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Friends of Maatsuyker Island

Where we work

Maatsuyker Island is located approximately 10 km off the south coast of Tasmania and is the second largest island in the Maatsuyker Group. It is 3 km long and 1.5 km wide at its widest point and covers 180 hectares. The island is part of the South West National Park, Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. It has a variety of flora and fauna, and is unique in that it is the location of Australia’s most southerly lighthouse.

Who we are

The Friends of Maatsuyker Island is a group of like-minded people with varying ages and skills who enjoy volunteering together to plan and organise on-ground activities.

What we do

Our group works in partnership with the Parks and Wildlife Service to maintain the cultural and natural heritage values of Maatsuyker Island.

Some of our activities include:

Assistance with the development of management strategies and associated works programs
Applying for government grants and other fundraising
Historical heritage preservation and maintenance
Nature preservation including weed eradication
Assistance with the volunteer caretaker program

For information and enquiries

Email Friends of Maatsuyker Island

Check out the Friends of Maatsuyker Island Document Library

Like to see more of Maatsuyker Island?

We have some great historical photos of life on Maatsuyker Island when it was a manned Lighthouse Station. Click on the image below to visit our photo gallery.

Maatsuyker gallery

Or take a look at our Maatsuyker Island Slideshow

Ever wondered what it was like to be a lighthouse keeper on an isolated island? Have a listen to John Cook, the second longest serving keeper in Australia. A fascinating interview with the ABC. John worked on Maatsuyker Island, Tasman Island, Eddystone Point and Bruny Island.

And take a look at this short film about being a lighthouse keeper on Maatsuyker Island. Australians at work - lighthouse keeping,

Historic lighthouse plans secured

A combination of funds from WILDCARE Inc, Friends of Maatsuyker Island and Lighthouses of Australia saw the purchase at auction of a number of historic plans for lighthouses in Tasmania, including Maatsuyker Island. To read more click here

2010 Island Calendar

2010 Swan and Goose Island Calendar Order Form now available from the WILDCARE Shop (see links from Home page)

If you are not yet a WILDCARE member and would like to join this group, join WILDCARE Inc (either online, by mail or in person at any Service Tasmania outlet, Parks Visitor Centre or the WILDCARE Inc Office) and then list this group on your membership form.

If you are already a member and would like to join this group, either go to your personal details in the members only area to include the group or contact office@wildcaretas.org.au to change your details.