Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is located in southwestern Victoria near the town of Warrnambool. It is a dormant volcanic crater that has been transformed into a major conservation area and wildlife reserve. The reserve, created within the remnants of an ancient volcano’s caldera, features crater lakes, volcanic scoria cones, and native bushland. Diverse ecosystems within the reserve support a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, koalas, and numerous bird species such as Australian magpies and the rare orange-bellied parrot. The site holds cultural significance for the Gunditjmara people, the Traditional Owners of the land, with ongoing collaborations to conserve both natural and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore interpretive walking trails that circle and cross the crater, providing opportunities to view native flora and fauna, as well as lookout points offering panoramic views of the region. The reserve is open year-round and provides picnic facilities, a visitor center, and guided tours to educate visitors about volcanic formations and local wildlife. Tower Hill’s mix of geological features, ecological diversity, and Indigenous heritage make it a notable destination for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and families seeking outdoor recreation close to the coast.
