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.
Sustainability
East Gippsland, Victoria's first Eco accredited destination
Welcome to East Gippsland: your eco-friendly adventure awaits! We’re thrilled to share that East Gippsland is now the first destination in Victoria to earn globally certified Eco Destination status. This exciting achievement highlights our commitment to keeping our beautiful region sustainable and welcoming for all. Here in East Gippsland, we’re dedicated to protecting our stunning landscapes, wildlife, and local culture. But we know that being eco-friendly is an ongoing journey, not a final destination. We’re constantly working to improve and innovate, making sure that every visit supports our shared goal of a greener, cleaner future.
As you explore, you’ll find plenty of ways to travel consciously and help us in our mission. Whether you’re staying in eco-friendly accommodations, participating in local conservation efforts, or simply enjoying our pristine natural beauty, every little choice you make contributes to preserving East Gippsland for the future. So, come and experience the wonders of East Gippsland while joining us on our journey towards sustainability. Your visit helps make a difference, and we’re excited to have you as part of our eco-friendly adventure! Welcome to East Gippsland—where every step you take supports a brighter, greener tomorrow.
Nestled within the lands of Gunaikurnai, Bidawel and Monero, East Gippsland has long been a draw for nature enthusiasts.
The region boasts a treasure trove of world-renowned natural wonders, including the:
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UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve of Croajingolong National Park,
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culturally significant Buchan Caves,
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expansive Gippsland Lakes, and
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the picturesque Ninety Mile Beach.
East Gippsland's achievement of Ecotourism-level certification follows a meticulous independent assessment of 91 rigorous criteria.
This certification recognises the region as a nature-based tourism destination committed to the principles of ecotourism, encompassing cultural and natural interpretation and education for visitors, as well as the active involvement of local businesses in sustainable practices.
Read more about East Gippsland in Ecotourism Australia's Green Travel Guide.
Be a conscious traveller
Travel Consciously in East Gippsland Travel Consciously in East Gippsland
Welcome to East Gippsland. As you explore our beautiful region, we encourage you to travel consciously to protect and respect our wildlife, nature, and local communities. Here are some tips to help you make a positive impact:
Wildlife & nature
• Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance and avoid feeding them.
• Stay on Trails: Stick to designated paths to protect habitats.
• Leave No Trace: Take all your rubbish with you. Use recycling bins where available.
• Conserve Water: Be mindful of water usage.
• Mindful Recreation: Participate in water activities responsibly to avoid disturbing aquatic life.
• Protect Waterways: Avoid polluting rivers, lakes, and oceans. Use biodegradable products.
• Fire Bans: Always check and adhere to local fire bans and restrictions.
• Campfires: Only light campfires in designated areas and ensure they are fully extinguished before leaving.
• Fishing and Hunting: Obtain necessary permits and follow guidelines for sustainable practices.
Culture
• Honor Local Traditions: Respect the customs and traditions of the Indigenous communities.
• Support Local: Buy local produce, arts, and crafts to support our community.
• Community Engagement: Engage with locals to learn more about the region's heritage.
Waste
• Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Minimize waste by using reusable bags, bottles, and containers.
• Proper Disposal: Dispose of waste responsibly, especially in natural areas.
Transportation
• Eco-friendly Travel: Use public transportation, carpool, bike, or walk whenever possible.
• Carbon Offsetting: Consider offsetting your travel carbon footprint. Thank you for helping to keep East Gippsland beautiful and sustainable. Enjoy your visit!
Get started on your business certification journey
Ecotourism is one of the fastest growing sectors of the tourism industry worldwide. Ecotourism Australia’s guidelines help businesses lead in ecotourism by ensuring destination sustainability and supporting local communities.
By following Ecotourism Australia's best practice standards, tourism businesses can provide a high-quality, recognisable product to consumers while increasing sustainable development.
ECO accreditation makes it easy for visitors to find genuine ecotourism operators. Ecotourism Australia offers three certification programs to recognise tourism businesses for their sustainable initiatives: ECO Certification, Sustainable Tourism Certification and the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard.
The ECO and Sustainable Tourism certifications are in-depth processes that work with businesses across the key pillars of sustainability, while the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard provides a snapshot of a business’s progress towards environmental sustainability goals.
For more information about certification pathways for businesses, visit Ecotourism Australia's website.
