Honey Let's Go BOATING!

INTRODUCTION

LIFE IS BETTER WITH A BOAT!

Right now there are over 1.6 million people who love boating on rivers, lakes and oceans around Australia. They must be on to something!

At some point, most of us will have driven to a marina or maybe the local boat ramp and sat, fish n’ chips in hand, in our parked cars watching the boats and all the activity surrounding them. Whatever your age, it is truly fascinating.

Landlubbers often have a real curiosity about the water. Perhaps it’s that little voice inside our head, which says, I wouldn’t mind doing that, as we watch kids grabbing hold of ropes to help out, families working together as a team and great mates having a good laugh together. Just watching people living on a boat may set you to thinking about what a nice way of life it would be; a great way to let your worries simply float away, good therapy for the soul.

Welcome to my world! Together with my business partner, Andrew Rose, I am the co-owner of the industry accredited St Kilda Boat Sales and Service Centre, located right on the water’s edge at St Kilda Marina in Melbourne, Australia.

Since Andrew and I began our partnership in 2002, we have literally sold hundreds of new and used powerboats of all shapes and sizes. Our business also services, repairs and washes more than 300 boats each year at our bayside workshop, employing trained mechanics and marine experts.

We, like any reputable boat dealers, find ourselves fielding a daily stream of enquiries from people wishing to learn more about getting on the water. Fundamentally, these questions boil down to:

How do I get on the water?

Where should I go boating?

Typically, No. 2 is tagged to the follow-on line, because it’s not as nice as Sydney Harbour or not as warm as Queensland.

In order to answer these questions and empower more people to discover the joys of boating and boat ownership, I launched myself into a new challenge as an author and wrote my first book, the 360-page award-winning bestseller: Honey, let’s buy a BOAT! which focuses on Boat Ownership – Everything you wanted to know about buying (and selling) a recreational powerboat but didn’t know who to ask.

My follow up sequel is; Honey, let’s go BOATING! addresses the question of exactly where to go boating.

For us ‘Mexicans’ living south of the border, there are several undeniable attributes that are truly Victorian and unique to boating down south. Here’s a reminder of just a few:

Our coffee is truly world class.

Terrific eateries are everywhere.

Our sporting addictions are widely known; AFL footy obsesses most Victorians and some games are often accessible by boat (see destination #33).

We have bucket loads of great boating destinations, 101 of which I’ve showcased, all underpinned by our interesting and unique boating DNA – not the medical type – but a DNA of my own creation:

–   Decent Weather - Melbourne’s weather is better than that of Sydney. I realise that’s a big statement, but it’s gleaned from facts discovered whilst researching this book. Here is some data from the website www.weatherzone.com.au

»   On average, Melbourne has more days per year of above 30°C, 35°C & 40°C on average than Sydney CBD & coastal suburbs.

»   The average annual rainfall in Melbourne is significantly lower than in Sydney.

–   Natural beauty– untouched and raw with an abundance of wildlife to entertain children of all ages, including the ‘big ones’.

–   Accessibility – rivers, lakes, bays and estuaries, all are within an easy drive from the Melbourne CBD. Good quality highways and well-maintained roads make finding that special place easy. A few more boat ramps, however, would not go amiss!

The waterways in Victoria are largely untouched by man and full of surprises. The quality of Victorian boating facilities and infrastructure is improving all the time. The state government contributes to infrastructure upgrades with new projects through the annual Victorian government grants system, which ensures some of the boat licensing and registration fees are pumped back into facilities for all boaties to enjoy. The fishing license revenues are also injected back into the community.

Port Phillip nor Western Port look nothing like Sydney Harbour, dare to make that comparison and you risk being howled down - those living in the stunningly beautiful harbour city are definitely kissed on the bow by the boating angels!

"However our weather is better ‘ just remember the facts.

The state of Victoria offers a broad spectrum of boating destinations and on-water activities, from the unpredictable waterways of Western Port and Port Phillip, to the famous ‘upside down’ Yarra River flowing through the heart of the world’s most liveable city, receiving this award four times in a row. Add to this the wonders of the beautiful flowing Murray River (OK it’s technically NSW, but we’re claiming it as Victorian), through northern and western Victoria, southern New South Wales and into South Australia and you get some sense of the bounty on offer.

Head northeast and you will find the seaside towns of Metung, Paynesville, Mallacoota, Inverloch and Loch Sport and perhaps rummage out some of Australia’s best-kept boating secrets among the Gippsland Lakes.

Perhaps, it will be the rugged western coastline that takes your fancy, the rich, clean and fertile fishing grounds of Portland. Hooking a southern Bluefin Tuna, as those fortunate enough to have done so will testify, is an incredibly special and unforgettable experience; a story worth trotting out again and again down the pub or round the camp fire.

Other boaties speak of the spectacular sight of the Southern Right Whales, one of nature’s most wonderful creations, during their migration season down in Warrnambool. Watch, but from a safe distance!

Wherever your compass points you, Victoria offers a host of wonderful boating destinations and a plethora of exciting things to do.

