My family has been visiting Fraser Island for over 50 years. In 1976, my parents purchased a half completed set of units, turning it into a holiday home to house their large family and all the friends that accompanied them, as they explored the island.
In the 1970's, timber logging and sand mining were still occurring on the island. While the island was covered in tracks, none of them were sign posted. Three enormous forestry maps, with roads identified by blazes cut into trees, were the only guide the family had as we returned to the Island every school holiday period. While we explored the island and our love for it deepened.
Since purchase in 1976, the house has been renovated and extended many times. Over time, the house has been opened up for renting, and has been the holiday destination for many families. It has also been a base for many fishing enthusiasts, bush walkers, and 4WD enthusiasts, with some groups now having returned annually for the over 30 years.
With the family now extending to 4 generation, Shearwater remains the favourite holiday destination of the extended clan. My mother, now 88, still returns to the island regularly. I manage the rental of the property on behalf of the extended family, and love providing the opportunity to other families to enjoy this piece of paradise.
Cheers Elspeth (number 3 daughter)