Balyang Sanctuary is one of Geelong's most popular picnic venues
and havens for water birds. Located at the river-end of Shannon Avenue in Newtown, beside
Princes Bridge, the sanctuary covers nine hectares of lake and native bushland.
About the sanctuary
This sanctuary is located on the site of what was once a swamp.
As part of a rejuvenation project in the 70s, the swamp was drained and deepened
to create a lake. There was also significant landscaping of the area and tree
plantings. This created three islands – two of which are linked by bridges and a
third for nesting birds.
What to look for
The bird species you may see include:
- Black Swans
- Australian Pelicans
- Eurasian Coots
- Dusky Moorhens
- Pacific Black Ducks
- Mallards
- Pied Cormorants
- Silver Gulls.
Things to do
As well as picnic areas, seating areas and public toilets, the
sanctuary provides easy access to the walking and cycling path beside the Barwon River. Also within walking distance are:
Special event bookings
If you would like to hold your wedding or special event at Balyang Sanctuary, please contact us.
View our
dog walking map to find where you can walk your dog off leash.