Wilsons Promontory National Park

Overview

The southernmost point of the Australian mainland, Wilsons Promontory is one of the most popular national parks in Victoria due to its pristeen, unspoilt beaches, mountainous backdrops and dense forest tracks.

It was first reserved as a national park back in 1898. It covers 50,512 hectares including offshore islands and the Light Station. You will find fantastic beaches, cool fern gullies, great views, spectacular rock formations and abundant wildlife.

'The Prom' once joined with Tasmania hence its likeness to Tasmania in a lot of respects.

History

Wilson's Promontory National Park has an early history of Aboriginal occupation with archaeological records dating back at least 6500 years. The Prom had (and still has) spiritual significance for different Aboriginal groups, who knew the area as Yiruk or Wamoom.

The area as a valuable food source, particularly in summer. George Bass and Matthew Flinders were probably the first Europeans to see the Prom, on their 1798 voyage from Sydney, and Bass is thought to have named it after a London friend of Flinders'. They recognised its commercial value, as the name Sealers Cove shows; commercial exploitation of seals, whales and timber, and for cattle grazing, went on for nearly a hundred years.

During World War II the Prom was used for commando training and was closed to the public. Army buildings at Tidal River formed the nucleus of a post-war holiday village that gradually developed as more people came to the Prom.

Places of interest

Mount Oberon
Squeaky Beach
Secluded beaches
Lighthouse
Large beach boulders
Tidal River – tea-tree infused
Scenic roadtrip between Yanakie and Tidal River

Accommodation

The main township within Wilsons Promontory, Tidal River, offers a range of accommodation from eco units, cabins and camping facilities. Further information about accommodation options a short distance away can be found at www.visitpromcountry.com

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