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Bundaberg: The Ecotourist’s dream come true!

Home of Australia’s vital loggerhead turtle rookery

WANT to experience a destination dedicated to sustainable practices and environmental conservation?

Then look no further than the Bundaberg Region, Australia, the southern-most destination on the Great Barrier Reef and the home of the nation’s most significant endangered loggerhead turtle rookery.

Recently awarded the fifth EECO Destination Certification from Ecotourism Australia (25/2/2034), the Bundaberg Region is teeming with vibrant wildlife and crystal clear coastal waters.

Perfect for ecotourists looking to learn more about sustainability while enjoying the breathtaking sights of nature, this region offers something truly unique.

From idyllic parks preserving centuries-old trees and fauna to sweeping coastlines bordered by wild flora, you won’t want to miss out on all the Bundaberg Region has to offer.

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Bundaberg region - turtle swimming amongst coral

A Green Sea Turtle swims over a reef next to a coral bommie at Lady Eliot Island. PHOTO: Shutterstock.

Australia’s fifth locale with CEO Destination Certification

The globally recognised ECO Destination Certification process through Ecotourism Australia is complex and recognises the efforts of the tourism industry, local government, and the entire community towards all aspects of regional sustainability, and the Bundaberg Region is the second destination in Queensland and fifth in Australia to achieve the prestigious credential.

Following an independent assessment across 91 criteria, the region achieved the certification at the Ecotourism level, which is defined as a nature-based tourism destination with a strong commitment to ecotourism principles.

This involves cultural and natural interpretation and education for visitors, and local business engagement in sustainability.

Located about a 4.5-hour drive north of Brisbane, the Bundaberg Region is home to some of the most lauded eco-certified experiences on the Great Barrier Reef including Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort, Lady Musgrave Experience, Mon Repos Turtle Centre, and Kellys Beach Resort.

Mayor Jack Dempsey said Bundaberg Regional Council had led the certification process with support from a range of stakeholders, including Bundaberg Tourism, PCCC, and local operators and organisations.

“It is a massive coup for the Bundaberg Region to achieve ECO Destination Certification and sees our community become one of only a small number in the country to do so,” Mayor Dempsey said.

“This achievement demonstrates our community’s respect and care for the natural environment and will ensure we continue to grow sustainably into the future.

“Ecotourism Australia’s independent auditor had some wonderful feedback for our region in making their decision and commended Council for its proactive approach to sustainability.

“This achievement has obvious benefits for our economy, but it will also benefit our environment by providing a framework to constantly maintain and improve sustainability practices.

“It is also wonderful for our community members who can be proud of the role they play in preserving and protecting this place we are lucky enough to call home.”

Of the top five Bundaberg Region attractions and traveller favourites on TripAdvisor in 2022, three were nature-based and included Mon Repos Turtle Centre, Bundaberg Botanic Gardens, and Alexandra Park Zoo.

A female Loggerhead Turtle flicks sand over her eggs to bury them after laying over 100 eggs above the high tide level at Mon Repos beach. PHOTO: Shutterstock.

Get up close and personal with nature in the Bundaberg region

Fulfilling global best standard sustainability requirements was no small feat, Ecotourism Australia CEO Elissa Keenan said.

“Since beginning its sustainability journey in 2020, the Bundaberg region has made significant strides to achieve ECO Destination Certification at the Ecotourism level,” Ms Keenan said.

“Bundaberg’s application demonstrated a passion for and dedication to holistic sustainability within the region, championing initiatives such as the One Million Trees Project and the popular Milbi Festival.

“Achieving ECO Destination Certification not only supports local Ecotourism Australia-certified operators but inspires local tourism businesses to implement sustainability and achieve certification.”

Bundaberg Tourism played a key role in supporting the ECO Destination Certification process.

CEO Katherine Reid said, “The tourism industry of the region has long believed that experiencing our internationally significant but fragile natural assets is the greatest way to educate people about the need for conservation.