A great deal of research, time and effort has gone into the writing of this book. My aim was not only to provide a comprehensive list of the 101 best boating destinations, but also to give a real appreciation of the back-story to each, which could be passed along to the family rendering a richer, more meaningful adventure to all concerned. Thus, wherever possible, I have included a potted history and charted the geographical features, culture and commercial profiles of each place.

Occasionally, I have called upon the opinions and commentary of other experts, sometimes quoting from them verbatim for authenticity. I would formally like to extend my thanks to the contributors.

I am also indebted to those boat owners, customers, friends, family, fellow authors, other writers and freethinking bloggers, who have all willingly shared information with me. This content, including any relevant images, has not been altered in any way, shape or form, and a full listing of those references used and the individuals’ names and authoring sources appears under ‘Attributes and Credits’ later in the book.

To anyone I may have inadvertently omitted to mention, I offer my sincerest apologies.

I hope you enjoy reading my book: Honey, let’s go BOATING! 101 bucket list of boating destinations (Victorian edition).

May your time on the water be fulfilling, enjoyable and full of discovery.

Safe Boating Always,

Darren Finkelstein - The Boat Guy

PS: If you have any suggestions of additional boating destinations that could be included in future updates of this book, then please email me: darren@darrenfinkelstein.com

CHAPTER 1

PORT PHILLIP

Port Phillip, commonly referred to as Port Phillip Bay or, locally, just as The Bay, is a large bay in southern Victoria. Geographically, the bay covers 1,950 square kilometres circa 480,000 acres and the shore stretches roughly 264 km (164 mi). Although it is extremely shallow for its size, most of the bay is navigable. The deepest portion is only 24 metres (79 ft), and half the region is shallower than 8 m (26 ft). The volume of the water in the bay is around 25 cubic kilometres (6.0 cu mi).

Prior to British settlement the area around Port Phillip was divided between the territories of the Wathaurong (to the west), Wurundjeri (north) and Boonwurrung (south and east) Nations. Its waters and coast are home to seals whales, dolphins, corals and many kinds of seabirds and migratory waders.

The first British to enter the bay were the crews of HMS Lady Nelson, commanded by John Murray and, ten weeks later, HMS Investigator, commanded by Matthew Flinders, in 1802. Subsequent expeditions into the bay took place in 1803 to establish the first settlement in Victoria, near Sorrento. However, in 1804 all such attempts were abandoned. Thirty years later, settlers from Tasmania returned to establish Melbourne, now the state’s capital city, at the mouth of the Yarra River in 1835 and Geelong at Corio Bay in 1838. Today, Port Phillip is the most densely populated catchment in Australia, with an estimated 5.0 million people living around the bay; Melbourne’s suburbs extend around much of the northern and eastern shorelines, and the city of Geelong sprawls around Corio Bay, in the bay’s western arm.

Covering 1,950 square kilometres, Port Phillip is the entrance to Australia’s busiest port and is one of Victoria’s most popular recreational destinations. Although Port Phillip is commonly referred to as ‘the Bay’ or ‘Port Phillip Bay’, it is not a bay at all. It is a local port area made up of over 16 bays. Every year millions of people enjoy its vast coastline, world-class swimming beaches and coastal parks. An entirely different perspective, however, is available to those who explore Port Phillip by boat. Island, shipwrecks and marine reserves dot the area, while scuba diving and fishing reveal the colourful diversity of the bay’s marine life.

Over 3.2 million people live around its shore, making Port Phillip Australia’s most densely populated catchment. Port Phillip is a large expanse of water that is surprisingly shallow in many places. Nearly half is less than 8 metres deep. Its greatest depth is 24 metres.

Studies show that the Bay is a dynamic and self-sustaining ecosystem, which is healthier and cleaner than comparable bays near large cities. The shallowness of the water aids aeration and the many marine plants and organisms keep it in good condition.

Port Phillip is the gateway to the Port of Melbourne and plays a critical role in trade and commerce for Melbourne, Victoria and Australia.

The Port of Melbourne is Australia’s busiest container port handling more than a third (around 37 per cent) of the Nation’s container trade.

In the 2012-13 financial year, the port handled more than 2.5 million containers, an average of about 7000 containers a day. The previous year, container trade also surpassed 2.5 million containers, then setting an Australian record.

In the last 15 years, container volumes have grown by more than 150%.

Containers account for more than 70% of the port’s total trade.

Industry forecasts show the port’s container trade doubling over the next 10-12 years.

Overall, the port has achieved a compound growth in trade of around 6% annually for the past 20 years.

The port sees more than 3000 commercial ship visits a year and is serviced by around 40 shipping lines.

The average international container vessel visiting Melbourne carries about 3,100 containers, with the average exchange being around 1,700 containers.

Leading containerised exports include cereal grains, dairy products, beverages, fruit, vegetables and paperboards.

Leading containerised imports include electrical equipment, furniture, fruit, vegetables, clothing and machinery.

Most full container imports (87 per cent) are destined for a location within Melbourne’s greater metropolitan area.

