Elizabeth Island (Victoria) facts for kids
Elizabeth Island is a small island located in Western Port, Victoria, in south-eastern Australia. It lies just south of French Island and north of Phillip Island. Elizabeth Island is about 26 hectares (65 acres) in size. It is one of the few islands in Victoria that is privately owned. This means it is not part of a local government area. The island used to be a farm, but now it is a holiday spot with homes and a pier. You can only get to the island by boat or helicopter.
Contents
Exploring Elizabeth Island's Nature
Elizabeth Island rises about 20 meters (65 feet) above the sea. It has very rich volcanic soil, which helps plants grow well. Most of the island is covered in native grasses, along with areas of native trees and shrubs. You can also find a few large pine trees.
Birds and Wildlife
The island is home to many different kinds of birds. The waters near the north-eastern coast are a special feeding area for native swans and other birds when the tide is low. You might even spot a white-bellied sea eagle on the island. These large birds of prey often nest on nearby French Island.
Island Shoreline
The shoreline of Elizabeth Island has different features. You'll find beaches made of small pebbles, areas with mangroves, and sections with sandstone and larger rocks. There are also some small sandy spots and many interesting rock pools to explore. The southern part of the island has deep water close to shore. This area is near a deep-water channel where various sea creatures live. It also gives direct access to Western Port Bay. On the south-eastern corner, there is a small rocky area with mangroves and grasses. This part of the island becomes separated from the main island when the tide is high.
A Glimpse into Elizabeth Island's Past
Elizabeth Island has a bit of interesting history. On its western beach, you can still see parts of an old shipwreck. People believe it was a rescue boat from a German ship. There's also a story about a past owner who bought the island in a bar. He later crashed his airplane on French Island while trying to get a better look at his new purchase.
