Coolart Wetlands and Homestead Reserve

Coolart Wetlands and Homestead Reserve is a nature reserve on the Mornington Peninsula that combines wetland areas, woodlands, and open grasslands. A Victorian brick mansion with a distinctive turret sits at the center of the property as the main historical building.

Frederick Sheppard Grimwade built the Victorian mansion in 1895, establishing the homestead that would define the property for decades. The site was transformed into a wildlife sanctuary in 1937 when Tom Luxton took ownership and began its conservation work.

The place takes its name from Bunurong words that relate to the land itself. Today visitors experience this cultural connection when walking through the grounds and learning about what the area meant to its original people.

The reserve is open daily with parking near the entrance and pathways throughout the grounds for easy movement. Public transport connections from nearby stations provide good access for those traveling without a car.

Over 1000 Australian white ibises breed here in colonies that are visible throughout the wetland areas. These large flocks are easy to spot and create a striking sight that many visitors find unexpected and memorable.