Metung locals are calling on tourists to return to the town or book a trip for later in the year
From extreme water sports to a kid-friendly beach and a decent feed at the pub, Metung wasn’t hit by fire but it was evacuated three times. Now locals are luring tourists back.
“Yes, it’s a bit remote, but that’s part of its magic,” says father of two, Patrick Carson, of idyllic Metung.
The sleepy coastal hamlet, where rolling green countryside and beautiful bushland meets tranquil water, might be four hours from Melbourne, but was well worth the drive, he said.
“When you arrive in Metung, the beauty of the place and the peace just sort of hits you instantly,” Mr Carson said. “You feel relaxed as you drive into the place, like you’re a million miles from the hustle and bustle of the city.”
After holidaying in Metung with his wife for many years, the commercial property designer and East Gippsland Marketing chairman moved permanently to the country town from Sydney nearly a decade ago, and has been grateful for the decision every day of his life since.
“Where else can you tie up your boat at the wharf, right in front of the pub, and walk a few metres for lunch and a drink on the deck, overlooking the water?” he asked.
“It’s paradise.”
Like most kids, his daughters Arabella, 6, and Jemima, 9, loved playing at the town’s free water park and enjoying a treat from the bakery afterwards.
While the bushfires had not actually reached Metung, the town had been evacuated three times and blanketed by smoke for extended periods, which had “decimated” local tourism, Mr Carson said.
Holiday apartments and other accommodation –—ranging from high-end to budget-conscious in nearby Swan Reach — were normally booked solid at this time of year, but were now largely vacant, he said.
“Usually at this time of year the town is overflowing, so the businesses are really hurting and need people to come back,” Mr Carson said.
“They don’t have to actually come and stay right away, but it would be great if they booked and paid now, to help businesses keep going.”
With calm water, Metung was a water sports enthusiasts’ playground, with waterskiing, jet skiing, boating, paddling and fishing just some of the activities to be enjoyed.
And the shallow Lake King beach was an ideal swimming spot for children.
But picturesque Metung was also a perfect holiday destination for less active types, Mr Carson said.
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If it was a glass of wine or cold beer visitors sought — sipped in peace, while drinking in the scenery — “magnificent Metung” was impossible to beat, he said.
Also, just a short drive a way is the Adventure Fun Park on the eastern edge of Bairnsdale, offering fun and activities for all ages.
Originally published as Metung locals are calling on tourists to return to the town or book a trip for later in the year
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