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Booby Island Conservation Park: A Torres Strait Haven

Explore Booby Island Conservation Park: a historical Torres Strait island offering birdwatching, maritime history, and natural beauty.

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Booby Island Conservation Park, located in Queensland's Torres Strait, is a small, rocky island with significant historical and ecological value. Named by Captain Cook for the booby birds inhabiting it, the island features a historic lighthouse, diverse birdlife, and a 'post office cave' used by passing ships in the 19th century.

A brief summary to Booby Island Conservation Park

  • Queensland, 4875, AU

Local tips

  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited on the island.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking to fully enjoy the trails.
  • Respect the island's wildlife and maintain a safe distance from all animals.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in coastal areas.
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Getting There

  • Boat

    To reach Booby Island Conservation Park, you will first need to travel to Thursday Island. From there, arrange for a local boat operator to take you to Booby Island. Several operators offer services from Thursday Island, but it is essential to check their schedules and book in advance. The boat trip takes approximately 1-2 hours, depending on the weather conditions. Inquire about the cost for a return trip when booking; prices can vary. There are no docking facilities on Booby Island, so be prepared for a wet landing on the rocky shoreline.

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Discover more about Booby Island Conservation Park

Booby Island Conservation Park, a 6.5-hectare island in the Torres Strait, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Situated off the tip of Cape York, approximately 34 kilometers west of Thursday Island, this small, rocky outcrop has played a vital role in maritime history and serves as a haven for diverse bird species. Captain Cook named the island in 1770, and Captain Bligh also visited in 1789. The island's name comes from the large number of booby birds found there. For millennia, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people likely visited the island. The island's strategic location made it a significant landmark for ships navigating the Torres Strait. Constructed in 1890, the Booby Island Lightstation is the island's most prominent feature. The lighthouse, the 23rd built by the Queensland government, is still an active part of the coastal navigation system. The island also holds a 'post office cave,' where, from the early 19th century, passing ships would leave mail and messages for others. During World War II, the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) used Booby Island as a war signal station to monitor ship movements. Today, the island is a protected area, managed as part of Round Island Regional Park. It supports various bird species and important ecosystems.

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