Observatory Point, Point Nepean National Park, VIC

In February, I spent 5 days with my parents on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria. As always, I had a wonderful time. My Mum gave me some more painting lessons and we explored some more of Point Nepean National Park.

Only a short walk along Cole's Track, from Gunners Gottage Car Park, is the direct access point to the picturesque beach at ‘Observatory Point’; which reveals the remains of historic former quarantine Cattle Jetty built in 1879 to land cattle at the Quarantine Station.

There are long stretches of sandy beach in either direction. It is the perfect place to stroll along and view the southernmost end of Port Philip, including outstanding coastal scenery and panoramic views of Bass Strait, the Rip and Port Phillip Bay.

My Mum, the painter at work...

Multiple Australasian Gannets fly past, often in groups of 4 or more, heading to Pope’s Eye; the uncompleted foundation for an island fort intended to defend the entrance to Port Phillip.
Pope's Eye is an important breeding site for Australasian Gannets, which nest on platforms constructed for them, as well as on the rocks of the reef.

The male and female Australasian Gannet are similar in plumage. Most of the body is white, with dark tips on the major wing feathers and the inner tail feathers. The head is buff-yellow and the bill pale blue-grey with striking black borders to the bill sheaths. In immature birds, the head and upperparts are mostly brown with scattered amounts of white spotting. Small flocks are sometimes seen soaring above the ocean, and an individual bird will suddenly fold its wings back and dive spectacularly into the water.

Australasian Gannets are found throughout southern and south-eastern Australia, to New Zealand. These seabirds are a familiar sight off the coast

Though the water is incredibly inviting, swimming is not recommended due to the close proximity of the beach to the treacherous and infamous ‘Rip’ – which often produces strong currents and unpredictable waves.

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