Editing Melbourne (section)

== '''Exploring Melbourne & the State of Victoria?''' ==

=== '''What are the areas of Melbourne?''' ===

[[File:IMG_1001.jpg|thumb|right|Melbourne by Night ...]]

Greater Melbourne covers an area in excess of 8,800 square km and is comprised of a number of regions. Each region contains a number of suburbs, each with its own cultural and historical identity.

But be warned it does matter what side of the river you live on, as this rather cheeky [http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/about-town/a-city-divided-20120202-1quub.html Sydney Morning Herald] article writes.

'''[[Melbourne Regions - CBD|CBD (Downtown for the North Americans out there)]]'''
* Includes Melbourne, Docklands, Southbank, North Melbourne, East Melbourne, West Melbourne, Central Business District (CBD). 

North, East and West Melbourne are on the perimeter of the CDB, which made a lot more sense when the city was first founded and the CBD was the port. Thanks to massive reclamation of the sea it is now some distance from the water. The Old Customs House - now [http://museumvictoria.com.au/immigrationmuseum/ Immigration Museum] - in Flinders street was once on the sea front. 

A glance at a map and it’s obvious that Melbourne is a planned colonial city: a tidy, balanced grid of neatly angled streets laid out by Robert Hoddle supposedly one afternoon in 1837, however, beneath this sense of everything in its place restraint lies a restless creative energy constantly pushing back at the city’s seeming conservatism. The CBD is made up of precincts – distinct enclaves each with its own flavour and charm. Some are just a lane or two, while others cover the banks of the Yarra River or a busy CBD street.

Melbourne's street names have quite a history to them thanks to Mr Hoddle, which you can read about on [http://www.onlymelbourne.com.au/melbourne_details.php?id=7228 Only Melbourne] or [http://www.whitehat.com.au/melbourne/History/StreetNames.asp Whitehat].

Some of Melbourne’s most interesting hidden gems crop up on old industrial land. By the late 19th century, the lower reaches of the Yarra and the Maribyrnong were lined with a number of smelly polluting industries. Perhaps none were as smelly as the glue factories near the abattoirs, where animal carcases were rendered down to make glue. It therefore comes as a shock to round the corner on the cycle path through this semi-derelict area and come face to face with a giant gold statue. Meet the [http://www.heavenlyqueentemple.com/ Heavenly Queen – Mazu] was a much revered Queen during the Sung Dynasty (10th century) who watched over and protected her people. Had she been constructed in the early days of Melbourne she would from her lofty elevation been able to see not only the Maribyrnong at her feet but the nearby Yarra River before it was filled in and a new channel dug miles away. Apart from the statue, the complex is planned to contain a temple (now well advanced), other buildings and a garden in the Chinese style. Take the pedestrian and bicycle path or Joseph Road. There are workmen from China who probably don’t have any English but plenty of goodwill in the Taoist tradition who are turning an ugly bend in the river into a beautiful place of quiet contemplation. You can see some photographs at [http://www.whitehat.com.au/Melbourne/Buildings/HeavenlyQueen.asp Heavenly Queen]

Victoria Market on Elizabeth St, just outside of the CBD in North Melbourne is a CouchSurfers food heaven! Bananas are often sold for under $1.00 a kilo and there are bargains galore. Closed Monday and Wednesday. Also good for dumpster diving, but be aware to stay outside the stall boundary lines because it's considered private property, and also stay clear of the forklift drivers who get antsy if you get in their way.

Melbourne lanes and arcades are part of the inner city culture of this city. Two great sites for more information are:
* [http://www.we-love-melbourne.net/melbourne-lanes.html We Love Melbourne- Melbourne Lanes]
* The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lanes_and_arcades_of_Melbourne Lanes and Arcades of Melbourne] wiki

'''[[Melbourne Regions - Inner North|Inner North]]'''
* Includes Carlton, Brunswick, Fitzroy, Collingwood, Coburg, Northcote

Considered to be Melbourne's more bohemian, environmentally-conscientious communities, they are firmly rooted in their mediterranean history. From Lygon Street's Italian community, to Northcote's Greek, Lebanese and Turkish, and while Fitzroy is home to the ''rich hippies'' of Melbourne, the more ecclectic can now be found alongside African, and meditteranean communities in Brunswick.

