Churchill Island
Melbourne, Victoria, 3925
Get a glimpse into the lives of early Australian settlers and pioneer farming practices at Churchill Island. Located just off the coast of Phillip Island, Churchill Island was the first European agricultural site in Victoria. Today, it’s home to a historic working farm, the Churchill Island Heritage Farm.
The Basics
Churchill Island comprises the Churchill Island Heritage Farm, which includes a working farm, cottages dating from the 1860s, and a homestead dating from 1872. Learn about the history of the farm in the visitor center exhibition. Immerse yourself in farm life with demonstrations on pioneer farming techniques. Daily activities include cow milking, sheep shearing, whip cracking, and more. Kids will enjoy the animal nursery tour, with the chance to pet and feed select animals. There are also two main walking tracks on the island that offer great views of the Western Port.
Book your tickets ahead of time for convenience. For extra savings, book a multi-park pass that also includes Antarctic Journey, Penguin Parade, or Koala Conservation Centre, part of the Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There’s a gift shop and cafe on site.
- It’s a good idea to bring binoculars for birdwatching when going on walks around the island.
- While certain parts of the island and farm are wheelchair accessible, other areas, such as the Ames House Homestead, are not.
How to Get There
Churchill Island is accessible via Phillip Island, which is around a 90 minute drive from Melbourne. From Phillip Island, access is via the Churchill Island Bridge. You can also take the V-line bus from Southern Cross Station in Melbourne to Phillip Island. From there, you can walk to Churchill Island or take a taxi.
When to Get There
The Churchill Island Heritage Farm is open daily, with limited hours on December 25. All daily farming activities take place in the afternoon. Wagon rides are also available on weekends and holidays (weather permitting). And on the last Saturday of each month, a farmers market takes place on the island.
Phillip Island
Phillip Island is probably most famous for its resident penguins. Visitors come to see their daily parade back to the island around sunset. Visitors can also see koalas in their natural habitat at the Koala Conservation Centre, or learn more about the Antarctic environment at Nobbies Antarctic Centre. Boat cruises around the island to see seals, dolphins, and whales are also available. The island is also home to the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.
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