For more than three generations, the Davidson Family occupied Loch Garra homestead and built the try works on the beach below to process the carcasses of the baleen whales.
A good season would see around eight whales caught with the help of wild orca and processed on shore for their oil, baleen and bone. It was a tough game, and the Davidsons subsidised their income by growing most of their own food and running livestock.
Located on the shores of the Kiah Inlet at Twofold Bay, the Whaling Station was the longest-operating shore-based whaling station in Australia and the last of its type to close down. Protected today as an historic site, the station will give you a unique insight into the lives and industry of the 19th century whalers.
Explore the modest grounds of the homestead, and then head down to the inlet to discover the remains of the try works and learn more of the story.
This is a perfect spot for a picnic, a fish, or a swim. The Loch Garra homestead is open to the public at various times throughout the year – contact the local (Merimbula) National Parks for dates and more details
...
