My family has been visiting Fraser Island for over 47 years. In 1976, we 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 was 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, was the only guide the family had as they returned to the Island every school holiday period. While they explored the island and their love for it deepened.
Over the years, 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 (including Margot Robbie as a young girl). It has also been a base for many fishing enthusiasts, with some groups now having returned annually for the last 30 years.
With the family now extending to 4 generation, Shearwater remains the favourite holiday destination of the extended clan. The owner's daughter Elspeth, now manages the rental of the property on behalf of the extended family