'''[[Melbourne Regions - Inner South|Inner South & Bayside]]'''
* Includes St Kilda, South Melbourne, Port Melbourne, Albert Park, Elwood

St Kilda is an inner city suburb of Melbourne, 6 km south from the city centre. Shortly after the turn of the 20th century, St Kilda served a similar function for Melburnians as did Coney Island to the residents of New York City and its history draws an interesting parallel. Densely populated postwar St Kilda became Melbourne's red-light district, home to low-cost rooming houses. Since the late 1960s, St Kilda was a bohemian area of Melbourne, home to artists, musicians and many of the city's subcultures, including the punks, Les-Gay-Bi-Trans groups and was the birthplace of Melbourne's Techno scene at The Pure, at the rear of the Palace nightclub. While some of these groups still maintain a presence in St Kilda, in recent years the district has experienced rapid gentrification pushing many lower socio-economic groups out to other areas. St Kilda is home to many of Melbourne's famous visitor attractions including Luna Park, the Esplanade Hotel, Acland Street and Fitzroy Street. It is home to St Kilda Beach, Melbourne's most famous beach, several renowned theatres and several of Melbourne's big events and festivals.

'''[[Melbourne Regions - Inner East|Inner East]]'''
* Includes Richmond, Hawthorn, South Yarra, Prahran, Windsor

This region is divided by the river and is remarkably different on both sides. If you're looking for the best Vietnamese restaurants, look no further than Victoria Street, Richmond but for the upper class definitely visit [http://www.chapelstreet.com.au/ Chapel Street], which runs through South Yarra, Prahan and Windsor. It's home to the most expensive clothing brands in the world and to the [http://www.thejamfactory.com.au/ Jam Factory], an iconic shopping centre and cinema complex. In the lower end of Chapel Street, you'll find the wonderfully ecclectic [http://http://www.onlymelbourne.com.au/melbourne_details.php?id=14850 Chapel St Bazaar], worth a visit, just for it's randomness.

'''[[Melbourne Regions - Inner West|Inner West]]'''
* Includes Kensington, Footscray, Flemington, Yarraville

Footscray, usually said by Melburnian's with an old Greek woman's accent as "Foot-es-cray" from it's Greek history, it is now home to many Asian and African communities. While it used to have a bad reputation for a strong drug dealing and do-not-go-to after dark culture, it is now getting much safer thanks to vamped police patrols and security enhancements from the local council.

'''[[Melbourne Regions - North West|North West]]'''
* Includes Tullamarine ([[Melbourne Airport]]), St Albans, Keilor, Essendon, Sunbury, Broadmeadows, Craigieburn

Ahhh the western suburbs... how they cop a bad rap, perhaps quite deservably, for being a bit rough around the edges, which may only be so because of their proximity to the airport and lower socio-economic areas of Melbourne surrounds, and not actually the people therein (many of whom I know to be lovely).

'''[[Melbourne Regions - North East|North East]]'''
* Includes Epping, Eltham, Heidelberg, Greensborough, Bundoora, Reservoir, Preston

Bundoora is host to La Trobe university and the area surrounding it is home to many students. Other areas are typical family suburbs, all with their own shopping complexes, schools and limited reasons for actually going to the CBD.

'''[[Melbourne Regions - East|East]]'''
* Includes Glen Waverley, Lilydale, Box Hill, Doncaster, Blackburn, Camberwell, Wantirna

Camberwell is quite interesting for its [https://www.sundaymarket.com.au/Default.aspx?p=5 Sunday Market], which has been running since 1976.

