Bribie Island, Qld

Located 70 km north of Brisbane, Bribie Island is an interesting combination of retirement centre, day-trippers' paradise, family-holiday retreat and haven for anglers and sunlovers.

Bribie Island's great transformation occurred in 1963 when the bridge was built connect the mainland to the island. Since then it has become increasingly popular as a tourist and retirement destination.

Its proximity to Brisbane has been a distinct advantage. The population now exceeds 7000. On weekends and during school holidays people pour onto the island, both from Brisbane and from further afield, and yet it has never consciously sought to develop its tourist potential.

Settlement has been restricted to the southern tip with the balance of the 30-km long island being maintained as a flora and fauna sanctuary. Bribie Island's main township is Bongaree on the passage side of the island. The Pumicestone Channel or Passage separates the island from the mainland.

Woorim on the surf side of the island, has a licenced hotel/motel and a caravan park and a few shops. There are walks along the beaches to the north and south of the tiny township. The fishing is excellent, particularly off Woorim Beach in Summer.

The eastern coastline of the island is characterised by low-lying barrier dunes. The beaches are a bright white and a sense of tranquility pervades the area. There are 4WD dirt roads up the Pumicestone Channel side of the island.

The channel is noted for its mangroves, which grow at the water's edge, and the fauna which makes its home within this ecosystem. Take the time to explore the edges of the mangroves and to wander through the island's sandy interior.

The whole area is ideal for fishing and an accomplished angler can expect to catch flathead, whiting and tailor. The channel is also ideal for sailing, canoeing and sailboarding.