“Metung is the only village on the Gippsland Lakes, a quintessentially nautical and charming arcadia that exudes a yesteryear feel. A pocket-sized village green is at the heart of this eclectic community, which boasts an old-fashioned village store and an enchanting mix of boats, B&Bs, cafes and waterfront accommodation”
Bob Haldane

Don't believe everything you hear - the recent fires have had no adverse affect on Metung. At its closest, the edge of the Great Divide South fire was approximately thirty kilometres away. At no stage was road access into or out of Metung cut off by the fires. It is business as usual in Metung and we encourage you to “get out and holiday in your own backyard” and in doing so, support the village of Metung and other towns affected by the fires.

Whether you're a fisherman, an art enthusiast or like just to be outdoors, Metung has something for everyone. And TakeBreak.com.au offers a range of great places to stay: Metung Accommodation

Things to Do for the whole family

ARCHERY, MINI GOLF & OTHER GAMES

Bairnsdale Family Fun Park: Bairnsdale East
Archery, mini golf, golf driving range, cricket/baseball batting cage, solar heated pool, merry-go-round, bouncing castle, bungee trampoline – what more could you want for a family day out ! Electric barbeques and playground as well. Hot & cold food available at café on site. Open 9.30am every day, except Christmas Day. 5 kilometres east of Bairnsdale on the highway. Phone 51568655

Lakes Go-Karts: Lakes Entrance
Drive yourself. Wet slippery track. Suitable for ages 5 to adult. Open weekends and all school holidays from 10 am. Behind Central Hotel. Phone 51553981

Mini Golf: Lakes Entrance
Lakes Entrance is the mini golf centre of the world. There are two courses side by side on the Esplanade and one course, together with trampolines, one block back in Roadknight Street.

BIKE RIDING & BIKE TRAILS

East Gippsland Rail Trail: Bairnsdale, Bruthen to Nowa Nowa.
Sixty five kilometres of superb countryside along the former railway line from Bairnsdale to Nowa Nowa. Easy gradients. No traffic. Ideal for all ages. Lake and mountain views. The rail trail brings you close to the wonderful range of birds and other animals by farmlands and in peaceful forests. Work is under way to extend the rail trail all the way to Orbost and the legendary Snowy River. For more information visit www.eastgippslandrailtrail.com

Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail: Lakes Entrance
This trail (GLDT) is a bicycle track through the Colquhoun State Forest linking the East Gippsland Rail Trail to Lakes Entrance. The GLDT provides you with opportunity to ride from Bairnsdale to Lakes Entrance (65 km. One way). For more information contact DSE offices, or, information and maps are available from Visitor Information Centres.

BOAT HIRE & CHARTER

Riviera Nautic: Metung.
Rigby 24’ timber boat, suitable for up to eight persons, or. 16’ half cabin day boat suitable for up to six persons.
Take to the water with Riviera Nautic. Take a day boat to the Barrier Landing – a delightful beach within walking access to the Ninety Mile beach. Along the way you’ll see lots of birdlife, watch out for the kangaroos and dolphins too. And there’s fishing in the channel, at the Barrier and from the surf beach. Picnic lunches and a thermos is available. Phone 51562243 or www.rivnautic.com.au

The Director Boat Hire: Metung
Hire a day boat to explore the lakes. Perfect for fishing, a trip to the Barrier on the Ninety Mile Beach, or exploring Chinaman’s & Boxes Creeks. No licence is necessary and boats are easy to operate. Lunch Hampers are also available for purchase to take with you on the boat and enjoy a picnic.
For bookings or enquiries telephone 5156 2628. E:  info@thedirector.com.au
Specialized Marine Services: Metung
Operates small charter trips around Gippsland Lakes with particular emphasis on nature tours. Small & intimate, only takes maximum of three pax. One or two hour trips.     Contact Steve Cunliffe on 0417 106209

CANOE & KAYAK HIRE

The Director Kayak Hire: Metung
Hire a Sea Kayak or a Resort Kayak and explore the sheltered waters, peaceful bays and secluded creeks of the Gippsland Lakes. At this slower pace you can appreciate the beautiful scenery and view the abundant birdlife and wildlife of the lake system.
Kayaking is a great activity for the whole family. Lifejackets are provided and must be worn. There is a good range of Kayaks for hire. Perfect for the novice who may just want to paddle locally around Bancroft Bay. Kayaks, Paddles, Life Jackets and a map are provided. Guided tours also available.
For bookings or enquiries telephone 5156 2628. E:  info@thedirector.com.au

