Port Welshpool
Overview
Port Welshpool is located 199 kilometres south-east of Melbourne via the South Gippsland Highway.
This little coastal township right on Corner Inlet's sandy beaches has a network of jetties, landings and slips. On a summer's afternoon it's not unusual to see 100 boats launched or retrieved at Port Welshpool's all-weather, all-tide boat ramps.
A number of off-shore islands add to Port Welshpool’s fishing charms and one, Snake Island, has emerged as a significant game reserve.
History
The town built a long jetty for loading and unloading fish catches, cattle and timber. The arrival of the railway in 1891 allowed the local produce to be transported to Melbourne for sale. As well as fishing in the embayment of Corner Inlet, fishers living in Port Welshpool target southern rock lobster and sharks. Rock lobster fishing started in the 1930s. During World War II catching sharks using longlines started.
Whalers first used the area as early as the 1830s.
Places of interest
Maritime Museum
Long Jetty
Traditional fishing village
Snake Island
Accommodation
The small township of Port Welshpool offers limited accommodation options. Further information about accommodation in nearby larger towns can be found at www.visitpromcountry.com
Town statistics
| Population | 230 |
|---|---|
| Distance from Melbourne | 199 kilometres, 121 miles and 3 hours driving time |
| Road access | South Gippsland Highway |