Lake Connewarre Wildlife Reserve

CONNEWARRE, Victoria

Lake Connewarre is a large shallow (average depth 100cm) estuarine wetland complex located in the lower reaches of the Barwon River, with a variety of swamps, marshes, lakes and river areas. Listed as a wetland of international significance under the RAMSAR convention, it is home to a number of endangered migratory bird species.

The reserve is also classified as a State Game Reserve, with designated areas for duck and quail hunting during the declared season.

Getting there   

The reserve is located adjacent to Geelong, about 90km south west of Melbourne, and can be accessed off the Bellarine Highway, or by taking the Barwon Heads Road out of Geelong, then turning at Lake Road and then Stacey’s Road.

Things to see and do

There are a number of activities that can be enjoyed at Lake Connewarre Wildlife Reserve, including canoeing, kayaking and coastal walking. Visitors can picnic at Taits Point, which offers panoramic views of the lake, and there is also a boat ramp suitable for launching small water craft. There are a variety of fishing platforms and a boardwalk provides good access to the river upstream at Barwon Heads.

Dogs

Dogs specifically trained in game bird hunting are permitted within the reserve 48 hours prior to the opening and duration of the duck and quail hunting seasons. At all other time dogs and other animals are not permitted within the reserve.

Other parks within 40km of Lake Connewarre Wildlife Reserve

• Werribee Park

  37.1 km from Lake Connewarre Wildlife Reserve

• Point Addis Marine National Park

  27.9 km from Lake Connewarre Wildlife Reserve

• Ex-HMAS Canberra

  11.9 km from Lake Connewarre Wildlife Reserve

• Point Danger Marine Sanctuary

  16.3 km from Lake Connewarre Wildlife Reserve

• Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park

  22.5 km from Lake Connewarre Wildlife Reserve

• Barwon Bluff Marine Sanctuary

  7.5 km from Lake Connewarre Wildlife Reserve