Situated at the southern tip of the Mornington Peninsula, the Point Nepean National Park is the perfect spot for tourists who are looking for quiet time or laid-back adventure while discovering the rich history of Victoria. The park offers a magnificent coastal view of the Bass Strait, the Rip, and Port Phillip Bay – the perfect backdrop for a scenic walk in the morning or afternoon cycling. At the same time, it also features some of the most important historical artefacts in Australia.
Historical Walk
The walk to Point Nepean begins at Gunner’s Cottage, which is the furthermost point you can drive to on the Mornington Peninsula. If a private car is not available, you can take advantage of the hop-on-hop-off shuttle service that operates between 10:30 am to 4 pm. This will take you all the way to Fort Nepean at the very tip of Port Nepean.
Once you begin the walk, you will be met with a sealed road that eventually opens up to the scenic coastal view. As you’re nearing Fort Nepean, you will begin to see the remnants of the rich history of Victoria during the war. Gun turrets and fortifications can be seen in tactical positions halfway through the walk. Most fortifications are open to explore, so be sure to check them out.
At the very tip of Mornington, you’ll find Fort Nepean. It was built in 1882 as a crucial part of Victorian/Australian defences. It was in service until 1945 during the end of World War II. Here you can find well maintained tunnels, barracks, store houses, gun emplacements, and bunkers.
The Quarantine Station
The Quarantine Station was built in 1852 and operated until 1979. The site also became the home of the Army Officer Cadet School from 1952 to 1985, and the School of Army Health from 1985 to 1998. Back in the 1880’s, many Colonial and Commonwealth structures were built within Point Nepean Park, making the entrance to Port Phillip the most heavily guarded fort in the Southern Hemisphere.
Walkers and cyclists can take the Coles Track to get to the Quarantine Station. There are limited picnic spots, toilet, and drinking fountains around the area. There are no barbecue facilities, but you can use the portable gas barbecue in the Quarantine Station precinct anytime except on a declared Total Fire Ban Day. Car parking is also available at the Station or Gunner’s Cottage.