The Gippsland Region
Gippsland is a geographically large region, with a population of around 250,000 in an area about the same size as The Netherlands.
It is a diverse region flanked by the High Country of the Great Dividing Range to the north and the waters of Bass Strait to the south.
It is well known for its natural beauty and fertility. In a country renowned for its wide brown plains, Gippsland is something of a green oasis. It features a diverse range of national parks, including rainforest and high plains, lakes and beaches, connected by rolling green hills.
In the east of the region is the Ninety-Mile Beach, a pristine expanse of white sand that leads to the Gippsland Lakes, one of the largest inland waterways in the world. There is 400 square nautical miles that is a haven for boating, fishing and other water recreation.
The southern most tip of mainland Australia is rugged Wilson’s Promontory in South Gippsland, which has spectacular walking tracks, beautiful beaches and abundant wildlife.
Phillip Island is another famous landmark, as it is home to vast colonies of penguins and seals. Other attractions include the surf and beaches and it is home to the famous 500cc Motor Cycle Grand Prix.
The mountain region to the north, the legendary High Country of Victoria, has panoramic views and opportunities for camping by mountain streams and horse riding in Man From Snowy River country.
Historic sights and towns of the gold rush era are scattered throughout. A steam train trip to Walhalla is a great family outing.
The Gippsland Gourmet Trail features outstanding local wines, cheese, venison, orchard and summer berry fruit.
The climatic conditions are as varied as the region's scenery. Summers can be hot but winter brings snow to the higher regions. Mt Hotham and Mt Baw Baw are easily accessible for winter sports.
LINKS TO LOCAL INFORMATION, TOURISM, NEWS AND EVENTS
A useful site for initial acquaintance with Gippsland's tourist and weekend attractions is http://www.gippslandtourism.com.au
Each Gippsland Council also has its own website:
- http://www.basscoast.vic.gov.au/
- http://www.bawbawshire.vic.gov.au/
- http://www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/
- http://www.egipps.vic.gov.au/
- http://www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/
- http://www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au/
- http://wellington.vic.gov.au/
The Central Gippsland Visitor Information Centre can be accessed through:
http://www.gippslandinfo.com.au
ABC Gippsland is also worth a visit http://www.abc.net.au
GETTING AROUND GIPPSLAND
Highly recommended is the RACV VicRoads - Country Street Directory of Victoria, which will help you navigate in and around Gippsland's regional centres. It's available in newsagencies, RACV shops and post offices.
V-Line Train Timetables for Gippsland can be accessed via:
http://www.vline.com.au/travellingwithvline/timetables/timetables.html#eastern