Locals pick their must-dos

1: "The Great Ocean Walk delivers a 'behind the curtain' experience of one of the world's great drives. It's a dedicated trail, separate from the road, and covers world-class, moderate-graded hiking all the way to the 12 Apostles. Walking it makes people slow down and see the coastline for all its detailed glory: The flora, the fauna, the markings left by Indigenous Australians, the stories and the freshness of the air." Dana Ronan, Great Ocean Walk by Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk

2: "Swim with wild dolphins and with Australian fur seals in their own habitat on their own terms." Judith Muir, Polperro Dolphin Swims

3: "Spend time getting to know Victoria’s wildlife. In the sea we have the blue whale, the largest creature that has ever lived, plus dolphins, seals, orcas, albatrosses, seadragons and seahorses. And the Gippsland region has half Australia's birds and 60% of Australia's large mammals, plus it's a tranquil, beautiful place with few people and lots of wilderness." Janine Duffy, Echidna Walkabout Tours

More insider guides here...