Lilydale hosts the $3.10 wine tasting round trip. To go, get a Sunday Saver ticket for $3.10 (or use your myki). Take train to Lilydale Station from Melbourne CBD. Get off at Lilydale Station. Take the 685 Bus from the station to Healesville. Look at [http://www.mckenzies.com.au/ McKenzie Bus] website to find bus schedule. Tell bus driver to drop you off at Yerring Station Vineyard. They have about 12 wines you can taste, from white to red, for free. Bring a packed lunch and sit out on the deck enjoying magnificent view of the vineyards and valley. There are also some art works to check out too.

'''[[Melbourne Regions - West|West]]'''
* Includes Werribee, Hoppers Crossing, Sunshine

Little can be said about these areas, except that if you can find a reason to go, you can find a better reason not to. That said, CSers have cycled from Werribee to Williamstown along the partially completed bike trail, it's a long ride through some smelly but interesting countryside, do not attempt it without a GPS-enabled smartphone.

'''[[Melbourne Regions - Dandenong Ranges|Dandenong Ranges]]'''
* Includes Mt Dandenong, Mount Evelyn, Olinda, Sassafras, Belgrave, Monbulk, Silvan

The [http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au/1park_display.cfm?park=216 William Ricketts Sanctuary] is situated in cool a ferny glade, it is a place of beauty and tranquility. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Ricketts William Ricketts (1898–1993)] was a self-taught Australian potter and sculptor. From 1934, until his death in 1993, he built a sculpture park as his major artistic work - over some fifty years. In doing so, he expressed his deeply felt connections to the earthly mother and the spirit of the land. The sculptures are mystical in intention, reflecting an eclectic mix of the classical sculpture, medieval Hieronymus Bosch like fantastic imagery, that illustrates moral and religious concepts, the English pre-Raphaelite movement is reflected along with a cloying sentimentality that romanticizes the Aboriginal. Yet, William Ricketts' obvious sincerity leaves the sanctuary as a place for quiet reflection and for contemplation of the essence of his vision. It's free and well worth the visit.

The Annual [http://www.tulipfestival.com.au/ Tesselaar Tulip Festival] is held in October, what should be a great event is in reality a tawdry and over-priced ($18 entry) tourist trap. Overall a great disappointment. Best avoided.

'''[[Melbourne Regions - South East|South East]]'''
* Includes Clayton, Dandenong, Narre Warren, Cranbourne, Noble Park, Berwick, Hampton Park

The [http://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/rbg-cranbourne Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne] is one of Victoria's most precious areas of native bushland and offers nature-lovers the chance to explore 363 hectares of untouched heathland, wetlands and woodlands. These expansive natural gardens are also home to thriving bird and animal life, including several rare endangered species.

The [http://www.dandenongrangespoint.com.au Dandenong Ranges Point] website has a lot of information about how to get around this stunning part of Victoria. One of the best (& free), not to forget ''challenging'' things to do is the [http://www.dandenongrangespoint.com.au/attractions/1000-steps/ 1000 Steps Kokoda Walk], which commemorates the sacrifices made by Australian soldiers during the Second World War along the Kokoda trail in Papua New Guinea.

'''[[Melbourne Regions - Mornington Peninsula|Mornington Peninsula]]'''
* Includes Frankston, Seaford, Dromana, Portsea, Rosebud, Rye, Cape Schanck

Along the Mornington Peninsula is some of the most beautiful scenery of Victoria. You can take the [http://www.searoad.com.au/ Queenscliff-Sorrento ferry] from Sorrento to Queenscliff on the Bellarine Peninsula (other side of Geelong towards the Great Ocean Road). A great way to start your GOR trip!

=== '''Around the State''' ===
For cost and environmental reasons, public transport is a good option for traveling around Victoria (and Australia). [http://www.vline.com.au/discovervictoria/discover/index.html VLine] offers tour packages as well as the usual travel routes. V-line tickets are often cheap, especially for students. 
[[File:IMG_2395.jpg|thumb|right|Great Food ...]]