CAVES

Buchan Caves: Buchan
Near the township of Buchan(a 45 minute drive from Lakes Entrance) lies a honeycomb of caves full of spectacular limestone formations. Buchan Caves were formed by underground rivers cutting through limestone rock.
Guided tours are conducted daily in Royal Cave and Fairy Cave. Both caves are lit and have concrete pathways. Royal Cave features beautiful calcite-rimmed pools. Fairy Cave features elaborate stalactites and stalagmites.
Special cave tours (some of which involve donning a helmet and light) for small groups are offered during the school holidays and and may be organised by prior arrangement.
Phone 51621900

CHOCOLATES

Chocodence: Metung
If chocolate is your passion, then look for Chocodence chocolates. Made in Metung by Jill Cross, they are delectable. You will definitely find her stall at the monthly Farmers Market on the village green, or in between times look for them at the general store or other shops around the village. Phone: 51562111

CRUISE BOATS

The Director: Metung
The Directors Happy Hour Scenic Cruise - Every Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday.
Departs the Moorings at Metung jetty at 3:00pm and returns 5:30pm.
Adults: $38.00. Children Under 16 cruise FREE (Maximum 2 children per paying adult)
Upon boarding enjoy a complimentary beer, wine or soft drink and local cheese platter served with crackers & antipasto.
For bookings or enquiries telephone 5156 2628. E:  info@thedirector.com.au
 
Lonsdale Cruises: Lakes Entrance
“Enjoy fine food and wine on board one of Victoria’s historic passenger ferries, and experience the wonderful tastes and flavours of Gippsland”. Luncheon cruises (Wed, Thur.,Fri. & Sat.) and dinner cruise.(Saturdays or by special booking)
The Lonsdale also runs regular Dolphin sighting cruises.
Phone Tony Fredericks on 51552889 or 0413 666638. E: lonsdalecruises@hotmail.com

Peels Tourist & Ferry Service: Lakes Entrance
Operates two boats – the Thunderbird and the Bluebird. Runs a variety of cruises including a Metung Luncheon cruise. For further details check at the Wharf office at lakes Entrance or by phoning 51551246

MV “Plover” & MV “Karen” Charter Boats: Paynesville
Cruise the Gippsland Lakes and Rivers. Enjoy the wonderful scenery and wildlife.
Visit Ocean Grange and the 90 Mile Beach, Rotamah Island and Sperm Whale Head.
Available for Private and Group Bookings for up to 45 passengers.
MV “Plover” seats 30 and MV “Karen” seats 15.
Contact: Doug  Telephone: 0417 137 590 Email: sailthelakes@netspace.net.au

The Corque – Winery Cruise Boat: Lakes Entrance
The Corque's crew will be delighted to welcome you on board their comfortable, fully enclosed passenger boat. You will enjoy informative commentary about the Gippsland Lakes and its fishing fleet, whilst cruising past wildlife to Wyanga Park Winery for lunch or dinner. Lunch includes your choice of main meal, home-made bread, a glass of wine and coffee. Dinner includes 3 courses of your choice, a glass of wine, coffee and port or Muscat. Every Thursday the Lunch Cruise from Lakes Entrance leaves earlier than usual and picks up passengers from Metung at 11.00am as well, returning at approx. 4.00pm. All cruises depart from the Post Office Jetty at Lakes Entrance. Phone: 03 5155 1508   E: wyangapark@i-o.net.au

Enterprise Cruises: Paynesville
The best venue for your next function, meeting or party is here on the Gippsland Lakes. Enterprise is a stylish, spacious boat that offers versatility and all amenities, perfect all occasion. Seats 72 passengers or open plan for 100 passengers.
Contact: Roelf   Telephone: 03 5156 1211   Email: roelf@enterprisecruises.com.au

COFFEE

Riviera Nautic: 400 meters left out our front gate.
The nearest coffee fix is at Riviera Nautic. Latte, expresso, machiato, cappuccino, or whatever caffeine fix you require. Say hello to Fred, Jenny, David & Loretta. Open Monday to Saturday from 8.30 am to 5.00 pm and on Sundays from 10.00am to 5.00pm. Phone 51562243

