Visitor Information, Nature & Wildlife, Geelong, Great Ocean Road Region, Victoria, Australia

Visitor information

Visitor Information Centres

The Great Ocean Road has several local accredited Visitor Information Centres. Drop in or call for more information on the region and help with planning your holiday.

	Geelong and Great Ocean Road Princes Hwy Little River, Victoria 3211 Phone (toll free): 1800 620 888 Ph: +61 3 5283 1735 Fax: +61 3 5223 2069
	Geelong 26 Moorabool St Geelong, Victoria 3220 Phone (toll free): 1800 620 888 Ph: +61 3 5222 2900 Fax: +61 3 5223 2069
	Apollo Bay 100 Great Ocean Road Apollo Bay, Victoria 3233 Ph: +61 3 5237 6529 Fax: +61 3 5237 6194
	Colac Cnr Queen & Murray Sts Colac, Victoria 3250 Ph: 1300 689 297 Fax: +61 3 5232 2764
	Lorne 15 Mountjoy Pde Lorne, Victoria 3232 Ph: +61 3 5289 1152 Fax: +61 3 5289 2492
	Queenscliff 55 Hesse St Queenscliff, Victoria 3225 Ph: +61 3 5258 4843 Fax: +61 3 5258 3726
	Torquay Surf City Plaza Torquay, Victoria 3228 Ph: +61 3 5261 4219 Fax: +61 3 5261 4756

Look for the sign. Offices are open 9am to 5pm, 7 days a week.

When in Melbourne...

If you're in Melbourne we suggest you visit the Visitor Information Centre at Federation Square.

Situated on the corner of Swanston and Flinders Streets, directly across from Flinders Street train station and its tram interchanges, the Visitor Centre is a one-stop shop for discovering what Melbourne and the Great Ocean Road have to offer visitors.

Open: 9am to 6pm, 7 days a week
Ph: +61 3 9658 9658

Highlights

Geelong

More Than A Tour

More than Tour offer their local knowledge will give you the very best opportunity of seeing a range of beautiful native animals in their natural environment. Shorts walks to the scenic attractions, lookouts, beaches and rain forests will be on well-defined tracks and board walks and requires a moderate level of fitness. Their guides will accompany you on all walks and your safety is their priority. Being a boutique tour company they will confirm your pick up point, departure and return times prior to departure. More Than A Tour also offers a Door to Door Service. More Than A Tour can tailor make tours to satisfy your groups desires, including: •Great Ocean Road and Phillip Island two day tours •Great Ocean Road and Grampians two day tours •Tailor made tours also available.

Geelong

Balyang Sanctuary Geelong

A haven for waterbirds and popular with picnicking families, Balyang Sanctuary is situated in Geelong suburb Newtown. The centrepiece of the nine hectare park is a lake with three islands – two connected by bridges and the third retained as a safe nesting place for native birds. Feathered residents at the sanctuary include swans, pelicans, Eurasian coot, dusky moorhen, Pacific black duck, mallard, pied cormorant, geese and silver gulls There are also shady grassed areas, picnic areas, a rotunda, free parking and public toilet facilities.

Geelong

Barwon River Geelong

From its beginnings in the Otway Ranges, the Barwon River winds its way through suburban Geelong before flowing into the ocean at Barwon Heads. The Barwon River is the site for a huge number of leisure pursuits for Geelong residents. There are several rowing clubs located in Belmont, and a little further south there is an area for waterskiing. At various points along the river as it runs through Geelong there are tracks for running, cycling and walking. There are also several parks, playgrounds, picnic spots and BBQ areas. The mouth of the river has sandy banks that are well used walkers and families who build sandcastles and paddle in the shallows. Fishing is popular on the jetties near the mouth of the river and kayakers and paddlers are often seen in this area. Barwon Heads also has a sailing club where laser yachts are often seen at high tide. There are also BBQs and picnic areas alongside the riverbank.

Geelong

Eastern Park

Eastern Park is 185 acres of sporting facilities, walking tracks, parkland and recreation space. Located on the edge of the Geelong CBD and bordering the Geelong Waterfront precinct, it’s a fantastic spot to enjoy fresh air and outdoor activity. The gravel track around the park is used by many locals for jogging, walking and cycling. There are 5 hard wicket cricket ovals as well as pavilions, BBQs and playgrounds, including the award winning Geelong Playspace.

