Family Adventure to Kangaroo Island: Nature and Wildlife

Echoes of the Past

Today, we embarked on a journey to connect with the very roots of South Australia. It's a humbling experience to walk where pioneers once stood, dreaming of a new life in a new land. Sometimes, history feels distant, confined to textbooks and documentaries. But today, history felt alive, breathing through the leaves of an ancient tree and whispering on the coastal breeze.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Kangaroo Island Yacht Club in Penneshaw. It was a delightful way to start the day, enjoying a meal with the family while overlooking the serene waters. The Yacht Club had a friendly atmosphere , and it was easy to imagine the sailing enthusiasts gathering here, especially during the summer months. Elena particularly enjoyed the beautiful views, and Miguel was fascinated by the sailing boats bobbing in the distance. It was a perfect way to fuel up before diving into the day's historical explorations. I must admit, I felt a pang of nostalgia, reminiscent of the yacht clubs back in Laoag where I spent many afternoons as a young boy, watching the fishermen come and go. I even considered taking up sailing again, perhaps learning alongside Miguel. After breakfast, we made our way towards Kingscote, eager to explore Reeves Point.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history at Reeves Point, a must-visit scenic spot in Kingscote, South Australia.

Reeves Point is more than just a location; it's a portal to the past. As we strolled through the area, I imagined the first settlers arriving here, their hearts filled with hope and trepidation. It's amazing to think that this tranquil spot was once the site of South Australia's first official European settlement. The air was thick with the weight of history, and I felt a profound connection to those early pioneers.

Our first stop was the iconic Old Mulberry Tree. This ancient tree, possibly planted as early as 1836, stands as a living testament to the tenacity of those early settlers. As I stood beneath its sprawling branches, I couldn't help but marvel at its resilience. It has weathered countless storms and witnessed the transformation of Kangaroo Island from a remote outpost to the thriving community it is today. The kids were amazed by its size and age, and Elena took some beautiful photographs. I was deeply moved, thinking about how this tree, in its silent way, had been a constant companion to generations of islanders. It reminded me of the ancient acacia tree in our backyard back in Laoag, under which my grandfather used to tell us stories of our ancestors. It felt like a tangible link to the past, a symbol of enduring strength and hope.


Visit South Australia's oldest fruit tree, a living monument to the pioneers of Kangaroo Island, in Kingscote.

History is not merely a collection of dates and events, but a living narrative that shapes our present and guides our future.

We learned that the tree is considered the oldest surviving fruit tree in South Australia. Apparently, the first settlers at Reeves Point brought fruit trees with them from England. The tree is now supported by a system of cables and poles. It even features in the logo of the Kangaroo Island Pioneers Association. There is some debate about who planted the tree and when. Some believe it was planted in 1836 by Charles Binden Powell, a gardener for the South Australian Company. Others suggest it was planted in 1837 by Johann Menge, the company's first geologist. Regardless of who planted it, the Old Mulberry Tree remains a powerful symbol of Kangaroo Island's pioneering spirit.

Walking around Reeves Point, we could almost hear the echoes of the past. It's easy to imagine the challenges these early settlers faced: the isolation, the scarcity of resources, and the sheer hard work required to build a life in this remote corner of the world. Yet, despite these hardships, they persevered, laying the foundations for the vibrant community that exists today. It made me reflect on our own family's journey from the Philippines to Canada, the sacrifices we made, and the dreams we pursued. Just like those early settlers, we sought a better life for our children, a place where they could thrive and reach their full potential.

After immersing ourselves in the history of Reeves Point, we headed to Kingscote for lunch at Fire and Smoke KI. The restaurant offered a diverse menu, including local seafood and traditional pizzas. It was the perfect spot to relax and refuel after our historical explorations. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was a great opportunity to try some of the local flavors of Kangaroo Island. I opted for a seafood pizza, while Elena enjoyed a fresh salad. Miguel, as always, went for a classic burger. It was a satisfying meal that prepared us for the afternoon's activities.


Discover exquisite flavors at Fire and Smoke Ki in Penneshaw - A must-visit restaurant showcasing local South Australian cuisine.

In the afternoon, we visited Natural Exposure Photographic and Fine Art Printing, a local shop in Kingscote. I was hoping to find some unique prints to commemorate our trip to Kangaroo Island. As someone who appreciates photography, I was impressed by the quality of the work on display. I ended up purchasing a beautiful landscape photograph of Flinders Chase National Park, which will serve as a lasting reminder of our time on the island. Elena found some lovely postcards to send to friends and family back in Canada, and Miguel picked up a small souvenir. It was a pleasant way to support local artists and find unique mementos of our trip.


Discover the artistry of photographic printing at Natural Exposure, where your memories transform into stunning fine art pieces.

As evening approached, we made our way to Cactus Kangaroo Island for dinner. This café and restaurant is known for its tasty, simple dishes made with local produce. The outdoor seating area was particularly appealing, allowing us to enjoy the pleasant evening air while savoring our meal. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. I ordered a dish featuring local lamb, while Elena opted for a vegetarian option. Miguel, predictably, chose a steak. The food was delicious, and we all thoroughly enjoyed our meals. It was a perfect way to end a day filled with history and exploration.


Experience delightful breakfasts and lunches at Cactus Kangaroo Island - a cozy café in Kingscote offering local flavors and great coffee.

Looking back on the day, I am struck by the resilience and determination of the early settlers of Kangaroo Island. They faced incredible challenges, yet they persevered, building a community that continues to thrive today. Their story is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, hope and hard work can prevail.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the natural beauty of Snelling Beach and sample some local brews at the Kangaroo Island Brewery. I'm particularly excited to see Snelling Beach, as I've heard it's one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. And of course, I'm always eager to try new beers, especially those made with local ingredients. It promises to be another day filled with adventure and discovery.

As I reflect on our day, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share this experience with my family. Exploring the history and natural beauty of Kangaroo Island has brought us closer together and created memories that we will cherish for years to come. It's a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about connecting with the past, appreciating the present, and creating a future filled with love and adventure.

I also find myself thinking about the devastating bushfires that affected Kangaroo Island in the summer of 2019-2020. It's a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of protecting our natural environment. The resilience of the Kangaroo Island community in the face of such adversity is truly inspiring. It reinforces the spirit that defines this unique and special place.

Until tomorrow, paalam!