EATING OUT

Metung Yacht Club: Metung
Open for ‘a la carte’ dinner Friday & Saturday nights from 6.30pm. On Thursday evenings they put on a special two course set price dinner. Well known local chef Karen Morcombe runs the kitchen. Consistently good meals, reasonable prices – Thursday nights are a bargain (book early).  Phone 51562315

Metung Hotel: Metung
Offers casual dining overlooking the water, featuring an extensive menu.  Great for lunches also. PH: 51562206

Marrillee Restaurant: Metung
Offers casual dining with the emphasis on local seafood. Local wines a specialty. Childrens’ meals quality is better than most others. Open breakfast, lunch and dinner. BYO wine only permitted. Phone 51562121

Kings Cove Golf Club Restaurant: Metung
Open every day for lunch from 12-2pm and for dinner Friday & Saturday evenings from 7pm. Also open for Sunday Brunch from 9.00am. Serving contemporary Australian cuisine in a modern bistro setting, overlooking the golf course. We are pleased to advise that experienced chef Martin Grundy has returned to oversee the restaurant operation. Currently our recommendation for the best food in the Metung area. Phone 51562927 for bookings.

Mosaic Café: Metung.
Casual café offering casual dining with an emphasis on tapas style dishes.
Ph: 51562077

Swan Reach Hotel (the Swanny): Swan Reach.
This is your typical unpretentious country pub, situated next to the Tambo River. Serves standard wholesome menu items (big serves), as well as some interesting specials. Prices are reasonable and the wine prices are cheap. Phone 51564222

Ferryman’s Seafood Café: Lakes Entrance
Open daily from 10am until late. Floating seafood café set amongst the fishing fleet in the middle boat harbour. Enjoy lunch from 12 noon, or dinner from 6pm, or just pop in for a coffee and cake on the sunny decks. Fully Licensed. Manager: Frauke Steedman
Phone 51553000   E: contact@ferrymans.com.au      www.ferrymans.com.au

FESTIVALS

Bruthen Blues Festival: Bruthen
Celebrating its 10th. year in 2007, the Bruthen Blues Festival is “Australia’s Biggest Little Blues Festival”. Held on the 3rd. Weekend in February each year.
E: bruthenblues@yahoo.com.au     www.bruthenblues.org

Feast on East: Nicholson River Winery
March 17th. & 18th., 2007. A celebration of East Gippsland’s local produce with food, wine and music. Includes Feast on East Regional Pie competition, Farmers Market, Food & Wine Trail and more. For further information contact Jo Moulton 0413 741426 or E: jomoulton@brhs.com.au    www.feastoneast.com

Paynesville Jazz Festival: Paynesville
From23 – 25 February 2007. Listen to and enjoy some of Australia’s finest jazz musicians, in or at picturesque waterfront venues.
Further information: P”03.59744141 or 0419154275  
E: info@paynesvillejazzfestival.com   www.paynesvillejazzfestival.com

FISHING CHARTERS & TRIPS

Far Out Charters: Lakes Entrance.
Offshore fishing charters and ocean reef fishing. All fishing gear supplied. Max. 6 people. For bookings contact Tony Kemna on 51554564 or 0428 401819.

Mako Fishing Charters: Lakes Entrance
Ocean and lake fishing. Fishing licence required. All gear supplied.
For bookings phone 51552219 or 0428 397849. E: info@makofishingcharters.com

Mulloway: Lakes Entrance
Three hour fishing charters – morning or afternoon. All gear supplied. Morning/afternoon tea provided. Licensed bar on board. Departs from jetty on Marine Parade. To book phone Antony 51553304 or 0427 943154. E: mulloway3@hotmail.com

FRESH SEAFOOD

Ferry Seafoods: Lakes Entrance.
Open 8.30am to 5.00pm every day. Located under Ferrymans seafood café, amongst the fishing fleet in the middle boat harbour. Fresh local seafood – fish, prawns, oysters, crayfish. Wholesale and retail. Phone 51554999

