Bundaberg Coast Tourist Information
Bundaberg Coast Tourist Information
Mon Repos & Turtle Beach
Only a couple of kilometres north of Bargara, Mon Repos is famous as the largest and most accessible turtle rookery in mainland Australia. During the day, Mon Repos is popular for swimming and sailing however, the turtle nests must be taken into account. No dogs are allowed on the beach and beach umbrellas should not be used above the high water mark as the spike may damage the eggs.
At the southern end of the beach the estuary of Coachhouse Creek drains a tidal mangrove community. A variety of wildlife can be seen in this area. Bert Hinkler's historic glider flights were here and at the age of nineteen, he attained the height of 30ft in his first solo effort. The Kanaka Wall is a well preserved piece of history. Kanakas were Melanesians from the South Pacific Islands who were indentured to work in Queensland canefields during the period from 1879 to 1904. Part of their work was to clear volcanic rocks to allow cultivation of fields. The rocks were packed together to form fences and these could be seen all over the district. Most have now disappeared as council crushed the rocks as a base for road building.
Fishing activities in the Pacific and development of many coastal areas has led to a declining world turtle population and successful breeding here is essential to the species' survival. Visitors are welcome but under conditions that do not disturb the turtles. From November to March, from 6.00pm to 6.00am, beach access is restricted only to the park access road. This is the road to the left just before the caravan park and leads to the Visitor Centre. There you will be able to learn about turtles before being escorted onto the beach by rangers and volunteers. There are a few rules to prevent the turtles being disturbed but these won't stop your enjoyment of the unique sight of them at Mon Repos.
