P&O Australian Resorts has opened a new island resort on the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Wilson Island is one of Queensland�s most exciting developments in recent years; the island is in fact a remote coral cay, located eight miles north of Heron Island, one of the P&O Australian Resorts� existing seven resorts. Wilson is a haven for wildlife, where days can be filled snorkelling, taking island and reef walks, watching turtles nesting when in season, or simply lazing in a hammock.

The Wilson Island Experience is a designer-inspired tented retreat, giving a maximum of twelve guests not only the chance to camp out in style on a private island, but also the opportunity to explore pristine reef and beach environments including turtle and rare bird breeding grounds. A true communion with nature is at the core of the experience � to live and enjoy life as a beachcomber.

Wilson Island is accessed via a 40 minute boat ride from World Heritage listed Heron Island, also renowned for its outstanding diving and wildlife.

Only through extensive liaison with National and Marine Park authorities and a strong commitment to creating a unique nature-based Great Barrier Reef experience has Wilson Island become available to P&O Australian Resorts. For example solar power and rainwater collection systems are used on the island with batteries providing lighting in guest accommodation areas.

Six stylish permanent tent sites, each with raised timber floor, king-sized beds and a private deck with reef views, have been established on the island. The interiors are based on a contemporary beachcombing theme using natural materials to create an environment of simplicity with comfort. A separate building houses a shower and dressing area for each tent.

The Long House, a spacious open-sided central complex with dining, lounge and bar facilities, is the social hub of the island. Guests enjoy casual dinner party or gourmet picnic-style meals here. In the evening the large central dining table is the focus for a three-course dinner, preceded by sunset drinks and canap�s on the beach. Lunch can be taken in the Long House or as a deli platter or picnic on a secluded sandy beach. Breakfast is informal buffet style with hot meals cooked to order. A relaxed bar and lounge has books, games and CDs.

The Wilson Island hosts, Matt Forrest and Kristine Cambridge, play a vital role in the experience from the moment guests arrive on Heron and transfer to Wilson. Both have an extensive background in environmental interpretation and hospitality and their mission is to make sure guests get the most out of their stay. Their company around the Long House table each evening makes for interesting dinner party conversation.

The Wilson Island Experience is being packaged with Heron Island as a five-night escape from Thursday though to Monday with the first and last nights� accommodation on Heron. All meals are included in the price of AU$1,690* (twin share) or AU$2,295* per person (single) as is the boat transfer from Heron to Wilson (prices valid until 31 March 03). When on Wilson, all wines, beers and soft drinks are also included. Additional nights on Heron can be booked from AU$210 per person, twin share.

Transfer to Heron Island from Gladstone is priced separately, at AU$82 per adult one way via catamaran, or AU$274 per person one way by helicopter from Gladstone airport. Children under 16 are not catered for and the resort closes in February during seabird nesting season.

For further information or reservations, telephone P&O Australian Resorts on 020 7805 3875 or visit: www.poresorts.com.

Other resorts in the P&O Australian Resorts portfolio include Bedarra Island, Heron Island, Lizard Island, Dunk Island, Silky Oaks Lodge and Healing Waters Spa in the Daintree Rainforest, Brampton Island and Cradle Mountain Lodge in Tasmania. Ends For further information please contact: Susie de Carteret/Natasha Earl at McCluskey International 020 8237 7979 / 07797742541 / Susie@mccluskey.co.uk