Omega 3 Seafood: Lakes Entrance.
Located opposite Safeway in the shopping centre behind McDonalds. Operated by the
Lakes Entrance Fishermans Co-op. Open daily from 8.30 am to 5.00 pm. The variety of fish caught in Bass Strait is astounding. Luckily for us, much of it ends up in this shop, depending on the season and the weather, of course. Phone 51551688

GALLERIES

TAG - Tricia Allen Glass: Nungurner
Discover the fascination of hand blown masterpieces made from molten glass. Studio open most days year round by appointment, and weekends November thru’ to April from 11.00am to 4.00pm. Phone 51563211. E: tag@net-tech.com.au  www.taglass.com.au

Daniel Jenkins Studios: Metung
A garden studio of outdoor artworks, predominantly windvanes & sculptures made of hollow patinated copper. The windvanes and sculptures are all of a whimsical nature & are suitable for gardens as well as indoors. Open weekends throughout the year or by appointment. Phone 51562173. E: daniel@danieljenkins.com      www.danieljenkins.com

Max Nicholson Studio: Metung
Fine art. Oil. Watercolour. Open Saturdays & Sundays 11.00am to 4.00pm Public Holidays, or by appointment. Phone 51562655

Forster Studios: Nungurner
Working studio-gallery producing contemporary jewellery, hollow-ware and sculpture.
By appointment only. Phone 51563273 E: kk&hf@net-tech.com.au  www.forster-studios.com

Australian Wildlife Galleries: Princes Hwy., Munro
If you are heading towards Melbourne this gallery is definitely worth a stop. Located approximately 35km. west of Bairnsdale (look out for the wombat sign on the north side of the highway). See the wildlife paintings and sculpture by Gippsland’s renowned wildlife artists - Chris and Dawn Stubbs. Also features the hot glass studio of their daughter, Crystal Stubbs. Enjoy a cappuccino whilst you browse this wonderful gallery.
Phone 51458282. E: gallery@australianwildlifeart.com
Web: www.australianwildlifeart.com

East Gippsland Aboriginal Arts Corporation: Bairnsdale
Consists of an Art Gallery featuring the work of local Aboriginal artists.
222 Nicholson street, Bairnsdale. Ph: 51531002

GIPPSLAND LAKES

Welcome to the Gippsland Lakes
You’d think the Gippsland Lakes had been created solely with boating in mind. Mother nature has created a vast expanse of lakes and rivers for all forms of boating.  With many portside towns with their hotels, restaurants, picnic facilities, public jetties and marinas, not to mention an enviable year-round climate, you have all the ingredients for boating heaven.

The Gippsland Lakes open to the sea through a man-made entrance at the popular tourist resort of Lakes Entrance, flowing into Bass Strait. This major lake system is fed by a huge catchment area stretching over large parts of Central & East Gippsland, taking in the Latrobe, Thomson-Macalister, Avon, Mitchell, Nicholson and Tambo river systems.

The Lakes are recognised as an internationally significant wetland, home to approximately 400 indigenous flora species and 300 native fauna species. The Gippsland Lakes Wetlands regularly provide habitat for about 20,000 waterbirds- including winged visitors from as far afield as Siberia and the North Pole.

Travelling by boat allows you to enjoy the dramatic scenery of Gippsland Lakes at a more leisurely pace.  Spot dolphins playing in the bay,  pelicans gliding inches from the water, new fluffy signets bobbing on waves, kangaroos grazing on the bank.

Visit Rotamah Island, famous for its birdlife, walk around Raymond Island spotting koalas sleeping in the trees or stop at Fraser Island which has Resort Facilities including tennis court, pool & 9 hole golf course - play golf with the kangaroos!

The Ninety Mile Beach is a beautiful golden stretch of sand, popular with surf fisherman & beachcombers alike. The Barrier Landing, Flagstaff Jetty and Ocean Grange are popular jetty moorings with lake on one side and beach & ocean a short walk over the dunes. Perfect scenic places to stop off for a picnic, walk or even to spend the night in a boat.

When it is time for a beer, wine, food or some culture..make your way to one of the popular waterfront villages. Metung, Nungurner, Paynesville, Lakes Entrance, Swan Reach, Loch Sport, Eagle Point.. All great places to visit by boat to unwind and relax.

GO-CARTS

Go Carts: Lakes Entrance
Too young to drive but feel the need for speed, then get over to Lakes Entrance and check out the Go-Carts –behind the Central Hotel. Open from 10.00am to 9.00pm during the school holidays.

