TOWN SEARCH

The Great Ocean Road

Pako Festa turns 30!

25 Feb 2012
Pako Festa, now in its thirtieth year, is Geelong’s much loved, award-winning, free, annual community arts festival - the biggest of its kind in Australia.
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Geelong Multi Sport Festival

10 Feb 2012
Whether you are a professional athlete looking to score points in an event, a novice wanting to have some fun or you are simply looking for a great day out, this event has something for everyone.
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Otway Dinosaurs

16 Jan 2012
Otway Dinosaurs, owned by local couple Greg Denney and Deb Moore, will host the Monash University Wildlife of Gondwana Exhibition until April.
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Highlights

Cape Otway Lightstation

Climb to the top of mainland Australia's oldest lighthouse, 90 metres above the wild Southern Ocean, and see why many tragic shipwrecks occurred on this isolated and rugged coastline. Immerse yourself in history with one of Australia's most important and recognisable lighthouses at your doorstep. Spectacular scenery, lighthouse tours, wildlife (koalas, wallabies and whales), rainforests, waterfalls and awesome sunsets will be highlights of your stay. Cape Otway is an excellent location to base yourself, being central to Great Ocean Road and Great Otway National Park activities and walks. Groups of up to 16 people can be accommodated in the heritage Head Lighthouse Keeper's cottage with four bedrooms, two bathrooms, open fires and fully self contained kitchen and laundry facilities. Two night minimum stays. The cottage is a wonderful retreat for families, walking groups or as a unique venue for get-togethers with friends. The Manager's House is a fully self-contained, newly renovated property providing all the comforts of home, comfortably accommodating up to 15 guests. A great location for a house party, or place to relax after walking in the Otways, the Manager's House is filled with natural light. Both properties have bed and breakfast options for smaller groups or couples. The Lightstation also has a delightful café on site which is open daily. Relax over a great coffee and homemade scones, soaking up the views. The café is located in the original Assistant Lighthouse Keeper's cottage, right in front of the lighthouse. Discover the coast on our 4WD Lightkeeper's Shipwreck Discovery Tour running daily, with special offers for accommodation guests. Walk in the footsteps of lightkeepers and pioneers along the Great Ocean Walk with experienced and knowledgeable local guides. Opera in the Otways, with Richard Gill and Victorian Opera - Saturday November 26, 2011 - visit website for more details.

Otway Fly Treetop Adventures

Otway Fly Treetop Adventures - One Location two adventures. Located in Victoria's magnificent Otways providing visitors with a unique opportunity to view the forest from a bird's eye view through its two unique eco-adventure experiences, the famous Tree Top walk and Zip Line tour. The Tree Top Walk - the longest and tallest elevated walk of its kind in the world. At 600 metres long and 35 metres above ground level. A 45 metre high lookout is ascended via a spiral stairway through the under story to emerge amongst the crowns of the giants of the forest, whilst the springboard cantilever bounces precariously high over picturesque Young's Creek. The walk is a 1.9 kilometres round walk starting from the visitor centre and takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour to complete. The walk is full of quality interpretive panels educating our visitor on the forest and surrounds on display. For the thrill seeker Zip lining is the perfect adrenaline fuelled activity where you can Zip across the treetops in this unique forest experience, gaining a bird's-eye view of Otways beautiful forests. The Zip Line tour involves traversing from one platform to another connected by tree platforms called 'cloud stations', and attached so steel cable suspended up to 30 metres above the forest floor. This exciting adventure lasts 3 hours and is unlike any other experience, we recommend pre booking the Zip Line Tour via the Otway Fly Tree Top Adventures website. The visitor centre is home to a licensed cafe which seats up to 100 people. The car-park also provides for Campervans, Caravans and Coaches. Group bookings can be made and need to be booked in advance, guided tours and catering are available for these bookings.

