HASTINGS

Hastings is the commercial capital of Western Port and the Peninsula’s major industrial centre.

It overlooks the mangrove-fringed upper reaches of Western Port Bay, with views to French Island and the tiny Sandstone Island. Established during the early 1850s as a fishing and farming community, the industrial development from the

1960s –including Esso and the BHP steel mill –were based on its deep water harbour. The popular foreshore area includes a jetty, cycling and walking tracks, picnic and barbecue facilities, childrens playgrounds and the colourful marina complex. A 3.5km walking trail and boardwalk connects the town to Jacks Beach through an expanse of White Mangrove.

Things to do

· Western Port Marina, Mullet Street
· Foreshore playground and cycle track
· Bittern Coastal Wetlands 
· Walking/ Cycling Trail, begins at Salmon Street

Major events

· Western Port Festival - March
· Portsea-Hastings Ocean Yacht Race - mid September