“The community and our tourism industry take great pride in our role as custodians of the Great Barrier Reef and the precious land, water, and sea country of the Traditional Owners on which we live, and ECO Destination Certification is a formal acknowledgement of this.

“The Bundaberg region continues to shine as one of Australia’s most exciting emerging tourism destinations, with people flocking from around the nation and the globe to experience our unique offerings, and the knowledge that their holidays are underpinned by respectful, sustainable, and in some cases regenerative business practices will only strengthen our desirability as a destination.”

What is an ECO Certified Destination?

The ECO Destination Certification program assures travellers that certified destinations are backed by a strong, well-managed commitment to sustainable practices and provide high-quality nature-based tourism experiences within the region.

Becoming a certified ECO Destination means regions will be demonstrating internationally recognised ecotourism credentials to visitors, stakeholders, and the community in a manner that is credible and authenticated.

In other words, it’s not just regions saying they’re sustainable; it’s independently assessed, verified, and audited.

Aerial viewpoint over tropical waters at Lady Musgrave Island, Great Barrier Reef, Australia. PHOTO: Shutterstock.

About the Bundaberg Region’s Ecotourism Experiences

World-famous Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort is considered the home of the manta ray and holds multiple Ecotourism Australia certifications, including Advanced Ecotourism, Climate Action Leader, and Green Travel Leader.

The Resort is located on the southernmost island of the Great Barrier Reef and has received multiple international accolades, including being placed in the Queensland Tourism Awards Hall of Fame in 2022 for successive wins in the Ecotourism category.

Lady Musgrave Experience offers full-day eco-tours and pontoon glamping experiences at the second coral cay of the Reef and holds three Ecotourism Australia certifications – Advanced Ecotourism, Climate Action Certified Business, and Respecting Our Culture.

In 2022, the Experience was awarded bronze in the Ecotourism category of the Queensland Tourism Awards.

The Mon Repos Turtle Centre’s ranger-led encounters with nesting and hatching sea turtles and its long history of marine turtle research, protection, and education have earned it three Ecotourism Australia certifications – Advanced Ecotourism, Climate Action Certified Business and Respecting Our Culture.

The region is also home to the Southern Great Barrier Reef’s first mainland eco-certified accommodation, Kelly’s Beach Resort, which holds Nature Tourism and Green Travel Leader Eco Certification.

About Eco Tourism Australia

Ecotourism Australia is a non-government, not-for-profit organisation, established in 1991, that promotes and supports the ecotourism industry in Australia through building capacity and actively promoting sustainable tourism operations and systems.

Ecotourism Australia is acknowledged globally for its industry standards and recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).

Recognised as the credible, national peak body for sustainable and nature-based tourism, their key program–ECO Certification–was the world’s first national ecotourism certification program.

Bundaberg: The perfect destination for eco-conscious travellers

The Bundaberg Region has something for everyone, whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore cultural attractions, or get active.

And with so many eco-friendly accommodations and activities available, it’s the perfect destination for the environmentally conscious traveller.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to the Bundaberg Region today!

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A Croquet-lover’s Guide to Exploring the Wide Bay

30/01/2023/by Contributor

Australia, EXPLORE

Croquet: A great Way To Enjoy A Holiday

Croquet clubs make for great travel destinations

HAVE you ever played croquet? No?! Well, it’s definitely time to add it to your bucket list!

While visiting the Queensland city of Bundaberg, members of the Bundaberg Croquet Club introduced me to the classic game, and I have to say, it was a lot of fun.

The club members were friendly and happy to show me basic moves of the game that date back hundreds of years.

Bundaberg Croquet Club president Jennifer Lee said not only was croquet a lot of fun, but it was also the perfect addition to any holiday, whether in Bundaberg or anywhere else.

“Whether playing on your own or with friends, croquet is a great way to enjoy leisurely days outdoors,” Jennifer said.

“It’s a fun and challenging game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.”

A Brief History of Croquet

Croquet has been around for centuries, having become popular in Europe in the 1800s.