Other non-containerised commodities include motor vehicles, petroleum products, crude oil, cement and transport equipment.

Today the Port of Melbourne has a catchment extending across southeastern Australia, servicing the trading needs of millions of Victorians and Australians.

Farmers and producers rely heavily on the port for their exports, as do others from across regional areas extending into South Australia, New South Wales and Tasmania. It is the primary mainland port for the transfer of Tasmanian cargo.

The port handles around 370,000 new motor vehicles a year, making it Australia’s premier automotive terminal for the export and import of motor vehicles.

From a boaties perspective, and for the purposes of simplicity and detail, I will divide the 480,000 acres of Port Phillip into seven distinct boating regions.

The seven regions I will individually cover throughout this book are;

Melbourne City & Rivers (Yarra and Maribyrnong)

Top End

Eastern End

Wyndham

Corio & Geelong

Mornington Peninsula

The Heads & The Rip

It is no wonder Port Phillip is one of Victoria’s most popular recreational destinations. Whether it is fishing, boating, kite boarding, diving, swimming or simply walking along one of the many piers, there’s so much to see and do both on and under the water.

#1 Encounter whales, dolphins and seals

As you travel across the bay, be on the lookout for whales, dolphins and seals. Dolphins tend to be seen more often at the southern end of Port Phillip, while seals can be seen soaking up the sun at Chinaman’s Hat. Remember to keep a safe distance from wildlife at all times.

Contact the Department of Sustainability and Environment for guidelines on watching wildlife.

#2 Explore amazing underwater marine life

Port Phillip is home to four Marine National Parks and Sanctuaries, which host diverse marine life not seen anywhere else in the world.

These marine protected areas provide a variety of snorkeling and diving opportunities for varying skill levels. Within Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park, Popes Eye is a great sheltered dive for beginners, while Portsea Hole is an excellent challenge for divers with more experience.

HOOK A FISHING ADVENTURE

With a surface area more than 35 times the size of Sydney Harbour, there is endless scope for fishing adventures in Port Phillip.

Whether you’re catching trevally, snapper, squid, leatherjackets, salmon or bream, most fantastic fishing adventures start at Patterson River. Four launching ramps with multiple lanes, good parking (but we’d like many more spaces) and continually improving facilities cater for over 50,000 boat launches each year and make Patterson River one of Australia’s most popular boat ramp facilities.

VISIT COASTAL VILLAGES

Plan a day trip to one of the many seaside villages dotted around Port Phillip. Accessible via local piers, the coastal villages have a range of services and attractions to explore, including restaurants and cafes. Highlights include the peaceful Portarlington fishing village, the historic maritime precinct at Williamstown, St Kilda’s cosmopolitan foreshore and the bustling boutiques of Sorrento.

LICENSED TOUR OPERATORS

Take the easy approach to organising your great bay adventures by booking a tour, dive or fishing trip with one of Parks Victoria’s licensed tour operators. For more information contact Parks Victoria.

REDISCOVER NATURE. RECONNECT WITH LIFE

Throughout the world there is growing recognition of the vital contribution parks and waterways make to a healthy environment, healthy individuals and a healthy society. Enjoying Port Phillip is not only a great day out – it’s good for you.

For further information contact the Parks Victoria Information Centre on 13 1963 or visit www.parks.vic.gov.au

Port Phillip chart and shipping channels

Picture source: Parks Victoria

There are a number of rules and regulations that must be observed to protect the bay environment and ensure safety for all users of Port Phillip.

ANCHORING

When anchoring ensure you always place anchors correctly and securely. Anchors damage reefs and seagrass beds when they are allowed to shift. Consider purchasing a new anchor that does less damage to seabeds. Where possible avoid anchoring over seagrass and reef areas. Anchoring is not permitted in mooring grounds or shipping channels and fairways.

#3 Aquaculture Reserves

Eight offshore marine Aquaculture Fisheries Reserves have been established in Port Philip. These reserves total 1,990 ha including existing aquaculture areas and have been farmed for over 30 years.

The reserves are clearly identified by yellow ‘special marks’, (piles or buoys), with ‘Aquaculture’ inscribed in black lettering on the yellow ‘X’ top mark and yellow synchronised lights at the external boundaries. Within the reserves is Crown lease areas designated for marine farming. Recreational users may enter the reserves attheir own risk and proceed with caution but cannot enter the lease areas, (within the marked boundaries), without permission of the leaseholder.

Recreational fishing can be undertaken throughout non-leased parts of the reserves in accordance with the conditions below:

Keep to public areas of the Aquaculture Fisheries Reserves.

Watch for divers and keep vessels and equipment a safe distance from aquaculture equipment.

Always travel at a safe speed and keep boat wash to a minimum.

Be aware of and comply with all boating and fisheries related regulations.

Don’t enter Crown leases without the express permission of the leaseholder.

Don’t encroach on Crown leases by keeping all equipment such as anchors, fishing lines and lures away from these areas.

Don’t tie up to navigation aids, aquaculture equipment or external Crown lease boundary buoys.

