A FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS
Our family island
Located 35 km off the Southern Coast of Australia, Flinders Island has a long and layered story. From its early days as a sealer’s colony, through more than a century of pastoral history, many have lived and worked with the island’s wild beauty.
Our family’s chapter began in 1979, when the Woolfords became the island’s sole occupants. We raised our children here, built our abalone business from its shores, and devoted ourselves to farming and fishing, guided by a deep respect for the island and its resources.
Today, that legacy continues with a new chapter – transitioning from pastoral use to conservation, where the island itself takes centre stage.
Flinders Island remains our family’s escape and reconnection with nature, and we are excited to share it with you.
OPERATING SINCE 1985
Protecting the ecosystem
Sustainability has always been at the heart of what we do – from careful stewardship of South Australia’s wild abalone stocks to the long-term care of Flinders Island itself.
Subfossil remains show that a diverse range of mammals once thrived on Flinders Island, but populations disappeared in the late 1960s due to habitat destruction and the arrival of feral animals.
Today, together with the Australian and South Australian Governments, our family is proud to lead the Flinders Island Safe Haven Project. With the eradication phase now complete, the island is already free of feral pests -paving the way for the reintroduction of endangered mammals.
For our family this is a natural evolution, from a working pastoral property to a wildlife sanctuary. Flinders Island is becoming a safe haven for threatened species, a place for future generations to protect and enjoy.
OPERATING SINCE 1985
Escape to Flinders Island
Flinders Island Eco Escape offers a rare chance to step into an island sanctuary in transition, where rich pastoral history meets a new era of ecological renewal.
Wander empty beaches, breathe the pure Southern Ocean air, and watch as birdlife and native animals return. Our beachfront accommodation hosts just one group at a time, giving you exclusive access to 4,000 hectares of off-grid wilderness, with our on-island managers ensuring a seamless and unforgettable stay.
Flinders Island is a place to relax and reconnect, but also to witness renewal,. Owned by the Woolford family since 1978, we invite you to share in the next chapter of our island’s story.
