Lake McKenzie, Perched lake in K'gari, Australia.
Lake McKenzie is a freshwater lake located on K'gari within Great Sandy National Park in Queensland, ringed by white silica sand beaches. The water is remarkably clear and pure, creating transparent conditions, while sandy shores slope gently into the water at most points around the lake.
In March 1944, during World War II, a training camp for paratroopers was set up on the lake shore, the second such camp on the island; it closed later that same year. The site was chosen because the island's conditions resembled those of Pacific islands the soldiers trained to retake from Japanese forces.
The Butchulla name for the lake is Boorangoora, meaning "water of wisdom". Butchulla elders gathered here to make decisions, and the lake remains part of their country within Great Sandy National Park.
The lake has designated swimming areas, picnic spots, and restroom facilities for visitors to use. Access is available through organized tours or by driving yourself, with most people visiting for the day to enjoy the water and beach.
Lake McKenzie is a perched lake: it sits above the water table in sand dunes and is fed only by rainwater, which is why its water is so pure that few species can live in it. The Butchulla name Boorangoora means "waters of wisdom".
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