Heron Island - Queensland
Actually a coral cay formed as part of the Great Barrier Reef, Heron Island lies in the Tropic of Capricorn 500 km (313 miles) north of Brisbane, 70 km (43 miles) east of Gladstone.
Rated as one of the best diving locations on earth, the reef is practically at your doorstep, so all you have to do is go walking. A guided reef tour will reveal all the secrets of the eighth wonder of the world. The island is also a sanctuary for thirty species of birds including 100,000 Black Noddy Terns and Reef Herons. Go turtle watching, six species can be found here. Watch humpback whales from the cocktail lounge. Visit the Marine Research station.
The island supports the greatest diversity of tropical fish to be seen anywhere in the world and seventy per cent of the world's coral types can be seen here, 859 different species of coral in all. There's dozens of different dive sites to choose from. Heron is a great place to learn .The clear water is excellent for snorkelling, too.
How to get to Heron Island.
Departures from Gladstone by helicopter or launch. The two hour launch trip aboard a 33 metre (110 ft) motor powered catamaran is a very enjoyable way to start your Heron Island adventure.
Telephone 61-79-781 488.
Photos courtesy - Tourism Queensland
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