Embrace the Space

and stay COVID-safe in Greater Geelong this summer

Throughout Greater Geelong and the Bellarine, we are spoilt for choice when it comes to natural open space.

We acknowledge Wadawurrung, Traditional Owners of this land, and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are part of the Greater Geelong community today.

With physical distancing still important, getting out and making the most of the many unique spaces is a great way we can ‘embrace the space’ and enjoy the outdoors in a safe way.

Our region is filled with beautiful parks and reserves, and this guide is designed to highlight some of the hidden gems for you to explore!

Whether it’s an exciting new playground, the perfect picnic spot, or a secret walking trail to explore with a four-legged friend – there is something in here for everyone. And we have included a few better-known spots as a reminder of the abundance of natural beauty we enjoy in the region.

After a year that’s been rather hectic and overwhelming, spending time in nature with only some native wildlife for company, could be the healing tonic we all need.

We hope this guide will help you to venture off the beaten track and discover a new favourite spot for you, your family and friends.

You may even get the swing set all to yourself!

Cr Stephanie Asher Mayor, City of Greater Geelong

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The wreck of the old Ozone paddle steamer, close to shore in Indented Head, is a popular spot for snorkelling.

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There’s more to the Bellarine than stunning beaches If you need a break from the sand and surf, there is plenty to discover away from the water’s edge. Head to Drysdale on the Bellarine to discover some scenic walks and great coffee.

Start at Lake Lorne for a beautiful walk around 12 hectares of wetlands that are home to a number of bird species including the Latham’s Snipe which migrates over 8000 km from Japan in September before returning in late March.

Close by is a picnic area and playground at the historic Drysdale Railway Station. Check the schedule to hop on a vintage steam train to Queenscliff, taking in the views

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across Swan Bay. The rail trail is close by and is the perfect path for a leisurely 17 km bike ride to Queenscliff railway station, close to parklands and the marina. Bikes are permitted on the train if you fancy riding one way and returning by rail.

If you are feeling hungry or in need of some caffeine, there are a number of great cafes and restaurants in Drysdale and there are many wineries, olive groves and a berry farm close by, many of which feature cafes, restaurants and cellar-door sales.

Once you’ve met your culinary needs and you’re looking for a bit more nature, head to the Basin Reserve at 41 Basin Road. This small reserve is an important refuge for native plants and animals including Coastal Manna

The Austral Grasstrees are a stunning feature of the Basin Reserve.

The Dell in Clifton Springs.

Gums and Austral Grasstrees. Look up for parrots, butcher birds and wrens who call this reserve home.

If you’re an op-shop lover, you’re in the right place with op-shops in the main shopping centre and a giant Salvos on Mortimer street. Some great bargains await!

Is the day getting a little bit warm? The Dell in Spring street

Swift Parrot makes its home in a Bellarine Yellow Gum tree.

Clifton Springs is a 10-minute drive from Drysdale and offers you the opportunity to cool off at a protected beach. Hungry again? The Dell is a lovely spot to picnic with some fish and chips from the local shop situated in Jetty Road.

Drysdale is in the northern Bellarine, 15 minutes from Portarlington, 20 minutes from Ocean Grove and 25 minutes from Geelong.

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Wander the wonders of the east

Locals have an official motto for the small coastal community of St Leonards.

It is ‘Where every day is Sunday’.

For here, at the eastern most point on the Bellarine Peninsula, life both slows down and opens up.

St Leonards is centred commercially and recreationally by the intersection of The Esplanade and Murradoc Road.

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Edwards Point Wildlife Reserve

Edwards Point Wildlife Reserve There is much to explore on the southern tip of St Leonards, with the Edwards Point Wildlife Reserve offering an array of experiences, environments and views.

It is home to one of the last remaining area of coastal woodland on the Bellarine Peninsula, with the precious habitat home to a diverse range of indigenous plants and animals.

Edwards Point Wildlife Reserve

There is a very good reason that the ABC chose to showcase the natural beauty of St Leonards and Indented Head for its acclaimed television series Seachange.

Indented Head boatsheds with the Ozone wreck in the distance.

A shopping strip with cafes, restaurants and a beach-facing pub overlooks the historic pier, which provides great access to deep water fishing.

Alongside the pier is Harvey Park, which features an enclosed playground, picnic facilities and space to sit down, relax and enjoy the cool sea breeze.

Outside of this central meeting point, there is no shortage of beautiful open areas to get lost in and to explore.

