Lady Barron
Located on the South Coast of Flinders Island, Lady Barron is a principal tourist centre with the main boating port situated on Franklin Sound. Protected waters separate Flinders Island from the second largest island in the group, Cape Barren. Situated between these two major islands are numerous smaller ones, each with their own unique charm and history. Many of these islands are home to the remarkable Short-tailed Shearwater or mutton birds, that migrate from Alaska each year and are a strong part of the local life and culture.
Between November and May, sunset cruises leave from the Lady Barron jetty each evening to view the spectacular return of millions of Short-tailed Shearwater birds to their rookery.
Take a scenic trip across the bay, islands and shipwrecks of the area with one of the charter plane operators leaving from the local airstrip.
Lady Barron offers excellent beaches for all kinds of water sports: scuba diving, sailing, surf and game fishing. Walk along the Lady Barron Foreshore Track, from the Slipway to Yellow Beach, enjoying the coastal bush, rocky outcrops, and spectacular views. Yellow Beach boasts an ideal swimming spot as well as a free-to-use gas BBQ and overnight camping facilities, especially convenient for those arriving on a late night ferry.
Charter boats operate all year or you can simply drop a fishing line in from the local wharf. Dine at the Shearwater Restaurant or take in stunning views at the Vinegar Hill lookout. Spend a Sunday afternoon enjoying a game of tennis at the local courts before delighting in the fantastic childrens play equipment located behind the Flinders Island Aboriginal Association offices. Follow this up with a “proper” coffee and ice-cream at the Lady Barron Store, which is open 7 days and is also a Post Office.
Head west out of Lady Barron, along the Coast Road, to the magnificent Coast Road Bird Watching Platform for views across the Coastal Flats. Further along, experience the wonderful local wines of Unavale Vineyard. If you happen to visit at the right time, you can join the community in the winemaking!