Great Ocean Walk

The Great Ocean Walk, on Victoria's spectacular west coast, stretches 104km from the idyllic resort town of Apollo Bay, to within sight of the magnificent 12 Apostles. Weave through beautiful National Parks, walk deserted beaches and gaze over pristine marine sanctuaries. Step on and off the trail with convenience; enjoy comfortable accommodation and excellent local meals or pitch your tent at wildly picturesque spots along the way. You can walk at your own pace and within your own timeframe along the Great Ocean Walk. Short walks of up to 3 hours long are available and take in old shipwrecks, historic lighthouses and lookouts. Or, take a full-day walk and experience breathtaking ocean views, stunning waterfalls, lush forest, and more natural wonders. The full walk from Apollo Bay to Glenample, within sight of the 12 Apostles, is an 8 day, 7 night walk. There are hike in campsites along the way, or for a more luxurious approach stay in quality accommodation properties nearby and have licensed tour operators shuttle you and your belongings back and forth each day.

Adventure Park

Super charge you summer at Victoria's biggest theme park! Awesome family fun all day long, Adventure Park Geelong is home to some of the coolest water rides in Australia Victoria's hottest and biggest theme park, Adventure Park, located just 10 minutes from Geelong boasts 21 exciting rides and attractions, perfect for the whole family! Just some of the ways you can make a gigantic splash and enjoy the unlimited rides all day long include: • Raft the roaring rapids on The River Torrent Lazy River, with twisting tides and swirling gauntlets along a tropical river oasis • Speed down head first and experience the ultimate adrenaline rush of the Six Lane Aqua Racer, a speed slide for the serious thrill-seekers which can take you up to 40km per hour • Race down The Gold Rush Rapids in a speedy 20 seconds and take the two metre plunge • Take a splash in the dark on the Wild West Canyon on a two-seater raft, experiencing twists and 360 degree turns! Adventure Park is doing it for the kids, too! The Tiny Tots Splashzone keeps the young ones cool, safe and entertained, with waterfalls, mini waterslides and spray cannons throughout. While Bonito's Bay Water Play offers a state-of-the-art aquatic playground including waterfalls, water jets and more pirate-filled water fun. On dry land, families can take a ride on the popular Go Karts and Electric Cars, try a hand at Archery, discover the new Galactic Games World, challenge family and friends to a game of Mini Golf, take a leisurely ride on the Paddle Boats and Aqua Bikes and watch the world go by on the Classic Carousel. Bring in a picnic, hire a BBQ and relax lakeside under shaded picnic areas, marquees and pavilions, set amongst 21 hectares of landscaped parkland.

Vue Grand

Situated in the heart of beautiful Queenscliff, and less than 90 minutes from Melbourne, the Vue Grand is a stunning multi award winning boutique hotel. A magnificent historic property the Vue Grand is one of Victoria's leading venues for conferencing, weddings, dining and accommodation. The Vue Grand boasts 32 rooms lovingly restored to reflect the hotels unique charm, with a variety of room types to suit everybody's needs and budget including: Bay view Suites, Spa and Balcony rooms. You can't go past the magnificent Turret Suite, with breathtaking 180 degree panoramic views, king sized bed, heated floor tiles, retractable plasma and spa with a view. For those wanting to indulge in a fine dining experience, the Vue Grand's award winning Restaurant is also open for lunch and dinner. The inspiring menu has a strong focus on local produce showcasing what the Bellarine has to offer. The Vue Grand recently won Best Restaurant - Fine Dining in the 2010 Golden Plate awards. In the summer months you can also relax, unwind and enjoy a drink on the 'Rooftop' Bar with spectacular views of the bay. Other facilities the Vue Grand offers include on site massage, function venue and private dining. The Vue Grand is part of the Bellarine Taste Trail, located near beaches, sailing and dolphin swims.

Bells Beach

With an international reputation as one of Australia’s best surf beaches, Bells Beach is amazing spot – either in the water or out. There isn’t much ‘beach’ at Bells, it’s mostly a glorious cliff-face, and views from the cliff-top car park are spectacular – a great spot to watch local surfers out in the water. There are several quality surfing spots in the precinct from Southside to Steps Reef. Every Easter Bells Beach hosts the international professional surfing community for the Rip Curl Pro event. To get to Bells Beach, travel along the Great Ocean Road past Jan Juc – turn left into Bells Boulevard and follow the signs. General Beach Hazard Rating: 6 Least hazardous: 1-3 Moderately hazardous: 4-6 Highly hazardous: 7-8 Extremely hazardous: 9-10 Hazard rating refers to physical beach and surf conditions ONLY and does not include potentially dangerous marine life. Surfing Bells is a world class right when above 1.5 m. When smaller, the waves break close in to the headland and produce a right called Rincon. Further around the head are two more reef breaks which work below 2 m, called Centre Side (a right) and Southside (a left). Fishing The water is deep right off the beach, while at low tide you can fish from the reefs at each end. General One of the meccas of surfing and well worth a visit, if only to view the beach and surf from the bluffs. Carpark Type: Formal parking area Surface: Sealed Spaces: 200 SLSA provides this information as a guide only. Surf conditions are variable and therefore this information should not be relied upon as a substitute for observation of local conditions and an understanding of your abilities in the surf. SLSA reminds you to always swim between the red and yellow flags and never swim at unpatrolled beaches. SLSA takes all care and responsibility for any translation but it cannot guarantee that all translations will be accurate.