GOLF COURSES

Kings Cove: Metung
Just a couple of kilometres out of the village,the course has been designed by Ted Parslow, who also designed Murray Downs and Rich River golf courses. The course has nine greens with two sets of tees on each hole, most of which significantly alter length and play the second time around.
Enjoy a round of golf in the morning and still have plenty of time left in the day for boating and fishing. The course is around 6,100 metres in length, par 72 with an Australian Course Rating of 72. To book phone 51562927

Bristling Woods: Lakes Entrance
9 Holes, Par 30, 1635m
Fully watered grass greens and fairways. Ocean views. Gently undulating. Suitable for beginners to experienced golfers. Kiosk for snacks, drinks, BBQ under cover.
Palmers Road, Phone  Dianne or Don  5155 3544.

Lakes Entrance:
The layout and presentation of Lakes Entrance Golf Course are nationally recognised, and it is rated 77th of all golf courses in Australia, resort, private and public included. The water and wind are obvious and often trying features, while the sand and vegetation are natural, beautiful and provide tests of their own.
But if things are "just not happening" with the golf, take in the magnificent coastal scenery and stunning birdlife. To book a round phone: 03 5155 1431
E: executive@lakesentrancegolf.com.au 

MASSAGE, BEAUTY TREATMENT, DAY SPA

Massage: Metung
Visiting Massage Therapist – therapeutic, sports, relaxation, bowen & ear candling.
Contact Renee Lancaster on  0401230941.

Massage: Metung
Visiting Massage Therapist – therapeutic, sports & relaxation.
Contact Gail Hunter on 0423 137388.
Earth Angel visiting massage therapist – relaxation and reflexology. PH: Ali on 0411 405809

Beauty Consultant: Metung
“Personal, Pampering, Indulgence”. Will come to you, available weekdays and weekends.
Packages include Deluxe Facial, Manicure Hand Massage, & Deluxe Spa Feet Treatment. To make an appointment contact Michelle on 51568951 or 0428 568951

Serenity Massage: Lakes Entrance
Visiting Masseur: Relaxation massage. Contact Mal on 51557201 or 0403 539449

Illuka Day Spa: Lakes Entrance
“Relax, switch off, be nurtured and be spoilt, allowing your body to detoxify,
re-harmonize and rejuvenate”. Open daily from 9.00am. Specializing in hydrotherapy. Offers a range of spa treatments using an all Australian spa range. Treatments include massage, facials, body wraps, exfoliation, mud treatments, steam shower, geisha tub and tanning booth.
Phone 51553533 to make an appointment. E: dayspa@esplanaderesort.com.au

The Point Acupuncture, Chinese Medicine and Massage: Metung
Acupuncture, relaxation massage, aromatherapy, ear candling and Gua Sha cupping available. Contact Melanie Steeden, Shop 2/51 Metung Road, Metung.
Ph: 0409 965805

MUSEUMS

Bairnsdale Antiques & Clocks Museum: Bairnsdale
Museum, parts, repairs, sales. Over 1000 antique clocks on display. Collectables & giftware. Located west end of town. Phone 51526962. www.bairnsdaleclocks.com.au

Sea Shell Museum & Marine Display: Lakes Entrance
Visit this wonderful display and see…raries and weirdies…beauties and goodies in the museum and gift shop. Open daily. Phone 51551538

Aboriginal Cultural Museum: Bairnsdale
Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place. Imaginative displays provide an in-depth look at indigenous history and culture of the Gunai/Kurnai people from pre-European settlement through to the present day. The Gunai/Kurnai people were the original inhabitants of the East Gippsland area.

NATURE SANCTUARY

Wyungara Nature Sanctuary: 18km. East of Lakes Entrance.
Experience the secrets of the bush at night. Discover a unique nocturnal world most people never see. All tours led by experienced naturalist guide. See gliders, possums, koalas, wallabies, wombats, owls and more. Daytime Bush Discovery walks available also. Bookings essential. Phone 51565863 or 0409 565754.  wysanctuary@datafast.net.au

PARASAILING

Parasailing Victoria: Lakes Entrance
Parasail over the Gippsland Lakes with lake and ocean views. No experience necessary. Single, tandem and scenic, “Wet & Wild” rides. Safe, fun & easy. Latest state of the art equipment. Phone 51553032 or 1800 637060

PELICAN FEEDING

Metung Hotel Lawns: Metung
Each day at approximately 12 noon watch the pelicans being fed on the lawns outside the hotel.

