We have just returned from an enjoyable trip to Victor Harbor, located approximately 80 km south of

Adelaide on the picturesque Fleurieu Peninsula. Whether you are looking to relax on endless pristine

beaches, take in the picturesque landscape, enjoy world class cuisine at countless cafes and restaurants, or

engage in the many activities on offer, this is definitely one place to consider for your next trip away.

We flew into Goolwa (YGWA), a delightful,

friendly, country airfield 3NM from the

historic river township and a short 15 minute

drive to Victor Harbor. Goolwa airfield has one

main sealed airstrip, plus three other grass

strips to cater for the often variable prevailing

winds that frequent the Peninsula.

AVGAS is available. They are also an agent for Europcar, so you can book a rental to pick up directly from

the airfield. YGWA is very active with all types of aviation and skydiving, so it is important for pilots to

familiarise themselves with the procedures prior to use. (Refer: www.goolwaairport.com.au)

Goolwa township is located at the mouth of the Murray, Australia’s

longest river, and was established in 1857 as Australia’s first inland

port. Riverboats would offload their cargo here, where it was

transported by steam train to Victor Harbor for export via ocean

going ships worldwide.

You can still enjoy a scenic train ride from Victor Harbor to Goolwa

along the original rail route. The normal diesel electric engine is often

replaced with an original steam engine. During our trip, we were privileged to even see a whale repeatedly

porpoising in Encounter Bay; as if to put on a special show for us train passengers.

TRIP TO THE

MURRAY

RIVER MOUTH

A trip to Victor Harbor would not be

complete without taking the historic horse

drawn tram across the causeway to

Granite Island.

The views from the walking track around

Granite Island are spectacular. We came

across an abundance of bird, marine and

wild life, including stumpy tailed lizards,

and a seal playing close to the shore.

Granite Island is also home to a small

colony of rare wild Little Penguins, which

can be seen by joining a guided evening

tour.

Several boat day tours operate from here,

offering spectacular views of the islands

and the coastline, including whale

watching during June to September.

A short round trip to Adelaide provides the

opportunity to take in some beautiful

scenery through the South Mount Lofty

Ranges and fertile valley of McLaren Vale,

then return via the coastal route dropping

into the plethora of beaches along the

way.

We flew from Richmond to Goolwa with a stopover

to refuel at Mildura (YMIA). The café in the terminal

building is usually open to cater for the frequent

RPT’s. The café offers a 10% discount if you show

your ASIC.

Remember the access code on the exit gate for your

return airside.

Keep a good lookout for traffic from the glider field

2NM SSW of YMIA Airfield, particularly on

weekends.

Contacts & Further Details:

Goolwa (YGWA) – Refer ERSA & www.goolwaairport.com.au. Call the airport operators on 08 8555 4030.

0427812422, 0415470240. You will find them very helpful.

Car Rental Booking Goolwa Airport – Europcar 08 83982134, www.europcar.com.au

Any other questions – please do not hesitate to contact me – David Hill (Owner FJF)