South Channel Fort (Point Nepean National Park, Local Port of Port Phillip)

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South Channel Fort (Point Nepean National Park, Local Port of Port Phillip)

South Channel Fort is a unique and highly significant 19th Century artificial island. Built during the 1880s, it is part of the strategic defence network of Port Phillip. The island contains gun emplacements, a labyrinth of underground passages and magnificent panoramic views over Port Phillip. It is also a breeding site for the White faced Storm-Petrel and other important birdlife.

South Channel Fort can only be accessed by boat. Once on the island visitors can take a walking tour around the island and learn about the important heritage of the site.

Visitors can access the underground keep of South Channel Fort through a Licenced Tour Operator only.

How to get there

South Channel Fort (Point Nepean National Park, Local Port of Port Phillip)

South Channel Fort (Point Nepean National Park, Local Port of Port Phillip)

Need to know

South Channel Fort (Point Nepean National Park, Local Port of Port Phillip)

Safety in nature

You can benefit both mind and body when you get outdoors to explore and experience Victoria's natural places. Before you go, take a look at our safety tips and check our changed conditions and closures information for a great visit.

Accessibility

Visiting a park can be more of a challenge for people with disabilities, however, in Victoria there are a wide range of facilities to help people of all abilities enjoy our wonderful parks around the state. Parks Victoria provides a range of a equipment, including all-terrain and beach wheelchairs, facilities, accommodation and accessibility information and programs to help you plan and enjoy your visit to Victoria's parks.

Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves that are usually dog prohibited, such as national parks.

Warnings & Restrictions

Dogs

Dogs are not allowed

Restrictions

  • No fires permitted
  • No camping
  • No dogs allowed
  • Restricted opening hours
  • Boating zones apply

Warnings

  • Water hazards
    • Rough Surf
    • Strong currents
    • Submerged obstacles
    • Deep water
  • Terrain hazards
    • Slippery surface
    • Slippery rocks
  • Animals and pests
    • Stingers
    • Sharks

Be Prepared

Stay safe and get the most out of your park visit by preparing for natural hazards and other outdoor risks in Victoria’s parks. You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of those in your care. Find out more.

Change of Conditions

Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.

Closures - Fort Nepean

Engine house walking track closed until further notice.  Access to Gun emplacements 5 & 6, Engine House, Battery Observation Posts restricted.  

Fox Control Program

Parks Victoria are undertaking fox control in Point Nepean National Park to relieve predation of vulnerable and threatened native fauna. Programs involve the use of soft jaw leg hold traps, Canid Pest Ejectors and para-aminopropiophenone (PAPP) poison, as well as buried PAPP poison, to bait foxes in strategic locations.
 Fox trapping and baiting will occur until June 2025.
 Dogs are prohibited from entering Point Nepean National Park. If pets are suspected of having consumed a PAPP bait during the baiting period, a vet should be consulted immediately. An antidote to PAPP (methylene blue) is available and stocked by most vets on the Mornington Peninsula.

Point Nepean Front Gate Closing and Opening times

The front gate is currently opening at 6am and closing at 6pm until further notice. 

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