Melbourne’s Pink Lake, Westgate Park
Have you ever noticed a body of water that looks like it’s been covered in pink bubble gum when you are driving over the Westgate Bridge? It’s not your imagination but Melbourne’s own Pink Lake!
Westgate Park and the Pink Lake
Situated in the heart of the industrial section of Melbourne, the Westgate Park is an oasis of natural beauty including the Pink Lake.
The colour change only happens under perfect conditions of high temperatures, high salt content, lots of sun and very little rain.
These conditions allow the growth of a harmless, red algae on the salt crust. While the algae is harmless, swimming in the pink lake is not allowed.
Even if the lake is a normal colour there is still plenty of reason to visit the park.
The park’s nature trail is actually the beginning of a network of trails throughout Melbourne that stretches all the way to Frankston.
Westgate Park has multiple wetlands that provide sanctuary to many types of birds including spoonbills, ibis, swans, ducks and many more.
Dogs are allowed to walk the trails but must stay strictly on lead to protect the bird life.
The park is also home to a collection of sculptures by Lyn Moore. The Earth Series Sculptures are created with natural materials to blend with the native landscape.
There is a free BBQ and shaded seating area. There are also plenty of benches throughout and spots for picnics. All rubbish must be removed from the park and discarded elsewhere. Toilets and water fountains are both located within the park.
Park Features:
- Pink Salt Lake
- Wetland Trails
- Bird Watching
- Earth Series Sculptures
Park Extras:
Picnic Areas: BBQs, benches, water fountains
Shaded Areas: Shaded Seating Area
Toilets: Yes
Café: No
Parking: Free Off Todd Road or Lorimer Street.
Details
Address:
Westgate Park – Bank of the Yarra River under the Westgate Bridge.
Public Transport: Buses #235, #237 and #606 have routes that run past the park.
Open: Always
Cost: Free
