Tuerong: Nature at Devilbend

One of Tuerong’s defining natural areas is Devilbend Natural Features Reserve. Woodland, reservoirs and foreshore areas give the reserve its character. Here you can watch birds, take photographs, fish, picnic or enjoy activities on the water; there are also walking trails and a dedicated horse-riding trail. When planning your holiday, it helps to choose a clear focus: should the day centre on observing nature, getting active on a trail, water activities or taking a break at a picnic area? This lets you spread the different options across several days rather than treating them as a single itinerary.

Birdlife and landscape

Devilbend Reservoir covers 250 hectares. BirdLife International recognises it as globally important for the conservation of bird populations; this includes the threatened Blue-billed Duck. This recognition makes birdlife a particular focus among the reserve’s natural attractions. If you enjoy watching and photographing wildlife, this offers a different experience from a day focused mainly on walking: rather than centring your day on a particular route, you can give more attention to the landscape and the birds. Woodland, reservoirs and foreshore areas shape the setting for these nature-watching opportunities.

Boardwalks and circuit track

The reserve has walking trails, including easy boardwalks and the more challenging Devilbend Circuit Track. The circuit is 11.5 kilometres long and runs around the reservoir. The difference can help you choose: the boardwalks are easy, while the circuit is more challenging and covers a longer distance. You can factor the level of difficulty you want into your plans without assuming that every trail presents the same challenge. Check current conditions before setting out, especially if the circuit is your main activity. Take its full length into account when planning your walking day.

Water activities

Canoes and kayaks may be used on Devilbend Reservoir in a designated zone on the northern arm. There are two launching points along the Western Shoreline Trail. For paddling, both the zone restriction and the launching points provide practical guidance. Check current park notices, as temporary restrictions may apply to watercraft. Fishing is another activity available in the reserve. While paddling is restricted to a specific area, you can consider fishing and birdwatching as other ways to spend your time here.

Horse-riding trail and picnic at Daangean Point

Another option is the 6.2-kilometre horse-riding trail along the southern boundary of Devilbend Natural Features Reserve. It starts at Hodgins, Turners or Derril Road. The details about its length, route and starting roads help distinguish the horse-riding trail from the walking trails: the riding trail follows the southern boundary, while Devilbend Circuit Track loops around the reservoir. You can therefore plan horse riding and walking as different options for the day.

The Daangean Point picnic area has electric barbecues, picnic tables, a shelter and toilets. Its facilities make it a convenient place to plan a break. Maintenance or temporary closures may affect individual facilities; check current park notices if the picnic area is important to your plans.

Tuerong as a holiday destination

When looking for holiday accommodation in Tuerong, your planned focus for the holiday is a useful starting point. Devilbend Natural Features Reserve is in Tuerong. If nature watching, walking trails or water activities are what interest you most, you can use these interests to guide your travel plans. Consider whether you would prefer an active day on a trail or a mix of nature watching, fishing and picnicking.

Discover more destinations: Framlingham, Granite Rock, Yan Yean, Inverleigh, Natimuk, Kialla, Carrum Downs, Cathcart

For the broader travel overview: Victoria.