Kent Group National Park

Kent Group National Park is located off the northeastern coast of Tasmania, Australia, in the Bass Strait. The park is part of a group of small islands, including Deal, Erith, and Dover Islands, known for their remote and pristine natural environment. The nearest towns on the mainland are Bridport and Gladstone in Tasmania, but the park is accessible only by private boat or plane due to its isolated location. Established in 2002, Kent Group National Park protects both natural and cultural heritage. It has a significant history as an area for sealing in the 19th century, and today the park is important for conservation efforts, particularly in protecting native wildlife and rare vegetation. Due to the park’s remoteness, there are no formal parking facilities. Visitors must rely on private transport to reach the islands, and access is generally for experienced sailors or through chartered trips. There are no entry fees to the park, but visitors must abide by strict conservation regulations to preserve its delicate ecosystems. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including Australian fur seals, little penguins, and short-tailed shearwaters. The islands also serve as important breeding grounds for seabirds and are a refuge for threatened species such as the forty-spotted pardalote. Marine life around the islands is abundant, with colorful fish, rays, and dolphins frequently spotted. The flora of Kent Group National Park includes windswept coastal heathlands, hardy shrubs, and endemic species like the rare Kent Group rose. The landscape is dominated by rugged cliffs, sheltered bays, and picturesque beaches, with Deal Island’s lighthouse standing as a historical landmark. Public transport does not serve Kent Group National Park. The only way to reach the park is via private or chartered sea or air transport, often arranged from mainland Tasmania. Photo Credit: James975