Take it West

Melbourne’s Neighbourhoods Take it West

Some of these suburbs have long flown under the radar. Now’s the time to seek them out and explore at will.

Bayside Brilliance 12

You might think you know Melbourne well, but have you ever explored Wyndham Harbour? Built around the city’s newest marina on the north-western shores of Port Phillip Bay, it’s the perfect spot to spend a little time by the water. Being part of Werribee South, it’s also only 10 minutes from Werribee Park if you want to combine a visit to both. Stroll around the marina, before taking a seat at one of the harbourside eateries – 3030 Boulevard is a local favourite. Tuck into pizzas and gourmet hotdogs, along with a cocktail, at the outdoor tables. Alternatively, grab fish and chips from Sam’s Catch and find a spot with a view. Arriving at Wyndham Harbour in July is some fun for everyone, with the opening of a new adventure golf course. This fun family activity was designed to complement the landscape and offers views of the city across the bay. +wyndhamharbour.com.au +3030boulevard.com +Sam’s Catch, 50 Quay Boulevard, Werribee South

Walk Around Werribee 13

Everyone loves Werribee Open Range Zoo, where visitors can travel the ‘savannah’ in a safari vehicle while they spot rhinoceros, giraffes and other animals. But there’s plenty more to do in the suburb. Explore street art murals on the self-guided Werribee Public Art Tour. At each stop, use a QR code and your smartphone to hear each artist talk about their work. When you’re done, stop by Tocca for all your favourite Italian dishes, from chicken saltimbocca to all manner of wood-fired pizzas. +zoo.org.au/werribee +wyndham.vic.gov.au/arttour +tocca.melbourne

Werribee Public Art Tour

Flying High in Point Cook 14

After a lengthy closure, the newly renovated RAAF Museum at Point Cook reopened in June. This is the birthplace of Australia’s air force, with the Point Cook RAAF Base established back in 1913. That history has offered ample opportunity to build an impressive collection of aircraft, including a rare Tiger Moth A17-711 from 1942. The new iteration of the museum promises a more interactive and immersive experience, with large multimedia and touch screens. +airforce.gov.au/raaf-museum

Werribee Open Range Zoo

Take an African adventure, right around the corner. Just 30 minutes from the city, you can jump aboard the included safari bus to adventure across an open savannah. Spot giraff es, rhinoceros, zebras and more. Wander the African Trail to come face to face with lions, meerkats and the western lowland gorillas. Then explore the Australian Trail where you can spot koalas, kangaroos and emus. Kids visit free on weekends and school holidays. Train & Bus: Werribee Line to Werribee station then Bus 439 to Werribee South Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm K Road, Werribee t 1300 966 784 w zoo.org.au/werribee