Don’t berley, clean fish or discharge human waste in or around the AFRs.

For more information contact Fisheries Victoria.

AQUATIC PESTS

When you participate in recreational boating activities you may, unknowingly, be spreading marine pests. You can protect Port Phillip by keeping your boat and equipment clean and following these simple steps:

Dislodge all plants and animals and bin them.

Drain water from boat and gear. Try not to let it drain back into the water.

Dispose of unwanted live bait in a bin.

Douse your boat and gear with freshwater and try not to let it drain back into the water.

Dry your boat and equipment.

Apply an authorised antifoulant where appropriate (within the antifoulant maximum in-service period and as directed on the can).

For more information contact the Department of Primary Industries.

BERTHING FACILITIES

Public berthing is available on piers and jetties all over Port Phillip for up to 48 hours at a time. Time limits and other restrictions are detailed on Parks Victoria signs at each location. Some areas have been leased or allocated for commercial boat operators only. These berths are not available for public use, including short term berthing.

Please observe these restrictions to ensure fair access for everyone.

NORTH PORT PHILLIP (TOP END)

Werribee Jetty

Wyndham Harbour

Altona Pier

Gem Pier

Ferguson St Pier

Lagoon Pier

Kerferd Road Pier

St Kilda Pier

EAST PORT PHILLIP (EASTERN END)

Middle Brighton Pier

Hampton Pier

Black Rock Jetty

Mordialloc Pier

Seaford Pier

Frankston Pier

Mornington Pier

Mornington Fisherman’s Jetty

Dromana Pier

Rosebud Pier

Rye Pier

Sorrento Pier

Portsea Pier

WEST PORT PHILLIP

Point Lonsdale Pier

Queenscliff South Pier

Swan Bay Jetty

St Leonards Pier

Indented Head Jetty

Portarlington Pier

Berthing is also available in harbours, marinas and sheltered waters throughout Port Phillip. Contact marina and harbour operators to book a berth prior to arrival.

BOAT RAMPS

Several different agencies and councils throughout Port Phillip manage boat ramps. Launching fees and facilities vary at each site.

If you are unfamiliar with a particular boat ramp it is recommended you contact the relevant boat ramp manager for more information before your trip.

NORTHERN PORT PHILLIP

EASTERN PORT PHILLIP

WESTERN PORT PHILLIP

DREDGING

When encountering a dredge vessel, recreational boat operators should always maintain a safe speed and pass on the non-obstruction side of the dredge vessel.

The safe side of passage is indicated by a double black diamond signal on the vessel. A double black ball signal indicates the obstruction side to avoid. A third black ball, black diamond, black ball signal indicates the vessel is restricted in its maneuverability.

Maintenance dredging is conducted by Parks Victoria to maintain safe access to boating facilities in key locations such as Queenscliff, Patterson River, Werribee River, St Kilda and Mordialloc Creek.

Water depth surveys for Patterson River and Mordialloc Creek are available from the Parks Victoria website.

The Port of Melbourne Corporation and Victorian Regional Channels Authority manage dredging of shipping channels and fairways.

Remember: No one wants black balls; so don’t pass on the side where the black balls are displayed.

EVENT EXCLUSION ZONES

A number of the spectacular events that take place on the bay require sections of Port Phillip to be closed for event and spectator safety. Exclusion zones are created by a temporary change to the Marine Act 1988 that allows the closure of a designated area of water for the safety of event patrons and the general public. Exclusion zones are patrolled by Parks Victoria patrol boats and recreational boat operators should follow the directions of Parks Victoria officers at all times.

The exclusion zone boundaries are usually indicated in the rivers by red ‘Stop No Boats’ buoys for all events that require exclusion zones in order to run an event organised race.

Exclusion zones and river closures are advertised periodically in the public notices section of the Herald Sun and the Government Gazette. A Notice To Mariners is distributed prior to the event.

For more information contact Parks Victoria.

FISHING

Fishing is permitted on Port Phillip and may be undertaken from either a vessel or on land, excluding channels and Marine National Parks and Sanctuaries. A Recreational Fishing License is required by all anglers in Victoria for persons aged 18 – 70 unless exempt. Please observe all fishing regulations and remember to check bag and size limits, fishing methods and closed seasons.

For more information contact Fisheries Victoria.

FUEL AVAILABILITY ON PORT PHILLIP

For your safety refueling should always be carried out ‘on-boat’ and not by leaning over the boat from a pier, jetty or landing. Care should always be taken to ensure fuel; oil and other potential pollutants are stored and transferred carefully and not spilt – especially on banks, in the water or on piers and jetties. When in public areas all diesel or unleaded fuel should be transported in AS2906 containers with a volume no greater than 25 litres. Larger containers or smaller sub-standard containers should not be used. Multiple containers can be used or fuel can be purchased from boat fuel retailers around Port Phillip.

HAZARDS AND RISKS

Should you encounter damaged aids to navigation, malfunctioning navigation lights, vessels adrift, submerged objects and other dangerous debris floating in the local port, please contact Parks Victoria to report them immediately on 13 1963.

