Michaelmas Island facts for kids
Michaelmas Island is a cool island found in King George Sound, close to the city of Albany, Western Australia. It's a special place because it's a nature reserve, which means it's protected to help nature thrive. The island became a nature reserve in 1983. It is looked after by the Department of Parks and Wildlife. The island is about 91.9 hectares (227 acres) big.
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About Michaelmas Island
Michaelmas Island has steep, rocky shores. All around its northern, southern, and eastern sides, there are hidden reefs. These reefs go down to about 30 meters (98 feet) deep. They are covered in big granite rocks.
Underwater Wonders
The rocky underwater areas are home to many different kinds of corals and sponges. You can find a huge variety of marine life there. It's like an underwater city! Off the western side of the island, there's a sunken ship called the "Cheynes III". This ship was sunk on purpose in 1982. Today, it's a very popular spot for divers to explore.
A Special Place for Animals
Michaelmas Island is super important for birds. Many birds live there all the time. Other birds just visit during their long migratory journeys. Sadly, some harmful plants, like Taylorina, and wild animals, like rats, can threaten the birds' homes.
Island History
A long time ago, in 1791, an explorer named George Vancouver sailed into King George Sound. He gave names to many places around Albany. He named Michaelmas Island because he found it on a special day called Michaelmas Day. He also named King George Sound, Breaksea Island, Oyster Harbour, and Point Possession.
Vancouver wrote that the island was covered in rich grasses and other plants. Before he left, he planted some grapevines, watercress, and other seeds.
Later, in 1801, another explorer named Matthew Flinders visited the island. He said the island was covered in tough grasses and small, bushy plants. He also noticed that the island had many rat holes.
Helping Rare Animals
In 2016, Michaelmas Island was chosen for a very important project. It became a new home for the Gilbert's Potoroo. This small animal is super rare and is in danger of disappearing forever. The island was a perfect choice because it doesn't have many predators. This means the Gilbert's Potoroo can live there safely. It's hoped they will be as safe as the quokkas on Rottnest Island, which is also in Western Australia.
Images for kids
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Michaelmas Island (left) and Breaksea Island (right) seen from Middleton Beach, Albany.
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King George Sound seen from Mount Clarence, Albany.
