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Located on the shores of beautiful Lady Bay, Warrnambool is the largest city on the Great Ocean Road. Offering all the services expected of a vibrant, modern city, it maintains the atmosphere of a relaxed country town.Clean sheltered beaches, manicured parks and gardens, visiting whales, notorious shipwrecks, unique volcanoes, contemporary art, exhilarating sports and a thriving city centre are just some of the reasons why thousands of people visit Warrnambool each year to experience this vibrant coastal city.

Warrnambool is the ideal base for exploring nature’s finest attractions, spectacular stretches of coastline, beautiful swimming beaches, wildlife reserves, lush rainforests and waterfalls, volcanic lakes and rural landscapes. Warrnambool is well known as the Southern Right Whale Nursery. Once hunted almost

to the point of extinction, these gentle creatures now return to the shallows off Logan’s Beach to give birth. They can be seen from a viewing platform most years during the months of June to September.

At Thunder Point Coastal Reserve you’ll experience the rugged coastal view of the Breakwater, Merri and Middle Islands. For an enjoyable day with the children, visit Lake Pertobe on Pertobe Road and its amazing Adventure Playground with f lying foxes, swings, slides, forts, bridges and a maze. There’s so much more to see and do in Warrnambool so make sure you take advantage of this unique region.

WarrnamboolWelcome

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For more information, go to www.visitwarrnambool.com.au. Alternatively, call 1800 637 725 or drop into the Warrnambool Visitor Information Centre at 89 Merri Street.

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WalkingTake a walk or ride a bike around Warrnambool and view natural wonders, heritage sites, parks and beaches.

THE PROMENADE Starting at the Breakwater, and passing Lake Pertobe, this trail follows around Lady Bay, crossing the mouth of Hopkins River estuary and ends at Logan’s Beach (approximately 6kms).

CBD HERITAGE TRAILWander through the city streets and view many historic buildings and sites linked within a 3km trail.

THE PORT FAIRY TO WARRNAMBOOL RAIL TRAILThis trail offers 37kms of diverse scenery, ranging from dairy farms and volcanoes to wetlands and ocean views.

LAKE PERTOBEThere are lovely walking tracks around the lakes, and the park features delightful picnic areas, sheltered barbeque facilities and an adventure playground.

THUNDER POINT COASTAL WALKThis outstanding walk takes you alongside the coast and coastal wetlands with views of the Merri River estuary and rocky shoreline.

MAHOGANY TRAILThe more adventurous may prefer to walk the 22km Mahogany Trail, where the mysterious Mahogany Ship is believed to be buried somewhere under the sand dunes. The trail is primarily a beach walk running between Warrnambool and Port Fairy.

For more information on these walks or for a walking trails map, visit the Warrnambool Visitor Information Centre or go to www.visitwarrnambool.com.au.

Parks and Rivers LAKE PERTOBE ADVENTURE PLAYGROUNDLocated on Pertobe Road, this fantastic 20 hectare adventure playground is a paradise for kids with giant slides, f lying foxes, a maze and boat rides. There are lovely walking tracks around the lakes, and the park features delightful picnic areas and sheltered barbeque facilities.

BOTANIC GARDENSWarrnambool’s Botanic Gardens is located at the corner of Queens Road and Cockman Street. Designed in the classic style, these elegant sheltered gardens feature wide curving paths, ancient trees, a lily pond with ducks, a fernery and a band rotunda.

CANNON HILLLocated adjacent to the War Memorial, off Artillery Crescent, Cannon Hill offers panoramic views of Lady Bay and Lake Pertobe. Barbeques, a rotunda and car parking are all available.

FLETCHER JONES GARDENSThese gardens are located at the corner of Flaxman Street and Raglan Parade. The colourful gardens, once the site of a quarry, also feature the Sir Fletcher Jones’ hawker wagon, a waterfall and a wishing well.

HOPKINS RIVERLocated off Otway Road, the Hopkins River mouth (Blue Hole) - with its beautiful cliffs, rock formations and rock pools - is a popular fishing spot. Just up from the river mouth, boating, water-skiing and swimming are possible.

MERRI RIVERThe Merri River lies to the west of the city meandering through wetlands before emerging at Stingray Bay, in the Thunder Point Coastal Reserve. The Merri is regarded as one of Victoria’s finest brown trout streams.

Whale

Watching Warrnambool is known as Victoria’s Southern Right Whale Nursery. Almost every year between June and September, female southern right whales return to the waters of Logan’s Beach to calve. The whales often swim within a hundred metres of the shore and can be viewed from a specially constructed platform in the sand dunes or from the beach.

