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Brook Islands National Park: A Secluded Tropical Paradise

Discover a pristine island sanctuary in Queensland's Brook Islands National Park, a protected haven for birdlife and vibrant marine ecosystems.

Brook Islands National Park, located off the coast of Queensland, is a protected haven for diverse birdlife and unique island ecosystems. With restricted access to preserve its natural state, the park offers a pristine environment for boating, snorkeling, and observing wildlife from the surrounding waters.

A brief summary to Brook Islands National Park

Local tips

  • Respect the no-access policy on the islands to protect the fragile ecosystems and nesting birds.
  • Bring your own supplies, as there are no facilities on the islands.
  • Enjoy snorkeling around the islands to witness the diverse marine life.
  • Be mindful of the seagrass beds when boating, as dugongs feed in the area.
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Getting There

  • Boating

    The most common way to experience Brook Islands National Park is by boat. Several departure points exist along the coast, including Cardwell and Lucinda. From these towns, you can charter a boat or join a tour to cruise around the islands. Keep in mind that access to the islands themselves is prohibited to protect the birdlife. There are public moorings available around the islands to reduce coral damage from anchors. Boat charter costs vary widely, but expect to pay around $500 - $1500 AUD for a full-day private charter, depending on the size of the boat and the number of passengers.

  • Ferry

    While there is no direct ferry to Brook Islands National Park, you can take a ferry to nearby Hinchinbrook Island and then charter a private boat to Brook Islands. Hinchinbrook Island Ferries operate from Lucinda to Hinchinbrook Island. A one-way ferry ticket costs approximately $105 AUD. From Hinchinbrook Island, arrange for a local charter to take you to Brook Islands, keeping in mind the restrictions on accessing the islands themselves. Charter prices from Hinchinbrook Island to Brook Island will vary.

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Discover more about Brook Islands National Park

Brook Islands National Park, established in 1994, encompasses three islands: North, Tween, and Middle, located off the coast of Queensland, Australia. These islands, along with the adjacent South Island (protected by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority), form a unique archipelago characterized by lush rainforests, rocky shores, and coarse sandy beaches. Access to North, Tween and Middle Islands is prohibited to protect the breeding birds, especially the Torresian imperial-pigeon. Up to 60,000 pied imperial-pigeons migrate to the islands during the summer months to breed, creating a spectacular sight as they fly to and from the mainland and Hinchinbrook Island in search of food. The islands also host breeding colonies of various tern species, including bridled, black-naped, and lesser crested terns. The islands' vegetation is equally remarkable, with North Brook Island featuring a well-developed rainforest with abundant vines and rare palm species. The plant life has largely been undisturbed by human interference, making the islands vital for preserving island ecosystems. While access to the islands is restricted, the surrounding waters offer opportunities for boating and snorkeling, allowing visitors to appreciate the vibrant marine life and coral reefs. Interestingly, North Brook Island was the site of British and American mustard gas testing during World War II. Today, the islands serve as a reminder of the region's natural beauty and ecological importance.

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