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Just
over two hours flight off Australia’s east coast lies the historic former penal
colony of Norfolk Island, home to two of Australia’s most brutal penal
settlements. The 3,455 hectare subtropical island is drenched in history and
charm and is a favourite for retired Australians who enjoy the quiet tax free
island where history comes alive. Norfolk Island is a semi autonomous
territory of Australia and dominated both by its history and the ubiquitous
Norfolk pine trees. Captain Cook discovered the uninhabited island in 1774 and
the first penal settlement was established only two months after Sydney in March
1788; till 1814 when the islanders were transferred to Tasmania and the island
abandoned. Norfolk Island was again selected as “a place of the extremist
punishment, short of death” from 1825-55 but eventually settled by descendents
of mutineers from Capt Bligh’s HMS Bounty in 1856. Their language, a mixture of
18th Century English and Tahitian can still be heard. Bathed in sunshine, the
island is blessed with a mild climate that has neither extreme heat or cold, so
makes a great year round destination. Many unique species of flora and bird life
thriving in isolation can still be seen in the National Park and Reserves which
make up one third of the island. The pristine coastline has abundant sea life
and the island’s reefs are great for snorkelling, diving, swimming, surfing and
fishing.
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A
third of the island has been reserved for the environment and scenic walkways
through the islands rainforest are a must. 178 species of plants grow on the
island, 40 unique to Norfolk Island! Some of the pine trees reach 48 metres and
an abundance of birdlife will enthral. Tracks can be enjoyed by foot or mountain
bike.
