Yearning for an outdoor adventure? If you’ve been dreaming of forest walks, wildlife and weekend getaways, why don’t you head north of Melbourne to explore Gunbower Island and Forest? While you won’t find any crocs here, this region has been affectionately dubbed as the ‘Kakadu of the south’, thanks to its wetlands and wildlife. Located on the banks of the Murray and Gunbower Creek, this stunning area is home to a vast array of habitats, such as creeks, woodlands, lagoon, as well as rare Australian wildlife, such as the carpet python and giant banjo frog. Spanning 20,000 hectares on the Murray floodplain, this Ramsar-listed wetland is Australia’s largest inland island. You’ll find it about three hours north of Melbourne, near Cohuna and downstream from Echuca.
Gunbower Island and Forest
This internationally recognised wetland is home to an abundance of birdlife, native mammals and amphibians. Birdwatchers will have plenty to see, with over 170 species of birds, such as sea eagles, ibis and herons, living in the area. You’ll also find reptiles like turtles, a variety of fish and around 200 plant species. On land, you might also see kangaroos, emus and small black wallabies. Located on the island, you’ll also find Gunbower State Forest, which is accessible from Koondrook, and Gunbower National Park, which you can reach from Cohuna. The forest is filled with river red gums in the north-west and black box and grey box trees in the south-east.
The site is also home to cultural heritage sites and artefacts from Indigenous Australians. Both the Barapa Barapa and Yorta Yorta nations are the Traditional Custodians of the land, and it’s actively cared for by elders, Indigenous corporations and knowledge-holders.
Things to do
Gunbower Island is a great destination if you’re looking for outdoor adventures. Go bird watching, camping, canoeing, fishing or even just driving through this fascinating landscape.
Go for a paddle along the Gunbower Island Canoe Trail, and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the forest. This return journey is about 5km long, and takes around two hours to complete. Follow the yellow buoys, and look out for wildlife, which are particularly active at sunrise and sunset. If you’re lucky, you might even see a platypus.
If you’d prefer to explore on foot, you’ll find a variety of walks around the forest. For something family-friendly, try the Goanna Walking Track, a 3.2km loop through the Gunbower State Forest. The loop will take you through the bush, among the red gums and along the creek, returning to the town of Koondrook. Near Koondrook, you’ll also find two half-day loops. The Turtle Loop is about 13km long, and the Eagle Loop is about 9km long. Both of these tracks will take you around historical, cultural and ecological sites of interest, such as the towering Eagle Tree.
Otherwise, go sightseeing via the Gunbower Island Forest Drive. Embark on a leisurely scenic drive through the National Park and State Forest. The trip starts in Cohuna, and will take you by notable points of interest like the historic Graham’s Hut and the experimental nursery. As you go, you’ll find plenty of picturesque spots in the forest that’s perfect for picnics.
Please note, that from time to time, the island goes through environmental watering, which closes some walking tracks and roads. Be sure to check the conditions before you go on your adventure.
Where to from here?
Not ready to go home? Follow the Murray to the east, and explore the twin towns of Echuca and Moama, and have fun on the paddlesteamers. Continue east along The Great River Road for an epic adventure that will take you all the way to the Snowy Mountains.
For more road trips, check out nearby spots along the incredible Silo Art Trail, such as the Rochester Silo or the Lake Boga Silo. Keep going west to marvel at the splendour of Lake Tyrrell, a pink lake that’s perfect for stargazing. Go even further, all the way to Mildura, and explore the twinkling Trail of Lights.
