Heron Island with its spectacular Great Barrier Reef location and extraordinary natural attractions has for some 20 years been one of the brightest jewels in the Australia�s Natural Treasures collection. For more than 60 years, this World Heritage Listed coral cay has maintained an unparalleled position of popularity with guests from around the globe. And now, re-opening after a one month closure Heron Island is set to win the hearts of a new generation of travellers - as well as provide long-term fans with a new reason to visit their favourite island.

The two-phase refurbishment program includes upgraded restaurant facilities and stylish new accommodations. The design for the contemporary-styled Heron Island was developed by DBI Design Corporation in conjunction with P&O Australian Resorts� in-house project team and draws on a combination of coastal architecture and a variety of marine influences. The program will be completed in mid September 2001.

As part of the refurbishment program, a new grade of accommodation will be introduced. This new room category - Turtle Room � will replace the Turtle Cabins. Two types of Turtle Rooms are being created: one designed for couples, the other ideally suited for families.

Built in duplex style and nestled into small clusters amongst the island�s vegetation, Turtle Rooms will have the look of contemporary Queensland cottages and offer an ensuite bathroom, casual living area and a shaded verandah. The Island�s Reef Suite accommodation will be completely re-styled whilst Heron and Point Suites will also be upgraded.

Restaurant and Bar facilities will also be upgraded. Inspired by the brilliant blues and greens of the Island�s surrounding water and reef, the newly-styled Shearwater Restaurant will take on the look of a grand Queenslander home.

Inside, textured tiles - reminiscent of the island�s crushed-coral sand - will replace carpets and stone features set into the floor will be among the many natural elements introduced into the design.

An oversized communal table will become one of the restaurant�s most sought after dining venues, a place for solo travellers to dine with new-found friends, whilst comfortable banquettes and traditional tables-for-two will provide guests with other seating options.

French doors, treated with a coastal wash, will open onto a broad sweeping verandah and reveal the sensational reef and ocean views previously obscured by the resort boutique. The building was relocated during the closure period.

The guest bar and lounge areas will also be restyled the design a wash of natural tones with a splash of reef colour.

The Pandanus Lounge will have a mezzanine level featuring a large-screen TV, a DVD and a collection of comfortable lounges. On the ground floor, granite-topped bars with custom-designed cocktail chairs - modern interpretations of the classic squatters chair - will be joined by an eclectic range of comfortable lounges in bleached sea grass, sand and limestone coral tones.

Large woven cane lights, shaped in a crescent moon style that recalls fishing pots of old, will provide a dramatic marine accent.

Outside, the Wistari Terrace will undergo a significant upgrade. The pool area will be redesigned with a cantilevered deck extending over the reef. A ship rail will complete the stylish maritime inspired outdoor area.

Naturally, life goes on� During the refurbishment period, the amazing array of natural attractions on and around the Island will not change. This means Heron Island activities will continue as per the normal program.

With water clarity at its peak in June/July, life on the Great Barrier Reef is at its most active. Reef walking, snorkelling and diving will continue to provide guests with hours of pleasure. The largest of Heron Island�s marine animals - Humpback Whales � can also be seen in the area from June to October.

On land, bird watchers will be able to delight in the first flight of young Wedge-tailed Shearwaters as well as the arrival of Black Noddy Turns and the antics of the many other birds that make their home on the Island.

In September, Turtles begin their mating rituals - with egg laying commencing in November. The mass spawning of corals is another of November�s spectacular natural events while December through to April brings Turtle hatchlings.

TRAVEL DETAILS: World Heritage Listed Heron Island, located on the Great Barrier Reef, is renowned as a unique natural wonderland � a true coral cay. Its pristine soft white sandy beaches and gleaming blue waters not only attract visitors from around the world but the Island is home to thousands of turtles, birds and an extraordinary range of marine life.

Heron Island lies, 72 kilometres north-east off the coast from Gladstone, central Queensland. 540 kilometres north of Brisbane. Gladstone is serviced by Qantas and Ansett airlines, with attractive fares available. Courtesy coach departs Gladstone Airport each day for transfer to Gladstone Marina and connection with Heron Island catamaran service. Helicopter transfer from Gladstone Airport is also available.

4-night Heron Island packages including accommodation, all meals, beach picnics and many other activities start from AUS$580 per person twin share. Launch transfer ex Gladstone $160 per adult return. Valid 31 March 2002.

For further information on Heron Island, contact P&O Australian Resorts on 1800 73 76 78 (freecall Australia only) or 61 2 9277 5050 or visit www.poresorts.com email resorts.reservations@poresorts.com

P&O Australian Resorts offer premium nature based holiday experiences in some of Australia�s most spectacular locations. Each property within the Australia�s Natural Treasures portfolio is a unique window to one of Australia�s World Heritage Listed areas and offers a range of quality soft adventure experiences in an individual, relaxed and professional style. P&O Australian Resorts include: Bedarra Island; Brampton Island; Cradle Mountain Lodge; Dunk Island; Heron Island; Lizard Island and Silky Oaks Lodge & Healing Waters Spa

Media Contacts: (not for publication)

Julia Gauci Marketing Communcations Manager P&O Australian Resorts GPO Box 478 Sydney NSW 2001 Australia Phone: +61 2 9364 8350 Fax: +61 2 9364 8937 Email: julia.gauci@poresorts.com

United Kingdom, Italy and Germany Susie Barry McCluskey & Associates 50 Sulivan Road London SW6 3DX United Kingdom Phone: (020) 7371 8900 Fax: (020) 7371 8116 Email: susie@mccluskey.co.uk United States of America Timothy Fox Fox Global Communications 2021 Business Centre Drive #103 Irvine CA 92612 United States of America Phone: (949) 851 3144 Fax: (949) 851 2239 Email: foxglobal@earthlink.net