Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Bairnsdale, Australia

Traveling east along the Princes Highway, the city of Bairnsdale announces the expansive region of the Gippsland Lakes.

Within minutes, one can reach destinations such as Raymond Island, where koalas rest in the trees and endangered dolphins can be observed playing in the water.

However, the city itself warrants as much time as possible; it features delicate gardens along Main Street, the dignified St Mary’s Catholic Church, and the tranquility and greenery lining the banks of the Mitchell River.

Bairnsdale is enveloped by charming countryside, interwoven with meandering rivers.

Visitors can embark on walking or cycling paths along repurposed railway lines, or take refuge at a winery to enjoy Pinot Noir against a backdrop of rolling, vine-covered hills.

1. St Mary’s Catholic Church

A cornerstone of Bairnsdale located on Main Street, this Romanesque Revival church commenced construction in 1913, replacing an earlier structure from 1883. St Mary’s is constructed from bricks with stone accents and features a solemn tower bearing an image of Mary in a stone niche.

Inside, visitors can admire the exquisite frescoes, painted on the barrel vault of the nave and in the apse, depicting the Holy Trinity, Heaven, Hell, Purgatory, and various saints.

These artworks were executed to a very high standard by Italian painter Francesco Floreani during the Great Depression when he was seeking employment.

Also, be sure to appreciate the stained glass in the rose window above the entrance and behind the altar in the apse.

2. Main Street Gardens

One of the most attractive features of Bairnsdale is this line of meticulously maintained greenery through the center of Main Street (Princes Highway). This stretch runs west to east for almost the entire city, extending for approximately four kilometers.

The primary segment, through Bairnsdale’s Central Business District, spans 500 meters and is adorned with mature deciduous and evergreen trees, areas of annuals and perennials, and monuments commemorating the district’s centenary and the Boer War.

A notable structure is the 30-meter water tower, completed in 1927, which has remained out of commission since the 1980s.

The central portion, flanked by a dual row of dining establishments and shops, features the historic band rotunda, first erected in 1910.

3. Mitchell River Walk

Bairnsdale is situated alongside the Mitchell River; however, due to historical flooding, this watercourse does not pass directly through the city but rather skirts around it.

In the 19th century, a cemetery was located here, yet a severe flood in 1870 inundated graves and washed caskets downstream.

This has left the banks free of development, allowing for peaceful strolls where visitors may occasionally forget they are near a city.

The Mitchell River Walk follows both banks for a total length of 5.4 kilometers, utilizing a former railway bridge at the eastern end (now part of the East Gippsland Rail Trail) and a newly constructed link on Riverine Street to the west.

Along the way, there are numerous grassy areas shaded by trees, along with several information boards detailing the history of the river.

4. East Gippsland Rail Trail

Designated for both cyclists and hikers, this 96-kilometer trail begins near Bairnsdale Railway Station and extends eastward to Orbost, crossing numerous rivers that feed into the Gippsland Lakes.

Travelers will be on the former Orbost Railway Line, established in 1916 to support the timber and agricultural industries.

The railway was decommissioned in 1987, and while much of its infrastructure has vanished, several beautiful old trestle bridges and causeways remain.

Some of these structures have been integrated into the trail, such as the impressive bridge on the Nicholson River, while others are preserved adjacent to the sealed pathway.

The route comprises four principal segments, featuring distance markers and covered rest areas along the way.

5. East Gippsland Art Gallery

The primary venue for visual arts in the region is located at the historic Bairnsdale Shire Council Chambers, dating back to 1868. The gallery was established in 1993 and provides access to the creative world of East Gippsland through an engaging program of exhibitions, workshops, talks, openings, and various events.

Exhibitions feature works in diverse media by both regional and national artists, alongside significant touring exhibitions.

In summary, there is always something captivating to explore.

Additionally, the gallery shop offers works from local artists and artisans, providing unique souvenirs or gifts.

6. Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place

To enhance your understanding of the Gunaikurnai, the traditional custodians of Gippsland, visit the Keeping Place.

This museum and cultural center, which opened in 1994, narrates the narrative of the Gunaikurnai and their various clans while promoting a deeper appreciation of the broader Aboriginal culture, arts, and crafts.

Exhibits include traditional weapons for hunting and combat, boomerangs, baskets, and bark canoes, as well as works of Gunaikurnai art.

Staff members are available to provide context, and guided tours of the center are offered for further insight.

An exhibition features artwork from local Koorie artists available for purchase.

7. Howitt Park

One of the few green spaces designated for public recreation in Bairnsdale, Howitt Park boasts a picturesque location directly across the Mitchell River from the Central Business District.

The East Gippsland Rail Trail transverses through the park, which is also home to the local bowls and rowing clubs.

For families seeking a place to relax for several hours, Howitt Park features barbecues, a gazebo, a playground for children, a fishing platform, and a boat ramp.

On the fourth Sunday of each month, a farmers’ market is held here, offering premium local produce along with delicious hot food, arts and crafts, all accompanied by live music.

