Explore activites close to nature

Bird watching

Bird watching is very popular in the Gunbower National Park and forest with many wetlands and waterways providing ideal habitat. The Kerang Lakes are popular bird watching locations, including Cullen’s Lake, Lake Tutchewop, the Avoca Marshes and Lake Bael Bael.
Bird watching links: Echuca and District Branch, Bird Observation and Conservation Australia websites.

Fishing

Murray Cod and Yellow Belly are the most common fish caught in the Murray River and local waterways. Before fishing, anglers need to ensure they have the required licence to fish and be aware of all rules and regulations.
Murray Cod and Yellow Belly can be caught in the Murray River, Gunbower Creek and Loddon River along with Redfin, Carp and Bony Bream. Anglers may also catch fish in the many channels and lakes throughout the region.
Baits: Worms, yabbies, cheese, bardi grubs, shrimp and lures.
The Gannawarra Shire supports “catch and release” of native fish.

Mountain biking

The many tracks and trails throughout the Gunbower National Park and State Forest are great for mountain biking. Enter the forest at Cohuna and cycle through to Koondrook. You will see wildlife and birdlife on your journey through one of the most beautiful locations in northern Victoria. Local towns are also in close proximity and you can even catch the train from Melbourne to Kerang for a cycling adventure!

Canoeing

Bring your canoe and drift along the Murray or through the waters of Safe’s Lagoon and Gunbower Creek. A 5km canoe trail (an easy two hour paddle) has been established through the wetlands of Safe’s Lagoon. Here you can see birds making their homes or nesting their young in the hollows of standing dead trees. You can hear their calls and see the myriad of creatures living among the reeds and waters. The route to the canoe trail is well signposted off the highway as you head to Koondrook.

Bushwalking

Take your pick from the many bbeautiful local bushwalks. Enjoy the walking tracks along the Gunbower Creek and Murray River in Koondrook or choose from the many options within the Gunbower National Park and State Forest. The Loddon River and Kerang Lakes also provide many walking opportunities while new tracks and trails are being developed in most local towns. Take time to locate these great new facilities!

Water sports

Water skiing is popular at Lake Charm, Kangaroo Lake and on the Gunbower Creek at Cohuna while the Kerang Lakes are popular sailing venues. Lake Meran is also used for recreation such as skiing, sailing and boating but be sure to check water levels as it is a flood- filled lake.

Camping

Get outdoors around the many waterways suitable for camping! Lakes, rivers or wetlands - the choice is yours. Choose from the beautiful forest settings close to nature.
Hunting
Duck hunting on the many wetlands is a popular activity that has been a tradition for many years, especially in the Kerang area. Depending on water levels hundred of shooters converge on the area when duck hunting is in season.