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Coastal Discovery Program

Program Snapshot

WHEN

3-27 January 2026

COST

Free!

Download the program

Activities are provided by:

Looking for things to do, and ways to find out more about the wonders of the coast this summer?

Each year, Barwon Coast works with local community groups and agencies to run and promote activities aimed at getting you out and about in nature! We also include some indoor and seated options that are equally engaging.

January 2026 Coastal Discovery Program

Download the program.

Have you checked out the Barwon Coast Discovery Centre?

Located in Barwon Heads, the Barwon Coast Discovery Centre showcases the area’s fascinating marine life, plants, animals, history, geology and shipwrecks. The Centre is open extra days in January – Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, from 1-4pm. Find out more here.

*Please note the Coastal Discovery Centre will be closed on Wednesday 7 January due to extreme heat. The team will be back on Saturday and excited to show you around.

Want to know more about our local Hooded Plovers?

Join Friends of the Hooded Plover Bellarine in Point Lonsdale for these activities:

  • Saturday 3 Jan – Dog’s Breakfast, 8-10.30am at Point Lonsdale SLSC (come any time, no bookings required)
  • Thursday 15 Jan – Hooded Plover Walk ‘n’ Talk, 4-5.30pm meeting at Point Lonsdale Lighthouse carpark (book here)
  • Saturday 17 Jan – Hooded Plover Walk ‘n’ Talk, 6-7.30pm meeting at Point Lonsdale Lighthouse carpark (book here)

Coastal Discovery Program Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear and bring?

  • Clothing appropriate for the weather conditions.
  • Sun protection and a full water bottle for outdoor activities.
  • Enclosed footwear for Rockpool Rambles, Barwon Bluff Walks and Coastal Discovery Walks (not bare feet or thongs).

Do I need to book?

  • Bookings are essential for all Coastal Discovery Walks by Bellarine Catchment Network (book here) and Rockpool Rambles by Parks Victoria (book here) – please look for these marked in the program.
  • Bookings are not required for other activities.

Can Barwon Coast book for me?

Sorry, no – bookings must be made with the individual activity providers as detailed in the activity program.

Where do I meet for activities?

  • Meeting places are noted in the activity program, and on the websites of the groups who are running the activities.
  • For activities that require bookings, the meeting place will be provided when you book.

Note: If driving, allow extra time to travel and find a carpark during summer, e.g. add 15-30 minutes to help you arrive on time.

Is there a toilet nearby?

For some activities, yes, but for activities around the Barwon Bluff the closest public toilet is a distance away so we suggest going before!

Can I take my dog to activities?

No – this is to comply with dog control zones and ensure safety of all participants (e.g. avoid hazards from tripping on leads, being around unfamiliar dogs/people, activities taking place in small/confined areas like rock platforms and pathways used by other people too).

Seeing Eye Dogs and Registered Assistance Animals are welcome with their owners.

What ages can join the activities?

All ages are welcome to learn about our beautiful coast!

Children under 16 years must be accompanied by an adult.

What can I expect of the activities?

  • Rockpool Rambles: Junior Ranger activities run by Parks Victoria are targeted at primary school-aged children and their families. Other Rockpool Rambles run by Friends of the Bluff are for all ages.
  • Barwon Bluff Walk: A gentle walk on a gravel path, typically suited to families with older children and adults.
  • Coastal Discovery Walk: A gentle walk/activities aimed at families.
  • Coastal Discovery Stalls: From colouring in, to touch tables of marine treasures, to in-depth conversations on coastal curiosities, this is for all ages! Drop past and stay as long as you like, this is an unstructured activity.
  • Barwon Coast Discovery Centre: There really is something for everyone here! Limited space to move prams etc. around but they can be left outside the door. Drop in and stay as long as you like, an unstructured activity.

Do activities accommodate prams, wheelchairs and other accessibility needs?
What level of fitness or mobility do I need for activities?

  • Indoor and stationary activities aim to accommodate everyone (e.g. seating is provided) – this includes Barwon Coast Discovery Centre and Coastal Discovery Stalls.
  • Barwon Coast Discovery Centre is a heritage building with some small steps and uneven floors. There are tables and display cases to navigate around. When busy, prams will need to be left outside but young children are welcome! Seats for children and adults are available inside.
  • Outdoor activities take place on uneven ground, sand, and/or rock platforms beside the ocean, and may involve using staircases for access. These activities may be adapted to accommodate different needs – Rockpool Rambles, Coastal Discovery Walks, Coastal Discovery Stalls. Please check with the activity provider prior.

What about the weather?

Please wear and bring sun protection and a water bottle on all outdoor activities.

  • For your comfort and safety, outdoor activities will be cancelled in extreme weather (e.g. extreme fire danger, heat, wind, ocean conditions).
  • For activities booked with Bellarine Catchment Network and Parks Victoria, you’ll receive notification of any cancellations beforehand.
  • The Barwon Coast Discovery Centre will be closed on days when the temperature is expected to reach 30 degrees or over – note, the Centre has no air conditioning.

Are there other local activities I can join in January?

Yes! Find more environmental activities here:

Managing extreme heat

Extreme heat can affect anyone, but older and younger people and those with medical conditions are at greater risk. Heat can cause illnesses such as heat cramps and heat exhaustion which can lead to the life-threatening condition, heatstroke, which is fatal in up to 80% cases.

Take note of weather forecasts, read current heat health alerts and for more information visit the Better Health Channel.

Learn the Fire Danger Ratings

A new national Fire Danger Rating system was introduced in 2022, so whether you’re at home or travelling, you’ll see the same system being used.

Each rating has a clear set of messages including actions the community can take to reduce their risk. Learn more from the Country Fire Authority.

Prepare for Emergencies

The VicEmergency website and app is your one-stop shop for advice on how to prepare for and respond to emergencies and natural disasters.

It’s important to think ahead and stay updated on risks you might be exposed to on holidays too, such as bushfires, road incidences and marine hazards.

Download the VicEmergency app to your smartphone via Apple App Store or Google Play Store, and tune into your local ABC radio station.