Bemm River is primarily a fishing village therefore most of its facilities are aimed specifically at the angler.
Bemm River is unique in its position - one of Victoria's best bream fishing spots and is quickly gaining a reputation as a prime destination for flathead. The river is still classified as being in good condition thus providing clean, fresh water to the estuary and feeding our schools of fish. On the eastern side of the estuary is Croajingalong National Park; to the north is Bemm State Forest and to the west is the Cape Conran Coastal Park. Bemm River also provides access to some of the best remote beaches you'll visit along the Victorian coastline. Many correspondents state that it is part of the Ninety Mile Beach but it isn't - the Ninety Mile Beach finishes just east of Lakes Entrance, around the mouth of Lake Tyers.
The Jetties
The are two boat ramps and jetties - the ramp pictured below left and centre is the main facility which is accessible regardless of water level. Both launching ramps are concrete and easily accessed but check with your accomodation proprietor as sometimes there are problems at the base of the ramp. The main jetty is a floating pontoon style whereas the high water only jetty is a fixed wooden structure and commonly known as the fingerling jetty this has recently been upgraded. Cleaning tables are located at both jetties with fresh, running water. They also have lights over each of them giving 24hr access to clean your catch. Also between these two jetties is a solid structure fishing platform offering ease of fishing to all land based anglers.
Luderick Point Memorial Park
Between the jetties is what is locally known as Luderick Point Memorial Park. In the park is a children's playground, free electric bbq, water fountain, picnic tables, a war memorial and a great view of the lake. This is a great spot for a picnic or even to have a fish or just relax on a hot day. This is also the venue of various displays and organised activities by visiting groups and locals throughout the year. Public toilets are located opposite the park.
Of late this park has become the favourite launching place for canoes with the Hobie canoes having several competitions here.
Also this is the site of our easter egg hunt for children between the ages of 0 and 16.
Fishing Platforms
Fishing from a boat is often ideal but sometimes impractical, especially when towing a caravan. Therefore, four fishing platforms have been constructed to make access to the river that little bit easier. They are located: 1. Down Sydenham Pde until you get to the walkway to the river, it is at the end of the walkway; 2. Walk approximately 1km upstream along the riverbank and you'll find it; 3. Along the walkway at Dolly's Garden. 4. near the bend called Wingy's Corner just past the waste station turnoff.
There is now a new fishing platform available next to the main jetty and boat ramp. This has very good access and is next to the cleaning table. Many terrific fish have been caght from here and is great for people who don't have a boat and wish to fish the lake.
Bemm River Recreation Reserve
Opposite Dolly's Garden is the Bemm River Recreation Reserve housing two bitumen tennis courts, shelter shed, toilets and a replica pioneer's hut. Within the pioneer's hut is an information board giving a history on the reserve and local school which was at this site. This hut was constructed by volunteers who look after the reserve. There is also a children's playground, also constructed by volunteers. AFL goal posts, a cricket practice net and water fountain with a dog bowl for all those thirsty sporting type people with canine friends. A big thank you goes out to those volunteers who contribute their time to maintaining this area.
Beaches
To go to the beaches at Bemm River one needs either a boat to go across the inlet to the channel and the beach, or a car to go down the back road several kilometres to the back beaches ending up at Pearl Point which has a Whale watching platform. The township is sited on the edge of Sydenham Inlet and from Luderick Park one can enjoy the view of the lake and across to the sand dunes which separate the lake from the ocean.
Community Centre
If the weather is bleak or you just want a change then pop up to the Community Centre located in Roberts Rd opposite the fire station. Opened in May 2003, the Centre caters for everyone young and old. There are regular events such as craft, carpet bowls, cards as well as popular holiday activities for the kids. The Centre hosts free Internet; provides various classes for all ages; a great venue for meetings with one of the best views in town!! So if you've nothing else to do, pop up and have a cup of tea and a chat. The Centre is open from 1.00pm to 5.30pm Mon 11.30- 5.30pm Thurs and then on each Tuesday,Wednesday during the school holidays, also if you need just ask and someone will open up for you. We are open at any time there is a function or activity so just watch out for the What's On to see what is available. We print a newsletter each season. We also have extended the building with the addition of a shower, another toilet and store room.
We now have an activities shed which houses excercise equipment and carpet bowls. If you wish to use this facility just see Jane at the shop if the centre is not open and get a key. There must be 2 people for insurance accountability and a sign in book is provided. The cost is a gold coin donation to the centre.
