South Sea Islanders settled the area which is now known as Point Vernon. They were known as Kanakas and were 'blackbirded' (captured and sent to Queensland to work the sugar cane plantations). Polsen Cemetery and a monument are reminders today of the tragic role they played in Queensland history. That sets the scene historically. Today there are more pleasant reminders, such as the turtle hatchery, fishing at Gatakers Bay (also home of a delightful restaurant set right on the coast, in a plant nursery).
Just off the shoreline is a coral reef, popular with those who fancy a spot of snorkelling. An osprey family offers thanks to the local council for the construction of a tower for nestings.
It is here where the 13 kilometres walking/cycling/wheelchair waterfront track starts, ending up at the southern beach community of Urangan.
Council rarely get a pat on the back, but Hervey Bay City Council deserves the plaudits of locals and visitors for their foresight in constructing the walkway and also for the conversion of the former railway line into The Links Corridor. This is slightly inland, and is a sealed walking/wheelchair/cycling track, part of a 10 year plan. This is an ideal spot for a picnic, one of many in the seaside city, with free barbies at selected spots along the coastal walkway.
