Explore Australia’s Unique Coastal Islands

22 March 2007
MEDIA RELEASE

Explore Australia’s Unique Coastal Islands

You could say Australia is a nation contained within a beach. With over 50,000 kilometres of coastline, Australians are never too far from a dip in the ocean. In fact over 80 per cent of Australians live within 50 kilometres of the coast. With the New Zealand summer nearing to an end, it is the perfect time for Kiwis to head to Australia and experience some of the idyllic islands that surround this country.

Tourism Australia’s Regional Manager, New Zealand, Vito Anzelmi believes Australia is unique because of its strong coastal lifestyle.

“Australia has more than 8,000 islands, including the island state of Tasmania. These islands are ideal for visitors wanting to discover new and exciting Australian destinations. The experience often starts with the journey out to the many different islands by either plane or ferry,” says Anzelmi.

New Zealanders are encouraged to explore the unique islands and their beautiful coastlines. There are many experiences waiting to be had, from nature to food to relaxation, and all easily accessible from major cities. Below are Tourism Australia’s suggestions for just a few of these amazing islands.

King Island, Tasmania

King Island is affectionately known as the island of fine foods and friendly people. The seafood is among the freshest with a wide variety readily available from crayfish through to local sea elephant oysters. For a taste of adventure discover the shipwreck trail, where you can experience up-close the many ships that didn’t make it through the notorious Bass Strait.
www.kingisland.org.au

Rottnest Island, Western Australia

Located 18 kilometres west of Perth, Rottnest Island is one of Western Australia’s most popular holiday destinations with over 400,000 visitors a year. With sparkling sands and coral fringed beaches, Rottnest is popular for snorkelling, diving, swimming and surfing. The island is also home to the cute and mischievous marsupial, the quokka. Unique to the island, the quokka resembles a small kangaroo complete with a pouch!
www.rottnestisland.com

Bruny Island, Tasmania

Bruny Island is actually two islands joined by a narrow isthmus commonly known as ‘The Neck’. Just 40 kilometres off the coast of Hobart, Bruny Island is Tasmania’s fourth largest island. There are a range of bush walks available all over the island, from just five minutes to full day walks. Cloudy Lagoon’s crystal clear waters make this bay the ideal snorkelling destination.
www.brunyisland.net.au

Kangaroo Island, South Australia

Kangaroo Island is considered one of the most unspoilt natural wonders of the world and is the third largest island of Australia. One third of the island is protected as conservation with national parks while the other half remains untouched and is covered by natural vegetation. Only a 30 minute flight from Adelaide, Kangaroo Island boasts quiet beaches and a variety of wildlife ranging from koalas, echidna and goannas to wallabies, birds and even penguins! The island grows a range of gourmet produce including award-winning sheep milk cheeses and Ligurian honey and olive oil.
http://www.southaustralia.com/product.asp?product_id=9002764

Lord Howe Island, New South Wales

Lord Howe Island was inscribed into the World Heritage list in 1982 for its rare plants, birds, marine life and outstanding beauty. Two hours flying time from Sydney and Brisbane, this island is largely covered in natural forests. The waters that surround this island are crystal clear with its sparkling lagoon protected by the world’s southern most coral reef. The idyllic waters surrounding the island are ideal for visitors to relax and enjoy this small piece of paradise.
http://www.lordhoweisland.info

Fraser Island, Queensland

Fraser Island is home to long uninterrupted white beaches surrounded by towering sand cliffs. Its World Heritage listing reiterates its important status in Australia’s natural and cultural heritage. Fraser Island stretches over 120 kilometres along the southern coast of Queensland and has an abundance of water activities for visitors to enjoy.
http://www.fraserisland.net

Tiwi Islands, Northern Territory

A visit to Tiwi Island is a unique cultural experience as tourists are able to interact with Tiwi people who have inhibited the island for thousands of years. The Tiwi people are prolific artists who produce pottery, sculptures and wooden carvings which are on display at the local gallery. Fishing in the Tiwi Islands is a feature for visitors to the region with a variety of fishing experiences available, from creek and river to estuary and blue water fishing. The Tiwi people are passionate Aussie Rules fans and even have their own Grand Final match every March. Dense rainforest, sandy beaches and rock pools combine to create the Tiwi Islands’ spectacular landscape.
http://www.travelnt.com/en/explore/darwin/region/tiwi-islands.htm

Brampton Island, Queensland

At the southern end of the Whitsundays, Brampton Island is almost entirely national park. This island is slightly hilly and offers many walks for visitors to explore, with spectacular views. The seven beaches on this island are not to be missed with beautiful coral reefs and a snorkelling trail to help visitors explore the amazing marine life.
http://www.queenslandholidays.com.au/destinations/mackay/places-to-visit/brampton-island/index.cfm

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