Emerging from the forest canopy, the salt marshes and dune vegetation dominate the vista.

The point is straddled between two major bodies of water – to the west lies Swan Bay, and to the east is the wide expanses of Port Phillip Bay.

Ozone wreck The water off Indented Head is popular for snorkelling and diving.

The prime spot is the shallow Ozone paddle steamer, which was deliberately sunk to create an artificial reef in the 1920s.

Harvey Park, St Leonards

Always check the water conditions before you enter and we recommend that you never swim alone. Always supervise children carefully around water.

Bellarine Coastal Trail Connecting Edwards Point in St Leonards’ south to Portarlington, the Bellarine Coastal Trail is a 17 km network of walking and cycling paths that pass through a variety of environments.

The dominating Melbourne skyline and the jagged silhouette of the You Yangs provide contrasting views as you journey along the eastern fringe of the mainland.

St Leonards is 25 minutes from Ocean Grove and 35 minutes from Geelong.

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Paths trace around rivers, along coastlines and historic railway lines connect towns and villages.

These offer a range of options for cyclists and pedestrians of all abilities to embrace the space.

On foot or on wheels, the Bellarine Rail Trail offers adventure for all ages.

Bellarine Rail Trail It is the longest, most challenging and most undulating trail in Greater Geelong.

All aboard the historic trail

But don’t let those attributes deter you – there are plenty of family-friendly stretches along the Bellarine Rail Trail to make it appeal to all levels.

Drysdale to Queenscliff

At more than 35 km from South Geelong to Queenscliff, it is a great trail for keen cyclists and runners who want to keep at least one eye on the diverse scenic surrounds.

About halfway through its 32 km length, the Bellarine Rail Trail meets the tourist railway that runs from Drysdale to Queenscliff.

South Geelong to Drysdale

The original line was closed in 1976, but this section reopened to carry tourists through remnant bush down to Swan Bay just five years later.

The trail is fully sealed for the length of the western half, which moves through the eastern suburbs before passing expansive farmlets in Moolap.

Plan to break at Fred Cook Reserve at Christies Road, Leopold. There is an open shelter - surrounded by an array of native plants - toilets and a drinking fountain.

The trail steadily climbs as the last suburban Leopold blocks give way to farmland and you cross Portarlington Road at Curlewis.

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From here, the You Yangs and Corio Bay repeatedly come in and out of view and you pass several holes of the Curlewis Golf Course.

The trail mostly follows the railway corridor down to the coast, with breaks best enjoyed at shelters at Suma Park or on Swan Bay Road, Mannerim.

You can take your bike on the steam train, which can come in handy if you wish to avoid the hardest part of the trail – the return climb from Queenscliff to Mannerim.

The Bellarine Rail Trail starts at South Geelong Station and ends at Queenscliff Station, close to historic Hesse Street.

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An afternoon trip to Buckley Falls

The River Red Gum Walk is popular with walkers and cyclists.

View of the old paper mill across the river.

Pack your bikes, scooters and picnic supplies into the car and head off for an afternoon adventure at Buckley Falls in Highton.

With the River Red Gum Walk leading right up to the lookout over the stunning waterfall, you can make your way there on foot or on wheels.

You may like to park at Queens Park carpark and take in the sights as you make your way up the trail to the lookout. Or park at the small carpark located alongside the falls providing easy access for a quick pit stop to appreciate the view.

On your walk, keep an eye out for tawny frogmouths, gang-gang cockatoos and rainbow lorikeets – all commonly spotted in the area along with many others. You may even be lucky enough to spot a swamp wallaby along the water’s edge.

After you’ve taken in the view at the falls, follow the River Red Gum Walk downstream, cross the bridge when

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Keep a lookout for the brilliantly coloured rainbow lorikeets.

you reach the Barwon Aqueduct River Trail and make your way up to either the Fyansford Hotel or Provenance Wines for a quick pause, bite to eat and refreshment.

For the adventurous, take on the continuous 20 km loop of the Barwon River Trail, which takes you on a picturesque journey along the banks of the river through Fyansford and South Geelong.

On your visits, remember to carry a face mask in the event you cannot maintain physical distancing, bring your hand sanitiser, be considerate of other users and leave no rubbish behind.

Tip: While there is lots of space outdoors at the many reserves near Buckley Falls, the Barwon River walking trail can become busy during peak periods. Try to pick quieter, less-popular times for your visit to ensure you can embrace the space.

