Lorne

Lorne is a charming seaside town nestled on Louttit Bay along the picturesque Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia. Located within the Surf Coast Shire, Lorne boasts stunning natural beauty, a rich history, and a vibrant tourist scene. At the 2016 census, Lorne had a population of 1,114, which significantly swells during the holiday season as visitors flock to this idyllic coastal destination.

History

Lorne is part of the traditional lands of the Gadubanud or King Parrot people of the Cape Otway coast. The town was officially named Lorne in 1871 after the Marquess of Lorne from Scotland, in honor of his marriage to Princess Louise, one of Queen Victoria’s daughters. Since then, Lorne has evolved from a remote coastal outpost to a thriving tourist destination, with the Great Ocean Road reaching the town in 1922.

Tourism

Lorne is renowned for its pristine beaches, scenic landscapes, and vibrant atmosphere, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can enjoy traditional beach activities such as swimming and surfing, as well as fishing off the pier for barracuda, whiting, and trevally. Teddy’s Lookout offers stunning panoramic views over the town, coastline, and Great Ocean Road, while the nearby Great Otway National Park beckons with its lush rainforests and majestic waterfalls.

Throughout the year, Lorne hosts a variety of events and festivals, including the Falls Festival on New Year’s Eve, the Pier to Pub swim, the Mountain to Surf run, and the Lorne Surf Boat Race. The town’s bustling Mountjoy Parade is lined with pubs, cafes, restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, and craft shops, offering visitors a diverse range of dining and shopping experiences. Cultural enthusiasts can explore the Great Ocean Road Museum to learn about the history of this iconic road and its significance to the region.

Sport

Lorne boasts a strong sporting culture, with an Australian Rules football team competing in the Colac & District Football League. Golf and tennis enthusiasts can enjoy their favorite sports at the Lorne Country Club, located on Holliday Road, amidst the stunning backdrop of coastal scenery.