'''[http://www.bendigotourism.com/ Bendigo]''' is one of Australia's oldest, grandest cities. For a few brief years during the 1850s and 60s, it was one of the world's richest cities. That wealth was reflected in many opulent buildings which now line the main streets. And the gold that created those riches are still visible in reefs under the ground - one mine is literally around 800 metres below the city's main centre. It takes around an hour and 15 minutes to drive to Bendigo, or two hours on the train. 

'''[http://www.visitgeelongbellarine.com.au/ Geelong & the Bellarine Peninsula]''' is about one hour west of Melbourne via the Princes Freeway. The waterfront is worth a walk - gorgeous at sunset. The Bellarine Peninsula has a wealth of hidden secrets to explore, including a tourist railway & some great lighthouses at Queenscliff and Airey's Inlet. There's also really good beaches at Torquay, Anglesea and Lorne. Torquay is the the birth place of Rip Curl, Quicksilver and Billabong surf brands and the home of Bells Beach, the most renown surf town in Australia. There is a definite surf culture down there, with surf lessons available. If this is your very first time and want to get into it quickly try Anglesea, which is the next main town down the coast. The waves are more friendly for beginners so you're more likely to get on your feet, or at least your knees sooner. 

'''[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/You_Yangs You Yangs]''' are some granite hills between Melbourne and Geelong. They provide a good view towards Geelong and Melbourne. "Big Rock" is nice. No 4WD needed - easy roads, which make for a good day trip.

'''[http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/brisbane-ranges-national-park Brisbane Ranges National Park]''' only shares the name with the known city. It is located in the middle of the triangle Melbourne-Geelong-Ballarat. The National park offers some hikes including a three day hike. The Anakie Gorge Walk is easy & nice. 40% of the National Park burned a few years ago, but nature is coming back with all its power. Most of the roads are easy to drive with any 'normal' car. Some parts may be a bit tricky after heavy rain - there are some steeper valleys.

'''[http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/cathedral-range-state-park Cathedral Ranges State Park]''' is a small park north of Healesville next to Maroondah Hwy. It features a great hike along a ridge with light rock climbing (no ropes needed; beware: not for people who have claustrophobia - there is a tight rift to squeeze through). The park is the start for an easy 4WD-only track up mountain to 1145m height - good for newbies.
[[File:Adel_029.jpg|thumb|right|Contemporary art ...]]

'''[http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/yarra-ranges-national-park Yarra Ranges National Park]/ [http://parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/yarra-ranges-national-park/things-to-do/drive-the-black-spur The Black Spur]''' has breathtaking mountain ash trees with masses of ferns at their feet. Maroondah Hwy curls through these hills with down to 35km/h sections. A dangerous road, so watch out, especially if you are on a motorcycle. Not as long as Great Ocean Road, but definitely worth seeing. You can stop in at the [http://www.zoo.org.au/HealesvilleSanctuary Healesville Sanctuary] on the way through . Other sights worth seeing in Healesville include the Judith Eardley Save the Wildlife Bookshop, and the Cherry Tree Fish & Chip Shop which has the best potato cakes in Victoria.

'''[http://www.visitdaylesford.com.au/ Daylesford] & [http://www.visitvictoria.com/Regions/daylesford-and-the-macedon-ranges/Destinations/hepburn-springs.aspx Hepburn Springs]''' is the centre of Victoria's alternative complementary therapies. Massage, counseling, second hand books, rowing a boat on a lake, snazzy restaurants, old convents converted into gallery and restaurant, Tarot readings, natural springs, bath house, cheap accommodation, etc. all set in an old growth forest of gum trees and gentle hills. Getting there: Calder Highway to Woodend, then turn north west. Not far from Daylesford is beautiful Castelmaine, also worth a look.

There is some surprisingly good '''[http://www.travelvictoria.com.au/experiences/adventureactivities/scubadivingsnorkelling/ SCUBA diving]''' on the Victorian coastline. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portsea_Hole The Portsea Hole] is a great boat dive, amongst several options including a beautiful wreck (non penetrative), and the Rye Pier a pleasant enough shore dive for macro life.

