Chiltern - Lake Anderson
Lake Anderson is a picturesque ornamental lake in the historic gold-mining town of Chiltern, surrounded by shady trees, grassy parkland and walking paths.
Located only a short stroll from Chiltern's main street, the lake is a lovely place for a picnic, fishing, birdwatching or a leisurely walk.
The lake has an interesting connection with the town's gold-rush history, having developed from ground subsidence associated with the former Alliance Gold Mine.
Lake and Walking Paths:
Lake Anderson is surrounded by attractive parkland with shady trees, open grassy areas and pleasant views across the water.
Visitors can enjoy a short stroll along the lakeside paths, with opportunities to spot ducks, waterbirds and other wildlife.
A small wooden footbridge crosses a channel near the lake, while seating and grassy areas provide places to relax and enjoy the scenery.
The lake is particularly attractive during the warmer months when the surrounding trees provide plenty of shade.
Fishing:
Lake Anderson is designated as a Family Fishing Lake by the Victorian Fisheries Authority.
The lake covers approximately two hectares and has been stocked with several fish species, including:
- Rainbow trout.
- Golden perch.
- Silver perch.
Fishing is permitted subject to Victorian recreational fishing regulations and licensing requirements.
See Victorian Fisheries Authority information.
Gold Mining History:
Lake Anderson has an unusual origin connected with Chiltern's gold-mining boom during the nineteenth century.
The lake developed in an area affected by subsidence from the underground workings of the Alliance Gold Mine.
The resulting depression became a lake and was developed as an attractive recreational area for the town.
Lake Anderson was formally opened in 1876 and is now an important feature of Chiltern's historic parkland.
The nearby Lake View House, built in 1870, overlooks the lake and was once home to the family of famous Australian author Henry Handel Richardson.
Martin Park and Playground:
The adjoining Martin Park provides additional recreational facilities for families.
Features include:
- Children's playground with shade sails.
- Sheltered barbecue facilities.
- Picnic tables and seating.
- Large grassy areas for games and picnics.
- Drinking fountain.
- Public toilets approximately 50m from the playground.
- Walking paths connecting the park and lake.
Antechinus Walking Path:
Lake Anderson is one of the highlights of the Chiltern Antechinus Walking Path.
This easy 3.7km walk starts at the historic fountain in Martin Park beside Lake Anderson and follows a series of paths through Chiltern's parks, waterways and heritage areas.
Other attractions along the route include Black Ball Dam, a swing bridge, outdoor exercise equipment and historic buildings.
The walking trail is marked with the image of a Yellow-footed Antechinus, a small native marsupial sometimes called the golden mouse.
Facilities:
- Lakeside walking paths.
- Family fishing lake.
- Open grassy areas and shady trees.
- Picnic tables.
- Nearby playground and barbecue facilities at Martin Park.
- Public toilets nearby.
- Parking.
- Walking distance to Chiltern's historic town centre.
Getting There:
Lake Anderson is located beside Lake Anderson Drive and Alliance Street, a short distance east of Chiltern's main street.
The lake can also be reached on foot through Martin Park, near the corner of Main Street and Alliance Street.
Parking is available around the recreation precinct.
Important Information:
- The lake is not a supervised swimming area and should not be treated as a designated swimming beach.
- Children should be closely supervised near the water.
- Fishing regulations and licence requirements apply.
- Check for water quality warnings or blue-green algae alerts before fishing or undertaking activities on the water.
- Take care around slippery banks and uneven ground.
- Keep the park clean and do not disturb wildlife.
Review:
Lake Anderson is a lovely little attraction in Chiltern, offering a peaceful place to relax, enjoy a picnic or take a short walk beside the water.
The lake is surrounded by attractive parkland, with shady trees, grassy areas and plenty of opportunities to watch waterbirds.
For families interested in fishing, the lake is particularly appealing because it is managed as a Family Fishing Lake and has been stocked with trout and other species.
The adjoining Martin Park adds considerably to the appeal, with a playground, barbecues, picnic tables and toilets, making the area an excellent place for a family picnic.
The lake also has an interesting history, having developed from the subsidence of the old Alliance Gold Mine. This connection with Chiltern's gold-rush past makes it more than simply a scenic lake.
Another advantage is its convenient location. The lake is only a short walk from Chiltern's historic main street and can easily be combined with the Antechinus Walking Path or a visit to the town's heritage buildings.
Lake Anderson is not a major attraction that will occupy families for an entire day, but it is a very pleasant place to stop for a picnic, enjoy some fishing or take a relaxing walk.
The combination of peaceful scenery, birdlife, historic interest and nearby playground facilities makes it a worthwhile free stop when exploring Chiltern.
Location
Lake Anderson Drive, Chiltern 3683 View Map
Web Links
→ www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au/Community/Sport-and-recreation/Playgrounds-parks-and-gardens/Martin-Park-Chiltern
