Churchill Island

Churchill Island is a picturesque place to discover, with quaint cottages in pretty gardens, manicured lawns, and coastal vistas offering beautiful views of Phillip Island and the surrounding countryside. At the centre of it all is a beautifully restored farmhouse that allows visitors to step back in time and discover what life was like on this lovely little island.

A visit to Churchill Island, located near Phillip Island, provides guests with a tranquil experience, with plenty of open space for relaxing hikes and the opportunity to breathe fresh air. On weekends, beginning at 9 a.m., enjoy an excellent farm breakfast in the café while taking in the quiet views of Frenchman’s Island from the terrace. As an alternative, treat yourself to a cup of coffee.

The island, known as Munari by the Bunurong people, the region’s traditional caretakers, has a long and varied indigenous history. When tourists cross the bridge to the island, they are greeted with Cape Barren geese, peaceful purple boobies, and curious highland cattle lying on beautiful fields. A Phillip Island tour from Melbourne offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in this rich cultural and natural landscape. Following European colonisation, Churchill Island was used for various purposes, including farming, vegetable gardening, and a summer retreat for the wealthy.

The Victorian gardens, which are a result of this historical background, are now carefully preserved for visitors to enjoy leisurely walks. Visitors to the farm can participate in various daily farming tasks like shearing sheep, working with dogs, milking cows, and whipping. Afterwards, you can take a leisurely walk around the island to admire the beautiful views of Western Port Bay.

Visitors may explore historical monuments and see farming operations, enjoy the quiet vistas along the bay pathways, go bird watching, or relax on a café patio with a nice beverage.

Visiting Churchill Island offers a glimpse into the past

The island’s historical appeal keeps visitors coming back again and again. Playing a pivotal role in Victoria’s history of European settlement, it was the site of the first agricultural operations in the state, starting in the mid-1800s. In addition to this title, it has the privilege of hosting Victoria’s first European-style garden, making it a top destination for weddings.

Things to Do on Churchill Island

Amess House and other heritage buildings

Samuel Amess House, built in 1872, served as a holiday home for the former mayor of Melbourne, Samuel Amess, who was also a stonemason. Amess is known to have built several monuments around Melbourne and earned enough money to make his holiday home on picturesque Churchill Island. Today, the house has been restored to its 1870s glory thanks to the National Trust, which has provided period furniture to decorate it so visitors can experience life in the late 1800s on this tiny island.

Heritage cottages are also on display; one belongs to the Rogers family, pioneer farmers. Their home dates back to 1862, making it one of the oldest on Phillip Island.

Visitor Centre

With an exhibit filled with fascinating historical information and a licensed café from which to enjoy beautiful views, the Visitor Centre is a must-see on any visit to the island. Lunch here is a favourite spot for visitors to enjoy wine while soaking up the sunshine.

Walking routes

The picturesque landscape of Churchill Island is ideal for walking and hiking. The coastal trails offer breathtaking views and scenery. A walk to the island from neighbouring Cape Woolamai reveals dense forests, extensive wetlands, bays and local flora and fauna.

Island markets

On the last Saturday of every month, the island comes alive with a local market. You’ll find stalls selling cheese, fruit, vegetables and fresh produce. With more than 40 stalls, you’ll find a souvenir to remember you by, whether it’s a local handicraft or homemade jam!

Entertainment on the island

Churchill Island is very child-friendly. It’s a great place to let them run around, play in the grass and experience life on a farm. They can milk the cows, ride in a wagon or tractor, and get whipped. They can even see how sheep are sheared and learn about the use of working dogs on farms.

Walks on Churchill Island

Two walks on Churchill Island are suitable for families and have moderate difficulty. The first is the Churchill Island Loop, the longest of the two, about 5 kilometres long. The route takes about two hours to complete, but it is a great walk that allows you to explore the lush landscapes and wildlife of the island. The second, shorter route is the North Point Loop, a 2-km trail that can be completed in about an hour. Both routes suit strollers and bicycles, as the ground is compacted primarily with a grain of sand.

Discover the ancient Moon trees

Another reason why Churchill Island is so sacred to the traditional custodians of the land, the Bunurong people. The ancient Muna trees surrounding the island have a life expectancy of 300 to 500 years and a tragic love story. According to legend, these twisted trees were once home to a young couple from a local tribe. After they refused to divorce and join the work on the island, their tribe members banished them both. It is said that after the expulsion, the lovers froze to death while still embracing each other. It was from them that the Muna trees were born, which today are an integral and symbolic part of the island.

FAQ

Where is Churchill Island located?

Churchill Island is a small island connected by bridge to Phillip Island in Victoria, Australia, offering coastal views, heritage farms, and walking trails.

What activities can visitors do on Churchill Island?

You can explore restored heritage buildings, join daily farm activities like cow milking and sheep shearing, enjoy walking trails, birdwatch, and browse the monthly island markets.

What is the historical significance of Churchill Island?

It was the site of Victoria’s first European agricultural operations in the mid-1800s and is home to Victoria’s first European-style garden.

Are there walking trails on Churchill Island?

Yes. The 5 km Churchill Island Loop and the 2 km North Point Loop offer scenic walks suitable for families, strollers, and bicycles.

What wildlife and natural features can be seen on the island?

Visitors may spot Cape Barren geese, highland cattle, native birds, and ancient Muna trees, along with views over Western Port Bay and surrounding wetlands.

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