Coming from Melbourne’s southeast suburbs, it took us just about an hour to reach San Remo. From there, we crossed the bridge and made our way to Churchill Island.
I’ve been to Phillip Island countless times—so many that it feels like second nature to me. From its stunning beaches and rugged coastline, to the feeding of the pelicans, to the world-famous penguin parade, Phillip Island never fails to impress. Yet, despite all those visits, I’ve never taken the short detour to Churchill Island. So it’s time to finally explore this hidden gem.
I fell in love with the place instantly when I saw a group of geese confidently waddling across the street, while cars waited patiently for them to pass. It was such a simple yet charming moment.
We left early, determined to be the first through the gates when they opened. This is the public art which greeted us.
But first… coffee!
Eager to see the Highland Cows, we headed straight there without a second thought.
As we walked along the dirt road, the rain suddenly began to pour. We quickly decided to head back to the café and wait for the downpour to ease.
Luckily the rain didn’t last long. So the walking begins.
Churchill Island, with its rich history and heritage charm, offers a completely different experience. This is the working farm with serene landscapes, it’s a place where history comes alive. It feels like stepping back in time. Rode the tractor around the farm.
Some of the cute animals that we saw.
Art murals by Jimmy Dvate at the Shearing Shed.
Some of the cottages and trails.
Still continued walking as we reached the Rogers Cottage circa 1866
This preserved house, dating back to the 1870s, once served as the summer residence of Samuel Amess, a prominent builder of many iconic Melbourne landmarks such as the Treasury, the Old Exchange, and the Customs House. Rich in period details, the home offers a fascinating glimpse into Victorian-era living. Lucky to have seen two ladies wearing costumes from the era playing the piano.
Known for its 19th-century Amess House, this is the Amess Half Cellar door.
Still more walking, we saw some flowers.
Somewhere to sit in between walks.
Passing by these wooden gates.
Finally, as the main reason for our visit, we couldn’t resist returning to see the Highland cows once the sun was up, casting a beautiful light over the scene.
The property changed hands several times, including Gerald Buckley, who ran it as a dairy farm until his death in 1929. Sold to Dr. Harry Jenkins in 1936, it later passed to his sister in 1960. After a 1973 auction, the government acquired it in 1976. Today, Churchill Island is a National Trust-protected heritage farm.
Visited Churchill Island last December 2024. I am linking this to Jo’s Monday Walk, Dan’s Thursday Doors Challenge, Xingfumama’s Pull Up a Seat Challenge, Natalie’s Photographing Public Art Challenge and for Cee’s FOTD
What a delightful day out, Teresa! I didn’t know there was such a thing as a Heritage farm, but I can definitely see the attraction. Such a contrast between the Highland Cattle and the 2 ladies at the piano. Great fun overall! Thanks for the link, hon.
My pleasure Jo. I wasn’t aware of this place too, but glad we went.
Wonderful adventure Teresa.
It was, for sure. Thanks Brian.
Lovely pictures Teresa.
Thanks a lot Wayne.
The photos are lovely, Teresa. Except for the rain, it looks like you had a wonderful day. I love the pictures of the animals. It must be a good place for them to live. Looks like you did a great job on a variety of challenges. Thanks for thinking of Thursday Doors.
Thanks for the comment Dan. I knew beforehand that it would rain so I was glad that it went for just a few minutes and we were able to go on with our adventure.
Wow I’d never heard of the place. In Sydney but down for the races so if we have the time might pay a visit there. Thanks for the pics 😊
I don’t think it is a popular destination. It just goes with the package tour of seeing the Penguins, the Koalas and this. But we have seen the rest so we just went on this one.
I love that entrance! So many wonderful photos.
Thanks Susan, happy that you liked them.
Wonderful photos! Thanks for sharing your adventure.😉📷
My pleasure Donna and glad you liked it
This heritage farm sounds like a great idea, preserving a piece of history but still a working farm by the look of it? I love the highland cattle and the Rogers Cottage in particular 🙂
Yes Sarah, it is a working farm. It was also interesting to see a glimpse of how they lived during that era. Thanks for commenting.
A fantastic post. What a wonderful place.
Thanks scooj, we did enjoy our time there.
Wonderful place. Love the way they carved the wood on the side of the bench.
Yes, the carving looked good. I just don’t understand what it is… an alligator maybe? Haha
I noticed that my post doesn’t have a ping back from this. I added a comment to it with a link to this post.
A delightful place, Teresa. I love the murals. Thank you for your public art contribution.
My pleasure to share Natalie. Your comment is here, it didn’t get lost haha
These are all wonderful. Thanks for sharing your walk. 😊
My pleasure Pepper! ❤️