Geelong

Geelong Botanic Gardens

The Geelong Botanic Gardens are a wonderful mix of old and new featuring traditional heritage gardens as well as the contemporary and waterwise 21st Century garden. The gardens were established in 1851 and as such feature fabulous mature trees, including some rare and exotic. Within the 17 acre space there are rose gardens, shaded lawn areas perfect for picnics, a teahouse. There are also regular guided walks exploring different aspects of the gardens and special interest areas.

Geelong

Jerringot Wetlands Geelong

Jerringot Wetland is a freshwater marsh within Belmont Common and is part of the Barwon River's natural floodplain. It is a surprising sanctuary for wildlife within an urban setting. Over 120 species of birds visit or live at Jerringot through the year. The internationally significant Latham’s Snipe fly 20,000km from Japan to south eastern Australia and can be found in good numbers during spring and summer. Other significant species include the Australian Shoveler, Hardhead, Baillion’s Crake, Cattle Egret, Sharp-tailed Sandpiper and Great Egret. It is an excellent habitat for frogs, including the endangered Growling Grass Frog. Native fish such as Common and Spotted Galaxias and the rare Australian mudfish find a home in the waters as well as many aquatic plant species. River Red Gum, River Bottlebrush and Teatree, as well as thickets of Tangled Lignum fringe the river side of the wetland.

Near Jan Juc

Blackgate Lodge Alpaca Stud

Blackgate Lodge Alpaca Stud is located near Torquay at the start of the Great Ocean Road. Drop in for a visit and learn all about Alpacas. The herd lives in the luxury of a 14 hectare clearing inside 28 hectares of virgin remnant bushland, consisting of manna gums, prickly acacia, native orchids and grass trees. Living free in their native environment, there are occasional koalas, parrots, finches, cockatoos, kookaburras, and many more animals to see. Entry is free and hand spun fleece is available to purchase. Are you interested in running a couple of alpacas? For anybody looking to escape to the country on a few acres, Blackgate Lodge Alpaca Stud can provide alpacas as pets. They are relatively easy to maintain only requiring shearing once a year.

Geelong

Friends of Geelong Botanic Gardens

The Friends of Geelong Botanic Gardens were founded in 1985 as a not-for-profit community organisation to support the Geelong Botanic Gardens. The Friends of Geelong Botanic Gardens support and celebrate the Geelong Botanic Gardens as a place for plants and people, discovery and learning, ideas and innovation, engagement and pride, conservation, environment and quiet contemplation. The Friends of Geelong Botanic Gardens provide a range of on-site activities for the members as well as the public. These include the 'Growing Friends Nursery' open every Wednesday from 10 until noon at the rear of the Geelong Botanic Gardens and seasonal plant sales. Guided walks in the Gardens through their Discovery walk series including free guided walk on Sundays at 2 pm. Friends of Geelong Botanic Gardens have a year round program of events and activities for both members and the public. Maintenance of the Perennial Border and Rose Garden, a concert series of Music in the Gardens every Sunday afternoon in February and Botanic Art Classes. Friends of Geelong Botanic Gardens provide financial support to the Geelong Botanic Gardens. Please subscribe to Jubaea, Friends of Geelong Botanic Gardens quarterly newsletter for more information about what's happening at the Geelong Botanic gardens or visit their website.

Barwon Heads

jirrahlinga-koala-wildlife-sanctuary

The Jirrahlinga Koala & Wildlife Sanctuary is situated on five acres of land on the Northern edge of Barwon Heads. Jirrahlinga, Aboriginal for 'Seek a home for a kangaroo', was established more than 30 years ago by Tehree Gordon to be a haven for injured wildlife. Following the Ash Wednesday Bush fires in 1983, Jirrahlinga received national and international media coverage acclaiming the rescue mission launched to seek out and treat shocked and burnt animals. However, Jirrahlinga is not just for distressed native animals, it is primarily about people. Particularly people who have a disability, a special need, the frail or the aged. What better therapy could there be than to come into a supportive environment to work quietly with animals or just visit and touch a koala or joey that do not place demands on a person's physical or mental capacities.

Apollo Bay

Longhorn YOUnique Tours

Longhorn YOUnique Tours travel to the Great Ocean Road, the Otway's Rainforest, Grampians, Phillip Island and the Yarra Valley. You will see spectacular scenery, wildlife in their natural environment, learn about the area's history and culture, enjoy homemade treats and great accommodation as Longhorn's expert guides take you on a journey of discovery. Eco Tourism and Respecting our Culture accredited Longhorn YOUnique Tours is a family owned business operated by Garry and Shirley Hamel, two Australians who know and understand the beauty of the country we live in. With a range of tours from one day to multiple day tours and private or customised tours to choose from. Longhorn YOUnique Tours believe that guests should not feel rushed so our tours are conducted in small groups travelling in luxury four wheel-drive vehicles with your comfort and needs a top priority. A maximum of six people on each tour will give you a personalised experience to remember. Contact the friendly staff at Longhorn YOUnique Tours to enquire.

