THE ISLAND, OFF THE ISLAND, OFF THE ISLAND
Flinders Island, the heart of the Furneaux group, is an enigma to most – a forgotten land on the edge of the earth – but for those of us who call it home, we couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. Life here means adapting to the natural order in a place of harsh contrasts – the sense of isolation brings a rugged, can-do attitude, ingrained in our community. From our farm distillery, we craft single malt whisky with a deep sense of place. A flavour shaped by its pure, untamed surrounds.
There is something magical and unusual about the island. The gravel on the roads is speckled with rough quartz which glimmers in the light as you drive along the back roads. You will see eagles feasting on the side of the road, you’ll see baby wombats playing around in fields with their mothers. You’ll see snakes basking in the sun, adding to an underlying sense of danger which just makes the journey more exciting. From the time you leave the mainland behind, and fly towards a mountain in the middle of the sea, you know it will be an experience like no other.
HOW TO GET HERE
Flying is the best way to get to the island. Sharp Airlines operate 19 seater Metroliner planes, which take you on a 1hr flight out of Essendon Airport in Melbourne, or a 30min flight from Launceston Airport in Tasmania.
Flinders Island Aviation is another great operator on the island, flying out of Bridport, NE Tasmania. These small planes fly low over the sounds giving you a beautiful birds-eye view of our paradise.
If you’re bringing a group, or just prefer privacy, Yarra Valley Aviation and Flinders Island Air Charters offer charter flights from Tasmania or Victoria.
If you really don’t like flying, or just want to bring over your car to explore more of the island, contact Bass Strait Freight to discuss sailing on the weekly barge from Bridport.
WHERE TO STAY
The best way to enjoy the island is to switch off. Walk along the beach, climb a mountain, sit by the fire and enjoy a whisky.
There are so many beautiful locations around the island to settle in for your stay, from camping sites to budget options like the Flinders Island Cabin Park, to luxury farm stays and incredible shacks sitting by the ocean.
Check out Visit Flinders Island for the stays, and Flinders Island Car Rentals to get yourself around.