Norfolk Island Discovery Round Up November 2024 by Sally Gilbert

Our adventure began bright and early at 5:00 AM, as we gathered with some of the sisters in Melbourne, while others joined us from Canberra, Sydney, and the lucky few from Brisbane who didn't have far to travel to their airport. After arriving at our spacious and comfortable accommodation, we set off for our first delicious meal at the Bounty Bar one of many restaurants a delightful introduction to the fresh local produce that would be the first of culinary highlights throughout our stay.  The local Fish Fry was a fun experience showcasing local dancing and we enjoyed a "Murder Mystery" dinner inspired by characters from the Penal Colony, which turned out to be a night full of laughs.

After our first delicious dinner, we headed back to the hotel for a good night's sleep, in readiness for the next 7 days exploring the wonders of Norfolk Island. This destination is rich in history, offering a glimpse into the lives of our forefathers and the challenges they faced, some of whom were transported for petty crimes. We visited a cemetery with a stunning view of the South Pacific Ocean and learned about the surprising fact that some convicts who met a grim fate at the hands of guards were given elaborate headstones—talk about a curious twist!

We delved into the story of the Mutiny on the Bounty and how it shaped the island’s legacy. It was fascinating to discover that many locals are descendants of the original mutineers, with nine generations of Islanders tracing their lineage back to figures like Fletcher Christian, Matthew Quintal and their Tahitian connections.  Their mother tongue is a combination of Ye Olde English and Tahitian which is fascinating.  The island’s culture centres around family and community, with a strong sense of heritage and a lifestyle that values hard work, self-sufficiency, and living off the land.

Our tour also included a visit to Colleen McCullough’s home, where we got an understanding of why this beloved author chose to call Norfolk Island her sanctuary. It's easy to see why—the island’s natural beauty is truly breathtaking. We arrived with only a vague sense of its history, but left with a deep appreciation for its culture, resilience, and some of the most stunning landscapes ever seen.