The Otways

The Otways Galleries and Museums

Galleries, Museums and Historical Venues in and around the Region of Otways - Victoria, Australia.

The Otways region in Victoria is a beautiful natural landscape with towering forests and winding roads. Nestled in and around the region are a plethora of galleries, museums and historical venues that offer visitors a unique insight into the local culture and history. In this article, we will categorize, list and describe each site and provide location details, so you can easily plan your next trip to the region.

Galleries:
1. Red Rock Gallery - Located in Cororooke, this contemporary art gallery focuses on showing works from established and emerging artists. Exhibiting pieces ranging from paintings, sculptures, photography and mixed media, Red Rock Gallery is a must-visit for all art lovers.

2. Lorne Sculpture Biennale - Taking place every two years, the Lorne Sculpture Biennale is a spectacular arts festival for everyone to enjoy. It features large-scale outdoor sculptures, installations and site-specific works from Australian and international artists. The event is located across various locations in and around Lorne.

3. Qdos Arts - Situated in Lorne, Qdos Arts is an artist-run gallery that highlights local and international artists. Along with the gallery, it features a sculpture park and a restaurant serving delicious food while visitors enjoy art exhibitions.

Museums:
1. Otway Coast Heritage Centre - Managed by the Apollo Bay Museum, the Otway Coast Heritage Centre showcases the history of the region from the First Nations people to the present-day farmers and fishermen. It also houses a large collection of local maritime artifacts that tell the story of the development of the Apollo Bay Port.

2. Camperdown and District Historical Society Museum - Located in Camperdown, the Camperdown and District Historical Society Museum displays the rich history of the area, including stories about Aboriginal people, European exploration and early settlement in the district. It boasts an extensive collection of war memorabilia, including a rare World War I stretcher.

3. Great Ocean Road Heritage Centre - Situated in Lorne, the Great Ocean Road Heritage Centre showcases the story of how the Great Ocean Road was constructed. Visitors can learn about the people, the technology and the hardships endured during the building of one of Australia's most famous roads.

Historical Venues:
1. Cape Otway Lightstation - Established in 1848, the Cape Otway Lightstation is the oldest surviving lighthouse on the mainland of Australia. Located at the point where Bass Strait meets the Southern Ocean, the lighthouse offers visitors stunning views of the ocean and rugged coastline. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse, visit the Telegraph Station and learn about the history of the lighthouse keepers.

2. Birregurra Courthouse - Built-in 1891, the Birregurra Courthouse provides visitors with a glimpse into the judicial system of the past. It has been restored to its former glory, complete with a courtroom, judge's chambers and more. Tours are available for the public.

3. Colac Botanic Gardens - Established in 1868, the Colac Botanic Gardens is a beautiful venue with a rich history. Visitors are welcomed to stroll the picturesque parklands and enjoy the many varieties of flora and fauna on display. The Gardens also feature a rotunda, bandstand, lily pond and children's playground.

Conclusion:
The Otways region has so much to offer visitors. From galleries showcasing contemporary art, to museums documenting the rich history of the area, to historical venues that take visitors on a journey through time, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your visit and immerse yourself in the culture and history of the Otways region.