MARINE NATIONAL PARKS AND SANCTUARIES

Marine National Parks and Sanctuaries are magnificent places for exploring marine life, snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, low speed recreational boating or sailing and photography. They protect a unique and diverse range of marine plants, animals and habitats for the benefit of current and future generations. Around 90 percent of the plants and animals are found nowhere else in the world.

There are four Marine National Parks and Sanctuaries within Port Phillip:

#4 Jawbone Marine Sanctuary

#5 Point Cooke Marine Sanctuary

#6 Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary

#7 Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park

This area comprises six separate areas – Mud Islands, Point Lonsdale, Point Nepean, Popes Eye, Portsea Hole and Swan Bay.

#8 The Barwon Bluff

Located near the mouth of Barwon River, Barwon Bluff Marine Sanctuary protects 17ha predominately composed of reef.

The eastern half of the reef is basalt, formed from lava flow, and is exposed to the flow of the river. The western side is old sandstone and influenced by ocean swell. On the outer edges of the reef are the wrecks of two ships.

The variation in conditions across the reef results in the presence of a huge diversity of plants and animals.

MOORINGS

Parks Victoria directly manages approximately 1,950 of an estimated 2,900 swing moorings in 51 locations around Port Phillip Bay and Western Port.

The remainder are managed by 11 various yacht and boat clubs and mooring associations acting as agents for Parks Victoria.

For more information contact Parks Victoria.

Book with Parks Victoria to stay at public destination moorings in Queenscliff, Limeburners Bay (near Geelong), Williamstown and Sorrento.

NOTICE TO MARINERS

A Notice to Mariners is issued by a Harbour Master, Port Manager or Waterway Manager to advise commercial mariners, recreational boaters and waterway users of a significant change in a port or waterway, which may affect the safe navigation of a vessel. Boat operators should always check the latest Notice to Mariners before operating a boat on Port Phillip.

Notices to Mariners are available on the Parks Victoria, Port of Melbourne Corporation and Victorian Regional Channels Authority websites.

Boat operators should carry accurate Australian navigation charts (Aus 143, Aus 144, Aus 153, Aus 154, Aus 155, Aus 157 and Aus 158), which can be purchased through mapping retailers and the Australian Hydrographic Service.

PORT SECURITY

Victorian Water Police manage port security in partnership with port managers. If you see something suspicious on the water, contact the Water Police.

Port security boats patrol the restricted waterside zones. In line with the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code, ports have three security levels – Level 1 is the default. The Port of Melbourne Corporation website provides advice on the current security level.

PUMP OUT FACILITIES

Poor water quality affects the health of the bay and in turn the enjoyment of recreational boating and fishing activities on Port Phillip. Discharge of sewage and other waste from boats is prohibited, adds pollutants to our valuable waterways and poses a risk to marine ecosystems and human health.

Use a holding tank for sewage and dispose of waste properly on land or use provided pump out facilities. Boat sewerage pump out systems are designed for larger boats that have holding tanks. Sewerage hoppers are designed for boats that use a portable toilet.

SEWERAGE PUMP OUT LOCATIONS

RADIO CHANNELS

Marine radio is potentially a lifeline for vessels in an emergency.

Avoid unnecessary communications on marine radio. Be aware of the following Marine Radio channels and frequencies when operating a motorised vessel in Port Phillip:

EMERGENCY CHANNELS

27Mhz - Ch. 88

VHF - Ch. 16

ROWING AND NON-POWERED VESSELS

Port Phillip is popular for non-motorised vessels such as kite boarding, rowing, kayaking and canoeing. When passing non powered vessels, please ensure a low wake is maintained so as not to disturb or tip these vessels over, as they are more susceptible to capsizing than larger motorised vessels.

SHIPPING CHANNELS AND FAIRWAYS – STEER CLEAR

Large ships travel Port Phillip shipping channels during all hours of the day and night and sometimes travel outside designated fairways. A ship’s blind spot can extend for many hundreds of metres and it is very difficult for ships to change course quickly.

Picture source: Port Of Melbourne Authority

It is the responsibility of recreational boat operators to:

Keep clear of ships at all times.

Never anchor in shipping channels or transit only zones.

Never obstruct the path of ships or assume a ship can see you.

Never tie up to navigation aids such as buoys or channel markers.

Penalties apply. For more information contact Port of Melbourne Corporation or Victorian Regional Channels Authority.

SHIPWRECK PROTECTION ZONES

Historic Shipwreck Protection Zones are no entry areas around very fragile shipwrecks. It is important to steer clear of these zones because anchoring, fishing or diving activities could easily damage the fragile wrecks within them. It is illegal to enter a protected zone without a permit from Heritage Victoria. Penalties apply. For more information contact Heritage Victoria.

SPEED RESTRICTIONS

Speed can be dangerous on the water. Not only is there a risk of crashing into other vessels, land or navigation aids, there are many other obstacles such as swimmers and divers or obstructions hidden under the surface. Always maintain a good lookout and operate at a safe speed and check local speed restrictions before you leave.

