St Helena Island National Park

St Helena Island National Park, located 21 kilometres (13 mi) east of Brisbane and 4 kilometres (2.5 mi) east of the mouth of the Brisbane River in Moreton Bay, has played a significant role in Brisbane's history.

It is known for its use as a prison island, quarantine station, and maximum-security prison. The island is named after an Aboriginal man, Napoleon, who was exiled there in 1827.

In the 19th century, St Helena Island served as a quarantine station and later became a notorious prison island housing dangerous criminals and outlaws. It was also involved in the 1891 Australian shearers' strike. Despite its dark history, the island now offers visitors a chance to witness the scars of Queensland's historic period of punishment and reform.

St Helena Island National Park is home to various wildlife species, including migratory birds that use the island's waters as a watering hole. It is part of the Moreton Bay and Pumicestone Passage Important Bird Area, recognized for its significant populations of migratory waders. The island also has its own permanent water supply from a central spring.

The island was added to the Queensland Heritage Register in 1992 and is now preserved as a national park. It attracts visitors who are fascinated by its history, natural scenery, and stunning views. Guided tours are available to learn about the island's convict and Indigenous history, including stories of prison life and escape attempts. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic beauty of the island and the view of the Brisbane skyline from a unique vantage point.