Keswick Island, QUEENSLAND
Airing Date: May 19th, 2003
Keswick Island, located just off the coast of Mackay in tropical Queensland, is Australia's newest community island. There has been only 45 guests stay on the island and five of them were so impressed with Keswick's rich beauty they ended up buying land there. A slice of paradise starts at around $140,000 and costs up to $290,000 if you want ocean views thrown in.
The only house on Keswick is Denise and David's Guesthouse - two local residents who moved to the island for a sea change. Completed only six months ago, the house includes three charming guestrooms each with ensuite.
Every morning you wake up to smoothing lull of the ocean, and from the large deck area adjoining each room, you'll be spoilt with sensational views of the neighbouring Whitsunday Islands and - in season -migrating humpback whales.
With such a small community currently living on the island it's easy to feel like you've got the whole place to yourself. After all, Keswick's five beaches are both pristine and deserted. You can lie on the soft sand and enjoy a picnic lunch or swim in the calm, crystal clear water. It's true paradise without the steep price tag!
If you're looking for a bit more activity then there are plenty of ways to pass the time. For fishing lovers, Keswick Island has some great fishing spots either from the beaches or out in the deep blue on a fishing charter excursion. The island also offers some of the best coral reef in all the Great Barrier Reef for diving or snorkelling enthusiasts, there's are several walking tracks, helicopter tours and even boat trips to neighbouring St Bees Island.
For an island with only a small community Keswick sure does cater for tourists!
The facts
Accommodation at Denise and David's guesthouse costs from $140 per night per person, including all meals. Flights to Keswick from Mackay with Midstate Airlines start from $40 per person.
Keswick Island Guesthouse and Bed and Breakfast
Tel: 07 4965 8002
Whitsunday Air Taxis
Tel: 07 4957 4122
Mackay Tourism
Tel: 1300 130 001
