Newton Island facts for kids
| Geography | |
|---|---|
| Location | Northern Australia |
| Coordinates | 14°30′22″S 144°54′54″E / 14.506°S 144.915°E |
| Area | 0.43 km2 (0.17 sq mi) |
| Administration | |
| State | Queensland |
Newton Island is a small, special island located in the sunny state of Queensland, Australia. It's a tiny part of the amazing Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, which is one of the world's most famous natural wonders! This island is also the most southern island in the beautiful Howick Group National Park. It is about 100 km south-east of Cape Melville, Queensland. Newton Island is quite small, covering an area of about 43 hectares, which is the same as 0.43 square kilometers.
Contents
Where is Newton Island?
Newton Island is found off the coast of Northern Australia. It sits to the west of a larger island called Howick Island. Imagine looking at a map of Queensland; you would find Newton Island in the waters off its north-eastern coast. Its exact location is important for understanding its role within the Great Barrier Reef.
Part of the Great Barrier Reef
Newton Island is part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. This park is a huge protected area that helps keep the Great Barrier Reef safe. The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system. It is home to thousands of different types of marine animals and plants. Being part of this park means Newton Island's surrounding waters are protected. This helps to preserve the amazing sea life there.
The Howick Group National Park
Newton Island is also the southernmost island in the Howick Group National Park. A national park is a special area of land or sea that is protected by the government. These parks are created to save important natural places and the animals that live there. The Howick Group National Park helps to protect the islands and their unique environments. This includes the plants and animals that live on Newton Island itself.
What Makes Newton Island Special?
Even though Newton Island is small, its location makes it very important. It is a part of two major protected areas: the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and the Howick Group National Park. This double protection helps keep the island and its nearby waters safe from harm.
Size and Features
Newton Island is about 0.43 square kilometers in size. To give you an idea, that's roughly the size of 43 football fields. Its small size means it might not have many large land animals. However, its coastal areas and surrounding waters are likely full of marine life. These small islands often have beautiful beaches and unique plant life.
Protecting the Island's Future
Because Newton Island is part of a national park and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, it is carefully managed. This management helps to protect its natural beauty and its ecosystems. Protecting places like Newton Island is very important. It ensures that future generations can also enjoy and learn about these amazing natural wonders.
