East Gippsland acknowledges the Gunaikurnai, Monero and the Bidawel people as the Traditional Custodians of the land that encompasses East Gippsland Shire. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in East Gippsland, their Elders past and present.
Set on the banks of the mighty Snowy River, Orbost is the perfect place from which to explore the Snowy River country. Settled in 1842, Orbost has a rich history of riverboats and steamers, farmers, gold and timber mills, many of which are still part of everyday life. While the town’s fertile river flats sustain agriculture, dairy and beef farming, Orbost is also surrounded by coastal rainforests and hinterlands.
Visit Cape Conran Coastal Reserve to see a stunning expanse of rocky headlands, sheltered bays and golden beaches, hire a bicycle and pedal along the East Gippsland Rail Trail or tour the high plateaus and ancient old-growth mountain forests, some of which have supplied the region’s hardwood timber industry.
Things to do
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Forest Park Reserve features a Slab Hut built in 1872 (which is the current Visitor Information Centre) that allows you to revisit the old world charm of this old logging town
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The kids can enjoy the park and open space to run around and play
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The mighty Snowy River and the National Park are accessible from Orbost and are the true beauties of nature
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The East Gippsland Rail Trail runs from Orbost to Bairnsdale allowing you to experience the sights of East Gippsland on a bike trail
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Enjoy the amazing local food on offer in one the towns great pubs, cafes and bakeries
- Head to Newmerella, 5 kilometres west of Orbost and then south down to Corringle Foreshore Reserve for fishing or swimming in the Snowy River Estuary or walk around to the wild beach for a spot of surf fishing. It is not recommended to swim at this beach due to strong rips and currents
For further information or brochures visit the Orbost Visitor Information centre online or call in at 39 Nicholson Street, Orbost.
Travel Time: approximately 1 hour from Bairnsdale