Species numbers in such indicator groups as corals and amphipods, for example, are unusually high. The area is largely undisturbed. The island is also a terrestrial National Park. There is little traffic since the Station shares the island only with a small resort. The summer is hot and humid, with most of the 1680mm annual precipitation falling between January and March.
Summer winds are variable, with extended calm periods.
Cyclones developing in the Coral Sea may produce strong winds and heavy rains, but rarely threaten the island. Southeast trade winds dominate the cool, sunny, dry season from June to November. The maximum tidal range is approximately 3.5 m.