Marble Island lies between Rockhampton and Mackay, 20kms off Queensland's Capricorn Coast. The island is 800 hectares (8km2) and is only accessible by private charter plane.
Marble Island is part of the Duke Group of Islands, renowned as one of the most picturesque archipelagos on the central Queensland coast, and is named after the abundant pink and white marble found locally. It is a breeding ground for Australia's green turtles and also part of the annual migratory path for whales and their calves between August and October.
Marble Island was settled and developed in the early 1900s as pastoral land. There is a lone grave of an early pioneer on one of the island's most picturesque bluffs. Marble Island has had several owners, the present owner acquiring it as a sheep station in the late 1960s.
The island was subsequently developed as a cattle station, providing much of the island's current infrastructure, including an airstrip, dams, cattle yards and two residences. While there are still some animals on the island, including deer, antelope and sheep, it is no longer a working cattle station.
The island is privately owned and has an on-site manager. Tourist accommodation is limited to one party of guests at a time - so it truly is your own while you are there!
Accommodation on Marble Island is a self-contained cottage, located right on the beach, overlooking the tranquil waters of Home Bay. The accommodation can comfortably sleep 4 adults or 2 adults and 4 children. Due to its seclusion, children under 3 are not allowed on the island. Guests must bring all their own provisions (including food and beverages), as there is nowhere to buy food on the island - but you can certainly catch your own fish to eat.
The Manager's residence is 800m away - so you have plenty of privacy. Guests also have use of a John Deer 'Gator', a six wheel 4WD buggy, which can be safely used to get around and explore the 20 secluded bays and private beaches.
Activities on the island include finding oysters, 30km of 4WD and walking tracks, swimming, fishing, snorkelling, island tennis, bushwalking and beachcombing and collecting fresh farm eggs. Fishing rods, oyster knives and basic snorkelling gear are provided.
At the end of a day exploring you can enjoy a drink & the sunset at the top of Marble Island at the BYO 'top pub club'!
Further information:
The cottage on Marble Island starts from $390 a night, for up to 4 guests. And $95 a night for additional guests.
Marble Island: Ph. (07) 4937 3598.
A Charter flight to get you to Marble Island starts from $980 for 4 - 6 people
Rockhampton Aero Club: Ph. (07) 4922 4596.
Prices correct at 18/4/05.
