Central Victoria and Port Phillip Bay offer a vast offering of delightful experiences, from fishing adventures to wine tasting, all set against picturesque landscapes. Recently, Creek to Coast explored these treasures, showcasing the region’s natural beauty and local charm.
Fishing and Conservation at Lake Eppalock
Lake Eppalock, in the heart of central Victoria’s goldfields, is a prime destination for fishos. The lake feeds into the Campaspe and Coliban rivers and has become renowned for its sports fish, particularly redfin and Murray cod. Utilising advanced sounders, anglers can locate submerged logs and timber, which are hotspots for these species.
This fishing haven is part of an OzFish project aimed at rehabilitating habitats for improved waterways and fishing experiences. The project involved deploying around 70 logs and root balls into the lake, creating a thriving habitat for native fish. Notably, within a day of deployment, fish were observed utilising these structures, demonstrating the project’s immediate impact on the ecosystem.
A Taste of Bendigo’s Winemaking Heritage
Bendigo, a city famous for its rich gold rush history, is now equally celebrated for its wine production. The Heathcote region, with over 60 boutique cellar doors, is known for its exceptional reds. Shiraz Republic, a family-owned winery about 40 minutes from Bendigo is where visitors can enjoy the signature Shiraz, known for its full-bodied flavour with dark fruit notes and a touch of oak. The winery also offers unique experiences, such as making your own wine, providing an immersive dive into the art of winemaking. A standout is the Tinto De-Verano, a refreshing blend of Shiraz and lemon, perfect for summer outings.
Culinary Delights at Port Phillip Bay
Port Phillip Bay is a top fishing destination, known for its snapper, calamari, and King George whiting. – but is there anything better than a catch and cook? After a successful fishing trip, Scotty and Andy demonstrated how to prepare calamari with garlic, parsley, and chili, all cooked in a hot pan for optimal flavour. The result was a delicious, aromatic dish that captured the essence of Port Phillip Bay’s marine bounty.
Accommodations and Fine Dining in Frankston
Planning a fishing holiday in Frankston? the Cheeky Squire Hotel offers charming accommodations with great value. Located near Mornington Pier, this hotel provides comfort and simplicity, making it an ideal base for exploring the bay. The onsite Stow Away Restaurant serves a variety of modern Australian cuisine, with standout dishes like salted lemon calamari, perfect for unwinding after a day on the water.
Conservation Efforts at Port Phillip Bay
OzFish. Has spearheaded significant conservation efforts in Port Phillip Bay, where collection of shells from local restaurants goes to restore shellfish reefs. These efforts aim to transform landfill waste into ecological assets, creating sustainable habitats for marine life. This project is part of a global initiative to restore shellfish reefs, with recreational fishers playing a crucial role in these conservation activities.
