10 Sights & Landmarks in Gippsland That You Shouldn't Miss

Just off the pristine coast of Croajingolong National Park, you'll discover Gabo Island. Wild and remote, this island is surrounded by magnificent views and offers a unique day trip or stay. Rich in cultural history, the island features the only operating island lighthouse in Victoria. Constructed from 1858 to 1862 using the distinctive pink granite found on the island, the 47 metre high Gabo Island Lighthouse is the second tallest lighthouse in Australia. Take a picnic lunch and walk around the island, taking in the ruins, the radar station, the monument to the ship 'Monumental City' and the old cemetery. Ramble over the islands pink granite shoreline and rock pools, discover the amazing underwater world in the clear waters of Santa Barbara Bay or relax on the sandy beach and take in the spectacular views and surrounding seascapes. A haven for plants and animals, the island supports highly significant colonies of seabirds. Keep a lookout for passing whales, dolphins and seals.

Offering an inexpensive day trip for the whole family, the State Coal Mine is an historic Gippsland attraction that fosters an understanding of Australia's cultural heritage with an authentic underground experience. Entry to the site is free above ground where you can follow the heritage walk among historic buildings. ake the family on a journey back in time at the State Coal Mine in Wonthaggi. This unique attraction in Gippsland is the only historic coal mine experience in the Southern Hemisphere. Explore underground tunnels as you walk in the footsteps of the hard-working men who drilled and chipped for coal in the 1900s. See their mining tools and equipment still in place, as if the mine has been running up until this day. Take a guided tour led by Parks Victoria staff and volunteers who have a personal connection with the mine, including a special few who are retired miners. Hear stories of mining days gone by and learn the methods used by miners to extract black gold.

An authentic underground goldmine that is heritage listed. Tour groups of up to 30 people are escorted by an experienced guide. The Mine is well it, plenty of room and well ventilated. It is very safe. Tours operate daily except Christmas Day at 1:30pm - and at 12noon and 3pm on weekends, public holidays and school holidays.

Gippsland's Premier Motor Museum - with changing of display theme every 4 months, around 60 stellar vehicles and 50 Motorcycles on display, along with much memorabilia.

Old Gippstown is a heritage park built on 8 acres of landscaped Crown Land. It is unique in that 80% of its buildings are original (not purpose built). There are many artefacts that have been donated and are in the buildings and surrounds. It has one of the largest collections of horse drawn vehicles held in public hands. We are a deductible gift recipient, so donations of $2 or more to the Park are tax deductible. We also have a number of areas available for hire around our park, with prices available on request. Arrangement for school tours can be made as well as bus groups. Weddings, functions and parties can be catered for.