Request to book

Read our step-by-step booking guide to ensure you’re well prepared for your trip to Heron Island Research Station.

Book as early as you can. You can book up to 12 months in advance.

Booking steps

1. Contact us

Contact us, particularly if you’ve never visited us before, to discuss:

• your preferred dates
• availability of facilities and equipment
• the types of activities you want to take part in
• transport, accommodation and catering options.

We can make a tentative booking for your preferred dates.

Contact us

2. Apply for permits

Apply for permits for research, educational and commercial activities well in advance of your stay.

You must send us a copy of any required permits before you arrive at the station.

3. Submit paperwork and finalise your booking

Download and complete the booking form relevant to your group:

• Researchers booking form (PDF, 236.3 KB)
• Education group booking form (PDF, 223.1 KB) for high school and tertiary groups.
• Conference, retreat, workshop or film crew booking form. (PDF, 226.2 KB)

You may also need to:

• Complete a catamaran manifest form if you're a large group travelling by catamaran. Contact us to request this.
• Complete a Request for Internal Services Quote (requires UQ login) if you're a visitor from UQ.
• Provide us with an overview of your educational program and activities if you're a high school group.

Email your completed form(s) and/or activity overview to hirs@uq.edu.au

4. Organise catering

Book catering well in advance if you want us to cater your meals.

5. Complete your induction and snorkelling registration

Complete your online induction before you start activities at Heron Island Research Station.

Submit required boating and diving paperwork, including a pre-snorkel questionnaire.