Gippsland Lakes

Located in East Gippsland, Victoria, Australia, the Gippsland Lakes are a beautiful and diverse network of coastal lakes, marshes, and lagoons that cover an enormous area of 354 km2 (137 sq mi).

The lakes are collectively fed by several rivers and drain into the Bass Strait through a short canal southwest of Lakes Entrance town centre.

The Gippsland Lakes were formed by river delta alluvial deposition and the action of sea currents in Bass Strait. In 1889, a wall was constructed to stabilize the water level and create a harbor for fishing boats. The entrance to the lakes needs to be dredged regularly to maintain accessibility for seagoing vessels.

The Gippsland Lakes are home to a wide variety of wildlife and plant species. The region supports two protected areas and is protected by the Ramsar Convention on wetlands. Recent years have seen signs of recovery for southern right whales and humpback whales in the area.

Gippsland Lakes is a popular tourist destination, particularly for boating and fishing enthusiasts. Lakes Entrance is the largest town on the lakes, with a range of accommodations and easy access to both the lakes network and Ninety Mile Beach. Metung and Paynesville are also popular tourist destinations, offering dining options and accommodations. Raymond Island, located in Paynesville, is known for its koala population. The lakes and surrounding areas provide opportunities for fishing a variety of fish species.