How did Lady Elliot Island get its name?


How did Lady Elliot Island get its name? For travelers serious about marine wildlife, this island should be at the heart of any Australia itinerary. In 1816 Captain Thomas Stewart sighted and named the island while sailing the 'Lady Elliot' (named after the wife of Hugh Elliot, the colonial governor of India at the time).


How old is Lady Elliot Island?

Lady Elliot Island first appeared above sea level roughly 3,500 years ago. Sea birds landed on the bare coral cay bringing with them the vital guano and seeds necessary to establish vegetation on the island.


Is Heron Island worth it?

Heron Island is one of the very best places in Queensland for snorkelling and diving in the Great Barrier Reef. Here you're in the very heart of the reef, and the crystal-clear water surrounding the island is perfect for viewing coral and an array of marine life, including turtles, fish, rays and reef sharks.


Does anyone live on Lady Elliot Island?

It is a premier dive site in Australia renown for it's manta rays, turtles, and whales. There are approximately 30 people working and living on Lady Elliot Island.


What is a fact about Lady Elliot Island?

Lady Elliot Island is the closest Great Barrier Reef island to Brisbane, Queensland's southern capital and can be accessed via scenic flight from Bundaberg, Hervey Bay/Fraser Coast, Brisbane (Redcliffe) and the Gold Coast. Lady Elliot is only 42 Hectares (100 acres) in size, small enough to walk around in 45 minutes.


How many guests are on Lady Elliot Island?

Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort's lease and associated Marine Parks permit allows for the operation of a low-key resort, which can accommodate a maximum of 150 overnight guests and 100 day guests.


What is the story of Lady Elliot Island?

Lady Elliot Island first appeared above sea level roughly 3,500 years ago. Sea birds landed on the bare coral cay bringing with them the vital guano and seeds necessary to establish vegetation on the island. Guano miners first appeared on Lady Elliot Island in 1863 and remained on the island for a decade.


Are there stingers on Lady Elliot Island?

Unlike islands further north, Lady Elliot Island is not affected by the stinger season and it is safe to swim all year round.


What is the best time of year to visit Lady Elliot Island?

July - September Visibility for diving is also fantastic during this time of year, sitting at approximately 30m. This is often considered the best time to visit Lady Elliot Island.


Can you stay on Lady Musgrave?

Lady Musgrave HQ Accommodation View the spectacular marine life and the stunning corals by day, and by night enjoy live a board-style bunk accommodation for up to 20 guests, where you can fall asleep viewing the abundant marine life.


How far offshore is Lady Elliot Island?

Lady Elliot Island is the southernmost coral cay of the Great Barrier Reef, Australia. The island lies 46 nautical miles (85 km; 53 mi) north-east of Bundaberg and covers an area of approximately 45 hectares (110 acres).