Warrnambool - Right Southern Whales

Nestled on the the shore between lush dairy country and Victoria’s rugged coastline, Warrnambool is a popular base for exploring the Great Ocean Road. The town offers a great insight into the region’s maritime history, through the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, along with beaches, boardwalks, a thriving local arts scene and annual events such as the Warrnambool May Race Carnival. Warrnambool is the gateway to some of Victoria’s best native wildlife experiences and indigenous heritage experiences.

It is also the setting for upcoming feature film, Oddball, which tells the story of the successful Middle Island Maremma Project – whereby Maremma dogs were charged with protecting the Island’s penguins from the predatory foxes. Oddball will be released nationally on 17 September 2015.

EAT

Proudfoots BoathouseThis historic boathouse on the Hopkins River was first built in 1885 and served its first high tea in 1886. The restaurant now features modern cuisine, stunning river views and a high end dining experience. Relaxed lunches are offered throughout the week and a la carte dinners offered Monday to Saturday. Proudfoot’s Boathouse is now under the steer of Benjamin Duncan and former Dunkeld Royal Mail chef, Chris Grace. 2 Simpson Street, Warrnambool, +61 3 5561 5055

PavilionThis well-established cafe is perfectly positioned by the breakwater for watching local trainers swim their horses in the cold waters of Lady Bay as they prepare horses for Melbourne’s annual Spring Racing Carnival. The venue also overlooks Middle Island where Maremma dogs can be seen guarding the local penguin colony from predators. Coffee, breakfast and lunch served seven days a week. 50 Viaduct Road, Warrnambool, +61 3 5561 1551

All Fresh SeafoodsWarrnambool and the surrounding areas are rich with seafood. Visit this popular retail seafood shop to purchase fresh seafood straight from the local fishing fleet and sourcing seafood from only managed and sustainable fisheries. 47 McMeekin Rd, Warrnambool, +61 3 5562 6633

PLAY

Whale watchingIt is currently whale watching season at Warrnambool, with a viewing platform at Logans Beach offering a great spot to glimpse a fluking southern right whale. These giants return every June to October to their nursery at the beach to give birth and raise their calves until strong enough to head out to open waters. The whales and calves can often be seen just 100 metres off the shore but it’s worth planning multiple visits to the platform for better chances of seeing them. Check with the town’s Visitor Information Centre in advance to find out the latest on whale sightings and tour options. +61 3 5559 4620.

Warrnambool PenguinsWarrnambool is home to a penguin colony with a special story. Just off the coast is Middle Island where just a decade ago the local penguin colony was is sharp decline due to fox predators. However thanks to Maremma dogs being trained to protect the island since 2006, there are now over 180 penguins and not a single one has been lost to foxes during that time. Public tours to the island are available during warmer months and visitors can also visit the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village year round to learn more about this initiative and see displays on Warrnambool’s maritime and shipwreck history. +61 3 5559 4600.

Tower HillA short drive from Warrnambool is the Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, the crater site of an extinct volcano that formed around 30,000 years ago. Today the crater provides visitors with an opportunity to see native Australian wildlife in its natural habitat, with more than 200 kangaroos and koalas estimated to inhabit this tiny ecosystem. It is also home to abundant birdlife including emus, spoonbills, musk ducks and chestnut teal. Take a self- guided walk or visit join one of the daily tours offered by the Worn Gundidj aboriginal cultural centre at Tower Hill. Boardwalks, walking tracks and picnic facilities help make the crater accessible to all. +61 3 5561 5315 or +61 448 509 522