The journey to Venus Bay Point Smythe nature trek from Melbourne, Australia, takes two hours and twenty-four minutes. For my birthday, I chose to travel to Inverloch, a small coastal village close to Wonthaggi. The surf beach, which the Surf Life Saving Club patrols in December and January, is a well-liked destination all summer long. There is a small inlet that is perfect for kids to swim in, and while the flags are up, it is safe and rip-free to swim between them. A great spot to learn how to surf is the surf beach.
I had lunch in Inverloch and then drove onto Venus Bay Point Smythe which was only a 30 minute drive.s. There are toilets along the foreshore just outside of Inverloch with a playground that is located on the main road, I would recommend stopping there before driving onto Venus Bay.
Starting the Hike
The photo below is why it’s worth walking this track, as you end up getting amazing views of the inlet with secluded beaches that make you feel like you are on your own tropical island.
I opt for these sneakers for walks like these; they’re available in various colors, but the White 130 is my favorite as it complements any outfit I wear. Find it here on Amazon
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The sign at the start of the track is hard to read and not clear, the distance it said was 6km walk to Point Smythe, there were no signs on the track so I stayed on the right hand side of the track and ended up walking 11km return along the coast which was more than 2 hours. There was some heavy bush walking and climbing over, under and around fallen Tea trees. I couldn’t walk along the beach to the point because there were trees that had fallen onto the beach blocking the path.
The photos of the carpark and entrance to the start of the walk are below. The track is really wide and mostly dirt and gravel, there are no toilets or tables but some seats in a few places, definitely not at the end of the walk.
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In the image below, follow the red arrow to the track’s right side to get to the inlet, the left track takes you to the other path and the left side of the coast.
Follow the red arrow in the picture below to the right-hand corner, if you go to the left it will take you to the left coast and back to the car park. The walk to the right is longer and harder but well worth it when you get to the inlet.
In the picture below stay to the right of the track which will lead you along to the beach of Andersons Inlet.
In Australia, prolonged sun exposure can cause sunburn easily. Hence, I make sure to have a hat and sunscreen with me at all times. Find it here on Amazon hat, Amazon sunscreen.
The track’s conditions are shown in the photographs below.
The track isn’t suitable for prams or kids below 10 years old because it is a long walk with a couple of hills, and up further the track tightens and is more like a hiking trail through the forest.
Two Echidnas crossed my way during my journey; this one was scared of me and didn’t like it when I got too close to it.
On the wide paths in the image below, there were a few hills to climb.
Additional images of the track’s state.
Andersons Inlet
This is the view of Andersons Inlet, about half way through the walk the track opens up to this clear blue water and beach that feels like you are on your own private island with no one around. I didn’t get to sit on the beach and enjoy the view because there were march flies buzzing around that were really annoying. March flies can bite you through clothing and are very painful.
I keep a reusable water bottle handy as I prefer not to purchase and discard plastic ones. There’s a water fountain located just outside the restrooms where you can easily refill your bottle. Find it here on Amazon
March Flies
March flies are large-eyed, stout-bodied insects that range in size from 6 to 25 mm. In Australia, there are more than 200 species, which are also referred to as horse flies or tabanids. The females of the majority of March fly species bite their prey painfully with their piercing mouthparts before consuming a blood meal.
What time of year do March flies emerge?
Although march flies are typically present throughout the year, they can experience significant seasonal jumps in abundance, with peaks typically occurring after the wet season. March flies are blood-feeding insects that can reduce productivity when present in large numbers.
Why do humans get bit by March flies?
Diet and feeding. Only the female march flies bite, as is the case with the majority of biting flies, as they require blood to produce the next generation. They draw blood from their mammal hosts using their powerful, needle-like mouthparts.
In Australia, what is the best way to handle March fly bites?
“Although they will hurt from a typical bite, he advised using cold packs and over-the-counter antihistamines to soothe the symptoms. The warning reads, “However, you should seek urgent medical assistance if you do have a more serious reaction.”
What works best as a natural deterrent to March flies?
Although eucalyptus oil is a fantastic alternative, you can also use essential oils like lavender, citrus, pine, clove, peppermint, and thyme. Since most flies detest these aromas, the oils will serve as a fly deterrent.
As night falls, where do March flies go?
A fly that is tired will look for a secure location to sleep before dusk. Some of their preferred hiding spots are the undersides of leaves, twigs, and branches, as well as in thick grass or under rocks. In order to protect them from the wind, rain, and cold, they require a cozy spot to sleep.