A maximum speed of 5 knots applies on Port Phillip when operating a vessel:

Within 50m of swimmers, other vessels and fixed or floating structures.

Within 100m of divers flags

Within 200m of water’s edge in coastal and fixed or floating structures.

Greater speed limit distances are in place along the shallower Mornington Peninsula bay beaches.

SWING BASINS

Swing basins are areas where large commercial ships turn when entering and leaving berths. Be aware of ships at all times near swing basins and steer clear for safety.

WILDLIFE WATCHING

Port Phillip is home to an amazing array of wildlife. When you see dolphins, seals or whales, make sure you give them plenty of space. Never approach closer than 100 metres and leave them alone if they show signs of agitation such as diving or rapid changes in direction.

At the Ticonderoga Bay sanctuary zone, vessels cannot approach dolphins and whales any closer than 200 metres.

For more information contact the Department of Sustainability and Environment.

GREAT BAY ADVENTURES

It is no wonder Port Phillip is one of Victoria’s most popular recreational destinations. Whether it’s fishing, boating, kite boarding, diving, swimming or simply walking along one of the many piers, there’s so much to see and do both on and under the water.

#9 Discover a sunken warship

Lying in approximately 28 metres under the surface, the ex-HMAS Canberra is a spectacular dive with many sections of the ship open for exploration including flight decks, the bridge, engine rooms, galley and accommodation quarters.

Access to the dive site is restricted to those participating in diving and snorkeling activities only. To enter the dive site divers must either book a dive tour with a licensed tour operator or book a 2-hour time slot on the public mooring.

Contact Parks Victoria for more information or for bookings visit www.parkstay.vic.gov.au

#10 Queenscliff Harbour

The redeveloped Queenscliff Harbour is definitely worth the trip. Restaurants and cafes complement the setting and the viewing tower provides stunning views over Port Phillip Heads and Swan Bay. The historic Queenscliff Pier and the charming Queenscliff Townships are only a short stroll away.

EXPLORE AMAZING UNDERWATER MARINE LIFE

Port Phillip is home to four Marine National Parks and Sanctuaries Which host diverse marine life not seen anywhere else in the world?

These marine protected areas provide a variety of snorkeling and diving opportunities for varying skill levels. Within Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park, Popes Eye is a great sheltered dive for beginners while Portsea Hole is an excellent challenge for divers with more experience.

#11 Popes Eye

Pope’s Eye is the uncompleted foundation for an island fort intended to defend the entrance to Port Phillip in the state of Victoria. It is less than a kilometre southwest of the former Chinaman’s Hat.

It has been protected as a marine reserve since 1979 and is now part of the Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park. It is located about 7 km inside Port Phillip Heads, 3 km east of Queenscliff and 5 km north of Portsea. It is named after a naval midshipman and has no religious connotations.

Picture source: Parks Victoria

Construction of Pope’s Eye began in the 1880s, under the supervision of Sir William Jervois, by dumping bluestone boulders on a submerged (12 m deep) sandbank until they formed a horseshoe shaped artificial reef, open to the northeast, just above high-water level. Construction ceased before completion as a fort because improvements in naval gunnery enabled the entrance to Port Phillip (The Rip) and the associated shipping channel to be protected by guns at the nearby Swan Island fort, as well as at Fort Queenscliff and Fort Nepean, making Pope’s Eye redundant for military purposes. The reef now hosts a navigation beacon.

The inside of the ‘eye’ is only about 2 m deep and is accessible to small boats as a sheltered anchorage. It is protected from strong currents and the whole structure is popular with snorkelers and scuba divers.

FLORA AND FAUNA

The reef provides a rich habitat based on the underwater forest of marine algae, such as Giant and Leathery Kelp, which sustains a rich fauna of fish and marine invertebrates, including sponges and soft corals. The site is part of the Swan Bay and Port Phillip Bay Islands Important Bird Area, identified as such by Birdlife International. Pope’s Eye is an important breeding site for Australasian Gannets, nesting on platforms constructed for them as well as on the rocks of the reef, which are also used for roosting by Black-faced Cormorants and for foraging by Ruddy Turnstones. The site is often visited by Australian Fur Seals and Burrunan (bottlenose) dolphins.

#12 Chinaman’s Hat

Chinaman’s Hat is an octagonal structure serving as a shipping channel marker and haul-out for local Brown fur seals, in the South Channel of Port Phillip in the Australian state of Victoria. It is in the Mornington Peninsula Shire, three kilometres east south east of Pope’s Eye. Along with the latter it served as a navigation beacon at the Heads of the bay.

HISTORY

The term Chinaman’s Hat is the local name once associated with the site of a former military structure, Station M, but now transferred to a new seal platform erected by Victoria’s Park Authority in 2002.

