Download Australia's Coral Coast - Western Australia ... - FlipBookSoft

###AbrolhosIslandsAbrolhos IslandsPERTHAbrolhos IslandsThe Houtman Abrolhos Islands form one of Western Australia’s most uniquemarine areas. With 122 islands in all, the closest 55 kilometres off the coast ofGeraldton, these islands are clustered into three main groups; Wallabi, Easterand the Pelsaert.Batavia ShipwreckThe Abrolhos’ Wallabi Group of islandswas the scene of the infamous Bataviamutiny in 1629. The Dutch East Indiestrading ship, Batavia was wrecked onMorning Reef at the islands. The ship’ssurvivors made it to land, only to face abloody mutiny. Avid divers an explorethe site where the Batavia shipwreckrests, although the dive site is weatherdependent and for highly experienceddivers only. Alternatively, visitors to theWA Museum Geraldton can see part ofthe Batavia’s hull on display.FishingThe Abrolhos Islands’ bountiful watershave some of the ocean’s most prizedeating fi sh. Baldchin groper, dhufi sh,snapper, coral trout and emperor arepopular catches, as are pelagic fi sh liketuna and mackerel, not to mention thesought-after western rock lobster. 22 ofthe islands house fi shermen who live therefrom March to June each year during theislands’ western rock lobster season.Check exclusion zones before fi shing.Diving and SnorkellingThe Abrolhos Islands showcase anabundance of marine life. Diving thecoral gardens is like entering anotherworld - an underwater fantasia of themost incredible colours. See everythingfrom rays, to lobster, to clown fi sh. Manyof the coral reefs’ most spectacularareas lie in shallow water and are justas easily enjoyed with a snorkel andmask, as with a scuba diving kit. It isrecommended that you check weatherconditions before heading out to theislands. Scenic fl ights and boat chartersare available from Geraldton. Visit theGeraldton-Greenough Visitor Centre fortouring options to the islands.Bird WatchingThe Abrolhos Islands are known as oneof the country’s best sea bird breedingcolonies. More than 90 species of seabirdsnest on the islands, among them crestedterns, lesser noddies and white breastedsea eagles. Photographic enthusiasts willlove the up close encounters.Abrolhos black pearlsDid you know?Australia’s oldest European buildingsare located on West Wallabi Island.InformationPopulation:Fishermen duringRock Lobster seasonDistance from Perth: 479kmGeraldton-GreenoughVisitor CentreBill Sewell Complex,Chapman Road Geraldton WA 6530Tel: 1800 818 881geraldtontourist.com.auaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 43