ex HMAS Canberra

The ex HMAS Canberra dive site is the first artificial reef specifically created for diving in Victoria. It lies in approximately 28 metres of water, with the top of the mast about 5 metres below the surface at low tide. The site provides opportunities for divers with varying levels of experience and certification, from open water level certificates to advanced wreck divers, to enjoy this site. When the ship as prepared for scuttling many of the original working features were retained so divers still get a sense of being on board a working ship. Dive charter operators based at Queenscliff Harbour can lead trips to dive the ex HMAS Canberra.

Surf World Museum

The Surf World Museum in Torquay, Australia’s surfing capital, celebrates the story of surfing. It also charts Australia’s significant contribution to the development of surfing around the world. Through the colourful and exciting permanent displays and temporary exhibitions of important surfing artefacts and memorabilia, the museum commemorates Australia’s fantastic surfing heritage and rich beach culture. An unforgettable experience, Surf World provides the opportunity to immerse yourself in one of Australia’s most popular pastimes. It’s a place where you can experience or relive, surfing’s sense of fun, and marvel at the changes that have taken place over the years. We look forward to welcoming you.

Glow worms in the Otways

The Otways has worms. Glorious little glow worms can be found at sites throughout the Otway National Park after dark. They are generally found in dark, damp places - like soil banks with overhanging ledges, along creek embankments and beside walking tracks. The worms are not actually worms, rather they are the larvae of fly-like insects called fungus gnats. The larvae prey on small insects - as such they produce sticky threads. The glow emitted from their abdomen attracts insects who are then trapped in the sticky threads. Glow worms are shy creatures - torches, loud noises or touching them may disturb the glow worms and case them to 'switch off' their light and retreat into a crack. Glow worms are often found at Melba Gully, and near the Grey River Picnic Area at Kennett River. It's a good idea to take a torch to find your way along the tracks after dark, but avoid shining the light directly at the glow worms.

Forrest Mountain Biking

There are 8 separate mountain bike trails in the Forrest Mountain Bike precinct. There is more than 50km of purpose built track in the area ranging from rated from easy trails to extreme and strenuous tracks. The Otway Odyssey, Forrest 6 hr ride and Rainforest Ride events during the year are adding to Forrest’s reputation among the growing Australian mountain bike community.

Geelong Waterfront

Building their city on a North-facing bay was a stroke of genius for the forefathers of Geelong. Generations later, residents and visitors alike are enjoying the benefits of the area collectively known as 'The Waterfront'. Childrens attractions, open public space, a lively calendar of events and fabulous places to eat and drink make the Waterfront a Geelong must-do.

Otway Dinosaurs

The exhibition seen by millions of people in Taiwan, Italy, Argentina and Singapore - now located on the Barham River Scenic Drive in Apollo Bay - is about the fossil record from the Great Southern Continent, which once included Australia, South America, Antarctica, Africa, and India. It includes fossils that span almost 3.8 billion years to the present covering a massive range of specimens from the pin-up girl of the dinosaur world Leaellynasaura, who was a tiny polar dinosaur discovered on the Otways coast, right through to the skeleton of the aggressive carnivore Tarbosaurus Bataar (means ferocious lizard) more than 8 metres long. The exhibition will run until April 15th, 2012. For further information: www.otwaydinosaurs.com

Eastern Beach

The art-deco swimming enclosure at Eastern Beach has been a Geelong favourite for generations. Built in the 1930’s, the ‘Promenade’ is a wooden structure built in an arc, great for walking on a warm evening. The swimming area also has a large tower and diving boards. There is a separate children’s pool that is enclosed and paved. On shore, there is a fantastic adventure playground with plenty of spectator seats for the grown ups. There are large areas of lawn perfect for picnics or, depending on the season, a kick of the football or a game of cricket. There are toilet and dressing room facilities, and the beach is patrolled by lifesavers during summer. There is also a restaurant / café / kiosk on site. The whole area is set amongst grassy hills and enormous trees, and several of the buildings in the precinct are listed on the Victorian Heritage Register.

