Bairnsdale

Bairnsdale is the western gateway to the vast Gippsland Lakes and is the commercial centre for the local wool, dairying agricultural and timber industries. With its wide range of shops and services, Bairnsdale is the best spot to stock up on outdoor, surfing, camping and fishing gear. With plentiful accommodation, Bairnsdale is a very handy base for exploring the Gippsland Lakes and Ninety Mile Beach. Its location at the junction of the Great Alpine Road and the Princes Highway also provides easy access to explore the alpine region of Omeo, Dinner Plain and Mount Hotham.

Quick facts

• Population approximately 11,000
• 280 kilometres east of Melbourne 
• Western gateway to the Gippsland Lakes
• Sydney to Melbourne touring.

Activities and attractions

• Fish on the Mitchell River or a nearby lakes and rivers
• Walk through the Mitchell River National Park and visit the Den of Nargun
• Drive along the local Twin Rivers Food and Wine Trail
• Tour the Bataluk Cultural Trail and discover elements of Koorie history and culture or visit the Krowathunkoolong Keeping Place to view artefacts and history on the Gunai/Kurnai people of East Gippsland
• Wander around town on a self-guided heritage walk
• Cycle along the East Gippsland Rail Trail from Bairnsdale to Nowa Nowa
• Visit local art galleries, museums, craft and antique shops
• Visit the National Trust-classified St Mary’s Catholic Church in Main Street with its unique murals and painted ceilings. 

 Major events

• Bairnsdale Country Music Festival – March
• East Gippsland Agricultural Field Days – April
• Australian Line Dancing Championships – April
• Bairnsdale Cup – September
• Agricultural Show – November.

How to get there
Bairnsdale is approximately 3 hours from Melbourne on the Princes Highway (M1). Daily rail and coach services are available from Melbourne.