Great Vic Bike Ride
Saturday the 25th of November is the day to mark in your calendars!
For the first time in 25 years, Orbost is welcoming back the Great Vic Bike Ride for this years starting point.
This is an exciting time for East Gippsland and we look forward to welcoming over 3000 people to our region.
With the event beginning in Orbost, the trail the riders are taking is sure to capture their hearts with East Gippsland's beauty. Before reaching its seaside finish in Wonthaggi, the Great Vic Bike Ride will make stops in the East Gippsland towns of Orbost, Buchan, Lakes Entrance, and Paynesville.
The event starts at a rate of $138 per day.
Cyclists can choose from three, five, or nine-day holiday options, allowing them to camp, ride, and relax. Each day will be followed by an evening filled with entertainment, activities, and the warm hospitality that only a regional town has to offer.
Here is an overview of the East Gippsland regions through which the riders will be cycling.
Day 1: Sat 25 Nov | Orbost (arrival day)
This is the day to set up camp and prepare for your riding adventures. Hop on your bike and explore everything the town has to offer.
There's a wide range of things to see and do. Head down to the Orbost Club Hotel and meet the locals while enjoying a pub meal and a refreshing drink.
Enjoy a craft beer on the deck of Sailors Grave Brewery, and don't forget to visit Snowy River Cycling next door for future cycling adventure.
Day 2: Sun 26 Nov | Orbost to Buchan (58km)
The ride begins today.
Take in the breathtaking views of East Gippsland and the Snowy River countryside as you make your way to Buchan, where you will set up camp for the night.
Once you arrive in Buchan, take a refreshing dip in the icy cold cave-fed pool located in the Buchan Caves Reserve. While you're there, book a guided tour to explore Victoria's largest cave system. Choose between the Fairy Cave or Royal Cave, or even better, do both.
Wrap up the afternoon with a well-deserved drink at the Buchan Caves Hotel.
Day 3: Mon 27 Nov | Buchan to Lakes Entrance (84km)
It's time to leave the countryside behind and head to East Gippsland's coastal town, Lakes Entrance.
In this popular tourist town with endless things to do, we recommend visiting Albert and Co for your daily coffee and Basically Local for Snowy River biltong and other local produce. If you're looking for land and water-based activities, stop by Venture Out; they have everything you need.
Day 4: Tue 28 Nov | Lakes Entrance to Paynesville (76km)
The next part of your lakeside adventure awaits. Cruise along the Mitchell River as you make your way to Paynesville, a small town nestled between lakes, canals, and inlets.
Did you know you can explore Paynesville by boat? Book your tour with H2O Tours & Adventures. Hop on the ferry and take the time to explore Raymond Island, hire your four-seater bike at Ride the Koalas, and begin your koala spotting adventure.
And you can't miss dinner at Sardines Dining, where you can enjoy an exceptional seafood dinner caught right here in East Gippsland.
Day 5: Wed 29 Nov | Paynesville to Sale (82km)
Say farewell to beautiful East Gippsland as you embark on the next leg of your cycling adventure.
Great Vic Bike Ride
Great Vic Bike Ride 2023
For the first time in 25 years, Orbost is welcoming back the Great Vic Bike Ride for this years starting point.
Saturday the 25th of November is the day to mark in your calendars!
This is an exciting time for East Gippsland and we look forward to welcoming over 3000 people to our region as a part of the event.
CHECK BACK IN OVER THE COMING MONTHS FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE GREAT VIC BIKE RIDE IN EAST GIPPSLAND
Great Vic Bike Ride
Great Vic Bike Ride 2023
For the first time in 25 years, Orbost is welcoming back the Great Vic Bike Ride for this years starting point.
Saturday the 25th of November is the day to mark in your calendars!
This is an exciting time for East Gippsland and we look forward to welcoming over 3000 people to our region as a part of the event.
CHECK BACK IN OVER THE COMING MONTHS FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE GREAT VIC BIKE RIDE IN EAST GIPPSLAND
Accommodation Search
Stay with us
Snuggle up in one of the region’s hotels, motels or resorts. Say "hello" to a B&B with friendly local hospitality. Book into a cabin or caravan park, or hire a motor cruiser and spend a night – or a week – aboard. With so many choices, you're going to need an extra week.