It is situated on about 635 hectares and is named after a group of small islands at a bend of the Yarra River near Watsons Creek.

Exotic animals, including cats and dogs and vegetation are banned to minimise the spread of weeds, damage to the soil and harm to native fauna.

[2] It was gazetted in 2000 after a petition from local residents, having previously been part of Christmas Hills and Kangaroo Ground.

[6] Artist and naturalist Neil Douglas and others purchased properties following bushfires in 1962 and further established the area for residents.

[9] Residents Neil Douglas and Abbie Heathcote used to open their home to exhibit their art.