'''[http://www.divevictoria.com.au/activities/snorkel-with-the-seals Snorkel Dive with Seals in Melbourne Bay]''' ($85 trip and gear hire) has been highly recommended by CouchSurfers. Snorkelling with the attention-loving big brown-eyed seals (actually sea lions) is amazing fun (and much better than scuba diving) as they are attracted to the movement so you really can swim with seals as they come incredibly close. Be warned though, they do not like to be touched. This trip includes two dives, including the array of wonderful Australian fish at Popes Eye sanctuary, which sometimes includes dolphins.

=== '''The Great Ocean Road''' ===

Firstly, join the official CouchSurfing [http://www.couchsurfing.org/groups/34923 Great Ocean Road (GOR) group] to find people to travel with!

There are several ways to do this trip. Organized tours costing about $150 for two nights/ three days. CouchSurfers have found [http://www.wildwombatescapes.com/ Wild Wombat Escapes] offers small number, good value, one day tours including lunch and hostel pick-up for $95. Chris, who runs it, is apparently very nice, knowledgable and genuine. Self-drive can be for as little as petrol, if camping rough or by [http://www.vline.com.au/discovervictoria/discover/gor.html V/Line] public transport for $31 Melbourne-Warrnambool one way, with a range of tour options including the Grampians for an additional $23.90. 

The best time to see the Great Ocean Road is during wet and overcast weather or even storms when the waves create a majestic atmosphere. Wet weather and indirect light bring out the full colors of the limestone. In strong sunlight and blue sky the limestone tends to look flat and rather dull. In summer there are also hordes of flies (and tourists) so insect repellent and mesh face screens are required. 

For '''organized tours''', check tourist travel websites such as [http://www.greatoceanroadtours.com.au/sites/default.asp Great Ocean Road Tours from Melbourne].

For '''public transport''', [http://www.vline.com.au/pdf/newtimetables/Apollobay.pdf V/Line Apollo Bay] offer a service starting at 9am South Cross Station Melbourne arriving Warrnambool 16.55 h and stopping at all the major Great Ocean Rd sites. Please note, this is NOT a tourist service but a regular bus service. The stops are only for 10 to 20 minutes at each site. Do NOT delay the bus! That said, it is adequate to see the sites if you are rushed or broke. The trip is not guided, although the drivers tend to be pretty helpful. You can also join the bus or leave the bus at these stops.

'''Self-drive Suggested Itinerary #1'''

''This was provided courtesy of the legendary Mr. Melbournexperience.''

* Everyone meets at Southern Cross around 7:30 am. Coffee/ breakfast at Gloria Jeans opposite.
* Fill up at the Todd Road service centre, from here on we split the fuel bill. 
* Stop at Aldi on the Princes Fwy, just north of Geelong. I get 2 lunches, 1 breakfast, we divide the bill.
* I then go on the Great Ocean Road. I normally try to see the lighthouse at '''Aireys Inlet''', '''Erskine Falls''', and maybe '''Beauchamp Falls'''. See koalas at '''Kennett River''', ask the general store for directions.
* Dinner in '''Apollo Bay''' we eat out, that's each individual's cost. I then drive after dark to '''Johanna Beach''' and camp there for free.
* If you have the energy you can go further to '''Melba Gully''' and see glow-worms in the dark.
* The next morning it's breakfast at the campsite. Then if anyone needs nicer toilets stop at the service station general store at Laver's Hill.
* Then it's the '''Gibson Steps''', '''12 Apostles''' (a collection of eight miocene limestone rock stacks), and Loch Ard Gorge. Then I have lunch at Port Campbell, and I go to Waves restaurant for a fantastic take away coffee.
* There's also a nice souvenir shop opposite if you want something.
* Then back on the Great Ocean Road, seeing all the sights, like the '''Arch''', '''London Bridge''', '''The Grotto''', '''Bay of Martyrs''', '''Worm Bay''' - it's hard to see the turn off point, and '''Bay of Islands''', then I turn off towards Colac, I don't normally go to Warrnambool. If you have time to get to '''Port Fairy''' it's nice for its old buildings, but there's not much on the scenery side.
* I'm normally back to the Todd Rd Service Station by about 9pm, and we fill up again and divide the fuel there.
* I normally do it in 2 days, but it's better in 3 if you can. 

