Colac Otway Region

Colac Otway Region Galleries and Museums

The Colac Otway Region in Victoria, Australia, is a treasure trove for those looking to indulge in the world of history, art, and culture. This region is blessed with some of the most impressive galleries, museums, and historical venues that are worth exploring. Here we are listing and describing some such sites that visitors to the region should experience.

Galleries:

1) Red Rock Regional Theatre and Gallery: This is a popular cultural hub in the Colac Otway Region, offering a platform for artists to showcase their work. The gallery has a rotating schedule of exhibitions and the theatre features productions throughout the year. The contemporary space also hosts workshops, meeting rooms, and events.

Location: 520 Cororooke Street, Colac, Victoria

2) Misty Hollow Gallery: The Misty Hollow Gallery is a beautiful, picturesque art space located in a tranquil bushland setting. It is home to a collection of works by local artists and offers a peaceful retreat for visitors to enjoy art and buy unique pieces to take home.

Location: 68 Great Ocean Road, Hordern Vale, Victoria

3) Salt Gallery: Situated in the seaside town of Apollo Bay, the Salt Gallery showcases a variety of local and international contemporary art. The gallery represents well-established artists as well as emerging talents and features a range of mediums including painting, sculpture, and photography.

Location: 29/33 Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay, Victoria

Museums:

1) Colac & District Historical Society Museum: This local museum is home to a vast collection of artefacts that chronicle the history of the district. The exhibits portray the social, cultural and industrial development of the Colac region. Visitors can learn about the indigenous history, early settlements, and significant events in the area.

Location: 57 Hesse Street, Colac, Victoria

2) Old Beechy Rail Trail: The Old Beechy Rail Trail is an 11km route that takes visitors through the rainforest, riversides and historical railway landmarks. It is an all-weather path and is open to walkers, cyclists, and horse riders. Highlights along the trail include the Beech Forest Railway Shed and the Gellibrand River Trestle Bridge, both of which are historical landmarks.

Location: Starting at the Beech Forest Caravan Park, Victoria

3) Apollo Bay Museum: The Apollo Bay Museum preserves the rich maritime and cultural history of the town. It features exhibits on the region's whaling, shipping, forestry, and farming heritage. One of the most popular exhibits is the lighthouse lens which was decommissioned and donated by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.

Location: 6250 Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay, Victoria

Historical Venues:

1) Cape Otway Lightstation: The Cape Otway Lightstation is a magnificent historical site and the oldest lighthouse on mainland Australia. The lighthouse offers panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the Southern Ocean. In addition, visitors can explore the Telegraph Station, the World War II radar bunkers, and the Aboriginal Cultural Centre.

Location: Otway Lighthouse Road, Cape Otway, Victoria

2) The Beech Forest Heritage Trail: This 2.4km trail takes visitors on an interactive journey through the history of Beech Forest. The trail features a range of interpretive panels and artefacts that showcase the town's history. It is a fun and educational experience for the entire family.

Location: Starting at the Beech Forest Caravan Park, Victoria

3) Colac Botanic Gardens: The Colac Botanic Gardens is an important flora reserve that was established in 1868. The gardens feature an impressive collection of indigenous and exotic plant species. The site also features a rotunda, a fernery, a sensory garden, and a vintage nursery.

Location: Fergusson Street, Colac, Victoria

the Colac Otway Region in Victoria is blessed with a plethora of galleries, museums, and historical venues. These sites offer a unique window into the area's rich cultural and historical heritage. Visitors to this region can immerse themselves in the world of art, history, and culture while enjoying the spectacular natural beauty of the area.