The postwar structure was built to replace a dilapidated military installation erected on a dolphin as part of the Port Phillip Bay defence system shortly before 1942. This earlier structure is often said to have supported an optical mount, or ‘Magic Eye’, which transmitted two Piezo electronic beams across the Rip to a large mirror, and then to two reflectors, respectively Station P and Station S, at the Heads of Point Lonsdale. Any break in transmission in such a system was designed to set off an alarm to signal the possible presence of enemy vessels. The mechanism apparently did not function as expected, and the equipment was removed two years later, in 1944. Some doubts, however, have been expressed regarding the existence of this interception system: the site certainly was equipped in wartime with underwater indicator loops to detect submarines. After it was abandoned, the dilapidated remains were used as a perch for both recreational fishing and as an anchorage.

It rested on a circular concrete caisson base, roughly 7 metres in diameter, raised on a sandy shoal some 6 metres below the waterline.

Parks Victoria was granted a permit in early 2002 to demolish the old structure after arguing that it posed a risk for small craft navigation and was devoid of heritage value. In the face of public protests, the Authority went ahead and built, at a cost of A$210,000, an expensive alternative platform that was quickly disparaged by critics at the time as a veritable ‘Taj Mahal for seals’. This new structure for the seal colony was grounded on a rectangular base and lies not far from the Mud Islands bird sanctuary. However, the seals refused to budge from their traditional, run-down landmark, and it was only after the authorities proceeded to demolish the old haul-out that they settled on the new platform. It is this new structure that now carries the name Chinaman’s Hat.

The present structure is one of four ‘haul outs’ or resting sites in the bay, and is occupied by a bachelor community of the Australian Fur Seals. It is a popular destination for scuba divers and snorkelers. Visitors to the site are warned to keep their distance, since the seals can at times behave aggressively towards people who get too close.

Picture source: www.queensclifffishingcharters.com.au

#13 Mud Islands

The Mud Islands reserve is located within Port Phillip, about 90 km southwest of Melbourne lying 10 km inside Port Phillip Heads, 7 km north of Portsea and 9 km east of Queenscliff. The land area of about 50 ha is made up of three low-lying islands surrounding a shallow tidal 35 ha lagoon connected to the sea by three narrow channels. The shapes and configuration of the islands change over the years due to movement of sand by tidal currents.

HISTORY

First sighted by Europeans in 1802, the islands were originally named Swan Isles because of the large number of swans on the surrounding waters. It was not until 1836 that Lt. T M Symonds and H R Henry of the HMS Rattlesnake surveyed the islands and renamed them Mud Islands.

PROTECTION

In 1961, the area of the islands above high water was proclaimed a permanent reserve for the management of wildlife. It forms part of the Port Phillip Bay (Western Shoreline) and Bellarine Peninsula Ramsar Site, which was designated in 1982, as a wetland of international importance, and it is also included on the Register of the National Estate. Since 2002 it has been, with the adjacent waters, part of the Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park.

Picture source: Parks Victoria

ENVIRONMENT

FLORA AND FAUNA

Within the reserve there are nine native vegetation communities. Seagrass meadows, sand dunes, mudflats and salt marshes support a diversity of life ranging from marine invertebrates to fish and birds. Wind and tide are gradually changing the shape of the islands, although they are partly stabilised by a salt marsh of Austral Sea-blite and Beaded and Shrubby Glasswort. The dense coastal scrub on the northern island has disappeared, apparently as a result of overgrazing by rabbits. Today, only a single specimen of Coastal Teatree (Leptospermum laevigatum) remains.The site is part of the Swan Bay and Port Phillip Bay Islands Important Bird Area, identified as such by Bird Life International. Some 70 species of birds have been recorded on the Islands, which form essential breeding, feeding and roosting areas for seabirds and waders, many of them migratory.

Few land birds are permanently resident, although many species visit and may breed. Large numbers of Straw-necked Ibis and, to a lesser extent, Australian White Ibis, nest and roost on the islands and fly daily to the mainland for feeding. Lewin’s Rail occasionally breeds in the salt marsh, but is so shy that nesting is seldom recorded. Up to 100 rare Orange-bellied Parrots have been seen on the islands during winter when they migrate to the Australian mainland from Tasmania. Since the mid 20th century, however, numbers have declined, possibly because the increasing number of gulls has changed the chemistry of the soil and thus the vegetation on which the parrots feed. Nevertheless the islands are an important habitat for this endangered species. Bronze Whaler sharks are known to breed around the islands.

ACCESS

The islands can only be reached by boat, the most convenient departure points being Queenscliff or Sorrento. Day visitors are permitted, but overnight camping is not. Bird Life Australia conducts regular tours to Mud Islands, usually in February and March. South Bay Eco Adventures also run guided walking tours of the islands. As shallow waters surround the islands, visitors need to be cautious when attempting a landing. Passengers must be ferried to shore by dinghy or else wade in. Visits need careful planning to avoid the boat being stranded at low tide.

#14 Corsair Rock

The name Corsair Rock has sent shudders down the spine of many a seaman navigating Port Phillip Heads. The rock has been responsible for an extremely large number of shipwrecks and standings. The rock itself is 6m in diameter and covered by 3m of water. The rock is located 600m west of Rock Beacon and can usually be identified by the swell breaking above it. When conditions are favorable the kelp-covered top of the rock may be seen from the surface. When conditions such as this exist, diving around Corsair Rock is at its best.