What relieves the itch from fly bites?
Treatment.
To speed up the healing process and lessen itching, you can directly apply hydrocortisone or calamine lotion to the bites.
Aloe vera and oatmeal baths can both relieve itching.
You should visit a doctor if you have chronic sores or ulcers.
Why do they go by the name March flies?
Tropical species can be found throughout the year. To put it another way, March flies don’t just show up in March. The common name may have originated from the northern hemisphere’s March flies, which may come during the northern spring.
How to protect yourself at the beach?
In large enough numbers, these flies can make beach going downright unpleasant. But there are ways to protect yourself. Wearing vertical stripes confuses them, and thicker clothes are harder to bite through. Put a towel over your body while you nap.
Echidna’s on the track
I saw two Echidna’s on the track, but they were totally different, the first one was easily scared and I couldn’t get close before it moved off into the bushland. The other one was super friendly and didn’t care at all about what I was doing, so I was able to get really close to this echidna and capture some incredible images and videos. It was happy to keep discovering ants and termites. It must be accustomed to humans using the track since I approached fairly carefully and quietly and it showed no signs of fear.
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Echidna
About Echidna:
Echidnas are monotremes coated in quills that are members of the Tachyglossidae family, also known as spiny anteaters. The only remaining mammal members of the order Monotremata that lay eggs are the four current species of echidnas and the platypus.
What do Echidna’s eat?
It’s favorite foods are termites and ants, which is why the animal is frequently referred to as a “spiny anteater.” Yet, the echidna also consumes earthworms, beetles, and moth larvae.
Why do they have spines?
When predators attack, the echidna’s main line of defence is these spines. They will either dig themselves to safety or wrap up into a ball of radiating spines to protect themselves when threatened. Echidnas have shorter fur to keep them warm in addition to having spines all over them.
What’s the environment like for echidnas?
The Echidna typically lives in open heathland, forests, woodlands, scrublands, and grasslands. It may sometimes hide in hollow logs or among plants. They frequently find cover under bushes or in the ground when the weather is bad. While they prefer to avoid high temperatures, echidnas are more likely to be spotted in the early morning or late evening.
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The first two pictures below look like rocks but they are the echidna on the track.
I stayed on the right-side track that runs parallel to the shore in the photo below with the arrow.
The path I was on changed into a narrower path that ran parallel to the inlet beach. Many Tee trees covered the path, so I had to climb over them or duck under them to pass. Observe the arrows in the images below.
This was the view of Andersons Inlet when the sun came out. I felt like I was on a tropical island in the middle of nowhere.
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The inlet turned a lovely shade of blue when the sun came out.
The photos below are the end part of the track. The photo on the bottom right with the arrow is where the track ended and came down onto the sand dunes.
This is a panorama of the sand dunes and inlet. On the left hand side is the ocean which you can hear with the inlet on the right hand side.
The day that I did the walk was at the start of February, I was really lucky that it wasn’t windy or cold
The sand dunes just went on forever, I was already pretty tired so I didn’t go all the way up to where the inlet meets the ocean.
The beaches were really nice and you have the whole place to yourself at Point Smythe.
Views of Point Smythe, and the inlet.
Some more pictures of the inlet, on the other side of the water is Inverloch and it’s beaches.
I love the clouds in the photo below looking at Andersons Inlet again.
Coast Pictures:
The photo below was taken on the Bass Highway near Bourne Creek Trestle Bridge just outside of Kilcunda town.
The photo’s below was taken at Powlett River which was on Mouth Of Powlett Road, it was a dirt road.