Anglesea Art Walk

Spanning 2.5 kilometres and featuring six mosaic art pieces, the Anglesea Art Walk highlights the history and unique flora and fauna of this extraordinary place. It starts at the JE Loveridge lookout with sensational panoramic views of the Surf Coast and concludes in the valley at the Anglesea Primary School.

Bellarine Taste Trail

The Bellarine Taste Trail is a collection of gourmet delights and foodie experiences all within 20 minutes of each other. The trail twists a scenic path around The Bellarine, taking visitors to vineyards that are receiving some of Australia’s highest accolades for their wine and farms that have changed the local restaurant scene with their amazing produce. There are breweries using innovative techniques for original flavours and bakeries known for amazing wood-fired bread and multi-award winning pies. Several tour companies run charter operations across the Bellarine, so you can truly indulge in all the Bellarine Taste Trail has to offer and let someone else worry about transport and navigation. The Bellarine is bounded by Port Phillip Bay to the North and Bass Strait to the South – as such, the seafood on offer is amazing. Portarlington’s mussels are well known locally and feature in a different dish at virtually every restaurant in the region. Places to eat range from those with stunning water views, or nestled in rolling farmland hills to exquisite and grand historic hotel dining rooms. They all offer their unique take on local fare. For more casual meals, pick up a bounty of local produce from one of the provedores and food stores around the Bellarine and make it yourself – either at home or at your holiday accommodation.

Airey's Inlet Horse Riding

Ride along pristine beaches and take in some of Australia's most beautiful coastal scenery. Sunset rides are particularly special. Enjoy the exhilarating feeling of galloping along the sand with the wind in your hair or ride along coastal cliff tops in beautiful bushland settings. Local trail riding companies offer guided and instructional tours if you can’t BYO horse.

Anglesea Heath

Superb native flowers and rare orchids bloom in the coastal heathlands during spring. Amazingly, over a quarter of Victoria’s plant species grow here including more than 100 varieties of orchids, some of them so rare they are on the verge of extinction. Many vehicle tracks and walking trails offer photographers, walkers, artists and bird watchers great viewing opportunities.

Anglesea Mountain Bike Riding

The state of the art Anglesea Bike Park has over 500m of mountain cross and jump tracks and will provide challenges for novice and experienced riders alike. Surrounding the Bike Park is a series of trails ideal for cross country mountain biking. It is located in Camp Road, Anglesea and is open daily.

Otway Harvest Trail

The unique combination of aspect, soils, climate and farming practices of the Otway hinterland produce distinctive and exceptional flavours in our produce that cannot be found anywhere else. The Otway Harvest Trail is a celebration of the seasons that bestow their rich bounty on a luscious part of Victoria. Spring is a time of plenty and promise. As the winter gives way to warm sunny days, see the bright patchwork of yellow canola fields appear, the farmers out mowing their grass and baling their hay and the spring lambs frolicking on a frosty morning. The first berries appear. Green shoots can be seen in the vineyards as the vines burst their buds and flowers and spring vegetables appear at farm gate stalls. New release wines can be found at cellar doors. Summer is all about being outdoors. All the berry farms have opened and their sweet juicy berries are ripe for the picking. The lush emerald green of the vineyards become more distinctive as the land around slowly turns a golden brown. People clamour for outdoor tables and chairs at cafés and restaurants to soak in the warm days, mild evenings and glorious pastel sunsets. Local wines and beers go so well with the seafood, vegetables and fruits in plentiful supply. Wine lovers are welcomed at cellar doors and their curiosity is rewarded with the discovery of new wines. Autumn is a time of harvest. The days become still and warm, and the crisp cool nights are perfect for sleeping. With the winter rains not far away, the wineries are busy harvesting their fruit and the vignerons hands become garnet red as they nurture the new wines through their ferment. It is also time to harvest the olives from their groves before the first frosts of winter arrive. Smell the fruity aroma of the extra virgin olive oil as it flows from the presses. The last of the berries are picked. Winter is a time for taking stock of the seasons passed and making ready for the farming year ahead. The farmers plough their fields and sow their winter crops. Vineyards, olive groves and orchards are pruned and readied for a new season. Fences are mended. The days shorten and become colder. Cattle turn their backs to the wind. Dams pent over the summer begin to refill. Root vegetables appear at the farm gate stands. It’s a time for reflection and for savouring the joys of recently harvested produce. Lengthy conversations occur over bottles of wine in front of toasty log fires. Eventually the tell tale signs of another Spring begin to appear.