Torquay

The Surf Coast Walk

Whether you're a nature lover or a fun lover, whether you take an hour, a day or a week, the Surf Coast Walk puts a stunning and unique coastal environment within easy reach. - Offering natural beauty and easy access - A world-class walking destination for all to enjoy - On the edge of the stunning Great Ocean Road - Do a section or do it all; at your own pace - More than a walk, over half the track is suitable for bikes Relish the rich ochre of the Bells Beach cliffs, the deep blue of Bass Strait and the leafy green of eucalypt forects. Discover traditional Wathaurung country, fascinating surf culture and abundant wildlife as the walk connects you with the coastal town comforts of Torquay, Anglesea and Aireys Inlet.

Near Werribee

You Yangs

Rising from the flat, volcanic plains between Geelong and Melbourne, the granite peaks of the You Yangs are a terrific destination for many outdoor activities. Walk to Flinders Peak for panoramic views of Geelong, Corio Bay, the Western Districts and beyond. There are several walking tracks within the park catering for varying abilities. The You Yangs are popular for mountain biking; the two designated mountain bike areas offer 50km of track. The park is also popular for rock climbing, abseiling and horse riding and there are BBQ and picnic areas available, as well as toilets.

Torquay

Torquay Walking Trails

There are several designated walking trails offering a different perspective on Torquay. The foreshore trail, beginning at Deep Creek Reserve on the Esplanade, takes in spectacular coastal views, children’s playgrounds and public art. The Surf Coast walk is a 30km long marked trail and individual sections can be completed depending on energy levels. It begins at Jan Juc and passes through Bells Beach, Point Addis, Anglesea, Aireys Inlet, Fairhaven and Torquay. A complete guide is available from the Torquay Visitor Information Centre. The Deep Creek Reserve is a strip of land extending along the watercourse between the Surf Coast Highway and The Esplanade. It is the last remnant of Torquay’s indigenous vegetation and there are walking tracks throughout the reserve.

Barwon Heads

Barwon Bluff Marine Sanctuary

Located near the mouth of Barwon River, Barwon Bluff Marine Sanctuary protects 17ha of predominately composed of reef. The eastern half of the reef is basalt, formed from lava flow, and is exposed to the flow of the river. The western side is old sandstone and influenced by ocean swell. On the outer edges of the reef are the wrecks of two ships. The variation in conditions across the reef results in the presence of a huge diversity of plants and animals. Visitors can see anything from feather stars and barnacles to rock lobsters, rays and schools of fish. Bull Kelp, sandstone arches and sponge gardens create a fascinating and complex underwater world. Before you go Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe.

Torquay

point-danger-marine-sanctuary

Located in Torquay, one of Victoria's favourite seaside towns, the reef is ideal for snorkelling and exploring the diverse marine life at low tide. The area between Torquay's back and front beaches is formed of beds of crumbling limestone and a narrow rock platform which extends to the west. A small reef which is only exposed at the lowest of summer tides lies just offshore and is often isolated from the beach by a deep sandy channel. One shipwreck is found within the park, the Joseph H. Scammell. The limestone reef is an enthralling feature of this park. Covered in small boulders and intricate seaweed beds, the reef is home to a number of weird and wonderful creatures. Most noteworthy is the huge diversity of seaslugs, currently 96 species known to occur in this sanctuary, many of which are endemic. These fascinating creatures can be any colour of the rainbow and come in a range of exquisite shapes and sizes. Also present are carnivorous worms, delicate brittle stars and majestic eagle rays. See if you can spot a Fairy Tern, a rare and endangered bird which uses habitats in Point Danger Marine Sanctuary for feeding and roosting. Before you go Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe.

Jan Juc

Adventure for Life

Get away from the everyday and examine life from a different perspective with Adventure for Life. Corporate Team Building. Adventure for Life's team building programs are so much more than conference schedule fillers. Activities are designed that are relevant, safe, fun, and have ongoing benefits for your staff and bottom line. Proposals or concept statements are delivered within 24 hours. Corporate Adventure Activities Getting out of the office for an adventure activity is a great way to recharge your team's batteries and build relationships on a non-work level. Adventure for Life's outdoor activities are perfect for Christmas break-ups, conference activities, or incentive programs. Program durations range from half day activities right through to multi-day expeditions. When it comes to team bonding, find out why the adventure activity has replaced the long boozy lunch. Group Adventures Why not let Adventure for Life handle all your logistics for your next group adventure? Whether you want to climb a volcano in Indonesia or do the Great Ocean Walk, we can organise your guides, accommodation, equipment, transfers, meals etc... Perfect for school, corporate, social groups, and sporting teams. Adventure for Life activities encourage you to get away from the computer screens, big TVs, and Xboxes and get an Adventure for Life. 'Life is not a spectator sport'.

