| King Island - A treasure trove of historic shipwrecks and gourmet food. |
Just 90kms off the coast of Victoria, South East of Cape Otway, King Island offers a wealth of historic, scenic and gastronomic experiences to travellers who venture there.
In 1801 a Captain John Black sheltered in the lee of these islands off the Tasmanian coast and decided to name the largest of the group after the current Governor.
King Island at 58km long and 21km wide was large enough to start a settlement, which they did in 1855 at a place called Currie.
Although sealing had been going on at King Island well before settlement, seal stocks were all but gone and farming seemed the logical industry for the area. Soon there were beef, dairy and sheep farms dotted round the island.
The farms thrived because of good soil for pasture and the 1,000mm of rainfall per year.
As evidenced today, farming is still the mainstay of the economy and their lush, pollution free pastures have ensured King Island an enviable local and worldwide reputation for delicious cheeses, and dairy products.
Apart from farming, King Island gained a reputation as a major ship wreck site. The relentless weather and rugged coastline around King Island has claimed no less than 57 ships over the years. The most famous was the Cataraqui which foundered in 1851. Claiming over 400 lives, it became Australia’s largest marine disaster.
The King Island Maritime Trail – Shipwrecks and Safe Havens is a fascinating glimpse into the maritime history of the area. There are also interpretation sites and memorial cairns all over the island where you will find interesting information on wrecks such as Netherby, British Admiral, Loch Leven, Shannon and Blencathra.
In a bid to stop more ships running aground, a ring of 5 lighthouses were eventually built. One of the most well known is Cape Wickham lighthouse, a large granite tower built in 1861 and stands as the tallest lighthouse in the Southern Hemisphere. This lighthouse and the one at Currie became welcome lights to ships entering the waters near King Island. Visitors can go to the Cape Wickham lighthouse and find out about its fascinating history and if you want to stop for lunch, there is a sheltered picnic area in the grounds.
The demise of native flora and fauna occurred soon after farm clearing and locals have now established a number of nature reserves to encourage the re-growth of native vegetation. Happily seals and sea lion populations have also recovered and bask in the sun on the beaches of King Island.
Beautiful coastal walks and the Maritime Trail will definitely work up an appetite and what better than a picnic to round off a day’s exploration.
You can gather all the yummy ingredients for your picnic in and around the main town of Currie.
Your first stop should be the King Island Bakehouse for gourmet pies, pastries and fresh breads.
Not far away is the famous King Island Fromagerie. Here you can tour the dairy and see how these luscious cheeses are made, then take away some produce for your picnic.
For the main course you have to stop at King Island Seafoods where you can purchase freshly shucked oysters, crayfish, king crab or abalone. Straight from the sea to you, all produce is brought in daily.
With all the goodies for your picnic in hand, your next destination should be the “Boathouse”. Overlooking Currie Harbour this rustic spot is a restaurant without food, they supply you with a table, plates, cutlery and glasses – what more could you ask for?
If a restaurant is more your style then there are a number to choose from including pubs and clubs.
For views and seafood, why not try Harbour Road Restaurant and Cafe. Dine on the deck and catch a view of Currie Harbour – bookings essential 03 6462 1037.
Or Boomerang by the Sea – again, spectacular ocean views and bookings essential 03 6462 1288.
Accommodation is also readily available on the island and will suit most budgets. There are self contained rental cottages, houses and apartments.
Plus guesthouses, motels and resort accommodation from budget to 41/2 star. Comfortable and warm, most with in-house restaurants and some spa suites.
For those active travellers there are farm stays on working properties and on-site caravans and camping.
Getting there:
Flying is the quickest way into King Island and is generally a 50 minute flight from the mainland.
Regional Express Airlines have a 7 day a week service from Tullamarine in their comfortable Metroliner.
King Island Airlines operate out of Moorabbin, transporting produce and passengers to the island.
Tas Air fly out of Tasmania offering a 7 day service.
For a more up-market experience Short Stop Jets provide private Lear jet hire for up to 9 passengers or DC3 special group charter packages. This company operates from Essendon airport.
King Island is an interesting destination and most people will be able to find some outstanding things to see do and eat on their trip – getting there will be half the fun!
For more information on what to see and do, go to www.kingisland.org.au
Yvonne Williams
www.wheeldestinations.com
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