Turtle time on Lord Howe
Mike Dolan of The Australian Women’s Weekly greets a friendly turtle whilst snorkelling on Lord Howe Island. Mike says, ‘As I took the plunge with mask and snorkel, the turtle looked me in the eye as if to say, “Come on, mate, I haven’t got all day to show you around the bay”.’
Turtle cruises Lord Howe's waters
Originally developed from a market garden in 1979, the Lord Howe Island golf course has been developed and expanded into one of the most picturesque courses in Australia.
It’s a short walk ‘along the way’ for our guests at Capella.
From beneath the shadows of Mount Gower and Mount Lidgbird, the course meanders through the lushly vegetated kentia palm forest out onto gently undulating fairways along the ocean foreshore, and provides golfers with many a challenge. The 8th hole is particularly challenging with a big water trap (the ocean) situated on the western side. Another danger to golfers is the little cocker spaniel who lives next to the 9th tee – he steals golf balls and the greens keepers’ tools!
An average of 3 hours (18 holes) allows ample time to complete the course. All Island guests are welcome to play golf at any time.
A good old fashioned honesty system, rarely seen elsewhere today is used to pay for green fees and club hire. Balls are available from the lolly-pop machine for $1.00 per ball. Both left and right handed clubs are available for hire. There is no booking or waiting for a tee off time here.
Club day for members is every Sunday played over 18 holes with Island guests most welcome to participate. The Chicken Run is held on Friday afternoon, it is played over 9 or 12 holes for stable-ford points with the outright winner taking home a ‘chook.’ Several of our staff members are club members and enjoy the occasional ‘bash.’
7 April 2010
The Mount Gower Trek justly deserves its ranking as one of Australia’s top day walks. Taking approximately 5 hours to reach the summit at 875metres and another 4 hours to return, this trek should not be taken lightly.
Marvel at the breathtaking views of Ball’s Pyramid, Mt Lidgbird, the lagoon and the northern settlement. Explore the cloud forest on the summit where lichens, ferns, orchids and mosses flourish.
This climb isn’t for everyone, it is extremely challenging. Licensed guides Jack Shick and Dean Hiscox conduct this Class 5 climb three days a week (weather depending).
So, if you are planning on visiting Lord Howe and Capella Lodge remember to start training! Not only are the views from the summit spectacular, you will also get up close and personal with the island wood hens who will be trying to pinch your lunch.
From March to September you will probably also find yourself being dive-bombed by the Providence Petrels which soar around the summit. As soon as they hear any loud noise they come crashing through the dense canopy.
A sojourn in the cedar hot tub is a must after this strenuous day – of course, only if you’re staying at Capella!