Its roots can be found in Ireland. The name “crookey” comes from crook + oy ( hooked stick).

A Dutch folktale mentions how players would use an indoor clay court with football-sized wooden balls and one metal ring to play Beugelen or Maillette–two different games that emerged in Europe as well.

Introduced to England by John Jaques, the game of croquet became an instant hit with middle-class attendees at The Great Exhibition of 1851.

Croquet played an important role in the lives of Victorian aristocracy, with many wealthy individuals building courts within their expansive estates.

Over time, different variations of the game developed for different audiences.

For example, there are now games specifically designed for children and seniors.

Today, the game remains a popular game enjoyed by all ages, and it is still associated with elegance and refinement.

The Bundaberg Croquet Club at 29 Quay Street, Bundaberg West, is as busy today as it was when it was founded in 1900.

A card depicting a game of croquet on the beach, by Lucien Tanquerey, 1910-1919, Wikimedia Commons.

How to play

Croquet is typically played on a lawn or other open space and involves hitting balls with mallets through hoops.

The game is relatively easy to learn, but it takes practice to master.

The basic rules are as follows:

Each player starts with two balls, and the first player to get both balls through all the hoops wins the game.
There are many different ways to score points, and players can also knock other players’ balls out of bounds.

Court etiquette

Croquet is an engaging sport that requires skill, strategy, and tact.

Whether you’re an experienced player or a newcomer just learning the rules, it is important to be mindful of the proper etiquette when playing a game.

Some basic tips for maintaining good etiquette on the court include following the correct order of shots, staying alert during your opponent’s turns, and knowing how to give and receive compliments.

With these simple guidelines in mind, you can ensure that every game is enjoyable, both for yourself and everyone else on the court.

The benefits of playing croquet

Croquet is a recreational activity that offers a wealth of benefits.

First, the game requires players to exercise both their bodies and their minds.

Whether you are playing singles or doubles, Croquet requires you to balance, coordinate your movement, and think strategically in order to succeed.

No matter your age, skill level or fitness level, you can enjoy the sport at your own pace while exercising your body.

Additionally, Croquet is a sociable activity that encourages good sportsmanship and interaction between players.

How to get involved

If you’re looking to get started with this exciting game, there are several ways to get involved.

One option is to find a club in your area and sign up for lessons or training sessions.

Another way to learn about the game is by watching instructional videos online.

You could also use resources like books, magazines, and other Croquet-related materials to gain a deeper understanding of the game.

Pack a Croquet set for your next trip

When planning your next trip, consider packing a Croquet set along with your other supplies.

Croquet is a great game to play while travelling throughout Australia.

It’s a great way to meet new people and can be easily set up and played in a variety of locations, wherever there is open space in parks or open areas.

To set up the game, simply place the hoops in a square formation, with each hoop placed about seven yards apart.

The first player then hits the ball through all the hoops, in order, before returning to the start point and hitting the ball through the hoops again.

Just be sure to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated on those hot days.

Modern croquet equipment. Photo by Winnywinn, 2008, Wikimedia Commons.

Visit Bundaberg Croquet Club

And, if you’re passing through Bundaberg, be sure to visit the Bundaberg Croquet Club and meet the friendly members who are keen to introduce new people to the game.

Visitors can play a casual game for just $10.

President Jennifer Lee said local members were always happy to help beginners, so you’ll be up and playing in no time.

There is also a clubhouse, which makes for a perfect place to relax after playing. It’s also available to hire for events.

Croquet is also the perfect way to enjoy the Australian sunshine and take in the beautiful scenery near the Bundaberg Croquet Club, right next to the picturesque Burnett River.

Who knows, you might just get hooked on this historic game and make some wonderful new friends.

To find out more about the club visit https://www.croquetqld.org/clubs/wide-bay-burnett/bundaberg-croquet-club, phone (07) 4152 8472, or email bundaberg@croquetqld.org

A card depicting children playing Croquet. Photographer unknown. Source: University of British Columbia Library. Wikimedia Commons.

Published May 2022

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