Australia's largest and most beautiful inland waterways, the Gippsland Lakes are a network of lakes, marshes and lagoons covering over 600 square kilometres. The Lakes are separated from the ocean by coastal dunes known as Ninety Mile Beach. Bird and marine life thrive here, with lake dolphins and pelicans frequenting many locations.
Scenic waterways
Beginning at Sale on the Thomson River, there are three main lakes: Lake King, Lake Victoria and Lake Wellington and they are all joined and fed by rivers that originate in the high country, including the Mitchell, Nicholson, Tambo and Avon rivers. The lakes include many small islands, which are reached easily by ferry or water taxi.
Silt jetties
The Mitchell River silt jetties is a geographical highlight, being the largest in the world. Drive along the silt jetty out into Lake King with the Mitchell River on one side and the lake on the other. For a great photo opportunity head to the lookout at Eagle Point Bluff.
Protected waters
There are also two national parks that abut the lakes, the Lakes National Park and the Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park, both of which offer great camping and walking tracks.
Wildlife havens
The lakes also contain several island wildlife havens. Rotamah Island can only be reached by boat, and is inhabited by birdlife, kangaroos, wallabies and other native animals. Raymond Island has a koala colony and can be visited from the shore, making this an easy and enjoyable jaunt from any one of the nearby waterside villages and towns.
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