The heritage-infused streets of Bairnsdale make this a postcard-perfect destination, but don’t let the sleepy cottages fool you – this is a town that loves some adventure! Whether its wild water sports on the lakes, or perhaps the vibrant food and entertainment scene, you are sure to find some like-minded souls to help make your stay here totally unforgettable.
The most Fun Park
The Bairnsdale Fun Park lives up to its name, with a wide variety of attractions for the whole family to enjoy. For team activities, you can try out some laser tag, archery, the batting cages or mini golf. There’s also a heap of amusement rides here – go karts, jumping castles, a merry-go-round and a bungee trampoline just for starters. They also have all the games of skill you would expect at any carnival. If you want to show off your pipes, there’s a karaoke room as well, or if you prefer a dip, then try the heated swimming pool. Add to this the expansive barbeque and shaded seating areas and you can spend the whole day here enjoying yourselves; or if you prefer, they have plenty of fun food options here too. Their “all the fun you can handle” flat rate tickets are great value, and with some generously priced family pass options this is a budget-friendly big day out.
Take the Trail
The Gippsland area is rich with Indigenous history and culture, and a great way to explore it is by visiting the sites along the Bataluk Cultural Trail. Following the traditional walking routes of the Gunaikurnai people, these have been in use for more than thirty thousand years, and are now open for all to enjoy, with a variety of self-guided tour options so you can explore and learn. There are dreamtime stories to discover, along with the modern lives of the Aboriginal custodians of this area, making for a vibrant commentary on the past, present and future of Indigenous culture here. To do the whole trail would take two or three days in either direction, but if you have less time you can drive between the sites or just walk a portion of the trail, as time and athleticism allow.
Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place
The major site of the Bataluk trail is the Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place, a fantastic museum and gallery run by the Gippsland & East Gippsland Aboriginal Co-Operative. The interactive exhibits here have been designed by local Indigenous people to preserve their history and share their knowledge and their stories with visitors. Showcasing Aboriginal culture and arts and crafts, you will find a visit here well worth your time.
Baroque Beauty
Be sure to make a stop in town at St Mary’s, a beautiful Romanesque Church that is more than a hundred years old, with stunning classical Italian frescoes to marvel at. If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with one of the local choirs practicing, which is a truly heavenly experience in the perfect heritage setting. They also have a range of other musical events in the church too, and a delicious Devonshire tea usually accompanies the concerts. There’s an op shop here too, where you can pick up a bargain and support the many community initiatives of the parish here.
