Churchill Island
Churchill Island nature park is the winner of the Victorian Tourism Awards Ecotourism category for 2006 and 2007 and it’s not hard to see why. The Island is part of Phillip Island Nature Parks, a not for profit organisation dedicated to international excellence in nature conservation and eco tourism.
As is often the case with not for profit organisations the staff are passionate about the Island and as a result from the moment you walk in the door it’s a pleasure to be there. Admission is very reasonable at $10 for adults, $25 for a family (2 adults & 2 children), children (4-15) $5 and Pensioners $7 and children receive a free bag of food to feed the animals.
There’s plenty to do - wander through historic buildings and lush cottage gardens, explore a working farm, feed animals including-ducks, geese, highland cattle, Clydesdale horses, chickens, peacocks, guinea pigs, sheep, goats and sheep dogs.
After you have worked up an appetite you can enjoy a snack or a meal in the licensed Churchill Island Cafe. On a perfect autumn afternoon we drank tea and savored blueberry pancakes and scones on the verandah overlooking the shimmering water of Westernport bay.
On a more practical note, the facilities are very well maintained and even the toilets deserve a mention - there aren’t too many places where you find yourself standing in the toilets thinking, these toilets are so good I would have paid the admission just for the toilets!
If you like eco tourism then you will love Churchill Island - this one scores five suitcases - We love it!
Hours: Churchill Island Heritage Farm is open every day from 10am (except Christmas Day).
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