Philip Island

We spent a couple of days exploring Phillip Island.  It's named after Arthur Phillip, the first Govenor of New South Wales, and it forms a natural breakwater for the waters of the Western Port.  It's approximately 26km long and 9km wide.  A concrete bridge connects the mainland to the island.  60% of the island is farmland devoted to the grazing of sheep and cattle.  The island is a tourist destination which attracts about 3.5 million people a year.  Many come to see the little penguins, at least we did!  Also, dolphins, and a variety of migratory whales can be seen at certain times of the year.  Phillip Island is also steeped in the history of Australian motor racing, and is a venue for the Superbike World Championship, V8 Supercars, and the Australian Drivers' Championship.

                                         Fairly large birds.

                                          One shy penguin.  The rest are out at sea.

                                        A natural penguin burrow.

                                             The beach in the town of Cowes on the island.