© 2008 Tourism Queensland
What will the weather be like?
Australian seasons are the reverse of the Northern hemisphere. Summer is December through February and Winter is June through August. Queensland's greatest attraction is its year round outdoor climate - long, warm summers and cool, short winters. Check out the climate & weather page.
What is the best time of the year for diving & snorkelling?
Diving all year round is possible in Queensland's warm, temperate waters, however the weather is typically at its best for diving from August to January.
What's the visibility like?
Queensland waters offer excellent visibility along the coast, with visibility in the waters of the Great Barrier Reef exceeding 100 metres in some areas.
Where do I learn more about marine life and the reef?
The World-Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef is a precious and fragile environment. The reef provides a home for millions of marine animals, and a spectacular natural attraction for thousands of visitors each year. To learn more about this delicate ecosystem, visit the Discover the Reef pages on this site.
How important is sun protection?
The Queensland sun can be fierce, even on cloudy days, so use sunscreen and wear a hat, long sleeves and sunglasses to protect yourself. In the water snorkellers should wear a t-shirt, lycra shirt or bodysuit, and divers a wet suit for sun protection.
Can I go fishing?
Yes, however some exclusion zones apply in some areas of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and other Marine Park zones. For more information on fishing in Queensland, refer to the following websites:
Queensland Department of Primary Industries & Fisheries www.dpi.qld.gov.au/cps/rde/xchg/dpi/hs.xsl/28_139_ENA_HTML.htm
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA)www.gbrmpa.gov.au/corp_site/key_issues/tourism/fishing.html
What is the Environmental Management Charge (EMC)?
The Environmental Management Charge or reef tax as it is also known is a government charge payable by every person who accesses the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. It is currently $4.50 per person per day. This money goes towards research, preservation and management of The Great Barrier Reef. This charge is collected by operators and passed on to the government. Visit the GBRMPA website for further information.