Updates

Our last trip along the Wilderness Coast was between Dec 27, 2007 and Jan 4, 2008. Our group of 7 from Maroondah Bushwalking Club had a great time walking from Eden to Mallacoota.

There have not been any significant changes on the track but several things have changed regarding transport. They are detailed below.

Mini buses (Orbost, Eden & Mallacoota)

Sadly Tony Harrison of Orbost passed away last year. Tony was a great ambassador for the eco-tourism potential of the Wilderness Coast. Fortunately, Snowy River Bus Lines continues to offer a great service to groups beginning or finishing their walks near Orbost. Edwards Bus Lines in Eden have been taken over by Deans Bus Lines of Pambula. Their phone number is 02 6495 6452. The Coachman's Rest Motel in Eden also has a Mini Bus which is sometimes available. Phone: 02 6496 1900. Eden Taxi Service (02 6496 1180) also has a 12 seat mini bus. There is also Troy's Hire Drive in Pambula.

At Mallacoota Steve Waixel of Mallacoota Explorer Tours PH: 03 51 580 116 or 03 51 580 752 is available if Tony Gray is not available.

Water taxis (Wonboyn & Mallacoota)

The caravan park at Wonboyn no longer provides transport across the Lake. Fortunately, Jim O'Dyer of Wonboyn General Store is now doing this. Phone: 02 64 969 134. Simon Buckley of Mallacoota also transports groups across Mallacoota Inlet to or from Lake View on the eastern side of the inlet. Contact Simon on 03 51 580 109 or 0408408094.

Access to and from Little River campsite (Nadgee Nature Reserve)

Depending on the water level in the estuary the short traverse around the base of the rocks from the campsite to the beach can be a bit tricky with a pack. There is a 'dry feet' alternative' with starts behind the toilet. From the beach this track goes up a steep gully.

Route into Lake Barracoota

The departure point from the beach is less obvious now than in the past due to storm damage. It is still about 5-10 minutes walk east of the slight sand point opposite Tullaberga Island. People have marked it with bits of debris but a little bit of exploring without park may be needed to find it.

Mountain biking

Since writing the third edition the Rail Trail between Nowa Nowa and Orbost has been completed. It takes about 4 hours. If staying in Orbost in a good additional ride is to ride up the Rail Trail to Simpson's Creek Road. Next, follow Simpson's Creek Road then turn right again into Bete Belong Road which will take you back to Orbost.