Also, a little after the Great Ocean Road, there is the highly recommended '''Tower Hill''', some 16 km after Warnambool. This is a very large extinct volcanic creator, which you drive down into, in a ''Jurassic Park''-like scenario. There are three shallow lakes, native bush, a circular drive, walks, the inner mound and a profusion of semi-tame wildlife including koala, emu, wallaby, kangaroo, tourists and bird life. Entry is free. There is also whale watching (Southern Right whales) in season, July to October, near [http://www.warrnamboolcam.com/whales.htm Warrnambol] itself. This is free, with excellent views from the shore viewing platform as the whales swim just beyond the waves with their young and will breech (surface).

'''Self-drive Suggested Itinerary #2'''

''By [http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/global_drifter/ Global Drifter], moderator of the [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=34923 GOR group]''

A few of you have email me about travel suggestions and advice so I thought it would be more beneficial to post it up here for others to view also. My advice is to plan for a three-day trip by car. This is a general itinerary most suited to travelers who want to see as much of GOR in a short space of time, but depending on what you want to see and do whilst on your trip, you will have to of course modify accordingly:

Start: My place, the unofficial start of GOR (hehe)
* If you have some spare time then maybe take an hour to walk through '''Geelong''', especially the foreshore, and check out some of the cafes (I recommend GO) and bars (Bev's, Edge, Mr.Hyde's).
* '''Torquay''' - awesome little town with nice beaches and cafes to wet your whistle. You can get surf lesions here if you're keen.
* '''Bells Beach''' just so you can say you have been there but if your time restricted then maybe give it a miss.
* '''Anglesea golf course''' where you can check out the kangaroos most mornings and evenings grazing on the greens.
* '''Airley's Lighthouse''' where you can see the table rocks and spectacular coast line. Also amazing bird life and sunsets.
* '''Teddy's Lookout''', Lorne! Make sure you don't miss this.
* '''Erskin Falls''' which is within the Otway National Park. Just make sure to check out both the top and bottom of the waterfall. It's about 10km out of Lorne so don't worry if you feels like have been driving for too long and must have passed it because you probably haven't. It's well signposted.
* '''Cora Lynn Cascade trail''' - this is one the way to/from Erskin falls. You need to park in the banana leaf (I think it's called) picnic area. It's about a 4-5km hike each way but well worthwhile!!! Once you make it to the cascades, keep following the stream till it opens up into bushland. Stunning is all I can say. Probably a good place to propose to your partner for all you romantics out there.
* '''Grey river road''' in Kennett River is a great place to do some koala spotting.
* '''Apollo Bay harbour'''. 
* '''Mariners Lookout''' where you will be greeted by Roger the goat and Patrick the pony.
* If you can spare some time then you can take the scenic drive through the back of town to '''Mariners Falls'''. A bit minuscule compared with Erskin so don't expect too much. WARNING: the road leading there is very narrow, tortuous and loose gravel so not for the faint hearted, inexperienced driver or speed demon as we almost got run off the road several times by stupid, inconsiderate, dick drivers who have no concept of other road users! They also have an awesome weekend market on the foreshore where you can pick up awesome local produce and knick knacks.
* '''Johanna beach'''! Good place to camp for the night and chill out on the beach. Great sunsets and surf. The waves are pretty hectic so only for really experienced swimmers and surfers and maybe use the buddy system. Drive down red Johanna and back on blue Johanna.
* '''Princetown picnic area'''. Just past the town there will be a sign for a campsite and picnic area where you will find a lake with a bridge overpass. Just park near the lake before the bridge as another sleeping alternative to spend the night star gazing. I love just staring at the stars so I found this breathtaking as it's pitch black out there so you can see the the whole Milky Way really clearly. Bring a telescope if you're keen, you won't be disappointed (unless there are clouds of course).
* '''Gibson's Steps''' which are just before the 12 Apostles and the place that will give you your first glimpse of what to expect. Takes you all the way down to the beach where the sand is soft, the sun is warm and the water alluring.
* Now what you have all been waiting for, '''The 12 Apostles''' (minus a few). Great sunsets, but get there early as there are always crowds from 5am. I suggest just after sunset so you get some sunlight peeking over the cliff face onto the Apostles. Better yet, I think sunset is a better option.
* '''Loch Ard Gorge''' and surrounds (Thunder Cave)
* '''The Grotto'''
* '''London Bridge'''
* '''The Blowhole'''
* '''Bay of Martyrs''' and the '''Bay of Islands'''!!! These were actually the the highlight of my trip. Needless to say, make sure you stop that car and get the hell out for a look and a photo.
* '''Port Campbell'''. Great little town where you can stop for lunch and a chat to reflect over the awesome sights you have just witnessed.
* '''Warrnambool'''. Quite a big town/city where you can re-stock on supplies, get a feed and relax for a bit. There is a major train station with trains that takes you all the way back to Melbourne. In the winter months you can also see whales.
* '''Port Fairy'''. Beautiful town and home of the Folk Festival on Labour Day weekend. Deceptive when you drive through as the real beauty is deep within the heart of the town, so try and make some time to explore the town centre and beaches.
* '''Port Fairy Lighthouse'''. Although the lighthouse isn't anything special, the view is great. But even better is the drive there. It's not so much the tree line that's amazing but what's hiding in them. If you keep your eyes sharp, your sure to see koalas!! If you're lucky enough like we were you may even get to see a mum with its baby hanging on for dear life or one might be kind enough to come down and meet you. Truly memorable, even for an Aussie. Hence why I please urge you to drive slowly on the way. Forget the people who instantaneously slam on the breaks when they spot a koala, or the huddle of folks who clammer on the roadway recklessly taking photos without a care in the world, it's the slow-moving koalas who have come down for a forage and stroll you might also run into....so please take it easy, in both directions!
* OK, onto the home stretch now. '''Portland''', including Cape Nelson and Cape Bridgewater where you can explore the petrified forest, windmill farms and marsh flies. Also check out the port and ships and do a spot of fishing of the pier/breakwater.

