Lady Nelson Visitor and Discovery Centre

Lady Nelson Visitor and Discovery Centre

The Centre, funded by the City of Mount Gambier provides a personalised information service on Mount Gambier District and the Limestone Coast Region. Free information packs provide detailed information on the local area. A wide range of information is available about South Australia and Victoria and free Internet access is also available (ten minute limit).

The centre itself has been built around a full-scale replica of the brig HMS Lady Nelson, from which Lieutenant James Grant sighted and named Mount Gambier in the year 1800.

Relax in the free admission theatre and take off on an exhilarating ride across the Green Triangle, to see the superb scenery of the area. Take a tour of the Discovery Centre to experience the interactive displays telling the history, geology and culture of the area.

Mount Gambier is a thriving city set in a unique and ancient landscape of volcanic craters, lakes, limestone and mysterious underground waterways. Situated between Adelaide and Melbourne it makes the ideal stopover for those travelling to and from The Great Ocean Road or the Grampians and the perfect destination for the extended stay to enjoy the natural and cultural beauty of the surrounding region, the caves and sinkholes, coastline, rivers, lakes and wineries.

Mount Gambier… "Blue Lake City"

The Blue Lake, the source of water supply for the city and surrounds is just one of the lakes within the three craters of the extinct volcano. Each year in November, it mysteriously starts its colour change to the unbelievable turquoise blue. From March each year it gradually makes the change back to its more sombre winter blue which is still a magnificent sight.

The crater lakes area offers many holiday and recreational experiences with its walking trails, picnic and BBQ facilities, Wildlife Park and Boardwalk, Adventure Playground,18 hole golf links and tours to the surface of the Blue Lake.

Mount Gambier…" Heart of the limestone country"

Beneath the city lies a huge wedge of limestone extending 35 km to the south coast where it reaches depths of 300 metres. The wedge thins off well to the north of the city allowing rainfall to filter downwards into the limestone which acts like a huge sponge, holding the underground water system as it moves slowly southwards eventually making its way to the ocean.

The beauty of the limestone, its underground water, caves and sinkholes can be enjoyed through various tours and self drive options.

Mount Gambier… "The best of the city in the heart of the country"

With its 20 Motels, 6 Hotels, 6 Caravan Parks and wide range of Bed and Breakfast accommodation and cottages, Mount Gambier is fully equipped to provide for the romantic getaway through to the family holiday or extended stay.

The city presents modern shopping facilities. Numerous pubs, clubs, cafes and restaurants provide an array of fresh and local food and wine. A feature of the city has always been its beautiful gardens. The galleries and museums provide an interesting mix of art, history and culture. With its excellent conference, sporting and recreational facilities the city is fast becoming recognised as "The City for Events and Conferences".

Click the "View Map" link above to see our Location Map