After researching possible overnight spots on WikiCamps we decided to make our way to Marlay Point on Lake Wellington. Along the way we had a look at the only swing bridge left in Australia and we’re lucky enough to see it in action (every 2nd Wednesday at 11-12 and every Saturday and Sunday).
At Marlay Reserve we have managed to get a water front spot and although a bit windy, we have had an enjoyable afternoon in the sun watching the pelicans. Later, after a walk, Mark got the BBQ out for dinner. It’s such a terrific spot we decided to stay another day.
The following day, we moved on to a beautiful spot at Pettmans Beach on the other side of Bairnsdale. We enjoyed strolls along the never ending beach.
After another beautiful day at Pettmans Beach and a lovely evening watching the sun set and the fire, we went for an explore further east. On our journey out to the highway we spotted over 20 wallabies.
We stopped in Orbost and got some great info before following the Snowy River down to Marlo.
We went out on the jetty and saw the local seal floundering around before stopping at the lookout of the mouth of the Snowy River.
We had lunch at Salmon Rocks at Cape Conran and had a look at the the old settlement at Joiners Channel.
We then took the bumpy road to Yerrung Gorge but wondered if it had been worth the effort. We did see a goanna on a tree.
Anyway back onto the A1 we travelled until we got to Cann River where we are staying the night.
The next morning we left the caravan at Cann River and went to explore Point Hicks Lighthouse where in 1770 Captain Cook first sighted Australia! It’s been 25 years since we last came here and had the unfortunate experience of the car battery going flat. We were lucky rescued with a jump start from the lighthouse keeper. The weather and overall experience was better this time and we even managed a walk out to see the Saros wreckage. On the way back we drove into Tamboon fishing village.
After a walk in Drummer Forest we briefly stopped in Genoa before driving to see the WWII bunkers in Mallacoota.
The museum is only open on Tuesday mornings so we paid $5ea and learnt a bit about the local history in and out of war time.
We were surprised to find out that plenty of enemy mines had been laid so close to the Australian coast with a loss of many boats/ships. The local soldiers who bravely fought and those that died where also commemorated.
On the road again today starting with a pleasant stroll along the Bemm River Forest walk with 2 suspension bridges, board walk, info signs and plenty of tree ferns.
We then stopped to have a look at the very impressive historical trestle bridge built for the railway to Orbost and was last used in 1988
After doing a bit of shopping in Lakes Entrance we went to look at Nyermilang Homestead, beautifully set overlooking the lake and ocean beyond. We managed a quick walk around the gardens before making our way to Metung.
We parked at the old hot pools car park and walked along the boardwalk into town.
We then made home in time to get the lights up for Christmas.
