New era for visitor services

GETTING BACK TO NATURE

Montague Island Nature Reserve is home to hundreds of seals and more than 90 bird species, but if that alone is not enough to draw you to the island, how about stepping into the shoes of a lighthouse keeper? Montague Island Nature Reserve, just off the South Coast near Narooma, offers the chance to experience a spectacular wildlife wonderland. You can enjoy a day trip or indulge your inner mariner and stay in historic lighthouse accommodation, with two lovingly restored lighthouse keeper’s cottages on offer. Any way you experience it, the incredible heritage, wildlife and breathtaking island views will keep you coming back. Visit from late winter to early December to see hundreds of seals lazing on the rocks, or bring your binoculars for a spot of bird watching any time of year. Almost 100 bird species have been seen on the island, and 19 of them nest over summer.

During spring, you’re likely to see whales frolicking in the water on their annual southern migration, with knowledgeable tour guides on hand to answer all of your questions. One of the best ways to see the splendours of Montague is completing the island’s walking track, which is a guided tour of this outstanding nature reserve.

The effort of climbing the steep, paved track will be well worth it, as the walk reveals the lighthouse against a dramatic island backdrop. Once you’ve captured the perfect Montague Island Lighthouse photo, it will be time to soak up the 360 degree views. Ascending the circular lighthouse stairs will give you an insight into the daily life of a lighthouse keeper from times gone by, and on reaching the top, you’ll be duly rewarded with an incredible panoramic vista taking in the East Coast of Australia.

This medium diffi culty walk leads past penguin breeding boxes where you’ll learn how conservation and revegetation programs on Montague Island help protect these unique animals.

There’s always the option to really get amongst it and become a conservation volunteer yourself! To fi nd out more visit www.nationalparks.nsw. gov.au, and be sure contact the Narooma offi ce on 02 4476 0800 to discuss visiting. Please note a minimum age of fi ve years applies for all visitors. Montague Island is only accessible via one of NSW National Parks & Wildlife contracted commercial vessel tour operators.