Wilson's Promontory

Wilsons Promontory is situated 200 kms. south-east of Melbourne and is the southernmost tip of the Australian mainland. It is one of Victoria's most popular national parks because it offers the visitor numerous activities, both on land and on and under the water. The 400 million year old granite landform formed part of a mountain range situated on low lying plains which extended from the mainland to Tasmania. With the demise of the ice age, oceans rose to separate Tasmania from the mainland forming a relatively shallow channel known as Bass Strait. 37,000 hectares were reserved as a National Park as far back as 1898. The area has since been extended to around 50,000 hectares, covering the entire peninsula.

The area, unusually diverse, features 130 kilometres of pristine coastline and beautiful,white beaches, fern gullies, lush eucalyptus forests, temperate rainforests, heath, grasslands and the sparse coastal vegetation around the sand dunes. Spectacular granite rock formations/headlands frame superb views to the surrounding waters, now protected as the Wilsons Promontory Marine Park.

The Prom provides sanctuary for over 700 native plant species and 30 kinds of mammals including kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, wombats, echidnas, seals and bats. Amphibians, reptiles, insects and other invertebrates together with over 180 species of birds make up a rich and diverse ecology. How the Kangaroo got it's pouch.

Walking is the primary mode of transport around the promontory and there are some beautiful walks and picnic spots which boast breathtaking views of the park and surrounding ocean. Swimming, snorkelling, surfing, fishing and diving are just a few of the popular water-based activities available in the park.

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