RETAIL THERAPY

There may be only a small selection in and around the Metung Village but they are definitely worth having a visit.

Interiors 100: Metung
An eclectic array of everything from interior decoration items to trinkets and watches. Great spot for browsing. Phone Sue on 51562566  E: scolbeck@bigpond.com

Rapt & Tied: Metung
Giftware, gifts and cards. Phone 51562066

Metung General Store: Metung
Everything from a beer to a bandaid, from petrol to a pinot and everything in-between. Say hello to Tony & Helen and the staff. Open every day from 7.30am to approximately 6.00pm.  Phone: 51562201

Jolly Jumbuk Country Craft Centre: Bairnsdale
Enjoy the jumbuk wools experience. Discover the natural quality and ultimate comfort of wool. Specialising in pure wools, exotic yarns & Australian made gifts & souvenirs.
East end of town. Phone 51524600.  www.jumbukwool.com.au

SAILING

Riviera Nautic: Metung
Learn to sail- half day and full day packages. Turn your Metung holiday into a memorable occasion. Riviera Nautic is now offering half & full day sailing lessons. It’s your chance to learn to sail on a large and forgiving keelboat. The sailing lesson is for four hours, for a minimum of four people. You will learn:-
 Safety & man overboard drill
 About boat rigging
 Handling the boat under power
 Points of sailing – sailing to windward, reaching, downwind.
 How to tack and gybe
 How to dock a boat at a jetty.
Phone 51562243. E: info@rivieranautic.com.au

Sail Safari: Paynesville
Accept the challenge; come sailing today. Sailing adventures on the Gippsland Lakes; sailing lessons or choose from a canal cruise, a visit to 90 mile beach or an invigorating sail around Raymond Island. Qualified skippers conduct all adventures for up to 11 passengers. Enjoy the whole yacht to your family/group, no sharing with other tourists.   Contact: Mark or Jane.   Phone: 03 5156 0065 
E: sailing@sailsafari.com.au

SKY DIVING

Aerial Skydives: Lakes Entrance
Experience the ultimate adventure, freefalling  during your tandem jump over the breathtaking scenery of the spectacular coastline of Lakes Entrance and the Ninety Mile beach. Operates from Great Lakes Airport during the summer holidays.
Phone Janine on 1800674276 or 0408070991. E: janine@aerialskydives.com

TAKE AWAY FOOD

The following outlets provide take-away food:-
Metung Pizza: Pizzas, Fish & Chips.
Marrillee: Order from the ‘a la carte’ menu.
Café Edge: Focaccias and the like available from 8.30am to 4.30pm.
Metung Bakery: A great range of pies, pasties, breads and all things sweet & indulgent.
Open every day from 6.00am.

WALKING

Everyone walks in Metung. That's because the views are so breathtaking, you need time to take them in. Stroll along the back beach or along the recently completed boardwalk hugging the shores of Bancroft Bay. A walk works wonders in helping
you to relax.

WATER SKI

Clint’s Ski School: Paynesville
Learn how to water ski. Experience kneeboards, ski-tubes, aqua-boards or just take a ski boat ride. All equipment supplied, including wetsuits.
For further information contact Peta on 0417 163365

WINERIES

Nicholson River Winery
Situated between Bairnsdale and Lakes Entrance, the winery boasts outstanding views, perched on a gentle rise overlooking the Nicholson River and the magnificent Gippsland Lakes. Featuring Chardonnay, Semillon, Riesling, Pinot Noir and Shiraz, the winery is definitely worth a visit.
Contact: Ken & Juliet. Phone: 03 5156 8241E: nichowine@net-tech.com.au

Wyanga Park Winery: Lakes Entrance
Tucked away on the North Arm of the Gippsland Lakes, with easy access by boat or car, Wyanga is Gippsland’s oldest winery. Sample a selection of regional wines, enjoy lunch in Henry’ Café or maybe take the all inclusive luncheon cruise from Lakes Entrance or Metung. Ph: 51551508 and ask Geoff or one of the crew for more information.