Enjoy your stay on Advice for French When on the island Island visitors The General Store approximately 3km from the Jetty on Tankerton Rd is available during business hours French French Island in Westernport Bay is a remote and to obtain food, bottled water and basic supplies, it unique nature based locality close to Melbourne. is however recommended that you bring everything 2 you will need for the duration of your stay. Island The Island is large, approximately 170 km , but sparsely populated with just over 100 residents. Hazards to be aware of on French Island: As French Island has remained relatively isolated • Swimming is not recommended due to the and undisturbed from urban development, it lacks soft muds and strong currents. many of the amenities we are used to having on • Snakes are present and should be left alone. the mainland. • Mosquitoes are active and visitors should wear All visitors planning to visit French Island need insect repellent at all times. to consider the enclosed information and advice to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay. • Always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return, choose a distance that suits your level of fitness. • Always carry identification and relevant personal The Island health information e.g. regarding allergies and is large, who to contact in case of emergency. approximately Melbourne 170 km2, For emergencies but sparsely In case of a life threatening emergency populated with call Triple Zero (000). If safe and just over 100 trained to do so administer first aid until residents. emergency services arrive.

French Island Transport There is useful community emergency Things to consider and other practical information All roads and tracks are unsealed and provided for French Island on the FICA subject to seasonal closure. Tracks can be before you go website: www.frenchislandinfo.com wet, sandy, boggy and/or dry. Sturdy shoes or walking boots are recommended. Street addressing on the Island is limited Getting there but for visitors with a smartphone it is recommended Victoria Police reminds drivers and cyclists you download the Emergency + App. Access to and from French Island that the road laws apply to all public roads is by passenger ferry from Stony Point on French Island. This is a Triple Zero (000) app that provides and and Phillip Island (www.westernport displays the GPS coordinates of your location There is no petrol station or fuel available ferries.com.au) or by the vehicular barge so you can read it out to the emergency operator for sale. from Corinella. Severe weather can to direct emergency responders to your location restrict the running of these services There is no public transport available. during an emergency. so visitors need to consider overnight Walking and cycling are the best ways for French Island is a high bushfire risk area and on-island accommodation arrangements visitors to get around, unless you book a tour visitors should remain aware of this risk if planning as alternative transport off the island through a commercial operator. on visiting or camping during forecast fire danger is unlikely. periods. The park will be closed on Code Red days and other days as determined. For more information Utilities and details on park closures visit the Parks Victoria There is no mains power, gas or website before your departure. reticulated drinking water. VicEmergency is the official Victorian Government

smartphone app for emergency warnings and

Communication information. Download the VicEmergency app, p set up a user profile and watch zones for French Mobile phone coverage varies Island to ensure you receive official warnings and depending on the carrier. Check with information when planning to visit. your carrier for service details. There are some black spots, especially in the island’s interior and within the National Park. Will you have enough power to maintain and use your mobile phone for the duration of your visit?

Medical Other services There is no medical facility or any There are limited government services available on There is useful community medical assistance available on the French Island. Parks Victoria has a presence managing emergency and other island. Bringing your own first aid kit is the National Park that occupies two thirds of the Island recommended. You also need to bring and CFA support a brigade of local volunteer firefighters. practical information any required personal medication. The residents on French Island have established the provided for French Island Emergency service response can be delayed French Island Community Association (FICA), a non-profit on the FICA website: on French Island from the mainland. group to represent their interests. www.frenchislandinfo.com