Nelson

Overview

Nelson is located at the mouth of the Glenelg River in the south-western corner of Victoria. It is 433 km west of Melbourne and a couple of kilometres from the South Australian border. There is a pub, a general store, and a couple of motels, guesthouses and caravan parks.

Nelson is surrounded by scenic countryside, the value of which has been recognised through the declaration of Lower Glenelg National Park, which extends eastwards along the Glenelg River, and Discovery Bay National Park which stretches south-east along the coastline to Cape Bridgewater. Despite the beauty of the area, its relative remoteness means that it has undergone little commercialisation.

The estuary, river, rock ledges and beaches are noted for the fishing opportunities they afford and the tidal estuary has become a haven for waterbirds. River cruising and swimming are other obvious attractions.

History

Nelson was named by the surveyor of the township, Lindsay Clarke in 1851. It is believed that he chose the name to commemorate the 'Lady Nelson', the vessel that Lieut. Grant sailed in to explore the southern coastline of Victoria & South Australia. about fifty years earlier.

Major Thomas Mitchell explored Australia Felix and down the River that he named the Glenelg in 1836. On his return trip he encountered the Henty’s who were then settled at Portland.

The earliest building at Nelson was owned by R. R Leake. He built a 'summer house' in 1848 which has been licensed as a Hotel since 1882. Mr Leake brought with him a young shepherd named Andrew Brown, who was a loyal servant and one of few pioneers of the time who lived the remainder of his life at Nelson. Andrew Brown operated the Punt across the Glenelg for many years, ferrying horse drawn vehicles, people and goods travelling Portland/Mount Gambier. As the need for safer crossings became evident, a bridge was built from timbers brought in from nearby stringy bark forests in 1893.

Places of interest

Princess Margaret Rose Caves
Glenelg River Estuary
Lower Glenelg National Park
Livingstone Island

Accommodation

Nelson township features an excellent array of accommodation to suit your requirements. From group accommodation at Karnkendi Camp, to a range of cabins, self catering holiday houses and units.

Nelson Visitor Information Centre
Leake Street Nelson, 3292
Phone: 08 8738 4051
Fax: 08 8738 4356
Website: Visit the Nelson Accommodation Directory

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