Geelong Scenic Boat Cruise

Freedom Bay Cruises can give you the best view of Geelong! Located at Steampacket Quay on the beautiful Waterfront the 40 minute tour travels around Cunningham Pier, past boats, port facilities and the Art Deco Eastern Beach. All cruises include a full commentary and both inside seating and outside viewing areas. Freedom can take up to 60 passengers and cruises depart on the hour from 11am to 4pm, weekends and school holidays. Cruises are suitable for all ages with ample room for prams and wheelie frames. Crew are happy to assist passengers board the boat via the gangplank and four steps. Groups can pre book exclusive cruises on Freedom during the week, minimum numbers required. Freedom is also available for private parties at an hourly rate. For further information please visit the web site.

1 Day Great Ocean Road Tour - Max 6

Experience spectacular coastal scenery, koalas, kangaroos and rainforest walks on this eco-certified tour of the Great Ocean Road - recognised as one of the world's best drives. The one day tour is all about showing you as much as possible whilst still giving you the personalised service and a quality experience. Tour is operated by Longhorn YOUnique Tours and visits: - Bells Beach - Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch - Fantastic beaches in seaside resort towns - The 12 Apostles - Loch Ard Gorge - London Bridge - Rainforest walk - Koalas and kangaroos in their natural environment

Apollo Bay Fishing

There are loads of great fishing spots in and around Apollo Bay. Try near the harbour, from the beach or just peyond the point towards Marengo. There are also freshwater streams worth a try.

The Blues Train

Victoria's historic coastal town of Queenscliff is home to the world's one and only Blues Train. It is a unique experience that combines four of Australia's best live acts and the beautiful scenery of the Bellarine Peninsula on the Drysdale Railway line while aboard a real moving vintage steam train. It is one of Australia's most spectacular entertainment experiences - it is a mini festival in one night and a progressive party you'll never forget. Nothing captures the spirit of the blues quite like a steam train. Listening to the train whistle and the clickety-clack on the tracks you can imagine the old blues masters jamming it up on Mississippi freight trains as they were 'ridin' the blinds' around America's deep south. The Blues Train leaves Queenscliff Railway Station after guests have enjoyed a delicious meal complemented by fine Australian and local wines. The steam train then makes its way along 16 kilometres of track, gently rocking from side to side, seemingly in beat with the music. At each of the stops, Suma Park and Drysdale, revellers swap carriages to see another of the acts, so by the end of the night patrons have seen all four acts performing on the train. Drinks are available from the mobile bar that miraculously appears on each platform (from the converted guard's van). You can sit back, relax and listen to the music with a drinking on one of the seated carriages or get up and boogie the blues away in one of the dance carriages. Please visit the website for the different show dates.

