In the top picture you can see our group and John Clarke telling the people about the history of Shelley.
1. Shelley Beach. The only permanent resident on Fingal Island other than the lighthouse keepers was a chap called Arthur Murdoch. During the Depression and later he lived here in a handmade wooden shack earning a living by shovelling shell grit at this beach and sold it to poultry farmers to feed the chickens.
He lived here from 1930 until 1947 apart from a short break during 1942 and 1945 when soldiers occupied the island and he was told to leave for his own safety.
2. Government Wharf. This is where the boats used to come in at to deliver supplies to the lighthouse keepers and also collect the shell grit from Arthur Murdoch. There used to be a wooden jetty here, but it was demolished as it deteriorated.
3. View from the top of the lighthouse.
We saw lots of whales while on the island, but I didn't get any photos of them. I did hear about 3 or 4 whales singing though. The first time I have ever heard that, and it was amazing to hear them 'talking' to each other. Probably saying 'watch out rocks ahead'
@happypat It was about 22 degrees c this day. Goes chilly at nights though and going to reach about 17 today apparently.
@robz It was a lovely day. To be able to go in the lighthouse was great and although we see whales regularly at Boat Harbour to hear them singing from the beach here on the island was amazing. It was the first time I heard them singing. Will never forget that one.
Ian
@robz It was a lovely day. To be able to go in the lighthouse was great and although we see whales regularly at Boat Harbour to hear them singing from the beach here on the island was amazing. It was the first time I heard them singing. Will never forget that one.