Note the rest of the itinerary is if you wish to continue onto Adelaide. I suggest doing it over another two days.
* If you're still keen to explore then i suggest heading west towards SA and the '''Discovery Bay''' with its beaches.
* '''Princess Margarett Limestone Caves''' which are apparently over 70,000 year old. It's a bit of a pain to get to from the GOR (about 13km over unsealed roads), so I suggest doing this on the way back from Mt. Gambier from the HWY as it's much closer and a more pleasant drive.
* '''Port McDonnell''' and '''Shell Beach''' where you can get up close with the marine life at low tide which are stuck in rock pools. Also some decent surf but its a (sharp) pebble beach with heaps of reef.
* '''Mt. Gambier''' where you can see the sinkhole, the something rather caves and Blue Lake.
* '''Beachport'''. Loved this town, especially the seemingly endless jetty and azur blue ocean.
* Encounter bay and the Coorongs. Awesome and worth a nights camp surrounded by nature and the water.
* '''Victor Harbour'''. Beautiful town and great surf. Make sure you try the fish and chips.
* From here you can head north to '''Adelaide''' (1hr).

Safe travels.

=== '''Camping, Animals and Wildlife''' ===

'''ALWAYS GO INTO THE BUSH PREPARED & TELL FRIENDS/ FAMILY WHERE YOU'RE GOING!<br />In March 2011, Melbourne CouchSurfer [http://www.themercury.com.au/article/2011/03/21/33155_editorial.html Rachel Funari] was declared missing presumed dead, bush-walking in Tasmania. It is understood she had intended only to go for an evening walk, leaving her walking gear in a backpacker's - we have now learned she fell from a cliff. Exhaustion, exposure, dehydration and disorientation are the real dangers anywhere in Australian wilderness. This section is dedicated to Rachel's memory.'''

