Hi guys, I just found the previous thread on this topic and thought I'd give a few clues on the place.

There are not many true islands actually on our GBR. Starting at the southern end, off Gladstone, is the Capricorn-Bunker group, a series of coral and sand cays, the closest to the mainland about 30 miles. Two of these have low key resorts Heron and Lady Elliott Islands that cater mainly for divers and fishermen. heron is reached by chopper or fast launch, Lady Elliott has a small airstrip. All of the islands in this group are national Park and wilderness camping is permitted on a few of them. There are no facilities or fresh water - everything you need has to be taken with you. The fishing is very, very good.

Further north, are the Whitsunday Islands, off Mackay and Shute Harbour. There are 74 mainland style islands in this group, with a number of resorts on them ranging from 5 star to backpacker standard. While not on the GBR each island is surrounded by fringing coral reef and just about every island is National Park with camping is permitted. These Islands are true tropical islands with lush rainforests and are in a pristine environment. The average winter temperature is around 24 degrees C with the water about the same. Lure fishing for BIG pelagics is exceptional. These are not the only two groups but are an example of what is available.

Kayak fishing is in its infancy in Queensland and if any of you guys were to come out here, with your expertise in the game, I think you would do very well. Any one planning a trip, please feel free to contact me and I will be very happy to provide any local information I can.

regards,

Mick