Lighthouse Weekend

Sea Eagles, Rock Pools and a Lighthouse

A three day winter weekend package at Point Hicks Lighthouse on ’s far east coast.

Imagine-

 Quiet walks along sandy beaches where the only footprints in the sand are yours.

 A guided tour of the majestic lighthouse itself with stories of the lifestyle of keepers and their families.

 Sitting on the cottage verandahs, gazing out over the rocky headland and keeping watch for passing Humpback Whales.

 Learning about the significance of this special coastal environment and hearing of its rich history.

 Cosy evenings enjoying the warmth of a wood fire and catching glimpses of the lighthouse flashing into darkness outside.

Package includes 2 nights staying in historic cottages at Point Hicks Lighthouse, all meals, travel from Bruthen and expertise of local guide, Jenny Edwards.

June 17-19, 2011 $615 per person ex. Bruthen.

(Assistance with connections and accommodation packages for additional nights available)

Gippsland High Country Tours Jenny Edwards, P.O. Box 69, Bruthen. Vic 3885 Telephone: (03) 5157 5556 Email: [email protected] Fax: (03) 5157 5539 ______

Point Hicks Lighthouse Weekend – itinerary

Day 1 Meet at Bruthen 10am for 10:15am departure (car parking available), travelling past Orbost Friday to Cann River for lunch. Leaving Cann River the road winds down to the coast at Thurra River and we arrive mid afternoon at our unique accommodation at Point Hicks Lighthouse in the heart of Croajingolong National Park. We will spend two nights in the historic assistant lighthouse keepers quarters which are built of Oregon and Baltic pine salvaged from the wreck of the “Kerangie” These comfortable roomy cottages have double or twin share rooms with shared bathroom facilities. Time to explore and get the feel of our very special setting before a short walk (20 minutes return) takes you to view the remains of the wreck of the S.S. Saros. A guided tour of mainland ’s tallest lighthouse will also be arranged during our stay.

Day 2 Point Hicks (once named Cape Everard) was the first place in Australia sighted by Captain Saturday Cook and his crew on the “Endeavour” in 1770. We will spend today enjoying a number of short walks. A leisurely walk to West Beach follows an old supply track used during the building of the lighthouse. Once at West Beach you have the option of exploring the rock pools with their crystal clear water and abundant seashore life, paddling the feet or walking further around the sandy beach. (3km return with option of further beach walking). Return to the lighthouse for lunch. After lunch a short drive to Thurra River where a delightful track wanders through Tea Tree and Banksia Woodlands. Fit walkers may tackle the final climb to discover the extensive dune system nearby. (Up to 4km return) All walks will be leisurely with ample time for birdwatching and discovering the coastal vegetation. Evenings will be a special time here with sunsets promising to be stunning. Relax on the verandahs overlooking the rocky headland, watch seals, the waves and keep a lookout for passing whales.

Day 3 This morning we spent some relaxing time around the Lighthouse before packing up and Sunday leaving the lighthouse behind. The rest of the morning will be spent on a couple of short walks either exploring the beach near Thurra River or walking to Mueller Inlet. We enjoy a picnic lunch together at Mueller Inlet before returning to Cann River with a short stop for a pleasant walk in the forest along the way. Return to Bruthen approx 5pm.

DATES: Friday – Sunday, June 17-19, 2011

GRADED: Easy. Accommodated overnight, short easy interpretive walks (some include hills)

FARE: $615 per person twin share (East Gippsland Seniors $565 per person) Sorry, no other concessions or discounts apply

GROUP SIZE: Minimum 7, Maximum 11.

INCLUDES: 4WD travel from Bruthen, two nights twin share cottage accommodation at Point Hicks Lighthouse. Meals from lunch Friday to lunch Sunday inclusive and expertise of local guide. Assistance to help you package travel & accommodation from Melbourne is available.

HOW TO BOOK: Places are very limited, so please ring or email to reserve a place and request a booking form. Your place is confirmed upon receipt of a completed booking form and payment in full

WHAT TO BRING: A suggested packing list will be forwarded approx. 3 weeks prior to departure.

Advanced Ecotourism Accredited Product (Ecotourism Australia EcoCertification Program)