Bairnsdale

Bairnsdale is located along the banks of the magnificent Mitchell River, 285km east of Melbourne on the Princes Highway. Forming the western gateway to the wonders of the Lakes and Wilderness region, Bairnsdale provides easy access to the Gippsland Lakes, beaches, rivers, forests, mountains and is also the starting point for the Great Alpine Road touring route taking in the snowfields of Dinner Plain and Mount Hotham.

The Bairnsdale Region is noted for its moderate climate, with mild winters and delightful summer and autumn periods. Rainfall averages 700mm per year. Bairnsdale is the administrative centre for the East Gippsland Shire and the hub of commercial and business activity in the region including the key industries of tourism, timber, agr iculture and horticulture. The city has retained many of its historic buildings, the most famous being St. Mary’s Catholic Church which features unique murals painted on the inside walls and ceiling by Italian artist Francesco Floreani. Restaurants offering a variety of cuisines along with cafes, pubs and clubs ensure eating and socialising is a delightful experience. The city also boasts some excellent galleries, museums and craft centres.