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Budj Bim National Park: Ancient Volcano and Aboriginal Heritage

Discover ancient volcanic landscapes and Aboriginal aquaculture systems at Budj Bim National Park in Victoria, Australia.

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Explore the dramatic volcanic landscape and rich Aboriginal history of Budj Bim National Park, home to the ancient aquaculture systems of the Gunditjmara people. Discover crater lakes, lava caves, and unique wildlife in this co-managed national park in southwestern Victoria.

A brief summary to Budj Bim National Park

  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Bring a torch for exploring the Lava Cave, a popular attraction with glistening moisture and moss clinging to the stone.
  • Book campsites in advance, especially during peak season, to secure a spot at the Budj Bim Campground.
  • Visit the Tae Rak Aquaculture Centre to learn about the Gunditjmara's ancient eel farming practices.
  • Keep an eye out for koalas in the Manna Gum trees, a favorite food source for them.
  • Wear sturdy shoes for walking on the uneven terrain of the park's trails.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Macarthur, head southwest on Mt Eccles Rd. Follow Mt Eccles Rd for approximately 15 kilometers until you reach Budj Bim National Park. The road is sealed all the way to the visitor picnic ground, with a short gravel road leading to the campground. Parking is free within the park.

  • Public Transport

    The closest town to Budj Bim National Park is Macarthur, which is accessible by bus from Melbourne via Ararat. From Macarthur, the park is approximately 15 kilometers southwest along Mt Eccles Rd. Unfortunately, there is no public transport available from Macarthur to the park itself. Consider taxi services or ride-sharing options from Macarthur to reach the park entrance. Bus fare from Melbourne to Macarthur is approximately $2.40 - $16.00.

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Discover more about Budj Bim National Park

Budj Bim National Park, formerly Mount Eccles National Park, protects a unique landscape shaped by volcanic activity and thousands of years of Aboriginal culture. Located approximately 270 kilometers west of Melbourne, near Macarthur, the park is co-managed by the Gunditjmara Traditional Owners and Parks Victoria. Budj Bim, meaning 'High Head,' is the Gunditjmara name for the dormant volcano within the park. The park's landscape features the tranquil Lake Surprise, a crater lake formed within the Budj Bim volcano. Visitors can explore lava caves and canals, remnants of the volcano's eruptions. Walking trails wind through the park, offering views of the volcanic features and opportunities to spot wildlife like koalas, kangaroos, and diverse bird species. The Budj Bim Cultural Landscape, which includes the national park, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its outstanding universal value and the history of eel farming. The Gunditjmara people have lived in the Budj Bim area for over 30,000 years, witnessing the volcano's eruptions and developing sophisticated aquaculture systems. These systems, created using lava flow canals, weirs, and dams, allowed the Gunditjmara to farm eels for food and trade, supporting semi-permanent settlements. Visitors can learn about this ancient aquaculture at the Tae Rak Aquaculture Centre, located a short drive from the park. Budj Bim offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural significance, inviting visitors to connect with the environment and the history of the Gunditjmara people.

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