Bioastronomy 2002: Life Among the Stars
July 8-12, 200
2

Experience the Whitsundays

OUTER BARRIER REEF EXPERIENCE

The Great Barrier Reef of the Whitsundays is the location of one of Australia’s largest and most sophisticated reef platforms, the Hardy Reef - and there's a chance to get up close and personal. Anchored to the edge of the reef is a facility that offers snorkelling and diving, as well as a semi-submersible vessel and underwater viewing chamber for those not wanting to get wet. Getting there is easy - just a one hour fast jet cat ride to the floating facility, during which time you can prepare for your very first dive, if you wish. 

NOTE: There will be a one-day conference trip to the outer Barrier Reef on Saturday July 13 at a cost of AUD$115 (US$57) which includes travel, lunch, snorkelling and use of semi-submersible. Diving is a small extra cost.  The trip has the exclusive use of all facilities. Delegates wishing to take up this opportunity need to remain on Hamilton Island until Sunday 14th to ensure flights are available. Conference rates on the rooms apply for the duration.

The Whitsundays offer many other attractions too:

WHITEHAVEN BEACH

This beach of pure white silica sand is perhaps one of the most famous beaches in Australia next to Bondi beach. Reached by seaplane or boat, it is the perfect spot for lacing, enjoying an exhilarating walk or an opportunity to swim in the Coral Sea. The Hamilton Island resort can supply lunch by the crystal clear water’s edge.

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Whitehaven Beach

EXPLORE THE ISLANDS

You can hire a yacht or take one of the regular ferries to explore the islands and the nearby mainland Queensland. Every island has its unique qualities. Visit Hayman, Dunk, and Day Dream Islands.

SEE THE ISLANDS AND REEF BY HELICOPTER

Hamilton Aviation offer a full range of helicopter trips or fixed wing aircraft trips over the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef.

PEAK PASSAGE GUIDED WALK WITH BRUNCH

This challenging walk will take you to the eastern tip of Hailton Island where you will experience the most breathtaking views of the Whitsunday Islands over Sunrise Bay. At the top of Passage Peak, enjoy brunch, take photographs or simply sit back and enjoy the views.

LINDEMAN ISLAND GOLF TOUR

For all those golf fans, try a day on Lindeman Island. Relax in one of the two pools, enjoy fine cuisine, go sailing and play a round of golf. The Club Med Lindeman Island Golf course is a pleasant nine-hole resort golf course where the accent is on enjoyment and fun in a casual atmosphere.

BANJO PATERSON

Embark on a sailing cruise around the islands aboard the 70 foot yacht "Banjo Paterson". First timers and novices will be asked to hoist the main, set the genoa or take the helm. The cruise visits Chalkies Beach, a pure while silica beach on a deserted island where guests can practice their snorkeling skills, relax and enjoy a fantastic lunchtime barbecue. The yacht is available for full-day charter and group rates are really affordable rates.

The Banjo Paterson also offers a sunset cruise. And remember this is the time of year when Humpback whales visit the area!

LEARN TO SAIL FOR PARTNERS

Forget the mystery! Learning to sail is easy and fun, especially in one of the world’s finest cruising grounds. Whilst your partner is in the conference, why not enjoy sailing a luxury yacht amongst the islands as well as learning new skills?

* These represent just a taste of the many activities offered in the Whitsundays. Pre and post-conference tours at advantageous rates will also be organised to make the most of your trip to Australia.

Introduction

Science Program

Poster papers

Registration

Accommodation

Who Should Attend

 Hotel booking form

Speakers

Post tours

Sydney day tours

Useful web links

The Great Barrier Reef

The Whitsundays

The Committees

Media Centre

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