Is there a direct train?

No, you must transfer at Brisbane Roma Street station.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 8 hours under normal conditions.

What is the best highway?

The Bruce Highway (A1) is the primary route for this journey.

Yes, expect tolls on the Logan Motorway if you bypass Brisbane city center.

You can fly from Rockhampton to Brisbane, then take a train to Ipswich.

Keppel Sands

Ipswich

Train Driving

Keppel Sands to Ipswich

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Keppel Sands to Ipswich covers approximately 650 km via the Bruce Highway. You will drive south through Rockhampton, Gladstone, and the Sunshine Coast hinterland. The trip typically takes 8 hours depending on traffic near Brisbane. You should plan for fuel stops in major regional hubs like Gympie. This route transitions from coastal plains to the historic inland city of Ipswich.

Total Distance: 650 km driving distance; 580 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the Bruce Highway takes 8 hours, avoiding train transfer times.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective for groups or families.

Compare Keppel Sands to Ipswich Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	10 hours	8 hours
Avg Price	160-220 AUD	120-150 AUD
Operator	Queensland Rail	Personal Vehicle
Route	Travel from Rockhampton Station to Brisbane Roma Street, then transfer to Ipswich Line.	Bruce Highway (A1) to M1, then M2 towards Ipswich.
Tip	Book the Tilt Train for a faster and more comfortable journey to Brisbane.	Avoid peak hour traffic on the M1 near Brisbane between 7 AM and 9 AM.

Travel Tips

Fuel Up
Refuel in Rockhampton before heading south as prices can be higher in smaller coastal towns.
Traffic Alerts
Check the QLD Traffic website for roadworks on the Bruce Highway before leaving.
Rest Stops
Utilize the designated rest areas near Gympie to manage driver fatigue.
Booking Trains
Book your Tilt Train tickets at least two weeks in advance for better availability.
Navigation
Download offline maps as mobile reception can be spotty in remote sections of the highway.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Be cautious of kangaroos at dawn and dusk, especially near forested areas.
Fatigue
Take a 15-minute break every two hours to maintain alertness.
Weather
Check for flood warnings during the wet season before starting your drive.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your tire pressure and oil levels are checked before a long-distance trip.