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:
