Warrnambool - Moyjil / Point Ritchie
Moyjil / Point Ritchie is a rocky headland on the western side of the Hopkins River mouth, with panoramic views across the river estuary, basalt reef, Lady Bay and the Southern Ocean. Lookout paths, viewing areas and interpretive signs explore the site's Aboriginal cultural heritage, geology and natural environment.
Moyjil is an important Aboriginal place containing shell middens dating back many thousands of years. Aboriginal people visited the area to collect shellfish from the ocean and eels and other food from the Hopkins River.
Shell deposits and fire-blackened stones found at Moyjil have also been the subject of continuing archaeological and geological research. Some deposits may be much older than the recognised Aboriginal middens, although researchers have not reached agreement about whether the oldest material provides evidence of human activity.
The headland overlooks a basalt reef and the mouth of the Hopkins River. Southern right whales may occasionally be seen offshore during winter and spring, while seals can sometimes be observed among the kelp.
Features include:
- Panoramic views across the Hopkins River estuary and Southern Ocean
- Views west across Lady Bay towards the Warrnambool Breakwater
- Aboriginal cultural heritage and geological interpretation
- Ancient shell middens and protected cultural material
- Basalt reef, rocky shoreline and coastal dunes
- Several lookout points
- Connection to the Warrnambool Foreshore Promenade
- Car parking at the end of Point Ritchie Road
- Paved walking paths from the car park
- Interpretive signs
- Seats along the paths
- Fenced lookout and cultural-heritage protection areas
Some paved sections between the car park and lookout points are suitable for wheelchairs. Other sections include natural and uneven coastal surfaces.
Moyjil / Point Ritchie is protected by an Ongoing Protection Declaration under the Aboriginal Heritage Act. Visitors must remain on formal paths, obey signs and fencing, and not touch, remove or disturb shells, rocks, soil or other cultural material. Keep away from the high, undercut cliffs.
Access for Dogs:
Moyjil is within the designated off-leash area on the western side of the Hopkins River mouth. Dogs must remain under effective voice control and a leash must be carried. Keep dogs on the formal paths and away from fenced cultural-heritage areas, wildlife and other visitors. Follow the signs because different restrictions apply on the eastern side of the Hopkins River and at nearby Blue Hole Reserve.
Opening Hours:
Open at all times.
Location
Point Ritchie Road, Warrnambool 3280 View Map
Web Links
→ www.moyjil.com.au
