The Bunya Mountains
The Bunya Mountains, about 3 hours drive north-west of Brisbane have the last remaining area
of natural Bunya forest left in Queensland. The forest with its huge Bunya Pine trees is magnificent
for walks and the views are just spectacular as it is quite high. There are many houses for rent in the
area and there is an excellent camping ground as well. The mountains are a National Park and a
Ranger is there at all times to provide information and assistance.
Kingfisher Bay
Kingfisher Bay is the environmentally friendly resort on the western side of Fraser Island off the
coast of Queensland between Bundaberg and Maryborough. It has an excellent hotel complex
and villas are available for rent as well. Many tours of the island are available from the resort
as a 4 wheel-drive vehicle is necessary. The island has some magnificent fresh water lakes and
miles of beaches on the eastern side along which many 4 wheel-drive vehicles are used.
Fishing is a very popular pastime on the eastern beach. This island is a National Park and is
World Heritage listed. National Park Rangers are available for assistance from several points
on the island.
Norfolk Island
Although we have only been there once, January 1998, we spent 10 wonderful days on Norfolk Island
which is about 2 hours flying south-east of Brisbane, in the Pacific Ocean. The island was an old convict
settlement from the early days of Australia's history. It had two different convict settlements before
the island was given to the survivors of the "Mutiny on the Bounty" from Pitcairn Island. Many
descendants of these people are the present inhabitants and they live on a paradise island.
The island is so green and the sea water is so clear and blue/green(depending on the depth
of the water). Emily Bay is a great swimming place that is totally protected from sea creatures(sharks).
The island is also known for its special trees; the Norfolk Island Pine, a tall straight pine that can
grow to huge size. Many tours of the sights, sounds, foods and convict history of the island are available.
The highest temperature every recorded on the island is about 28C and the lowest temperature,
11C so the climate is difficult to beat. There are many places on the island to rent and cars are very
cheap to hire. Although the island is quite small, you will need a car as the island is very hilly. (AND
IT HAS A GREAT 9 HOLE GOLF COURSE)(And the island is tax free
too)