Camping is a great way to experience nature and save on accommodation, some areas are assessable by public transport. Victoria has a range of natural landscapes, from high country wilderness to the desert outback of the west as well as lakes, beaches and rivers across the state. There can be grassed tent sites, camp kitchens and barbecues, toilet and shower amenities, laundry services and electricity or just grassed tent sites, so check first. The [http://www.onlymelbourne.com.au/melbourne.php?id=10897 Only Melbourne] site lists profiles of Melbourne caravan parks. And [http://www.coastalcampingvictoria.com.au/ Coastal Camping Victoria] lists those camping/ caravan sites around Victoria.

Bush camping - many state parks and reserves provide camping areas for public use. Car-based (non-4x4) camping is often a good option, while some sites can only be reached on foot. 

Permits and bookings campgrounds are busy during peak holiday times. Most parks charge a fee for camping and some of the more popular parks require bookings well in advance. Some parks require campers to obtain camping permits, which can be purchased from Park Visitor Centres or at the campground you are intending to camp in. Restrictions also sometimes apply to camping in public areas such as roadside rest areas and foreshore reserves. Check with local authorities before camping overnight on public land that is not a designated camping area.

Couch Surfers have found the follow books useful [http://www.racv.com.au/shop/SelectProd.do?prodId=127 Camps Australia Wide] and [http://www.racv.com.au/shop/SelectProd.do?prodId=337 Explore Budget Camps] and have recommended reading [http://www.visitvictoria.com/displayobject.cfm/objectid.00088ACF-1F92-1CF3-850D80C476A903D1/ General Safety Advice]. 

Victoria has many unique and interesting animals that live in our delicate environment. Tread lightly when you travel Australia, don't leave your rubbish behind, don't touch wild animals or try to feed them and be very very careful when using fire in the bush. Lastly, no matter how inviting never dive or even duck-dive in water. It will be muddy and the eucalyptus trees naturally drop their branches throughout the year. Many end up in rivers and wherever broken form sharp points that can impale, cut or blind. Unless they are very sure, locals will enter the water slowly and move feet first! Take the hint.

    * Australian animals      http://www.australianfauna.com/
    * Australian birds        http://birdsinbackyards.net/finder/birdlist.cfm
    * Australian marine life  http://marinebio.org/Oceans/Creatures.asp

Contrary to popular belief dangerous Australian animals will not be waiting to get you at the airport, in your bed, in the dunny or lying in wait in other places thought up by your own paranoia Most Australian animals are happy to be left alone and you will find unless you are forcing your finger in an animal's face they are happy to stay out of your way. The eastern Brown Snake is one of the most common snakes in Victoria and one of the most deadly in the world. During early summer mornings they can be seen sunning themselves on Melbourne's bike paths. However, as wikipedia notes about the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eastern_brown_snake Eastern Brown Snake]: 

''The Eastern Brown snake is diurnal (meaning it is active during the day). When highly agitated, they hold their necks high, appearing in an upright S-shape. Despite their fearsome reputation, brown snakes are reluctant to bite and react only to movement; standing still when in close proximity to one will result in it ignoring you. They are attracted to rural and farming areas, probably due to the large numbers of associated rodents. Such areas also normally provide shelter in the form of rubbish and other cover.''

Most snakes and spiders do their best to stay out of your way. If you come across a snake, you have probably caught it by surprise sunning itself on a rock or a bush-track. Back away immediately until you are out of sight of the snake. If you live in a dirty house with rubbish and have a rat / mice problem you will probably attract snakes too. So cleaning rosters have their uses. That said, you will find insects, especially the mosquitos & flies to be the #1 irritation. Go figure.

    * All about Australian Spiders http://australianmuseum.net.au/Spiders
    * Check out Australian Insects http://australianmuseum.net.au/Insects
    * Check out Australian Snakes  http://australianmuseum.net.au/Reptiles