No Brisbane Trip Is Complete Without A Visit To Moreton Bay
Wedged between the mainland and the bulk of Moreton Bays more famous North Stradbroke Island are many smaller islands dotted across the bay. Moreton Bay Marine Park protects its special inhabitants such as dugong, dolphins and passing whales. These Island delights are so close to Brisbane, some residents commute to the city daily.
Coochie Mudlo Island is named after the Aboriginal word for red rock because of the red cliffs .There are sandy beaches too.Coochie has a village feel and calm waters make for a good family swimming spot and boating area. Dine at Matthew Flinders Cafe and admire bay views from every table. Matthew Flinders landed on the island 200 years ago and there is a re-enactment festival each July. Regular passenger ferry and barge services leave from Victoria Point.
Other islands worth noting are the Macleay Island, population 2500, and Russell Island, the largest of islands, with a population over 3000. Russell Island has become a popular choice for weekend getaways and retirement living. When visiting this island you will find shops, a supermarket, cafe, holiday homes to rent, and a hotel. Other notable island is Lamb Island, only 2km by 1km with great views, Kangarra Island, the smallest, is a peaceful location with no shops. When visiting it is a good idea to pack your lunch. There are numerous smaller islands too which can be seen when boating in the area.
Historically, St Helena Island is the most interesting. The island was once hunting grounds for local tribes. In 1828, Napoleon Bonaparte was sent to St. Helena after becoming troublesome for the jail at Dunwich, on the North Stradbroke Island.
Overcrowding in mainland prisons, forty years later, made the government turn St Helena Island into a disciplinary settlement. Rain forest’s were cleared for timber and to prevent escapes, in 65 years there were only 3, gardens were planted and houses built. Prisoners were taught a trade and were paid for their labor. in 1933 the last of the inmates left. When touring the island you will find the stone houses, and the Deputy Superintendents house, are museums filled with photographs from the prison era.
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Tags: brisbane, Brisbane History, Brisbane Monuments, Brisbane Sights, historical monuments, History, monuments, Sight Seeing, travel, Vacations
December 31 2009 03:25 am | Vacations