Living in south west Victoria

Warrnambool is the largest city in south-west Victoria, located 265 kilometres west of Melbourne at the end of the Great Ocean Road.  It has a population of 35,000 and a thriving commercial and retail economy.

Things to do
The lifestyle in Warrnambool is relaxed, safe and friendly.  Because it is a relatively small city, it is easy to find your way around.  Public transport and taxicabs make transport easy and inexpensive.

Students are encouraged to participate in activities outside of their studies.  This will contribute to a student’s wellbeing, make the stay more enjoyable and provide the opportunity to learn more about Australia and make new friends.

Wide ranges of cultural, sporting and social activities are available. Warrnambool has a large indoor pool complex, gymnasium, movie theatres, nightclubs and hotels, performing arts and music venues and a wide variety of sporting clubs and facilities.

The beautiful coast and countryside of south-west Victoria has many attractions, including wildlife parks and reserves where Australian birds and animals can be seen in their natural bush environment or the magnificent coastal scenery, beach-walking, fishing, surfing and other water sports.

Melbourne, the capital city of Victoria, can be visited by train or car.  The trip takes around three and a half hours.

Students will also be introduced to some favourite Aussie pastimes such as a weekend barbeque or a football or cricket match.

Southern Right Whales visit Warrnambool to breed during the winter months of June to September.  The whales can be viewed from Warrnambool’s beaches.

Useful links
www.warrnamboolcam.com/whales.htm
www.parkweb.vic.gov.au/1park_display.cfm?park=200
www.visitgrampians.com.au
www.otwayfly.com
www.greatoceanrd.org.au/highlights/apostles
www.visitvictoria.com

                       
Climate
Warrnambool has a temperate climate.  Winters are cool and wet, with an average temperature of 13 degrees Celsius.  Summers are warm.  January and February are the hottest months, with temperatures averaging 25 degrees, sometimes reaching into the 40s.  The weather is changeable, so warm clothes are needed at all times of the year.

Useful links
www.bom.gov.au