Just off the coast of Phillip Island, Churchill Island Heritage Farm is a special family-friendly destination where you can step back in time into Australia’s pioneering past. This private island, accessible by a concrete bridge, is a living museum of Australia’s early European settlement. Managed by Phillip Island Nature Park, Churchill Island has stunning scenery and lots of hands-on experiences: walks, historic gardens and plenty of space to get back to nature. Watch traditional sheep shearing and see native wildlife, families, history buffs and nature lovers.
History of Island
Churchill Island has a special place in Australian history. It was one of the first sites of European settlement in Victoria, marked by Lieutenant James Grant’s visit in 1801. Grant planted the first European crops in the area and established what would become the heart of farming and community life. Today, the island’s heritage buildings, the Amess House and other historic cottages have been restored. These buildings and the European-style gardens will transport you back in time and allow you to step into the shoes of the early Australian settlers.
The care and maintenance of this working farm is managed by the Churchill Island Society, a group of passionate people who keep the island’s history alive. They ensure every visitor can experience a taste of Australia’s pioneering past, agricultural activities, historic gardens and traditional farming methods. Whether you like the historic buildings or the museum spaces the island has a special connection to Australia’s agricultural heritage.
Daily Farming Activities
One of the best bits of visiting Churchill Island is getting up close to the farm animals, from baby animals in the nursery to the majestic highland cattle. Watch daily farming activities, sheep shearing demonstrations and cow milking. These activities give an insight into the traditional skills of the early settlers while following animal welfare guidelines so the farm animals are well looked after. See skilled farm hands, sheep, and working dogs in action, a highlight for families and a taste of country life.
Animal feeding is another activity where visitors of all ages can get up close and personal with the farm animals, horned cattle and blackface sheep. The farm’s animal welfare policy ensures all interactions are safe and enriching for both visitors and animals. A great family friendly destination for kids who will love seeing the cute animals and getting involved in farm activities.
Scenic Walks and Natural Attractions
Churchill Island has amazing views and walking tracks that showcase the island’s natural beauty. There are several walks that take you through different landscapes, from green spaces to coastal paths with ocean views of the bay and French Island. Bay walks have lovely gardens, historic gardens, and even Moonah trees that are twisted and turned so that you can experience the island’s biodiversity. Along the way, you can spot Australian native wildlife like Cape Barren Geese, Royal Spoonbills and Pied Oyster Catchers, which are often seen on the tracks.
These walks are accessible to all, with gravel paths and mobility access for wheelchairs and strollers so everyone can enjoy the views. Whether you are starstruck by the views from Tortoise Head or enchanted by the greenery, Churchill Island’s walks let you sit back and soak up the serenity and take in the views.
Historic Gardens and Heritage Buildings
The historic gardens on Churchill Island are a work of art in themselves, combining European gardening with the raw beauty of Australia. These heritage gardens are beautifully designed with flower beds, native plants and iconic twisted trees that are timeless. Amess House, the hub of the island’s heritage buildings, sits amongst these gardens and gives you a glimpse into the life of the early settlers. You can wander the gardens and enjoy the natural and artistic attractions and soak up the island’s history.
Inside the heritage buildings, you will find museum spaces with a collection of antiques, tools and artefacts that tell the story of life on the island over the years. The buildings are a living representation of Australia’s agricultural history, so you can experience life as it was in the early 1800s.
Beyond the Island
Phillip Island has lots to offer so that you can fill the whole day with adventure and fun. Here are a few more:
Penguin Parade: See the world-famous Penguin Parade at Phillip Island Nature Park. Get up close to one of the largest penguin colonies as they come ashore at sunset, a sight for all ages.
Phillip Island Wildlife Park: For more wildlife see the Phillip Island Wildlife Park where you can see koalas and various bird species.
Phillip Island Chocolate Factory: Treat yourself at the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory, a family-friendly attraction where you can learn about chocolate making and taste the goodies.
Tickets, Entry Fees, Accessibility
Churchill Island has an entry fee to help preserve this working farm. Adult entry tickets get you access to farm activities, heritage buildings and walking tracks. There are various ticket types to choose from, including family packages and ticket upgrades for nearby attractions like the Penguin Parade. Tickets can be purchased at the Visitor Centre, where friendly staff at the Enquiry Desk can help with directions and daily activity schedules and answer any questions.
Overseas visitors, please note that some transactions may incur a small credit card fee when using overseas cards.
Food and Drink
The Visitor Centre has hot drinks, snacks, and light meals, so it’s a great place to stop, rest, and refuel before you head out to explore more of the island. There are also picnic areas if you’d like to bring your own food and eat in the beautiful gardens of the island.
Churchill Island is accessible by public transport from Melbourne and Phillip Island. Buses run to the Phillip Island Ferry Dock, and there’s parking near the concrete bridge if you’re driving. The island is family-friendly and has mobility options, including all-vehicle bridge access so that everyone can enjoy this piece of history.
Visitor Comments and Reviews
When planning your visit, check out what other travellers are saying to get an idea of the most popular mentions and experiences on Churchill Island. The reviews here are moderated to filter out subjective opinions and focus on descriptive and informative feedback. Many visitors mention the views, lovely farm animals and historical gardens. Look out for popular mentions of baby animals, family activities and natural attractions, which are often mentioned in reviews.
Summary
Churchill Island Heritage Farm is a treasure of Phillip Island Nature Park, where you can step back in time and experience Australia’s pioneering past and the charm of a traditional farm with stunning views. With daily farm activities, beautiful gardens, and heritage buildings, the island has the essence of rural Australia. Perfect for families, nature lovers, and history buffs, a Phillip Island tour including Churchill Island offers the opportunity to live life as it did in early European settlement Australia. Relax, immerse yourself, and take home memories that will bring this historic island to life.
FAQ
What are the hours for Churchill Island Heritage Farm?
Churchill Island is open daily, public holidays and school holidays. Check the Phillip Island Nature Park website for times.
Are there entry fees, and what do they include?
Yes, there is an entry fee for farm activities, walking trails, and museum spaces. Ticket upgrades for extra attractions like the Penguin Parade are available.
Is there public transport to Churchill Island?
Yes, Churchill Island is accessible by public transport, buses from Melbourne and Phillip Island to the ferry and nearby attractions.
What’s for kids?
Animal feeding, daily farm activities and baby animals galore!
Is there food on Churchill Island?
Visitor Centre café has hot and cold drinks and snacks and picnic areas to bring your own.