Searoad Ferries

Searoad Ferries crossing the bay between Queenscliff and Sorrento hourly between 7am and 6pm, seven days of the week 375 days of the year. Forget the long drive, come with Searoad Ferries for a restful crossing between Queenscliff and Sorrento. On your journey you may see a playful Dolphin playing in the waves of the ferry or even a whale from a distance. Connecting the Great Ocean Road and the Bellarine to the Mornington Peninsula and Phillip Island, the 40 minute crossing is a stress free alternative to driving through the city, saving you time and kilometres. Whether you travel as a foot passenger to explore the villages of Queenscliff and Sorrento, or with your car, there is much to see on the crossing - spectacular coastline, mighty ships and maybe a dolphin or two. Or perhaps you'd rather be sipping a coffee, enjoying a focaccia or slurping on an ice cream from the onboard kiosk. The twin hull vessels are built to operate in all weather conditions and can carry up to 700 passengers and 80 vehicles each. Operating Times The all weather ferries leave every hour on the hour, 7am to 6pm, 365 days of the year. A 7pm departure operates from December 26th until the end of the state of Victoria Daylight Saving. Passengers with vehicles are advised to arrive at the terminals at least 30 minutes prior to departure. The ferries depart from Queenscliff Harbour, Queenscliff and the Sorrento Pier, Sorrento. Melway references map 157 C7 (Sorrento) and map 499 J10(Queenscliff). Special Features On the 40-minute journey, unparalleled views of historic lighthouses, the Point Nepean fortifications, navigational features, seals and dolphins are available from the comfortable lounge areas, cafe style seating or numerous observation decks.
Serendip Sanctuary
Near Geelong

Serendip Sanctuary

Specially designed bird hides enable you to see some of the 150 species of birds which breed at or visit Serendip Sanctuary. The 250 hectare sanctuary, an excellent example of the open grassy woodlands and wetlands of the volcanic Western Plains, is the perfect place to learn about and experience birdlife and wetlands ecology. Things to Do * A ranger will greet and orientate you upon arrival at the information centre. * Start your Serendip experience with a peek down the giant microscope or step into the underwater world. * Visit the theatrette and activities room and then begin your journey along the nature trails, viewing wildlife in natural habitats. * The bird hides at Serendip are specifically designed to enable you to view native wildlife at close range. Birds can be seen within metres of the viewing areas preening, feeding, incubating eggs and rearing young. * Visit the Brolga and the Bustard and Pademelon displays or take a walk through the wetland and dryland aviaries.

Shadowfax Wines

'They don't come much more impressive than the Shadowfax winery at Werribee Park. No expense has been spared on the winery and the results look mighty impressive. The cellar door is spectacular with an underground barrel cellar and if you stay too long, there is luxury accommodation at The Mansion Hotel & Spa.' STUART GREGOR Situated just 30 kilometres from Melbourne, Shadowfax Winery is one of Australia's leading wineries. With a strong focus on quality, Shadowfax has established an enviable reputation for its super premium wines and boutique style. Open daily from 11am, the Shadowfax invites you to taste and purchase the range of wines on offer at the cellar door. The team of cellar door sales experts will provide an informative overview of wines and offer advice on the best food to serve with each. If you are a lover of fine foods, then you will enjoy the range of wine friendly produce available. The delicious antipasto and cheese plates, and wood fire pizzas are available every day and perfectly complement the many Shadowfax wines on offer. Also, every Saturday and Sunday from 12 noon - 3pm, the cellar door comes alive with the smooth jazz sounds of the Paul Rettke Trio and other favourite bands. Descend the orange spiral staircase to an underground cavern where all Shadowfax's fermenting wines are stored. In the depths of the barrel hall, you can soak in the atmosphere, savour the aromas of maturing wines and learn more about the art of winemaking. Ask one of the cellar door sales staff to take you on a guided tour of this stunning space.

Silk Spa & Beauty

This architecturally designed haven offers you a choice of single and dual treatment rooms, catering to men and women of all ages. Silk Spa & Beauty is open seven days a week and offer a wide range of professional services and products including pamper packages, spa therapy, facial therapy, body therapy, beauty therapy, massage, manicures and pedicures, skincare products and gift vouchers.

Split Point Lighthouse Tours Aireys Inlet

You'll spot her as you travel the Great Ocean Road. To locals and fans afar she is affectionately known as 'The White Queen'. Don't just wonder as you drive by - yes, you can join a guided tour, which will take about 45 minutes of your time. The knowledgeable tour guide will introduce you to a life of maritime responsibility, engineering perfection, a pristine Marine Sanctuary, cultural connections, the famous setting for the TV series 'Round the Twist' and ever-changing 360 degree coastal vistas. Whether you want to step back in maritime, forward in coastal conservation or capture the now with a perfect snapshot, this is a stop worth every minute. The Split Point Lighthouse was built in 1891 and has only been open for tours for eighteen months. She still shines her guiding light every evening to keep ships passing on their way to and from Port Phillip Bay, off the rocky shores. The staff at Split Point Lighthouse Tours look forward to guiding you up the cast iron spiral staircase, through the lantern room and out onto the balcony to enjoy a birds-eye view of the dramatic coastline.

