Colac, Great Ocean Road

Colac is situated in the region of Great Ocean Road and it lies on a massively lush volcanic plain. It is also called as the “Gateway to the Otways,” which is in reference to the neighboring Otway Ranges and the forest to the town’s south. This area is commonly used for agricultural and pastoral functions and it is also bordered by numerous volcanic craters and huge lakes.

Swimming enthusiasts would love this town because it is the home of Lake Colac, which is the biggest natural freshwater lake in the whole state of Victoria. This lake is extremely admired by boating and swimming buffs and it consists of numerous jetties, walking trails, boat ramps and even a children’s playground. One can also find a bird reserve in the swamps off The Esplanade that lures a varied range of birds to this lake. Also to be found on the foreshore of the lake is the Tachyglossus mosaic. This was made by the local artists and the Colac community in order to represent the native indigenous flora and fauna as well as the region’s different symbols.

The Colac Botanic Gardens are located on Lake Colac’s southern shores. The gardens were established during 1910 and they offer spectacular views of the lake from their elevated position. These gardens have more than 1000 specimens that include trees that were listed by the National Trust. One would also find shaded picnic areas that have barbeque facilities, several walking trails for people, and a kids’ playground.

People who want to soak up some Colac culture would do well to visit the Historical Centre. This site is located in the Colac Otway Performing Arts and Cultural Centre and the art complex includes two cinemas used for theatrical performances.

Tourists would also enjoy dropping by the Memorial Square. This was dedicated to the memory of those valiant heroes who fought during World War I. In the square, there are barbeque areas, a children's playground, a fountain and even a rotunda.

Pious visitors would want to visit some of Colac’s churches. One such church is the St. Mary’s Catholic Church that would amaze the guests with its locally made stained-glass roof. The original St. Mary’s Church was built in 1883. Another Colac Church is the St. John’s Anglican Church, which was erected in 1891 in order to replace the original 1870 church. St. Andrew’s Uniting Church is another outstanding church that Colac has to offer. It has a brilliant Gothic style and this was created in 1877 being Colac’s third and also the last Presbyterian Church. This was made of basalt and visitors would marvel at its grand tower and spire. The interiors of this church is also worthy of note.

The Red Rock Scenic Reserve is also one of Colac’s memorable tourist spot. This measures about 230 meters above sea level and it used to be a volcano. Because of that, the landscape at the area is littered with vents and some of which have turned into crater lakes.

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