Indigenous Name
Weariby (spine) and Yallock (stream), with the spelling later changed to Werribee
Indigenous Groups
Wadawurrung and Wurrundjeri peoples
Climbing Information
Roughly 68 km west of Melbourne just past Bachhus Marsh lies the Werribee Gorge State Park. On its own a worthwhile destination as it boasts plenty of wild, rugged scenery and spectacular views. The only climbing allowed in the park is at a cliff called “Falcon’s lookout”, a collection of 70+ climbs in a clean, vertical cliff face, and there is variety enough for every skill level. The walk-in from the car park is around 40 minutes and the base of the cliff has been set with board-walks and stairs suitable for the large numbers of climbers who go through every weekend.
Facilities
Bacchus Marsh has cafes and shops aplenty, and many climbers stop on the way. There are no toilets at the car park, and while we are at the cliff the bush is your only option – please make sure you go before the trip.
Weather Information
One of the few climbing areas around Melbourne without a significant increase in altitude from the surrounding plains, Werribee Gorge is usually subject to the same weather as seen at the surrounding weather stations. The cliff faces the sun most of the day and in the winter this can be great, though in summer this often means the base of the cliff heats up and stays hot! As always, weather can be unpredictable, as can the risk of bushfires. In some cases Parks Victoria will cancel the activity on days of Total Fire Ban or if there is a threat from local wildfire.
Emergency Contact Information
For life-threatening emergencies call Triple Zero (000)
Victoria Police non-emergency switchboard: (03) 9247 6666 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm)
Environment Protection Authority –
- Melbourne: 03 9695 2755
- Regional: 1800 444 051