St. Regis Vineyard & Winery

Situated on the rolling hills beside the Geelong bypass at Waurn Ponds in southern Victoria, Saint Regis is family owned and operated, specialising in Shiraz, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. All wines are made and bottled at the winery on the vineyard by winemaker Peter Nicol. Wines are fermented with varying use of wild yeast and matured in French oak. The Shiraz fruit is estate grown, while the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are selected from hand picked premium local fruit. Cellar door sales are available at the winery daily. Visit the cellar door and enjoy a free tasting overlooking the vineyard, it's very friendly (even dog friendly) and relaxed. You'll meet owners, Viv or Pete and celebrity 'Wine Dogs', Baz and Monty.

Stand up Paddle Boarding

Stand Up Paddle-boarding, or SUP, is one of the fastest growing water sports in the world for adults and kids. SUP lessons, tours and fitness classes are now being offered on Geelong Waterfront, Ocean Grove main beach, and Barwon Heads. These locations are perfect places to learn Stand Up Paddle-boarding in a safe, fun and protected environment. WSUP offers lessons, tours and fitness classes weather permitting. Stand up paddle boarding lessons are a fantastic way to get into the sport and start your journey to the unknown, while enduring general fitness, strengthening and core muscles and balance or just paddling your favourite waterway. SUP lessons are great for groups, families, corporate and school groups. The experienced and qualified instructors ensure water safety, paddling technique, equipment, and of course fun are provided in each lesson, every time. WSUP instructors can assist in the selection of the right equipment for your level of skill. SUP also supply packages of boards, paddles and leg-ropes for purchase.
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Packages & Offers

Mercure Geelong Family Fun Offer

Includes overnight accommodation, full buffet breakfast, car parking and a 1 day entry pass to Adventure Park.

BIG 4 Beacon Resort Blues Train Package

A unique musical experience! Toe tapping entertainment, a cool drink and a good laugh. Rock your stay in Queenscliff with Blues Train tickets and award winning accommodation at BIG4 Beacon Resort.

Seahaven Village - Taste of The Bellarine $495

Relax at stunning Barwon Heads Friday and Saturday night in a cosy 4.5 star one bedroom spa suite.

Romantic getaway at Whitecrest Resort from $620

Romantic Getaway package including 2 nights, sparkline wine, fine handmade chocolates and flowers.

Mercure Geelong Family Fun Offer

Includes overnight accommodation, full buffet breakfast, car parking and a 1 day entry pass to Adventure Park.

Sunday to Friday – from $263.00
Saturday – from $293.00

Terms and conditions – subject to availability. A valid credit card is required on booking to guarantee your stay. Should you wish to cancel the booking, you will need to advise the hotel prior to 6.00pm, one day prior to your arrival date, to avoid a cancellation fee of one night’s accommodation. If you fail to arrive at the hotel without cancelling your booking, you will incur a non-arrival penalty equivalent to one night’s accommodation. Tickets will be issued on arrival.

Booking Period - now until 31 March 2012 for stays during the same period.

Contact Reservations on 03 5221 6200 to book.
 

BIG 4 Beacon Resort Blues Train Package

A unique musical experience! Toe tapping entertainment, a cool drink and a good laugh. Rock your stay in Queenscliff with Blues Train tickets and award winning accommodation at BIG4 Beacon Resort.

Phone: 1800 351 152 or visit BIG4 Beacon Resort Website for more information.
 

Seahaven Village - Taste of The Bellarine $495

Relax at stunning Barwon Heads Friday and Saturday night in a cosy 4.5 star one bedroom spa suite. Enjoy fabulous bonuses including:

  • A $70 dinner voucher
  • Welcome pack including wine, chocolates and a breakfast basket
Stay between Sunday and Thursday nights and receive THREE nights accommodation for the same price.

T: 03 5254 1066
 

Romantic getaway at Whitecrest Resort from $620

Romantic Getaway package includes:

  • Chilled bottle of sparkline wine
  • Fine handmade chocolates and flowers
  • Dine at La Bima and receive a complimentary cocktail and premium seating
$620 for two nights mid week.
$680 for two nights weekends.

T: 03 5237 0228.