What to do and see in Geelong & Bellarine, Victoria: The Best Budget-friendly Things to do

"The Rip", also known as "The Heads", is a dangerous stretch of water in Victoria, Australia, connecting Port Phillip and Bass Strait. It is the only entrance for shipping into Port Phillip and hence into Melbourne. Because of large tidal flows through the relatively narrow channel from the bay to the ocean, and a high rocky seabed, The Rip has claimed many ships and lives. Geographically, it is t

Great Family Entertaiment, enjoy the rare opportunity to tour a 19th century Coastal Artillery Fort. Amongst underground magazine, inside the Keep, fascinating artifacts and historial objects is the opportunity to try on uniforms from different moments in time. Walking tour approx 1 hr and 1/2 with a one of our friendly, knowlegable Tour Guides.

The Bellarine Railway is operated and maintained by the dedicated volunteers of the Geelong Steam Preservation Society, a not-for-profit organisation founded in 1970. The society was the first Victorian preserved railway to be established entirely by volunteers. It first ran trains at Belmont Common in Geelong, before moving operations to the Queenscliff-Drysdale section of the former Victorian Railway’s South Geelong-Queenscliff branch line in 1976. The line is recognised as the oldest Victorian branch line still in operation. Today the railway runs regular scenic train trips between Queenscliff and Drysdale, along with experiences and events which include: * School Holiday Specials * Easter Bunny Trains * Teddy Bear Specials * Halloween Specials * Santa Trains * Day Out With Thomas events * Steam and Diesel Train Driver Experiences * Special occasion and Group charters * New Volunteers are always welcome!

Here the story of wool is brought to life - told by those who lived it and through the sights and the sounds of heritage machines weaving carpets and knitting socks. Here the smell of lanolin fills the air, fresh fleece beckons your touch and the authentic surrounds of the shearing shed immerse you in the Australian wool story. The National Wool Museum experience is more than just wool. Here history, science, fashion, handcraft and art come together. Here temporary exhibitions and programs combine learning, exploration and entertainment. Here you can find the finest woollens, learn a traditional craft, explore our region's heritage and maybe even come fate-to-face with creatures from our past. Today the National Wool Museum is one of Australia's cultural treasures - as a cultural heritage destination for visitors and community.

Discover the fascinating maritime heritage of Queenscliffe with a visit to this regional maritime museum, perched near the entrance to Port Phillip and its notorious 'Rip'. From the arrival of the early sailing ships more than 200 years ago, this picturesque coastal town has been shaped by boating activities and the maritime industries which have developed. From shipwrecks to heroic rescues, early fishermen and boat builders, light keepers and their technologies, sea pilots and divers, there are plenty of stories to discover. The last of the Queenscliff Lifeboats is the centrepiece of the museum. Even today, the museum sits adjacent to Queenscliff Harbour with its boating marina, and within walking distance of the Searoad Ferries. Guided museum group tours, and Point Lonsdale Lighthouse tours (conditions apply), are available by prior arrangement. Nautical gift shop available.

Winter Trading Hours (April - September) Monday - Friday: 11am - 4.30pm Saturday and Sunday: 10.30am - 6.00pm Summer trading Hours (October - March) Monday - Friday: 10.30am - 5.00pm Saturday and Sunday: 10.30am - 6.00pm Winter and Summer hours subject to change after 3pm due to Private Functions.