Howqua Holidays

WATER SPORTS

Rivers and creeks, lakes and waterfalls – if you’re planning a trip to the High Country, better bring your bathers. Five rivers and countless creeks run down these hills and along these valleys offering fishing, swimming, canoeing and kayaking. High Country lakes are popular with families who love the fresh water and offer plenty of opportunity for fun. Wakeboarding, water-skiing and boating are just for starters.

The Mansfield region is a Mecca for water lovers, with ample opportunities for enthusiasts to participate in water sports such as water skiing and wake boarding. Lake Eildon is a popular site and, whilst many visitors bring their own boat and equipment, you can hire boats and canoes.

Before you try jet skiing in Victoria, make sure you’re in a designated jet ski zone and that you travel at the speeds specified. Boating licenses have been required for most boat and personal watercraft operators since 1 February 2003. Persons hiring or chartering a boat may be exempt. For more information about Recreational Boat Licenses visit the official Marine Safety Victoria.

Lake Eildon
Lake Eildon is Victoria’s largest inland lake and despite the recent years of drought, the lake still offers great fishing, wakeboarding and houseboating. Drive the Skyline Road for marvelous views across the lake’s finger bays. But if you have a little time, then the best way to experience Lake Eildon is from the water. Hirea tinnie for an afternoon’s fishing. Or, better yet, unwind with a cruise around the lake aboard a houseboat. Most of the land around Lake Eildon is national park and there are plenty of private, unspoilt bays you can call your own. Locals will tell you this is one of the best ways to spot wildlife, such as kangaroos and wallabies as they come down to the lake to drink. Sublime.

Lake Nillahcootie
With its grassy banks, great picnic facilities, BBQs and boat ramp, Lake Nillahcootie offers a different experience on water. This is a fun place to try sailing, canoeing, or simply enjoy a cooling afternoon beside the water. The lake is fed by the Broken River. It was originally dammed as a water catchment and there is a vineyard nearby.

Waterfalls and riverbanks
The High Country is dotted with green parks and swimming spots where you can pull over for a picnic and a refreshing swim in clear, cool mountain water. Particularly lovely places are the ‘weir’ at Mirimbah – not actually a weir, but rather a built-up ledge perfect for swimming – and the grassy riverbanks in Jamieson Township. If you’re touring or bushwalking on Mt Stirling, lookout for Bindaree Falls – ten minutes walk off Circuit Road. It’s a pretty spot for a rest and a snack. Lake Cobbler and Dandongadale Falls-Victoria’s highest falls – are also pleasant places to stop