Barwon Heads

Barwon Heads Bluff

The tidal flows at the mouth of the Barwon River have created an amazing landscape at the Barwon Heads Bluff. It is one of the best spots in the region to observe marine life in rockpools. More than 90% of the creatures found at the Bluff are only found in Southern Australia and nowhere else in the world. The Bluff has an enormous diversity of seaweeds from tiny encrusting pink coralline algae to mighty forests of giant and bull kelps. There are many different species of fish, snails, seastars, and other invertebrates that all make the Barwon Bluff Marine Sanctuary their home. The high lookout at the bluff has views towards Port Phillip Heads to the east and along the Surf Coast to the West.

Ocean Grove

Ocean Grove Nature Reserve

The Ocean Grove Nature Reserve is the only preserved native woodland on the Bellarine Peninsula. Home to 178 species of native plants, including 22 orchids, the reserve is an important tract of land. Wildlife within the reserve includes wallabies, echidnas, possums and koalas. There are also snakes and lizards, as well as some 167 species of bird recorded as being spotted within the reserve.

Lorne

Great Otway National Park

The Great Otway National Park stretches from Torquay through to Princetown and up through the Otways hinterland towards Colac. The park features rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, rock platforms and windswept heathland. In the north, the park features tall forests, ferny gullies, magnificent waterfalls and tranquil lakes. Walking The Great Ocean Walk, stretches 91 kms from the idyllic resort town of Apollo Bay to Glenample Homestead (adjacent to the 12 Apostles). It passes through the National Park and overlooks the Marine National Park. The walk has been designed so that walkers can 'step on and step off' the trail at a number of places, completing short, day or overnight hikes. Horse riding and mountain biking Experience and enjoy the natural environment on horse back or on a mountain bike. A permit is required for horse riders to ride in the National Park and Parks Victoria staff can assist you with this. The formed roads and tracks provide ideal trails for these active endeavours. Picnicking and camping Picnic opportunities abound, with lovely settings at many of the waterfalls as well as Blanket Leaf, Sheoak, Distillery Creek, Moggs Creek, Paradise, Melba Gully, Shelly Beach, Triplet Falls and Blanket Bay to name a few. There are excellent camping opportunities throughout the Parks. Whether you are looking for a family friendly place to park your caravan or a solitary night under the stars there's something to cater to every need. Before you go Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe.

Werribee

Werribee Open Range Zoo

Why travel thousands of kilometres, when a taste of African adventure is available just 30 minutes from Melbourne's city centre, at Werribee Open Range Zoo, you'll find an amazing array of animals living on 225 hectares of wide, open savanna. On the Pula Reserve Walking Trail, come face-to-face with amazing gorillas, a pride of lions, see monkeys and cheetahs at play and discover a family of hippopotamus at the Kubu River Hippopotamus exhibit. No trip to the Zoo is complete without heading out on safari across grassy plains where you'll find rhinoceros, giraffes, zebras and antelopes grazing together on the picturesque savanna. All of the above, including the 40-minute safari tour, is included in the Zoo admission price. For those looking for even more adventure, then why not try one of the behind-the-scenes Wild Encounters. Touch a rhinoceros, feed a giraffe, stroke a serval and see amazing animals up close from the open vehicle. Don't miss the latest attractions that are exhibiting at Werribee Open Range Zoo. They have one of the world's largest gorilla exhibits and the new-look luxury Slumber Safari overnight accommodation. Visit the website for more details.

Packages & Offers

See, Do, Stay & Save

Welcome to goTravlr, your passport to great deals in Geelong, the Bellarine and the Great Ocean Road.

Whitecrest Winter Indulgence Package

A special romantic experience.

Golf Getaway on the Bellarine

$225 per person twin share.

Otway Fly - Friday Fly Day

Friday Fly Day - activate your winter!

Chris's Beacon Point Restaurant & Villas Winter Warmer Getaway Package

Package for two from $350.00.

Stay & Save at Cumberland Lorne Resort

From $411 for a three night stay.

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.

Barwon Heads Golf Club Winter Escape

$240 per couple per night

Nature & Wildlife

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