Post-Bushfire Travel in Country Victoria
Why You Should Come Here for Your Next Australian Holiday
Apr 5, 2009
After the news of February's devastating bushfires was broadcast to the world many people changed or canceled their planned trips to Victoria, deciding to holiday elsewhere in Australia or even forgo their trip altogether. Regions that were nowhere near the threat of fires were nonetheless affected as visitors stayed away in droves, creating enormous financial losses in communities whose economies rely largely on tourism.
The affected areas are now well on the road to recovery but regional areas still need the support of tourists to make sure their economies stay on track. Whether it's good food, adventure or a bit of relaxation you're after these regions have it covered.
Victorian Alps and High Country
Victoria’s High Country is not very high by North American standards, with most peaks coming in at under 6000 feet, but this just allows people of all fitness levels and capabilities to enjoy everything that the region has to offer. Here visitors can stroll along ridges with spectacular views across the top of the ranges, mountain bike down tracks lined with silvery snow gums and 4WD along remote country roads with only wildlife for company. There is skiing in the winter, but for the best value holiday come in the fall or spring and take advantage of the cheap rates at ski clubs and lodges.
The Grampians
The rocky peaks of the Grampians are one of Victoria’s greatest natural wonders, their shapes formed over 400 million years as river sediment was slowly lifted and eroded into a stunning range of hills. The bizarre formations and excellent climbing opportunities attract rock climbers from around the globe, but you’ll also find ancient rock art, miles of hiking trails, waterfalls, abundant wildlife and distinctive flora, with many species unique to the area.
Wilson’s Promontory National Park
The most southerly point on the Australian mainland, Wilson’s Promontory is best known for its pristine beaches, but it also has excellent hiking and camping facilities and incredible views from its numerous lookouts. This area was one of the worst hit by the bushfires, with over 25,000 hectares burnt, but it is now reopen to visitors for camping and day trips and is a very good place to come if you’re interested in seeing the effects of a bushfire. Avoid summer school holidays (Dec/Jan) and there’s a good chance you’ll have the beaches all to yourself.
East Gippsland and the Wilderness Coast
The far eastern coast of Victoria is a wild and undisturbed area, with little agriculture and only a few small towns breaking up its natural beauty. Mostly contained within Croajingolong National Park, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, it supports many ecosystems and over 300 species of birds, including magnificent sea eagles and azure kingfishers.
Down the park’s many walking and 4WD tracks you’ll find isolated beaches and towering eucalypt forests, rocky headlands, sub-tropical rainforest, estuaries and rivers, as well as grasslands that are covered with orchids and wildflowers in the spring. For the intrepid the 5-day Wilderness Coast Walk is a wonderful way to see the area; you need a permit, so be sure to contact Parks Victoria in advance.
Country Victoria is full of incredible regions like these, and, whether they were directly affected by fire or not, they all need visitors to keep them going. Come now to put your tourist dollars where they are needed while visiting some of Australia’s most beautiful and least known destinations.
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