Western Port...

In contrast to Port Phillip, the Western Port Bay region has for decades remained the “undiscovered” area of the Mornington Peninsula. However, all that is changing with recognition of its rugged ocean scenery, quiet tidal mud flats that play host to dozens of migratory bird species and important colonies of penguins and seals. Koalas abound on French Island - serviced by ferry from Stony Pt - and the relatively new Moonlit Sanctuary has opened up a new nocturnal world featuring playful quoll kittens, squirrel gliders, eastern bettongs and tawny frogmouth owls. Gourmets will also find plenty to like about the Western Port region with a large selection of restaurant wineries that perfectly match their drop with local produce.

Delight in the Hidden Treasures of Western Port

The most valuable treasures are those you have to seek out. This is particularly true of Western Port. Discovered before Port Phillip, Western Port requires a little more diligence than the other Bay to disclose its secrets, but the rewards are worth the effort. No matter which way you approach Western Port, the rolling hills give way gracefully to the sea. Many are now covered by grape vines, but others are still dotted with sheep and cattle, reminders of the area’s agricultural beginnings. Western Port is a region with rustic charm, rugged beauty, wildlife, fishing and a cuisine to die for. With the opening of many winery restaurants, the matching of food and wine has been elevated to an art form.

The area has a host of other hidden treasures just waiting for the visitor to explore, including antiques at Tyabb, Gunnamatta Beach, and golf at Flinders and Somerville. Walking or bike riding are other options from the marina. Linking Hastings Marina and Bittern, Jack’s Beach walk is world class and includes a wooden walkway that can be used by foot or bicycle. It takes visitors over the most southerly community of white mangroves in the southern hemisphere and is the feeding ground for a great range of marine and bird life.

Submarine Memorabilia Display Opens in Hastings

The intriguing world of submariner is revealed in an outstanding display of submarine memorabilia launched at Hastings recently. Venue is the Information and Display Centre of the Hastings – Cerberus Maritime Memorial Centre, in Marine Parade, Hastings and is managed by the Western Port Oberon Association. The display features a wide range of submarine equipment including submariners’ escape suits and other apparel. An excellent array of photographs outlines submarine operations. Sonar and other equipment can be inspected. Technical manuals and a large plan of an Oberon submarine outline how a submarine functions and the cramped conditions in which crew work. The display is a major development for the $4.5 million project. The submarine Otama, owned by the Association is moored nearby, but is not open for public inspection yet. Plans are being finalised for the submarine to be located on land with a large building, which will feature exhibits outlining Australia’s naval and merchant marine history. Details regarding when the Display Centre is open for visitors 5977 5063.

Cape Schanck

Juts out from one of the most rugged pieces of coastline along Bass Strait. It was here in 1857 that the building of a beacon to save souls was commenced, a turning point in the history of navigation in Southern Australia. Open to visitors, the tower provides a commanding vista over one of the most hazardous stretches of shoreline in Australia. Views of the Cape are stunning and, on a clear day, you can see all the way to Cape Otway. When walking along the cliffs perhaps you will hear the ghosts from all the shipwrecks in the vicinity.

WINE CAPE 

At the entrance to Western Port, Cape Schanck is in the middle of the vineyard boom on the Mornington Peninsula.

Western Port is fast becoming the centre of wine growing on the Peninsula and the Cape Schanck Lighthouse is a popular jumping off point for visitors to explore the picturesque rolling slopes planted with Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and other cool climate varieties.

Many local wineries have restaurants or eateries where wine and food are matched to enhance the flavours of both. Alternately you can purchase a picnic basket full of gourmet food from the Lightstation. The ‘light keeper’s selection’ consists of 3 courses of seasonal produce, including dessert. All hampers come with condiments, cutlery & drink ware. Just ring ahead to book.

The grounds are a perfect location for picnics, with views out over Bass Strait as the backdrop. A new boardwalk out to the breathtaking Pulpit Rock and updated accommodation combines spectacular scenery and modern facilities. The renovated ‘inspectors’ room with ensuite has its own entrance on to a new, north facing balcony.

There is now cottage accommodation on site for up to 22 people in four independent facilities, which have been home to resident lighthouse keepers. A total experience for those wishing to get back to nature, the buildings now add the facilities of today to the history of yesteryear. With a glass of wine in your hand, take a trip back in time with all the modern creature comforts.

Cape Schanck Lightstation, Cape Schanck Road, Cape Schanck (New Melway Reference 257 E9). Guided tours of the lighthouse, museum, picnic information, bushwalks information: phone 03 5988 6184. Accommodation bookings: phone 0500 527 891 or fax 03 5988 6251. E-mail: capeschanck@austpacinns.com.au  Book on line or view availability www.austpacinns.com.au

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