The terrain is ruggedly spectacular with huge gutters and bommies providing superb diving. The marine flora and fauna is equally spectacular with extensive kelp covered ledges concealing crayfish and many other reef dwelling creatures. Many schools of fish pass through the area and are well nourished by the prolific growth in the area.

To dive the area requires a good knowledge of the tides. Slack water is essential as the currents can be particularly fierce. A word of warning here is that after an ebb slack the flood tide will wash you into the centre of the Rip.

A marine park has resulted in restricted access to large areas of the Lonsdale Bight, so these days my favourite area for salmon is in and around reef and kelp beds near Point Nepean and Corsair Rock, and along the inside of Point Nepean down to Portsea.

Fishing in this region can test the mettle of your seamanship. The Rip is notorious for strong currents, contrary seas and pressure waves but when you bring the thrill of the hunt into the equation, you have a challenging scenario. The quality and quantity of fish available, up to 4 kg at times, can make a trip worthwhile. A salmon of this size is a good fish and a serious challenge for the light-tackle angler working lures or flies.

Boaters need to exercise caution in this area. Small boats are not a sensible option in the Rip, and usually the best time to be fishing is either on the floodtide or during slack water. On the outgoing or ebb tide, conditions can be dangerous, particularly when wind is pushing against the tide. If there is a swell, stay away from Corsair Rock.

CORSAIR – FOR EXPERIENCED SURFERS ONLY

Take the drop, pull into the barrel and aim for the light. Don’t drop in and don’t look sideways at anyone. If you do not have a sound knowledge of tides, don’t even think about surfing this wave.

This break has a very ‘sharky reputation’, not surprisingly it is at the entrance to Bass Strait.

Atmosphere Psycho, scary locals and treacherous rips. When this place breaks the locals hit it hard; boats come from everywhere. There are very few places that work in the conditions required for this spot.

Hollow, powerful barrel.. Fifteen years ago you could have had this wave to yourself. If it is breaking you will struggle to get a wave if you don’t know the locals. You’ll be forced to sit wide and pick up the leftovers.

HOOK A FISHING ADVENTURE

With a surface area more than 35 times the size of Sydney Harbour, there is endless scope for fishing adventures in Port Phillip.

Whether you’re catching trevally, snapper, squid, leatherjackets, salmon or bream, most fantastic fishing adventures start at Patterson River. Four launching ramps with multiple lanes, ample parking and continually improving facilities cater for over 50,000 boat launches each year and make Patterson River one of Australia’s most popular boat ramp facilities.

#15 Point Nepean

Point Nepean marks the southern point of The Rip (the entrance to Port Phillip) and the most westerly point of the Mornington Peninsula, in Victoria, Australia. It was named in 1802 after the British politician and colonial administrator Sir Evan Nepean by John Murray in HMS Lady Nelson. It is within the suburb of Portsea. Its coast and adjacent waters are included in the Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park, while its land area is part of the Point Nepean National Park. Cheviot Beach is located on Point Nepean, where the SS Cheviot was wrecked in 1887, and Prime Minister of Australia, Harold Holt, disappeared on 17 December 1967, presumed drowned.

HISTORY

Evidence of Australian Aboriginal settlement of the area dates back 40,000 years. Point Nepean was a birthing place for women of the Boonerwrung People. There are 70 registered Aboriginal archaeological sites within the Point Nepean National Park.

Limestone was mined from the coastal cliffs from the early days of European settlement and two limekilns were built around 1840. Point Nepean Quarantine Station was opened in 1852, and is the second oldest intact quarantine station in Australia. It contains the oldest buildings erected for quarantine purposes in Australia, four of the main hospital buildings (established in 1857), pre-dating the oldest intact quarantine-related structures at North Head, Sydney, by sixteen years. The Quarantine Station operated until 1980.

Point Nepean Post Office opened on 1 April 1859 but was closed by 1865. Fortifications were built from 1878. Gun batteries were installed at Fort Nepean in 1886 and Eagles Nest in 1888. A gun battery was constructed at Fort Pearce in 1911. With the removal of coastal artillery after World War II, the facilities housed an Officer Cadet School and the School of Army Health from 1951 to 1985.

LAND SALES

Parts of Point Nepean were declared national park in 1988. The Commonwealth government offered to sell the land to the state of Victoria in 1998 and again in 2001, but the state rejected the offer.

In 2002, the Department of Defence proposed selling 311 hectares of land for development; retaining 1.6 hectares that contains contaminated soil and unexploded ordnance. The proposed sale was abandoned in 2003, following strong community protest. In 2004, 90 hectares of Department of Defence land was transferred to the Commonwealth government’s Point Nepean Community Trust, which managed the former Quarantine Station until the land was transferred to the Victorian government on 8 June 2009. The Commonwealth also transferred 205 hectares of bush land (former Firing