Packing suggestions for Venus Bay: Bushwalking to Point Smythe
Sunscreen: With a potent SPF but without the oily sensation of other sunscreens, it’s a game-changer when you’re out in the sun, especially on those active, sunny days! Take a look here on… Amazon
A reliable Rain Jacket: North Face. It’s a must-have in our backpack! This North Face jacket ensures you stay dry while also feeling comfortably warm (unlike many others that can make you feel like you’re in a sauna). Find it here on… Amazon
Mosquitoes Spray: Ideal for repelling mosquitoes and other insects. Explore it on… Amazon
Day Pack: Osprey Talon 22: Ideal for walks to store water bottle, sunscreen and is lightweight. Check on Amazon
Hiking Boots: Merrell Moab: For men and women. Check them out on Amazon
Reusable water bottle: To steer clear of disposable plastic, take a look at them on… Amazon
Sunhat: Aqua Classic represents a technically refined, sun-protective swim fabric resistant to chlorine and saltwater, featuring a modest 4-way stretch. It’s lightweight, quick-drying, and exceptionally comfortable. Check them out on Amazon Amazon This one is waterproof and is for both women and men Amazon
Band Aid: I always carry a pack of band aid when walking for blisters and cuts. Check them out on Amazon
Nikon Coolpix P950 Camera: This camera is my go-to for capturing photos and shooting 4K videos of wildlife. Check them out on Amazon
Nikon Coolpix P950 Camera Bundle: This camera bundle includes Triple Battery + Deco Gear Backpack Bag Case + Filter Kit + Photo Video Software and Accessories, all with the same camera model. Check them out on Amazon
Compact Camera: The Sony DSC-HX99 is a versatile and powerful compact camera. With its 18.2 MP sensor and a remarkable 24-720mm zoom range, capturing both wide-angle landscapes and distant subjects is effortless. Its 4K video capability ensures stunning video quality, while the touchpad provides intuitive control. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or a traveler seeking a compact yet feature-rich camera, the DSC-HX99 delivers exceptional performance for capturing high-resolution images and videos in various settings. Check them out on Amazon
Binoculars: The MIQXUAS Night Vision Binoculars offer impressive performance for various activities like stargazing, bird watching, concerts, sports events, sightseeing, and hunting. With a 60X60 magnification power and a range of up to 10,000 meters, these binoculars deliver excellent clarity and detailed visuals. The waterproof design ensures durability and reliability in various weather conditions.
Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, these binoculars provide a clear view even in low-light environments. However, while they offer night vision capabilities, the quality might not match higher-end specialized night vision devices. The included carrying bag adds convenience for portability.
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First Aid Kit: This tool is ideal for extended hikes and overnight stays in the wilderness, equipped with a torch, camping knife, fire starter, light stick, wire saw, and a Paracord bracelet featuring a fire scrapper, whistle, and compass. Check them out on Amazon
First Aid Kit: I opt for this one during short hikes, as it’s smaller and fits more comfortably in my backpack. Check them out on Amazon
Venus Bay
Public Toilets:
There are public toilets at the end of Fishermans Rd, Venus Bay Victoria 3956, Australia and Jupiter Boulevard Park, 126A Jupiter Blvd, Venus Bay VIC 3956 Australia.
Places to get food:
If you are hungry after doing the walk check out:
The Bay Gourmet 127-129 Jupiter Blvd, Venus Bay VIC 3956 Hours: Wednesday Closed, Monday to Sunday 7:30am to 3:30pm Phone: (03) 5663 7227 thebaygourmet.
4shore Pizza & Pasta 121 Jupiter Blvd, Venus Bay VIC 3956 Hours: Monday and Tuesday Closed, Wednesday and Thursday 5pm to 8:30pm, Friday and Saturday 4pm to 9pm, Sunday 5pm to 8pm Phone: (03) 5663 7500 4shorepizza.
Agapi Fish & Chips 112 Jupiter Blvd, Venus Bay VIC 3956 Hours: Monday and Tuesday Closed, Wednesday 4pm to 8pm, Thursday 11am to 8pm, Friday and Saturday 11am to 8:30pm, Sunday 11am to 8pm Phone: (03) 5663 7743 agapifishandchips
