Heron Island, Coral cay in Queensland, Australia
Heron Island is a coral cay in the southern Great Barrier Reef off Queensland, surrounded by an extensive reef system that supports diverse marine life. The small, vegetated landmass sits within clear waters where the reef provides shelter for hundreds of fish and coral varieties.
The island was discovered in 1843 by a Royal Navy expedition led by Captain Francis Blackwood. It became a National Park in 1943, securing its status as a protected area for its coral ecosystems.
A research station run by the University of Queensland operates on the island, where scientists work to understand and protect coral reef ecosystems. Visitors can observe this scientific work and learn how the island plays a role in marine conservation efforts.
You can reach the island by boat from Gladstone, which takes around two hours, or by helicopter from Gladstone Airport. The journey should be planned carefully, as weather and tidal conditions can affect access and timing.
Over 200,000 seabirds nest on the island during summer months, while green sea turtles come ashore between November and March to lay eggs. This seasonal gathering creates one of the reef's most active wildlife moments.
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