8. Lightfoot & Sons Wines

Bairnsdale is located in Gippsland’s most eastern wine-producing region, where grapevines flourish on gently rolling hills between the Great Dividing Range and the Bass Strait.

The family-operated Lightfoot & Sons winery, established in 1995, is now being run by the second generation.

All wines produced at Lightfoot & Sons are estate-grown and created using a blend of traditional and modern wine-making techniques.

The vines at the Myrtle Point Vineyard flourish in fertile Terra-Rossa soil, situated atop the limestone cliffs bordering the Mitchell River.

This environment is ideal for growing Chardonnay, Shiraz, and Pinot Noir, perfect for tasting alongside a local dish on a deck overlooking the estate and Lindenow Valley.

9. East Gippsland All Abilities Playground

Located at the east end of Main Street, under a series of shade sails, is an expansive playground designed to be inclusive for all children.

This facility is completely fenced, fully accessible, and organized into themed zones, with a skate park adjacent for teenage visitors.

Drawing inspiration from Gippsland’s landscape and heritage, the playground adopts the theme, “From the Mountains to the Sea,” featuring references to the Shipwreck Coast and the historic timber industry.

Among the specialized equipment for children with special needs is a liberty swing, specifically designed for wheelchair users.

Moreover, the site includes accessible restroom facilities, along with four barbecues and nearby picnic tables.

10. Gippsland Lakes

Bairnsdale is the largest settlement surrounding a 400-square-kilometer chain of interconnected lakes, wetlands, and lagoons, all sheltered from the Bass Strait by the dunes of Ninety Mile Beach.

The lakes are nourished by several rivers flowing through East Gippsland, including the Mitchell River, and serve as habitat for a substantial population of endangered Burrunan dolphins.

These dolphins can be seen up close on eco cruises, and there are numerous activities available, including boating, fishing, paddlesports, camping, hiking, and trips to Raymond Island (discussed further below). Additionally, the golden sands of Ninety Mile Beach, recognized as the world’s fourth-longest beach, are ideal for picnics, leisurely walks, wildlife observation, and surf fishing.

11. Raymond Island

A must-visit day trip, Raymond Island is easily accessible from Paynesville, followed by a brief ferry crossing over the McMillan Strait.

It is advisable to park in Paynesville, as pedestrians and cyclists are allowed to cross without charge.

The island is home to a population of just over 500 residents, sharing the land with a rich variety of wildlife.

A 1.2-kilometer designated path beginning at the ferry terminal leads visitors under gum trees where you can look upwards to spot koalas lazily napping on the branches.

As the day progresses, you may observe them moving slowly along the road to shift trees.

The island is also inhabited by numerous kangaroos, echidnas, and a wide array of bird species, and visitors can scan the McMillan Strait for dolphins.

12. Adventure Fun Park

Located just a few minutes outside the city along the Princes Highway is a destination that amalgamates a wide variety of outdoor activities in a single venue.

Adventure Fun Park features over 20 attractions, including laser tag, archery, virtual reality experiences, go-karting, and mini golf.

Additionally, there are facilities for practicing skills at batting cages and a golf driving range, while younger family members can enjoy rides on a merry-go-round and a jumping castle.

The park also includes an outdoor pool, a snack shop, and an extensive barbecue area for family gatherings.

13. Bairnsdale Visitor Information Centre

If you are unfamiliar with East Gippsland and seek assistance in planning your itinerary, the visitor information center in Bairnsdale is invaluable.

This center not only provides free accommodation guidance and complimentary Wi-Fi but also features a sales area with a selection of local souvenirs and produce.

Additionally, it serves as a practical resource for acquiring fishing licenses, along with one-on-one advice regarding activities, attractions, and events within the vicinity of Bairnsdale.

14. Nicholson River Winery

Recognized as the oldest vineyard between Melbourne and Sydney, established in 1978, Nicholson River Winery is a short drive from Bairnsdale.

Situated next to a bend in the river bearing its name, this winery is set against a backdrop of lush rolling hills and the prominence of Mount Taylor.

The winery produces award-winning, European-style wines in small batches.

Among the selection are an acclaimed Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, as well as Sangiovese, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot-Cabernet Sauvignon blends.

Visitors are invited to explore the cellar door for tastings of these wines, paired with local cheese and antipasto while engaging with the producers.

The picnic area offers stunning views of the Nicholson River and features a sandpit for young children to play in.

The Barrel Room restaurant operates for lunches during the summer season.

15. Bairnsdale Speedway

From November to April, high-speed racing events take place just north of the city at a specially designed racetrack.

Stay informed with the Bairnsdale Speedway Association’s schedule, as approximately seven race meetings occur during each season.

The events typically feature a combination of VSC Sprintcars, Super Sedans, Wingless Sprints, Divi 2 Hot Rods, V8 Dirt Mods, Standard Saloons, and Limited Sportsman classes.

The Speedway has been upgraded over the years to ensure the highest safety standards for spectators, as well as providing a canteen and restroom facilities.

Notably, Boxing Day is a highlight on the calendar, attracting a significant crowd in a festive atmosphere.