INTRODUCTION TO DISCOVER NORFOLK – VOLUME 5 ISSUE 2 

Welcome to Discover Norfolk, Volume 5 Issue 2 – Norfolk Island’s most comprehensive and freely distributed visitor magazine.

After two years of extremely disruptive and fearful times we are starting to see the light at the end of the Covid tunnel, though 2022 has already reminded us of the recurring challenge of flooding and the dangers faced by many Australians each year. Norfolk Island’s size and topography thankfully mitigates many of the same flood issues, though heavy rains and raging waters can still manage to cause large scale disruption. Jenny Jauczius recounts the story of the 1936 flood on Norfolk Island that inundated much of Kingston, and we learn about the island’s relationship with water.

Bethany Holland from the Norfolk Island Museum introduces some model buildings on display at the REO (Royal Engineer’s Office) created by model-maker Stefan Baranowskyj. Stefan’s models are particularly interesting as they have been made to help bring to life some of Kingston’s buildings that have long since disappeared. 

Scottish writer and craftsman Callum Robinson tells the fascinating  story of convict James Branegan. We follow James’ story from early 1780s in England untill his arrival at Norfolk Island on HMS Sirius in 1790. Also in this issue we celebrate 20 years of Norfolk Island’s world class attraction and essential visitor experience – Fletcher’s Mutiny Cyclorama. Lisa Richards’ family friendly Norfolk Island article illustrates why the island is a destination for every age group, and we have a little look at the new Tea Shire Drive experience and tour. 

Finally, I’m proud to announce the release of my 168 page hard-backed photo book, ‘Norfolk Island, South Pacific’ published by Insprint and Wave Hospitality Group. The book contains over 500 images I have taken on Norfolk Island over a 20 year period. Threaded through 10,000 words and captions, this book brings Norfolk Island to life in beautiful colour and detail, and will be available at stockists island-wide. 

Discover Norfolk is provided for you to use as a guide during your stay, and to take with you to share on your onward journey. The publication is, and has always been, funded entirely by advertiser subscriptions. Please take the time to consider the products and services on these pages during your stay, and when planning your next visit. 

I hope you enjoy discovering beautiful Norfolk Island.

Robin Nisbet
Editor – Discover Norfolk