Air Adventure Australia

Destination Profile - Heron Island, Queensland

Heron Island is a coral cay on the Great Barrier Reef and lies in the Tropic of Capricorn 70 kilometres north of Gladstone. The island is 800m long and 300m at its widest.

Rated as one of the best diving locations on earth, the reef is practically at the doorstep. Heron island is also a sanctuary for thirty species of birds including 100,000 Black Noddy Terns and Reef Herons.

Heron Island Research Station lies 80 km offshore from the harbour city of Gladstone, and is a world away in terms of its environment; from a major industrial complex to crystal clear water and near pristine conditions in many parts. That the research station should be recognised as a world standard facility, and the most productive and prestigious marine research station in Australia, is not surprising when its history is considered.

Bisected by the Tropic of Capricorn, Heron Reef is home to around 900 of the 1500 species of fish and around 72% of the coral species found in the Great Barrier Reef; not unnaturally researchers find this smorgasbord of specimens on their doorstep a most attractive feature. The ability to collect, study and return plants and animals in a very short period of time is also a major attraction to many. Scientific equipment available is also far more sophisticated than most research facilities situated away from large population centres and permits detailed studies which in most other locations would involve time-consuming transportation of specimens.

Voyages Resort, Heron Island

Voyages Resort, Heron Island is a first class resort amidst a true coral cay, located right on the Great Barrier Reef. The island is ribboned by sugar white sands, crystal clear waters and acres of brilliant coral with beautifully coloured marine life - a real nature lover's paradise.

Heron offers many activities such as guided island and reef walks, semi-submersible cruises and beach picnics. An amazing array of animal and bird life can also be discovered right throughout the year. And of course, Heron is world famous for its scuba diving and snorkelling.

If it's school holidays, you can sign the kids up for the Heron Junior Rangers (7-12yrs), where they'll get up close and personal with a wonderful variety of marine creatures, and explore the fascinating coral cay forest and woodlands.

Voyages Heron Island is a haven of marine colour and relaxation, with magical ocean views from many of the rooms. All meals are included in the daily tariff, as well as many island activities.

This destination is part of the Cape York Outback Paradise Australian Adventure.