Paynesville

Overview

Paynesville is located 17 kilometres south of Bairnsdale within the Gippsland Lakes system and with direct access to both Lake King and Lake Victoria.

Paynesville is a popular boating location, effectively surrounded on three sides by water. There are extensive lawns, stretches of sand, boat ramps and a pier along the southern shoreline. The eastern shoreline along McMillans Strait also includes lawn areas but is more geared towards boating with several marinas, jetties and Fishermans Wharf with its waterfront cafe and restaurant.

Two hundred metres off the coast of Paynesville and linked to the town by a vehicular ferry is Raymond Island. The island has a small residential population.

History

According to the orginal inhabitants, the Gunai/Kurnai people, ‘Toonalook’ is the real name of this beautiful village.  The koori term is translated as meaning ‘plenty of fish’ and we can't argue with that.

The village was settled back in the middle 1850s by fishermen, pastoralists and traders who took advantage of the number of steamers that stopped off  to put down or pick up goods and supplies.

On the drive into Bairnsdale, turn off to the Mitchell River Silt Jetties. The ?area was used to grow hops around the turn of the century, and you will still be able to see the old shedding, racks and also enjoy a beautiful drive out to?the end of this beautiful natura phenomenon.

Places of interest

Lake Victoria
Residential Canels
Silt Jetties
Raymond Island

Accommodation

Paynesville has approximately 5000 accommodation beds ranging from selfcontianed units, resort style accommodation, motels hotels caravan parks and holiday homes.

Contact East Gippsland Visitor Information Centre
Telephone: 1800 637 060 or International: +61 (3) 5155 1966
Website: www.discovereastgippsland.com.au
Email: lakesvic@egipps.vic.gov.au

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