NORFOLK ISLAND GEOTOUR
15 TO 20 AUGUST 2024
EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST
Norfolk Island has a checkered history of human settlements and abandonments from Polynesians for a century or two up to the fifteenth century, British convicts from 1788 to 1814 and again from 1825 to 1855 and then Pitcairn Islanders, their descendants and other immigrants from 1856 to the present.
But there is so much more to Norfolk Island than its human history. We will be looking at history including a little WWII history but we plan to examine a wider range of issues that might include:
- Geology, landscapes and climate including Zealandia
- Flora and fauna
- Transport to and from the Island
- Government, administration, and services
- Whaling and fishing
- Past and present agriculture and horticulture
- Present economy and economic drivers
- The difficulties of living on a remote island in the Pacific.
There should be time for a short walk in the Island’s National Park for those inclined.
We will be assisted on the Norfolk Island by Dr Geoff Edwards, an island resident formerly of Brisbane. Geoff is an acquaintance of a couple of RGSQ members and has visited RGSQ headquarters.
Indicative up-front cost for the Trek should be between $2,500 and $3,000. This includes:
- Qantas flights to and from the Island
- Transport from and to the Airport
- Accommodation (twin share) at Castaway with continental breakfast
- Hire of a coach for the four full days we will spend on the Island
- An Island Fish Fry evening meal.
As well as meals, morning teas etc, there will be additional costs for some activities and venue entries, and there will be costs for some optional activities like a progressive dinner hosted by local people. Some additional costs may be payable prior to the trek and some will be payable on Norfolk Island.
We need to get a reasonable idea of numbers so that we would like your interest to be registered by Friday 1 March. We are seeking 20 participants and a wait list will apply for this trek.
Bob Reid, 0412 625 944
