Is the road fully paved?

Yes, the entire route via the Pacific and Bruce Highways is fully sealed.

Yes, expect tolls on the Gateway Motorway in Brisbane.

Trains are available but require multiple transfers and take significantly longer.

Where is the best place to stay overnight?

Rockhampton is a convenient midpoint for an overnight stop.

Yes, the coastal sections offer beautiful ocean views.

Ulmarra

Mackay

Flight Driving

Ulmarra to Mackay

Updated: 26 May 2026

The journey from Ulmarra to Mackay spans approximately 1150 kilometers along the eastern coastline. You will primarily navigate the Pacific Highway north before transitioning to the Bruce Highway at Brisbane. This route takes you through diverse landscapes including coastal forests and sugar cane fields. Expect a total driving time of roughly 14 hours excluding rest stops. It is a major transit corridor connecting northern New South Wales to Central Queensland.

Total Distance: 1150 km driving distance; 980 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Grafton Airport via Brisbane to Mackay Airport.

Cheapest Way

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

Compare Ulmarra to Mackay Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	6 hours	14 hours
Avg Price	$300 - $600	$250 - $350 fuel
Operator	Qantas/Jetstar	Personal Vehicle
Route	Grafton Airport to Mackay Airport via Brisbane.	Pacific Highway (A1) to Bruce Highway (A1).
Tip	Book flights from Grafton to minimize travel to major hubs.	Stop in Coffs Harbour for a break to avoid driver fatigue.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Fill up in major towns like Rockhampton to avoid high prices in remote stretches.
Road Conditions
Check Live Traffic NSW and QLD Traffic websites before departing.
Wildlife
Avoid driving at dawn or dusk to minimize risks of hitting kangaroos.
Rest Breaks
Use designated driver reviver stations every two hours.
Navigation
Download offline maps as mobile coverage is spotty in some rural sections.

Safety Tips

Fatigue Management
Swap drivers every two hours to maintain alertness.
Weather Awareness
Monitor cyclone warnings if traveling during the summer months.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your tires and coolant levels are checked before the long haul.
Emergency Kit
Carry extra water and non-perishable food in your vehicle.