Mount Gambier Things to Do

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The Umpherston Sinkhole was originally beautified by James Umpherston. Today it is one of the most popular attractions in th eMt Gambier area.The landscaped gardens surrounding the sinkhole is a relaxing place to have a family picnic or barbecue with covered areas to protect you from the weather. Once a cave this sinkhole was created when the top of the chamber fell into the floor of the cave, creating a perfect environment for the present day gardens.

Admitedly, Mt Gambier, and Australia for that matter, is not very old at all. About 210 years or so. That pales in comparison with your european cities or south american ruins. Anyhow, if you like semi- old stuff, then go to the Town Hall, on the eastern end of main street, Commerical Street, just near the main corner. It looks especially good at night when all lit up.

The Town Hall is still our administrative centre, with part of it dedicated to an Art Gallery. It recently had quite substantial renovations done to it and the back of it which overlooks the Cave Gardens is quite a site. Pics to follow..........

Everyone that comes to Mt Gambier has to see the Blue Lake. It really is Blue! November to May is the best time to see it, when it changes to a bright vibrant blue. The rest of the year it is a dull greyey colour. The towns people drink this water, and I drive past it most days so it is not really that big a deal to us, but you will be impressed!
Contrary to other member's pages on Mt Gambier, the water level is dropping and has been gradually over many years. So much so, that we actually had water restrictions imposed upon us for the first time ever - can you believe!

My thanks to MelZ1974 and to my friend Kate-Me, for letting me know that this existed and shouldn't be missed.

You need to go to see the lakes. The color changes over time and is at its bluest in November. No one really knows why this lake is so blue, there is only speculation. Regardless of the reason, the sight is spectacular, as is the scenery around. Its oneof the only places I've ever been able to look out and just see a cluster of three or four mountains rising out of the plains off in the distance. There is a path that goers all around the canyon rim, but it is several miles long and would take the best part of a full day.

Most people to Mt Gambier ask firstly 'where is the blue lake' and secondly 'what is that funny tower for'?

Centennary Tower was built to commemorate 100 years since the discovery and naming of 'Gambier's Mount'. this soon after became Mt Gambier. You can walk up here, it is a little step, but paved all the way, and also walk all around the area. You know the tower is open for visitors when the flag is flying. If it is open you can walk up the stairs to the top and look out with a telscope to the town. A great view of the town and surrounding area.

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Lady Nelson is a fully integrated tourism complex that offers all the information you need to help make you stay enjoyable. The complex is a community project built of local limestone and timber.
A free admission theatre screens the film "Across the Green Triangle" continuosly. The film depicts the story of Mt Gambier's history and industry.
The Lady Nelson was a small 60 ton brig built in 1799 She was the first vessel to sail along the entire Southern Coastline of Australia In 1825 she called into the Island Of Baba where her crew was murdered by natives and the ship run ashore and burnt.
It is open 7 days a week 9am to 5pm South Australian time

For a town of our size, which isn't very big, Christianity is very well catered for, with most significant sectors represented. St Pauls is the major Catholic Church (not the only one) but is the biggest in the town. During the busy wedding season there can be up to 4 a day here.

What would a visit to Mt Gambier be without seeing the Blue Lake? There are 4 seperate lookout areas along the edge of the crater all offering good photo opportunities. The lake is at it's bluest around the summer months. The Blue Lake tour guide said the blue colour was from calcium carbonate leaching into the water from rocks underground.

I also recommend taking a drive around Valley Lake, the perfect spot for a picnic.