WHY DO THE WHALES COME TO WARRNAMBOOL?Southern right whales have been visiting Warrnambool for hundreds of years. Once they were hunted almost to the point of extinction, but since whaling was outlawed in 1935 their numbers have been growing. In summer, southern right whales live in the sub-Antartic. In winter, they migrate to warmer waters around the southern areas of Australia. The females migrate to the ‘nursery’ areas close to the shore to bear their calves, while the males, yearlings and young adults remain further out to sea. The females generally stay in the nursery for many weeks, allowing the calves to feed and gather strength for their journey back to the sub-Antartic waters.

IS IT A SOUTHERN RIGHT WHALE?The southern right whale can be recognised by its smooth black back and lack of dorsal fin. On the head of each southern right whale is a number of crusty outgrowths called callosities.

The callosity pattern varies from whale to whale. Irregular white patches sometimes found on the whale’s belly distinguish these animals from other species.

WHY ARE THEY SO NAMED?The early whalers regarded the whale as the ‘right’ whale to hunt. They swam slowly and close to the shore, f loated once harpooned, and yielded large quantities of oil and whalebone. The word ‘southern’ relates to southern waters.

THE BIRTH OF A WHALEWhales breed once every two or three years. Pregnancy lasts between 9 and 10 months and the calf is suckled from a milk gland beneath the mother’s body. The calf is about 5 to 6 metres long at birth, grows quickly, and may double its weight in the first week.

Visit Logan’s Beach Road, off Hopkins Point Road, to view the whales in season. Admission is free and it’s open at all times.

For more information about Warrnambool whales, please contact the Warrnambool Visitor Information Centre on 1800 637 725. You can also join the Great Ocean Road Facebook page for the latest news on sightings.

The Shipwreck Coast The Shipwreck Coast, located on Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state. This region extends along the Great Ocean Road from Princetown in the east to Warrnambool, and then to Port Fairy in the west. A volcanic and rural hinterland adds to the region’s diversity.

The primary attraction of the Shipwreck Coast is the 12 Apostles, a series of striking rock formations located in the Port Campbell National Park. The region is also well known for the many shipwrecks which occurred off its shores in and around the 1800s.

Established in 1930, the Warrnambool Surf Life Saving Club has been an integral part of the Warrnambool community for many decades now. Patrolling the main beach, the club’s good work means that locals and visitors, alike, can enjoy swimming in a safe environment.

The club’s experienced life savers patrol the main beach on weekends and public holidays during the summer months through to Easter.

During the period between Boxing Day and Australia Day, the Australian Lifeguard Service also operates on the main beach weekdays from 10am to 6pm, and Saturdays from 10am to 1pm.

For more detailed information on patrols, visit www.warrnamboolslsc.org.au.

andLife SaversSurf Club

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Flagstaff

Hill If you are travelling to Warrnambool you need to visit Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village and see the spectacular Shipwrecked! sound and laser show. This brilliant world-class show tells the story of the sinking of the Loch Ard and the miraculous survival of teenagers Eva Carmichael and Tom Pearce. Over 75 thrilling minutes Shipwrecked! uses the latest in technological wizardry to recreate the disaster and its amazing aftermath. As the water from the 9 metre aqua screen blows across your face and your seat rocks beneath you, you feel you are there with Tom and Eva on the deck of the Loch Ard. The other survivor in the show, and on show at Flagstaff Hill, is a Minton porcelain peacock. Securely wrapped in packing box with straw, this precious piece was on its way to the Melbourne International Exhibition of 1880 before its unfortunate incident on the Shipwreck Coast. As well as the sound and laser show there’s plenty of other exciting things to do at Flagstaff Hill.

The recreated 1870’s coastal village and port allows you to experience first hand the perils of early sea travel. You can explore The Gravesend Theatre, see audiovisual presentations, interactive displays and discover relics and treasures recovered from local shipwrecks including the Loch Ard Peacock and the exquisite one carat diamond ring retrieved from the wreck of the Schomberg. The village and port is spread over 10 acres with amazing views of Lady Bay. Scattered throughout the port are typical dwellings of the period: a band, doctor’s surgery, slipway, an inn, school and sail maker’s loft.

Book your Shipwrecked! tickets now through your accommodation provider or call 5559 4600.

THE MAREMMASIn 2006, the penguin colony on Middle Island – which is located off the Warrnambool coastline – had shrunk to less than ten penguins. The island was subsequently closed to tourists to protect the burrows from human traffic. Additionally, Maremma dogs were trained and populated on the island to ward off fox attacks during the penguins’ breeding season. Demonstrating the success of the program, in 2013 around 180 penguins were estimated to be living on the island.

Today, visitors to Warrnambool can make a booking for the “Meet the Maremma Tours” to see how the program works up close. Two Maremmas named Tula and Eudy now spend five days a week offering protection during the colony’s breeding season. During the off season they reside at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village.

For more information on tours, please visit www.flagstaffhill.com or call 1800 556 111 to book a place on the tour.

