Welshmans Reef, Cairn Curran Reservoir

Swimming Hole Heaven in Victoria

Cairn Curran Reservoir has three designated swimming areas at Welshmans Reef (near Newstead), Tower Bay and Woolshed Bay (near the dam wall). Welshmans Reef was historically the best pick of the three because of its swimming pontoon, which was anchored offshore. During the Millennium Drought (1997-2009) the pontoon was removed after being left high and dry, and has never been replaced, but the water has returned. Welshmans Reef is the shallower of the three swimming areas and the gentle slope into the water makes it more suitable for kids. Above: The barren landscape at Welshmans Reef (Order this image)

The site has been popular with campers and caravaners for decades because of its laid back, no frills atmosphere and easy access to the water. Sure there are dead trees and a martian landscape to cross before you reach the water, but that is half of the charm. However, with a big maintenance bill looming, the managing authority Goulburn-Murray Water announced in 2014 that it would pull the plug on the caravan park. Above: A sign of times past at Welshmans Reef (Order this image)

A grass roots campaign fought the decision in an attempt to hold on to a dwindling part of Australian holidaying culture. Sadly that culture has been disappearing since the advent of cheap flights to tropical destinations.

This swimming hole did not make it into my top 50 in Victoria. The main reasons being (i) the distance from the shore to the water, particularly during summer and in dry years when Cairn Curran Reservoir is heavily drawn down, and (ii) the upstream farmland that can affect water quality for swimming after rain. There are two outstanding swimming holes nearby (within 40 km of Cairn Curran Reservoir) that did make it into the top 50, so if you are looking for a reliable swim in this area in fresh, clean water, grab a copy of the guide to Freshwater Swimming Holes in Victoria. Before you head out, make sure to read the swimming safety information and check with the managing authority for any current change of conditions. The marker indicates the approximate location of the day car park at Welshman's Reef. If the map is not zoomed in locally, as can occur with some browsers, simply click or tap on "View Larger Map" below.
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