Westgate Park is an exceptional park located in the industrial heart of Port Melbourne. It offers a range of attractions and activities that make it an ideal destination for visitors seeking a green oasis close to the city. The park's location on the eastern banks of the Yarra River, under the Westgate Bridge, offers spectacular views of the river mouth and the city skyline.
One of the most remarkable features of Westgate Park is its salt lake, which turns pink seasonally due to high salt levels, high temperatures, increased sunlight, and lack of rainfall. The reddish algae growing in the salt crust is a sight to behold, particularly during hotter weather. The park's shared paths are popular with cyclists, joggers, and walkers, and connect to some significant trail networks of Melbourne, including the 53km Bay Trail.
Visitors can take the unsealed trails that wind past lakes and wetlands to see the park's plants and animals, as well as the Earth Series Sculptures. These artworks by Lyn Moore are made from natural materials and add to the unique landscape and character of Westgate Park. The park also offers a free shared electric barbecue facility, making it an ideal spot for picnics and gatherings.
Westgate Park is home to a variety of bird species from around the world, and the lake is a great place to observe wading birds such as stilts, ibis, and spoonbills feeding on the shores. The park is part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape in the traditional Country of the Bunurong People, adding to its historical and cultural significance.
Overall, Westgate Park is a wonderful destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its unique features and attractions, coupled with its proximity to the city, make it a must-visit spot for anyone looking to explore Melbourne's...
Read moreIt's a park worth visiting, in part for the salt water lake, which is very pink (providing you're at the park at the right time of year - I'd recommend a nice Autumn day or even those fine, cool Winter days) but also because there are some great walking trails in quite a few directions and a second, fresh-water lake that's worth a look. While it's very pretty at Sunset, I'd suggest not being there much after dusk though. I had car troubles and was stuck there after dark for a while and there are some seriously creepy old dudes in cars hanging about. No idea what was going on (... although I could have a credible guess or two - and if they were just hooking up, live and let live) but once daylight is gone it's a...
Read moreFor people who want to come to see the pink lake, it really depends on the days. We came on a 25-degree day at 11 am during the day and this is what we saw. Very very subtle pink only. We talked to the worker there and he said he hasn't seen the BRIGHT pink lake since covid. So just keep in mind that if you are coming to see the lake to be as pink as possible, remember to come on a very hot day with no rain for several days. But you might need to lower your expectations a bit if you want to see that bright pink lake you saw on the internet cause that hasn't been seen...
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