A Special Message from Peter Gash, Island Custodian

This year is extra special for us on Lady Elliot Island. 2025 marks 20 years as lease holders and custodians of this tiny coral cay.

For two decades, our mission has been to protect the island, restore its natural beauty, and share the magic of the Southern Great Barrier Reef with the world.

From first-time visitors to beloved return guests, you've all become part of the Lady Elliot story. This small but mighty island has created an incredible ripple effect since tourism began here in 1969.

Every visit offers more than just a holiday, it helps us continue our sustainability journey and inspires future eco-warriors. When guests choose less single-use plastics or fall in love with the reef, we know our work is making a difference.

We'll be celebrating this milestone on-island in late October with guests, colleagues and our team.

Thank you for being part of our journey. Here's to many more years of protecting and celebrating this special place together💫
 

Lastly, if you'd like to enjoy the picturesque scenery of the Southern Great Barrier Reef from your living room tune in to Channel 7’s Weekender show at 5:30pm on Sunday 28th September. 

P.S. Join us in being nostalgic about how the resort has evolved by reading our latest blog here.

Island Update

The migratory sea birds are back and keeping busy around Lady Elliot Island. Black Noddies are getting their nests sorted while the Bridled Terns are starting to move in. Our team have spotted Roseate, Crested, and Sooty terns arriving for the nesting season, plus plenty of Lesser Frigate Birds have been sighted hovering high over the island on windy days.

There have been some first-time feathered visitors recently including a Red-footed Booby who decided to hitch a ride on one of the boats and didn't want to leave. Additionally, what are believed to be a pair of Grey Goshawks were spotted, another potential new species for the list, though someone on eBird had recorded one in June. “Gigi” the Red-tailed Tropic Bird also fledged last week, which was wonderful to see.

Below the surface, adult Green and Loggerhead Turtles are everywhere you look as turtle mating season approaches. Some team members have observed some turtle mating behaviour already. 

On a recent Snorkel Safari, our team and guests spotted a fever of over 150 Eagle Rays which would have been an incredible sight! Bubbles the cheeky Bottlenose dolphin often spotted around Coral Gardens and Sandy Seconds has also dropped by for a visit recently.
The Lagoon reef community keeps growing with two Octopus dens seen along Channel One  that our team are keeping an eye on.
 

Learn more about the birds of Lady Elliot Island here. 

Photo: White-capped Noddies (also known at Black Noddies) captured by Jodi Carlton

New Blog & Flashback Photos

Come and stay this December 

Want to wake up just 20 steps from the Lady Elliot Island Lagoon? These rooms are perfect for groups of up to 4 (or 5 in our special Family Cabin).

Our Eco Cabins have solid walls, louvres for that lovely ocean breeze, and a glass sliding door opening to your private deck so you're practically sleeping under the stars!

We have some limited availability in late December 2025, but get in quick. Book online or contact our reservations team by calling 1800 072 200. 

*Note: 3 night minimum stay from December 23rd 2025 to January 2nd 2026.

Locals Only Offer - limited time only!

Toll Free Reservations: 1800 072 200 

Phone: +61 7 5536 3644

Email: reservations@ladyelliot.com.au 

Website: ladyelliotisland.com.au

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