Queens Park is located at 150 Queens Park Road Highton, 10 minutes from central Geelong.

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Gang gang cockatoo

Family fun at Balyang Sanctuary When Balyang Sanctuary was created in 1972, the vision was to rejuvenate the site to become a bird-haven and family-friendly picnic spot.

All these years later, the vision is alive and well, with the sanctuary still one of the best places to go bird-spotting or enjoy a picnic with friends and family among the gum trees.

Located along the Barwon River in Newtown, Balyang Sanctuary is easy to get to via Shannon Avenue, Geelong or the shared trail along the riverbank – meaning you can travel by car, foot or on two wheels.

With nine hectares of space to spread out, visitors to the sanctuary can often be seen playing a quick game of cricket, having a picnic, strolling around the lake or simply resting on the grass and enjoying the scenery.

Nature lovers should bring a pair of binoculars for spotting birds. Keep an eye out for swans, pelicans, Eurasian coot, gang-gang cockatoos, dusky moorhen, Pacific black duck, mallard, pied cormorant and silver gulls. You may even be lucky enough to spot the odd garden skink or blue-tongued lizard.

While you’re in the area, and if you’re feeling peckish, pay the nearby Barwon Edge Boathouse or Skinny Dippers & Co. a visit for breakfast, lunch or a quick bite to eat – both are located within 1.5 km of the Balyang Sanctuary.

Facilities: parking, toilets, picnic tables, drinking fountains and rotunda.

Balyang Sanctuary is located at 50 Marnock Road Newtown, 10 minutes from central Geelong.

The wetlands of the sanctuary provide a haven for a variety of birds.

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Picnic spots along the Barwon River Looking for spacious, quiet spots to enjoy a COVID-safe picnic outdoors with family and friends?

We’ve collated a list of lesser-known spots along the Barwon River. For locations and more information visit geelongaustralia.com.au/parks.

Belmont Common While the Belmont Common is a hive of activity during sporting matches and rowing competitions, outside of these times it’s a perfect spot to set up your picnic and enjoy the river view.

Zillah Crawcour Park

Balyang Sanctuary

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Located next to the Queens Park bridge, Zillah Crawcour Park is sometimes skipped for Balyang Sanctuary nearby. This park is perfect for a picnic with lush green open space, shady trees and a handful of tables.

Fyansford Common This quieter spot along the river is an ideal location for your next get together with access to toilets, shelter and plenty of space for activities.

Queens Park Queens Park boasts plenty of activities for the kids with sporting facilities and rope climbing equipment. While this location will be busier during sporting matches, there is still plenty of room to embrace the space. It is also a good spot to start your walk to scenic Buckley Falls.

Seaview Park A spot you’ve likely missed, Seaview Park overlooks the river in its cosy spot at the top of the escarpment near the pedestrian bridge. Take in the view, have a quick play on the playground and enjoy your picnic.

All of these picnic spots are within 10 minutes of central Geelong.

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Spend some time in nature The Brisbane Ranges National Park is one of the many stunning hidden gems of our region and state.

ground and is a 4 km walk up and back to the reservoir. The track is mostly even, with some sections of slippery gravel, steep inclines and uneven ground.

Located at the border of our municipality, the national park features 7,700-hectares of Victoria’s richest wildflower habitat and the state’s greatest density of koalas.

Along the track keep an eye out for koalas, kangaroos, possums and native birds. Due to the unusual geology of the area many rare plants that have vanished across the state, have survived hidden among the rocky gullies. There are around 619 plant species that have been identified in the area.

A feature of this park is the 8 km Anakie Gorge walk, which weaves alongside Stony Creek, and serves as the perfect activity for lovers of the outdoors.

Rewarding views and rare vegetation are part of the attraction of the Brisbane Ranges.

Before starting your walk, pay a quick visit to the Anakie General Store (also known as the Roadhouse) for coffee and snacks to keep you fuelled for the two to three hours it will take to complete the hike. You can also grab a coffee, or some wine, from Del Rios Winery.

Before undertaking any hike, please make sure you’re prepared with plenty of food and water, first aid supplies and suitable hiking footwear and equipment and check the day’s Fire Rating. Pets are not allowed in the national park.

For more information visit Parks Victoria at parks.vic.gov.au or 13 19 63.

The Anakie Gorge walk starts and finishes at the Anakie Gorge picnic

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Serendip Sanctuary offers a bush experience close to the city.

