St Helena Island National Park: Queensland's Penal Past
Discover Queensland's turbulent history at St Helena Island National Park, a former penal colony in Moreton Bay offering guided tours and historical insights.
Explore the haunting ruins of Queensland's first penal settlement on St Helena Island, a picturesque island in Moreton Bay. Accessible by boat, the island offers a glimpse into the harsh lives of 19th-century prisoners and the unique history of this once self-sufficient colony.
A brief summary to St Helena Island National Park
- St Helena Island, Queensland, 4179, AU
- +61137468
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book a guided tour in advance to access the restricted areas and learn about the island's history from knowledgeable guides.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on grassy paths and crushed coral roads.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, as there are limited facilities on the island.
- Check the ferry schedule and book your tickets in advance, as services may be limited.
Getting There
-
Boat
The primary access to St Helena Island National Park is via boat. Commercial operators offer ferry services from Manly and New Farm in Brisbane. The ferry trip from Manly takes approximately 30-45 minutes. Check with commercial tour operators for schedules and costs. A round-trip ferry ticket typically costs around $35 AUD.
Discover more about St Helena Island National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sir Leo Hielscher Bridges
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South West Rocks
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Gasometer
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Cloudland Memorial Arch
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Sandakan Memorial
19.9 km
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Repton
20.1 km
Discover the historic beauty of Repton in New Farm, Queensland—a heritage building that perfectly blends architectural elegance and cultural significance.
Kinellan Point
20.8 km
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Tranberg House
21.0 km
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SATR Ivory Lane Mural
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Story Bridge Adventure Climb
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Smoked Garage
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Centenary Place Park
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Scotland's Immortal Bard - Robert Burns
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James Warner Kangaroo Point Natural History Trail
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Harry Oakman Kangaroo Point Natural History Trail
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Unmissable attractions to see
Port of Brisbane Visitors Centre
5.7 km
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Port Of Brisbane Park
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Fort Lytton National Park
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Plaza Premium Lounge (International Departures) Brisbane Airport (BNE)
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See Moreton
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Gateway Bridge
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The Sir Leo Hielscher Bridges
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BrewDog DogTap Brisbane
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Raby Bay Harbour Park
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Newstead House
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Powerhouse Park
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Brisbane Powerhouse
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Green Beacon Brewing Co.
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New Farm Park Playground
19.7 km
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New Farm Park Rotunda
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Essential places to dine
The Arsonist
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The French Table Restaurant
15.5 km
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Wooden Horse Restaurant
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Melrose Restaurant & Rooftop Bar
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Rogue Bistro
19.6 km
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Bar Alto
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Mary Mae's Bar & Kitchen
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Vertigo
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New Farm Bistro
19.7 km
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e'cco bistro
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Common Vice
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Restaurant Dan Arnold
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Ristorante Tartufo
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ZA ZA TA Bar and Kitchen
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KOYA TEPPANYAKI & A LA CARTE
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Love Brisbane - Australian Souvenir & Gift Store
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The Collective Store
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Manly Harbour Village
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Capalaba Central Shopping Centre
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Modcon RV
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Victor Scot Gifts & Homewares - Ascot
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Uneeek Gifts Camp Hill
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Powerhouse Store
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Westfield Chermside
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My Heart Beats Green
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Homemaker The Valley
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édito boutique
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Merthyr Village Shopping Centre
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New Farm Editions
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Differente Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Farrier Bar & Supper Club
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QA Hotel
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CRU Bar & Cellar
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HellBound Brisbane
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Brunswick Hotel
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MAYA Mexican
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Dirty Sultan
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Oche Brisbane
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Double Shot New Farm
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Finney Isles
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Dutch Courage
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Savile Row
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1st Edition Bar (Interactive Cocktail lounge and dining)
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