The Attractions of Stradbroke Island
Right on Brisbane’s eastern doorstep, North Stradbroke Island (”Straddie” to those familiar) is another of Australia’s east coast natural treasures -a perfect escape destination. Somehow, the secret has been well kept and it is only recently that Stradbroke Island has begun to sparkle on the tourist and property radar.
Travel to Stradbroke Island via the township of Cleveland takes approx. fifty minutes using the vehicle ferry. Cleveland is a 30 minute drive from Brisbane International Airport or the centre of Brisbane, and one hour’s drive from the Gold Coast. The ferry ride across Moreton Bay is the first of a series of experiences that make Stradbroke Island such a great destination.
Stradbroke Island is 27,530 hectares, and therefore is the world’s second largest sand island. The elongated sand island shields much of the southern part of Moreton Bay and the smaller islands from the ocean swells. It’s beaches are able to be accessed by four-wheel drive, bicycle or tramping, with a number of good camp sites placed all the way down Main Beach, and views appear visible from almost everywhere on Straddie.
The 35 kilometres of white sandy beaches fringing the island’s eastern side runs from Point Lookout at the north to Jumpin Pin in the south. From the Point lookout headland, the concrete jungle of the Gold Coast can be clearly visible, being a reminder of the stark contrast to the slower pace of Straddie.
North Stradbroke (or Minjerriba to the indigenous Noonuccal tribe) was home to celebrated Aboriginal poet Kath Walker, or Oodgeroo Noonuccal. There is much Aboriginal and European history in the area of Dunwich where water taxis and barges moor.
The waters of Moreton Bay ripple against the shores of the island’s western fishing towns. The lack of agriculture and the filtering effects of the sand results in pure water that fish, and particularly Stradbroke Rock Oysters thrive in.
North Stradbroke attracts four-wheel drivers, fishermen, surfers and beach-lovers to its expansive stretches of beach and rugged granite headlands, and the Island also offers a good range of accommodation, restaurants, cafes and holiday infrastructure. With a wonderful diversity of experiences on offer and spectacular areas to explore, North Stradbroke is a fabulous holiday location for families, couples and adventure-seekers alike. The ideal way to see the Island is by Four Wheel Drive, but there are many stunning coastal walks and a mountain bike and whale watching map are an easier and more environmentally sound alternative.
Point Lookout is a popular destination, only a 30km drive on a sealed road from Dunwich. The North Gorge Headland is forty metres above sea level and known as a leading land-based whale-watch area during the colder months, and world-class surfing and fishing throughout the year.
Point Lookout’s unspoilt beaches and headlands are perfect for swimming, surfing and fishing year round. Whales, dolphins, turtles and manta rays can often be viewed from the spectacular North Gorge at the northern part of the island. The island has been listed as one of the world’s most ecologically important wetlands and has several freshwater lakes, waterways and lagoons that are accessible by four-wheel drive or on a tour with one of Straddie’s friendly tour operators.
One of the greatest features of the island is the fresh seafood directly from local fishermen. Look for signs at Amity Point and Point Lookout which direct you to their homes and the freshest, most delicious catch-of-the-day around. For those who prefer the work be done for them, Straddie’s restaurants and cafes all make use of this fabulous resource on the menu.
“The Point” offers several alfresco style cafes, a bakery, chemist, post office, newsagent, corner store and supermarket. The island also has a bus service linking all 3 towns to the ferries and water taxis.
North Stradbroke Island is the ultimate paradise for the many enthusiasts who visit each year. On a good day it’s possible to surf right past the pub, along the evocatively named Cylinders Beach, on waves that peel dreamily for hundreds of metres. Stick ten bucks in the back pocket of your boardies and you can drop in for a beer on your way back around -you may even bump into world ranked surfer and local Bede Durbidge! Straddie also boasts what is perhaps the last truly old-school surf shop in the country, that focusses on selling surfing gear rather than fashion.
The jewels in the Straddie’s crown is Point Lookout and the natural wonder of the North Gorge Walk, along with the surf, the choice of beaches, all sheltered in various winds, the whale watching, and the spectacular coastal walk around the gorges. If you are looking for Stradbroke Island Accommodation, make sure you visit: http://www.discoverstradbroke.com.au/