The Bird & The Wolf Cafe 43 River Dr, Tarwin Lower VIC 3956 Hours: Monday-Sunday 8am to 3pm Phone: 0488 324 507 TheBirdAndTheWolf
Cavity 114 Jupiter Blvd, Venus Bay VIC 3956 Hours: Monday to Sunday 11am to 11pm Phone: (03) 5663 7348 cavityrestaurant
Inverloch: Places around Venus Bay
Inverloch is a great place to visit Eagles Nest, Shack Bay, Twin Reefs, Flat Rocks- Dinosaur Dreaming Fossil Site, The Oaks which are all only 12 minutes drive from Inverloch
Public toilets:
1 Ramsey Blvd, Inverloch VIC 3996
163 Surf Parade, Inverloch VIC 3996
13 The Esplanade, Inverloch VIC 3996
Places to get food:
The Bayside Lady 19 Abeckett St, Inverloch VIC 3996 Hours: Monday and Tuesday Closed, Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 8pm Phone: (03) 56742259
Pearl Inverloch 5 Lindsey Cl, Inverloch VIC 3996 Hours: Sunday and Monday Closed, Tuesday to Saturday 5pm to 9:30pm Phone: 0493 136 351 pearlinverloch
Tomo’s Japanese Inverloch 1/23 Abeckett St, Inverloch VIC 3996 Hours: Sunday and Monday Closed, Tuesday 6pm to 8pm, Wednesday and Thursday Lunch 12pm to 2pm Dinner 6pm to 8pm, Friday and Saturday Lunch 12pm to 2pm Dinner 6pm to 9pm Phone: (03) 5674 3444 tomos-japanese
Vaughans Cafe and Deli 10 Abeckett St, Inverloch VIC 3996 Hours: Monday to Sunday 7am to 4:30pm Phone: (03) 5674 6877
Lime and Co Cantina 10G Abeckett St, Inverloch VIC 3996 Hours: Monday Closed, Tuesday to Friday Lunch 11am to 2:30pm Dinner 4:30pm to 8pm, Saturday Lunch 10:30am to 2:30pm Dinner 4:30pm to 8pm, Sunday Lunch 10:30am to 2:30pm Phone: (03) 5674 6151 limeandco
MK Thai 4A Ramsey Blvd, Inverloch VIC 3996 Hours: Monday Closed, Tuesday to Sunday 5:00pm to 8:30pm Phone: (03) 5674 2515 mkthai
The Chutney Bar 16A William Street, Inverloch, Gippsland VIC 3996 Hours: Monday Closed, Tuesday to Thursday 5pm to 9:30pm, Friday and Saturday 5pm to 10pm, Sunday 5pm to 9:30pm Phone: (03) 5674 6999 chutneybar
The Local Inverloch 3/2-4 Williams St, Inverloch VIC 3996 Hours: Monday to Sunday 6am to 1pm thelocalinverloch
New Inverloch Palace 2 Abeckett St, Inverloch VIC 3996 Hours: Monday Closed, Tuesday to Sunday 12pm to 11pm Phone: (03) 5639 2699
Inverloch Fish & Chips 4A Ramsey Blvd, Inverloch VIC 3996 Hours: Tuesday Closed, Monday to Sunday 11am to 8pm Phone: (03) 5674 1175 inverlochfishchips
Invy Kebabs 20A Abeckett St, Inverloch VIC 3996 Hours: Monday to Sunday 11am to 8pm Phone: 0460 959 241
Inlet Fish & Chips 4 Abeckett St, Inverloch VIC 3996 Hours: Monday to Sunday 11am to 8pm Phone: (03) 5674 1820
Paradise Pizza & Cafe 2 Ramsey Blvd, Inverloch VIC 3996 Hours: Sunday Closed, Monday to Saturday 5pm to 8pm Phone: (03) 5674 6995
Paul The Pieman Bakeries 5 Abet St, Inverloch VIC 3996 Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:30am to 4:30 p.m. Phone: (03) 5674 1722 paulthepieman
Accomodation in Inverloch:
Motel on A’Beckett 24 Abeckett St, Inverloch VIC 3996,Phone: (03) 5674 1311 motelonabeckett
RACV Inverloch Resort 70 Cape Paterson-Inverloch Rd, Inverloch VIC 3996, Phone: (03) 5674 0000 racv
BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Inverloch 2 Cuttriss St, Inverloch VIC 3996, Phone: (03) 5674 1447 ingeniaholidays
Eugenies 16 Ramsey Blvd, Inverloch VIC 3996, Phone: 0439 343 843 eugeniesinverloch
Inverloch Central Motor Inn 32-34 Abeckett St, Inverloch VIC 3996, Phone: (03) 5674 3500 inverlochcentralmotorinn
Inverloch Motel 39 Powlett St, Inverloch VIC 3996, Phone: (03) 5610 2155
Inverloch Cabins 18 Williams St, Inverloch VIC 3996, Phone: (03) 5674 1217
Broadbeach Inverloch 5 Lindsey Cl, Inverloch VIC 3996, Phone: (03) 5674 6290 broadbeachinverloch
The Inverloch Glamping Co 80 Drowleys Rd, Inverloch VIC 3996, Phone: 0400 168 240 theinverlochglamping
DriftAway Inverloch 130 Surf Parade, Inverloch VIC 3996, Phone: 0417 518 260 driftawayinverloch
Eyrie by the Inlet 13 Townsend Bluff Rd, Inverloch VIC 3996, Phone: 0409 526 379 eyriebytheinlet
This list has come to an end, however if you’re interested in hiking or waterfalls, check out my other entries.
If you have any other suggestions on places to visit please leave comments below the post.
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