Frequentley asked questions
Can we bring our dog?
The short answer is yes but there are a few considerations. Over one third of the Island is either National Park or Conservation Park and dogs are prohibited from these sites. Middle River is sheep farming country so it is important that dogs are on a leash at any time they are not under direct supervision and control. Dogs are not allowed inside the Homestead or Cottages and there is no yard as such to restrain them. The property is officially gazetted as a wildlife sanctuary and there are many animals about - particularly at night. Clearly dogs have to be very well behaved. There are boarding kennels on the Hog Bay Road 10 minutes out of Kingscote if you would like to use this option. Pre-booking is advised and their telephone number is 85539032.
Can we walk to the beach?
Depends on your fitness and the season! In winter and spring the Middle River runs out to sea so you are often unable to get across the mouth to the beach. In summer and autumn there is usually a sandbar across the mouth. It is a solid 30-40 minute walk for fit people with a serious climb down to the beach unless you follow the river. You can drive to the carpark (less than 5 minutes) if you want a less active visit. Driving on the beach other than for launching or retrieving boats is not allowed. Please feel free to view the beach from the headland. Late afternoon is a great time to be up on the headland.
Where are the shops?
Parndana in the centre of the Island is 34 km away - this usually takes about 30 minutes. There is a general store and supermarket with a bakery, and the Community Hotel.
Kingscote, with a much broader range of supplies, is 58 km and, depending upon your familiarity with the Island roads, could take up to an hour.
There are some fantastic local producers - cheese, yoghurt, honey, olive oil, marron and yabbies and fresh seafood for those who are not the hunter-gather type.
Local wines are also available and there are some rising stars amongst them.
Can I use my mobile phone?
Yes! They make excellent paperweights or door stoppers unless it is windy. Seriously - the coverage you receive on the Island depends upon both your service provider and the platform you have. The best option is CDMA with Telstra which gives about 70% coverage across the Island. Even with this there is no service right at the accommodation and you need to go to the top of the hill to use your phone. Telstra and Optus GSM services have limited coverage at the eastern end of the Island.
There is a telephone in the Homestead but not the Cottages. This operates on an honesty system and use of this phone if you are not staying in the Homestead is by negotiation with the occupants.
When can I check-in/ check-out?
Check-in time is 2.00 pm on the day of arrival and check-out is 10.00 am when you leave. Any variation to this is by negotiation as it depends upon bookings.
Can I check my email?
Forget it - you are on holidays! The Homestead is about 12 km of copper wire from the exchange so line speed is glacial. Enjoy your isolation from the rest of the world for a while… Telstra Broadband over CDMA is an option but you need to be a subscriber and you need to go to the top of the hill for access.
Are there Television and Video facilties?
No - we are deliberately giving you a real break - enjoy the view and each others company. Some guests have taken a TV and DVD but many comment on the peace and tranquillity of not having television on holidays.
Is there a washing machine?
There is a machine in the Homestead only - and because we are totally dependant on rainwater, the washing machine can only be used after good rains. Do not depend on this facility - there are laundromat facilities in Kingscote and Parndana. Isolation brings some challenges! The homestead and cottages all have a trough for handwashing.
Is linen provided?
All bed linen, tea towels and bathtowels are included. Please bring your own beach towels.
