As an area with plenty to do outside, Bairnsdale has a great variety of shops selling quality outdoor clothing and equipment. So, whether you like surfing, camping, fishing or anything else, you’ll find what you need in Bairnsdale.
Visitors can enjoy horse riding nearby, while there’s also plenty of opportunity for fishing, with the Mitchell River and various lakes and rivers in the vicinity. The Mitchell River National Park also provides the opportunity to visit the mysterious Den of Nargun. According to Aboriginal Dreamtime stories, the Nargun was a half-stone, half-human female creature with the power to repel and turn back spears and stones.
Meanwhile, tours can also be enjoyed on the Bataluk Cultural Trail, where you can learn about Koorie history and culture. The Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place also houses various artefacts and history on the Gunai/Kurnai people of East Gippsland. Alternatively, why not drive along the Twin Rivers Food and Wine Trail, cycle along the East Gippsland Rail Trail from Bairnsdale to Nowa Nowa, or head for the Great Alpine Road?
No matter what your interests, there’s plenty to do and see in Bairnsdale, with brochures available on all the local attractions from the local visitor information centre. Popular seasonal events also include the Bairnsdale Country Music Festival in March and the Bairnsdale Cup in September.