by Di Hill (
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I love writing, taking photos, travelling and enjoying life. I have a BA of Adult and Vocational Teaching and a Master of Arts (Writing). My business card says Writer, Traveller, Camera Addict, and Bamboo Fan www.dihill.com.au
It was just over two years ago that I visited the home of Ray Archer, the founder of the
Bribie Island Butterfly House, where he was creating this dream of showing people all about these beautiful insects.
The Butterfly House
Last year a new
Butterfly House opened on First Avenue, Bongaree, Bribie Island (behind the Orchid Society Hall) and it is now one of, if not the, most popular tourist destinations on the island.
The brochures say that "
at the Bribie Island Butterfly Airport you can expect to see between 50,000 to 100,000 take offs and landings on a fine sunny day".
Butterflies hatching
A walkthrough is quite an experience as the thousands of different coloured butterflies flutter around – often sitting on the humans visiting. It is very educational and everyone is likely to come away with new information about these colourful insects. It is indeed a place to take time and your camera!!
Outdoor Rest Area
It is only open on Wednesdays and Sundays from 10 am to 4 pm and is run entirely by volunteers. If you live on or near Bribie Island, there are opportunities for more volunteers too and quite a unique experience helping to breed and manage butterflies.
On entry, you are most likely to be welcomed by Ray Archer, who has wonderful tales to tell about the project and the butterflies. It is a great place for visitors of all ages and it is fantastic to see the smiles and expressions on the faces of the children as they find so many butterflies of various sizes and colours. Though the very little ones can be a little in awe, or even a little scared if one lands on them! Also, take care that you don't accidentally stand on one!
Ray Archer Explains
On the day I visited, there were delighted visitors of all ages delighted in the experience. And many cameras were busy, as was mine!
Mosaic Decoration created by Beachmere Mosaic Club
It is a not-for-profit community project and all the profits are donated to charities.
Flutter by
Coach tours and large groups are welcome, but contact the Butterfly House to make arrangements and inquire about group booking entry fees.
Butterfly
