| At the heart of one of
Australia's most famed and photographed natural attractions, Port Campbell
is one of the country's most popular resorts. Situated on Campbell's Creek,
named after Captain Alexander Campbell, a Scotsman in charge of the Port
Fairy whaling station, last century, it began as a small fishing port with
surrounding pastoral runs. In 1964, 700 hectares around Port Campbell were
set aside as a National Park until, in 1981, the area was extended from
Peterborough, through to Princetown. Port Campbell is, roughly, at the
centre of the Port Campbell National Park.
The township is a crayfishing port near the mouth
of the creek and has a safe, sandy beach, ideal for family swimming.
Several motels and a caravan park provide accommodation, but it is wise to
book well ahead, especially during holiday periods.
An old cemetery on the northern edge of the town
has many old graves of interest, including that of Captain Scott and some
of his crew, ship-wrecked off the coast in the barque Newfield'
in 1892. A look-out on the western side of the river offers a scenic
panorama of the town and coastline, and there are scenic walks along the
cliffs opposite the town.
Restaurant and take-away foods are available with
fresh, local crayfish a speciality. Information can be obtained from the
National Park Information Centre near the caravan park or the Loch Ard
Centre in the main street next to the motel.
Port Campbell is on the 'Shipwreck Coast' and
plaques will be found along the Great Ocean Road indicating where wrecks
lie.
The Timboon Farmhouse Cheesery is only 10 minutes
from Port Campbell or Peterborough and offers a pleasant garden setting
for cheese tastings and platters, local wine sales,and door sales.
Location |