehicle being reported as stolen.

Cleaning Fees

• • Vehicles returned excessively dirty inside or out incur a $200 cleaning fee.

  • All rubbish must be removed and mats shaken out before return.

Traffic Violations & Misuse

The Hirer is responsible for:

1. 1. All traffic and National Park permit infringements.

   2. Damage caused by misuse or breach of this agreement.

   3. Complying with speed limits:

      • 70 km/h on the beach.

      • 20 km/h on inland tracks.

Financial Obligations

All listed drivers are jointly responsible for all financial obligations under this agreement.

The Company may debit the supplied credit card for:

1. 1. All rental charges.

   2. Traffic or parking fines.

   3. All loss or damage costs, including:

      • Loss of use.

      • Legal and assessment fees.

      • Towing and recovery.

      • Consequential third-party damage.

   4. Breaches of special conditions.

   5. Situations where the vehicle:

      • Is not under the control of the authorised hirer at the time of loss.

      • Is involved in a single-vehicle incident (unless waived).

      • Is stolen after being left unlocked or with keys inside.

      • Is submerged or partially submerged.

      • Suffers interior or underbody damage.

      • Has damaged tyres beyond normal wear.

      • Suffers damage from incorrect fluids or fuel.

Note: If the vehicle is deemed unusable due to the Hirer’s fault and cannot be replaced in time, the Hirer is liable for up to 14 days of lost confirmed sales.

General Provisions

1. 1. All incidents involving loss or damage must be reported promptly.

   2. The Company is not liable for loss or damage to personal property left in the vehicle.

   3. No rights under this agreement may be waived except in writing.

Fuel

1. 1. Vehicles must be returned full of fuel, including the sub-tank.

   2. Refuelling charge: $4 per litre if returned with less than full tanks.

   3. Recommended refuelling stops:

      • Any of Rainbow Beach’s 3 petrol stations.

      • Goomboorian Travel Stop or Shell Petrol Station, Tewantin.

      • Freedom Fuels, Eumundi Noosa Road (closest to drop-off).

Accessories

Audio Guide

1. 1. Provided as a complimentary accessory.

   2. Damage/replacement cost: $500.

Esky (Ice Box)

1. 1. Provided free of charge.

   2. Damage/loss fee: $250.

Exclusion of Liability

The Company is not liable for loss, damage, injury or death caused by any act, omission, neglect or breach by the Company, its employees or agents.

ACCOMMODATION – TERMS AND CONDITIONS

To ensure a safe, comfortable stay for all guests (and protect K’gari’s unique environment), please take note of the following:

Check-In / Check-Out

• Check-in: From 2:00p.m.

• Check-out: By 10:00a.m.
  Late check-outs will be charged unless agreed with us in advance.

Age & Safety Policy

• The Haven is located outside of the island’s dingo fence. For safety reasons, the property is for Adults Only (18+).
  We love kids but due to the natural risks in the area, we are unable to accommodate children. This policy is in place to ensure the safety of all guests and the protection of local wildlife.

Wildlife & Safety

• All doors must remain closed at all times, including screen doors, to help prevent wildlife from entering the property.

• Never leave food or scraps outside or unattended—this helps protect you, other guests and local wildlife (including dingoes).

• All fires must be attended at all times and fully extinguished before leaving the area.

Energy & Environmental Care

• Switch off all lights, fans and appliances when not in use or when leaving the property.

• Use water responsibly. K’gari’s resources are precious.

Housekeeping & Cleanliness

• Please take all rubbish to the designated bins or collection points before you check out.

• All dishes, cookware and utensils must be washed, dried and put away before departure.

• Wipe down benches, tables and cooking surfaces after use.

• Leave the property in a clean and tidy condition. Additional cleaning fees will apply if extra cleaning is required.

Damage & Breakages

• Guests are responsible for any damage, breakages or excessive cleaning required during their stay. Please notify us immediately if something is damaged or not working.

• Replacement or repair costs may be charged where necessary.

Noise & Respect for Others

• Quiet hours are from 9:00p.m. to 8:00a.m. Please be mindful of neighbours and other guests.

• Parties, large gatherings or disruptive behaviour are not permitted without prior written approval.

General Conduct

• The property is strictly non-smoking indoors. Smoking is only permitted in outdoor areas and all cigarette butts must be disposed of responsibly.

• Illegal activity is strictly prohibited.

• Guests must comply with all local laws and safety regulations while on the property.

By checking in, you agree to these Terms & Conditions. Failure to follow them may result in additional charges or immediate termination of your stay without refund.

Inclusive Language & Behaviour Policy

At Drop Bear Adventures, we welcome guests from all walks of life and are committed to creating an environment that is safe, respectful and inclusive for everyone.

Our team endeavours to use language that is welcoming and non-discriminatory. Wherever possible, we choose words that reflect and respect the diversity of our guests. We are a kind, genuine, approachable crew and we never set out to cause offence.

That said, language is complex and certain phrases or expressions may be interpreted differently depending on personal or cultural perspectives. For example, casual phrases such as ‘Let’s go, guys!’ are intended as friendly, inclusive expressions and are not meant to refer to any specific gender.

We kindly ask all guests to keep an open mind and extend the same courtesy and respect to our team and fellow travellers. Any comments, jokes or behaviour that is malicious, discriminatory, harassing or intentionally offensive will not be tolerated.

By joining a Drop Bear Adventures experience, you agree to participate in a spirit of mutual respect, kindness and inclusivity so that everyone can relax, connect and enjoy the adventure. Thank you