Tawny frogmouth

Spottedtailed quoll

Discover a wildlife oasis

Guided tours are a great way to enjoy this tranquil sanctuary.

Head to Serendip Sanctuary and the neighbouring You Yangs for the chance to see a number of native animals in their natural environment.

Featuring open grassy woodlands and wetlands, Serendip is a great place for an easy bush walk.

Enjoy the sanctuary at your own pace or book in for one of Parks Victoria’s guided tours and meet some of the species that are native to the area including the Bearded Dragon and Spotted Tailed Quoll.

With picnic areas and free electric barbecue facilities, Serendip is a great place to relax after meeting the local animals.

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Ten minutes away is the You Yangs Regional Park, part of an important cultural landscape for Traditional Owners, the Wadawurrung People.

Featuring absolutely stunning views, this park offers walks from easy grade to sweaty and puffy as well as mountain-bike trails for all levels.

Horse-riders are welcome too!

Highly visible from a number of locations in Geelong, the distinctive granite peaks dominate an otherwise pancake flat landscape. It is easy to understand the significance of this landscape to Traditional Owners and it is very hard not to be moved by this site.

Serendip Sanctuary and the You Yangs are both located approximately 25 minutes drive from central Geelong.

Uncover our northern secrets The northern suburbs of Geelong are home to some stunning coastal scenery, as well as an ideal family beachside spot!

If you’re looking for somewhere different to take the kids this summer, St Helens beach and park could be your answer.

The kids will love running around the grassed open space and playing in the fenced playground, while the adults can sit back and take in the bay views while enjoying a barbeque or picnic.

Keen anglers could even head down to the rocky shoreline to throw a line in for some snapper, whiting or mullet.

For those looking for more adventure and a chance to spot some native wildlife, pack a picnic and go for a

Mangrove Boardwalk at Limeburners Bay.

stroll or bike ride along the Hovells Creek Trail.

Taking you from Limeburners Point in Corio through to the Lara township, the Hovells Creek Trail offers striking views and attractive natural scenery.

Picnic points and rest spots provide the opportunity to stop and take in the natural sights along the way.

The Mangrove Boardwalk at Limeburners Bay is a particular highlight – a great spot for viewing a wide range of water and wading birds, as well as many native plants.

Photo opportunities abound!

This trail is a beautiful reminder that life is about the journey, not the destination.

St Helens Beach is 12 minutes drive from central Geelong.

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Barwon Heads

Ocean Grove

DEVLINS PARK

OCEAN GROVE

NATURE RESERVE

MOONAH JIRRAHLINGA KOALA AND WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

PARK

BARWON RIVER

BARWON

LAKE AVENUE

RIVER

THE

MEWS

RESERVE

RESERVE BARWON

HEADS VILLAGE

SHELL ROAD

BEACH BARWON HEADS

SEABANKS ESTATE

PARK AND PLAYGROUND

RESERVE

PARK

RAAFS

BARWON

RIVER

BEGOLA WETLANDS ROCKPOOLS AT LOWTIDE

BARWON

BEACH

BLUE WATER LAKE OCEAN GROVE

PARK

THIRTEENTH

KINGSTON PARK RECREATION RESERVE

BOARDWALK

RAAFS BEACH

BLUFF

MARINE SANCTUARY

PT LONSDALE LIGHTHOUSE

HMAS CANBERRA DIVE SITE

EXPERIENCED DIVERS ONLY.

THIRTEENTH BEACH

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geelong

portarlington THE DELL, CLIFTON SPRINGS

SERENDIP SANCTUARY AND THE YOU YANGS

SAINT HELENS

PARK RIPPLESIDE

MINIATURE RAILWAY

PARK

PORTARLINGTON

PIER

CUNNINGHAM

THE OZONE, INDENTED HEAD

PIER FYANSFORD

COMMON PT RICHARDS FLORA AND FAUNA RESERVE

PORTARLINGTON

RECREATION RESERVE PORTARLINGTON

MILL

PORTARLINGTON

PARK

TRANSVAAL SQUARE

SEAFORTH RESERVE

ZILLAH CRAWCOUR

PARK

QUEENS

HAWTHORN RESERVE

GEELONG BOTANIC GARDENS

PARK

HOWARD GLOVER

BALYANG

EDWARDS POINT

ON R IV ER

DRYSDALE

SANCTUARY BAR W

WILDLIFE RESERVE

SEAVIEW

PARK

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RESERVE

KARDINIA

PARK

BELLARINE RAIL TRAIL

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