We are enjoying the most splendid week of weather on Lord Howe. Wonderful clear days and whisper breezes have guests setting off on adventures all over the island. One such couple paddled off in one of our kayaks to Blackburn Island ( or Rabbit Island as it is affectionately known), located in the centre of the lagoon.
Blackburn Island was named after David Blackburn, sailing master of the Supply. Its named changed to Goat Island, then Rabbit Island and back to Blackburn Island officially in 1973. The ‘ Rabbit Island’ nickname probably has its origins from the unattended burrows of the Wedge-tailed shearwaters that are very similar to that of a rabbit.
This oval shaped island is only really accessible by kayak or small boat. It is well worth the paddle out there as it is the home for the shearwaters. Their chicks, all well fed and fluffy can be seen outside their burrows. It is also home to Lord Howe’s two lizard species, the skink and gecko.
On the eastern side of Blackburn Island you can see the remains of an old concrete shark ‘processing tank’ from the 1930s. A very short lived industry.
Whilst on the way back from dropping guests to the jetty I passed a group of school children (all barefoot, as is the tradition at the Island school) with their teacher, heading off to guess what?! A kayak out to Blackburn Island for Friday afternoon sport. What a life!
