By Lisa Field
Living in Melbourne’s west, we’re spoilt with open space, waterways, coastlines and shared trails — all right on our doorstep. So, if you’re looking for some new experiences, particularly in the outer west, check out these activity suggestions. Not every adventure will suit everyone and, of course, explore at your own risk, but hopefully this inspires you to get outdoors and enjoy this incredible part of the world a little more.
Check out the kangaroos at yaluk barring park
This expansive parkland has plenty to discover, with the best time to spot kangaroos being at dawn or dusk. If you’re keen to explore further, seek out the confluence of the Maribyrnong River, Jacksons Creek and Deep Creek — a significant place hidden within the landscape.
Visit Brimbank Park and the Lumber & Co café
This is a great place to catch up with friends, stretch the legs along the river trails, or admire the bats when they gather in the trees — you’ll definitely hear them before you see them. The café has a relaxed atmosphere, and during the cooler months they often have an outdoor fire going on weekends.
Head to Mud Island
If you have a friend with a boat, convince them to take you out to this remarkable little gem in Port Phillip Bay. Located around 18km offshore from Point Nepean National Park, Mud Islands is all sand, wetlands and endless blue-green water. I headed out via Swan Bay boat ramp near Queenscliff, and it felt like I had landed in paradise.
Rail trail ride: Wendouree to Linton
Catch the train to Wendouree and ride out to the nearby Ballarat–Skipton Rail Trail. The ride to Linton is approximately 37km, making it a moderate distance to ride. Whilst you could continue all the way through to Skipton — around 57kms one way — I’d highly recommend the hospitality and accommodation at the historic Linton Hotel, which also had secure bike parking, before heading back the next day.
Walk along Werribee River behind the Werribee South farms
You can do this walk in either direction, but I’m going to recommend starting at K Road Cliffs and heading out along the informal track behind the farming district towards the river mouth. Expect muddy patches and muddy footwear by the end — particularly towards the end at Grahams Wetlands Reserve— but the scenery and birdlife make it well worth it. The walk can take up to two hours, and doing it with a second vehicle at the finish point makes things much easier. There’s also the option to venue over to the nearby Anchorage Café afterwards.
Picnic at Campbells Cove
This quiet tucked-away spot features quaint beach boxes, calm shallow water and a peaceful atmosphere. I usually set up a cosy picnic spot on the grassy area between the beach boxes as they also offer a little wind protection. It’s rarely crowded — usually just the occasional fisherman or beach box owner doing some maintenance. Perfect for a sunset dinner, and I BYO everything including table and chairs.
Got a suggestion? Or query? Send me a line at lisamareefield12@gmail.com — maybe I can continue to spruik different ways to explore this amazing part of the world.