GolfingThe Warrnambool Golf Club offers an unforgettable 18-hole golfing experience for the golf enthusiast or occasional player.Located along Younger Street, the Warrnambool Golf Club boasts lush fairways and perfectly manicured greens which provide a totally unique and enjoyable outing for visitors.

The course is open 7 days a week and visitors are most welcome. The club offers one of the best Pro-shops in the region run by club professional Craig Bonney who offers club, buggy and motorised cart hire, just in case you forgot to pack your clubs.

After your game you can enjoy a refreshing drink in the licensed bar and talk about your game of golf. So for a relaxing day on the greens don’t forget to visit Warrnambool Golf Club.

For more information on the Warrnambool Golf Club and a current events calendar, please visit www.wgcinc.com.au. Alternatively, contact the club directly on 5562 2108.

CalendarofEventsJANUARY• Koroit IGA Cup Day

• Warrnambool Field & Game Clay Target Shooting 2nd Sunday of each month

• Ken Smith’s Country Music Charity Concerts Last Sunday of the month

• Social Croquet Every Wednesday and Saturday

APRIL• TAB Warrnambool Racing Carnival

Late April to early May

MAY• National White Wreath Day

JUNE

• Southern right whales are sighted most years between June and September on Logan’s Beach • Fun4Kids Festival Late June to early July

AUGUST• Daffodil Day

• Guided Walks of Botanic Gardens 2nd & 4th Sundays of the month

SEPTEMBER• Southern right whales depart!

OCTOBER• City of Warrnambool Art Show

• Spring Orchid Show

• Melbourne to Warrnambool Cycling Classic

• Warrnambool Agricultural Show

DECEMBER• New Year’s Eve on the Hill

MarketsUndercover Weekly Market – Every Sunday

• Koroit Street, 8am to 1pm

Warrnambool Summer Markets – held mainly over summer

• Held in various sites throughout Warrnambool

For updated details on all events, please contact the Warrnambool Visitor Information Centre on 1800 637 725. Alternatively, visit www.visitwarrnambool.com.au.

Fishing Warrnambool offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities in a number of picturesque locations. From freshwater fishing in lakes and rivers, to estuarine and saltwater fishing, Warrnambool boasts great fishing. Popular spots include Logan’s Beach, Hopkins River, Lake Pertobe, Merri, and more. To download a guide, please visit www.visitwarrnambool.com.au.

Remember: all fishing requires a current fishing licence.

Warrnambool

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EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Ambulance/ Fire/ Police 000

Warrnambool Police 5560 1333 214 Koroit Street

Warrnambool Base Hospital 5563 1666 Ryot Street

MEDICAL

Warrnambool Medical Clinic 5562 2766 193 Liebig Street

Victorian Government Nurse on Call 1300 60 60 24

DENTIST

Warrnambool Dental 5562 4433 129 Kepler Street

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Warrnambool Bus Lines 5562 1866 www.transitsw.com.au

RAIL

V/Line - timetables and reservations 1800 800 007 www.vlinepassenger.com.au

TAXI

Warrnambool Radio Taxis Pty Ltd 131 008

ServicesEssential

WARRNAMBOOL TO:Camperdown 66km 55min

Port Fairy 30km 30min

Portland 100km 1hr 20min

Nelson 167km 2hrs

Mt Gambier 205km 2hrs 35min

Melbourne (via Princes Hwy) 265km 3hrs 30min

(via Great Ocean Rd) 353km 5hrs 30min

Adelaide 655km 8hrs

Note: Times are a guide only and may be longer during peak holiday times such as Easter and summer, or when the region is experiencing extreme weather conditions.

The information contained in this publication is provided as a guide only. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, John Batman Group disclaims any liability or responsibility for the accuracy of the information contained herein. Advertising material appearing in this publication is supplied by the operator or service provider and John Batman Group is not responsible for the accuracy of advertising content.

This guest services room publication is compiled and produced by John Batman Group – The Hospitality Supermarket, publishers of specialist room directories and magazines. John Batman Group – The Hospitality Supermarket, and Just Brilliant Guides are trademarks of Binders Compendiums Menu Covers Pty Ltd. © Copyright all rights reserved. JBG–P John Batman Group – The Hospitality Supermarket.

PO Box 726, Ringwood, Victoria, Australia 3134.Tel: (03) 9879 8588 Fax: (03) 9879 8688Email: info@johnbatman.com.auWeb: www.johnbatman.com.au

Compiled with the assistance of the Warrnambool Visitor Information Centre.

Images courtesy of Visions of Victoria.

Managing DirectorJarrod La Canna

Advertising SalesShellen Murray

Graphic DesignCarolyn Tellus

Design Assistance Kelly Irish Leeanne Lisle

Studio EditorKarla Dondio

Operations ManagerEleanor White

Accounts & AdministrationRebecca Zalavary

DistributionMichael McDonaldDeborah Harris

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