If you’ve ever wanted to be off the grid, Middle Percy Island, a 2,000-hectare piece of land 130km south east of Mackay, is calling your name! This hidden gem, only reachable by private boat has been welcoming seafarers for hundreds of years, and is know as a haven for sailors due to its famed hospitality.
Partly established as a National Park in 2011, the island depends on the Caretakers of Middle Percy Island Corporation and on volunteers for its preservation and continued self-sufficiency.
Discovered in 1802 by Captain Matthew Flinders, Middle Percy was of course well known long before then to local Aboriginal people, although sadly threre are few records of their history in the area. But the island has accrued stories of mystery, tragedy, romance, and even hidden treasure since, with current visitors still searching for gold sovereigns, presumably buried somewhere in the island by a hermit.
After a 12-hour boat ride off Mackay, visitors find themselves in a lush paradise, with breathtaking natural beauty, and untouched by commercialism. The beloved A-frame shack, built in the 1970s as a labour of love by former resident Andy Martin, reflects the sense of community that has defined the island for most of its existence. Nestled in the West Bay, the structure is bursting with unique and personal mementos left behind by adventurers from around the world who had visited Middle Percy.
The importance of community shines throughout the island, be it through shared meals around a campfire, volunteering in the island garden, or helping passing sailors with repairs. There’s also plenty to do for fun, including stunning hikes from West Bay to the Homestead — a long, easy one or a shorter winding hike if you like a challenge — watersports like paddleboarding and snorkelling, fishing, or helping out with projects around the island.
You can’t miss out on their fresh produce and organic honey either! The A-Frame is where you can find a small variety of products such as fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, seasonal preserves and, of course, honey.
As for accommodation, you can either camp in the designated area for $10 per person per night, or the jaw-dropping three-storey treehouse! Stay with up to 6 more people in this unique building, which has a surprising amount of amenities including an over, a stove, a fridge, and a freezer.
In order to stay or volunteer on the island, we recommend getting in touch with the caretakers by calling 0452 295575, emailing percyisland@gmail.com, or radioing VHF Channel 73 if you’re on a boat, and you can stay updated on the island and its visitors through their Facebook group.
