Quilters Getaway on breathtaking Norfolk Island

Norfolk Island is a truly unique place. Despite being a territory of Australia, it has a history unlike anywhere else in the world. Before the island was used and subsequently abandoned as convict settlements on two occassions, it is thought that the island was settled by polynesians from New Zealand’s North Island or nearby islands about six hundred years ago, but these earlier settlers disappeared after several generations. Captain James Cook saw the island in 1744 and named it after the Duchess of Norfolk. Many of the current residents can trace their ancestry back to the crew (and their Tahitian partners) that were involved in the Mutiny on the Bounty. They had been living on Pitcairn Island until Queen Victoria sent them to Norfolk Island where there was more space for the growing population.

Due to it’s unique history, Norfolk Island is like no where else in the world. While English is considered one of the offical languages, the other official language, Norf’k (a mix of Tahitian and 18th century English), has been recognised for its distinctness by the United Nations and is in danger of disappearing. The small number of residents on the island means that everyone knows everyone, in fact, the Norfolk Island phone book is the only one in the world that uses nicknames to list residents.

Not only does the island have a unique history and culture, but the scenery is breathtaking. The birds are also an attraction when visiting, with native birds and migratory birds to delight the eyes and ears.

October will be the perfect time to visit Norfolk Island, as Quilt Norfolk will be hosting the Norfolk Island Quilters Getaway from 21–27 of October. The spectacular scenery and rich history will help to inspire and get those creative juices flowing as you work with the skilled tutors from Australia and New Zealand. Meg Orr, Michelle Yeo, Meredith Budd and Amanda Daly will teach you a range of designing and fabric art skills sure to inspire you. This Quilters Getaway is just too good an opportunity to miss, combining a love of quilting, learning new skills and visiting one of the most spectacular and unique holiday destinations in the world. What more could you want!

The Norfolk Island Travel Centre has special packages to Norfolk Island from Brisbane starting from $1199 per person for a seven night stay and from Sydney starting from $1502 per person for a ten night stay. The prices include economy class return airfare to Norfolk Island, airline taxes, twin share accommodation staying at Hibiscus Crown, bonus hire car (petrol and car insurance additional and payable direct), return airport transfers, meet and greet at Norfolk Island airport as well as a complimentary round of mini golf and ‘A Walk in the Wild’. Registration fee for the classes is an additional $560 per person and includes two dinners, a choice of tutored classes, a welcome pack and much more! For more information on travel packages, visit The Travel Centre, Norfolk Island website www.travelcentre.nf, email denise-r@travelcentre.nlk.nf phone toll free 1800 1400 66 or fax 0011 6723 23205. Visit the Quilt Norfolk website www.quiltnorfolk.com for further event details.

Emma Bradstock