News & Information

Fossil Safaris, Marine Park Snorkelling, Rockpool Rambles and more …

10 December 2004

Have fun in the sun this summer - for free!

Join in the 'Summer by the Sea' beach activities at more than 70 locations along Victoria's coastline over January and be inspired by what our coastal and marine environments have to offer.

The program runs from Saturday 1 January to Saturday 22 January 2005, and is organised by Coast Action/ Coastcare Officers from the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE).

In the Great Ocean Road Region, 'Summer by the Sea' activities at beaches and Marine National Parks and Sanctuaries have something for everyone no matter what their age or interests, according to Coast Action/ Coastcare Officer Tracey Pennington, from DSE Anglesea.

"People come to the coast from all parts of the state for summer and the Summer by the Sea program creates wonderful beach holiday memories," she said.

"The activities are great fun, and you can discover our beautiful marine and coastal environments and how to care for them.

"People can join in a Fossil Safari, a Marine National Park Snorkel or encounter wildlife on an evening Spotlight Walk. They can also take a Rockpool Ramble to discover the amazing creatures of a rocky reef at low tide.

"The Hook, Line and Sinker fishing clinics and Waterbugs and Beasties sessions are lots of fun and back by popular demand. We also have three very special Beach Concerts featuring Skipjack Theatre and the cool surf sounds of Surge Whitewater and The Filthy Left."

'Summer by the Sea' is an enjoyable program for the whole family and most of the activities are free and very popular. Nineteen centres along the Great Ocean Road will host events:

• Anglesea, Aireys Inlet, Lorne
• Kennett River, Wye River, Cumberland River
• Marengo, Apollo Bay
• Port Campbell Peterborough, Warrnambool and Flagstaff Hill
• Killarney, Port Fairy, Portland, Narawong
• Bridgewater, Nelson, Point Addis

Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult or guardian. Some activities have limited numbers so Ms. Pennington suggested that people book their places as soon as possible.

Ms Pennington advised people to be Sun Smart at all daytime activities.

"Everyone should wear a hat, a shirt, sunscreen and bring a drink. For walking activities, wear sturdy shoes and bring along insect repellent. Old runners are ideal for rockpool rambles - no thongs!"

For more information or a copy of the Summer by the Sea Program for the Great Ocean Road Region, contact DSE offices at

• Anglesea on 5263 3715,
• Geelong on 5226 4669 or
• Warrnambool on 5561 9955.

Information is also available at the DSE website on www.dse.vic.gov.au/coasts