Quiet, calm and isolated. Goanna Bay is situated within the Croajingalong National Park in Mallacoota. A small jetty protrudes from the land into the saltwater lake. The jetty is flanked on each side by a sandy beach. The bay is aptly named with resident goannas that roam the shoreline, they are not fearful in any way of humans. Whipping their tongues as they exchange glances with you.

Goanna’s are intriguing animals. It is said that they made their way to Australia in the Miocene Epoch some 15 million years ago. Goannas; also referred to as Lace Monitors evolved in the northern hemisphere in the Upper Cretaceous Period about 90 million years ago. Goannas hold an important place in the history and culture of First Nations People.

The biggest threat to Goannas is habitat loss due to land clearing for agriculture and urban space. It is no wonder that an abundance of Goannas can be found in the Croajingalong National Park. Goannas are incredible climbers, one will be forced to crane their neck to watch a Goanna swiftly climb a tree. At Goanna Bay a more than 400 year old Angophora Tree sits and watches over the bay, a reminder that trees are the largest living thing on earth and that when enabled to live naturally without disruption they can far exceed us in age and wisdom.

Goanna Bay is a place that calls for reflection of our place in the natural environment and the world that precedes us.

Croajingolong National Park is part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape. We acknowledge the deep and continuing connection that Traditional Owners have to these lands and waters, and we recognise their ongoing role in caring for Country.

References: 

Greer.A 2018, Australian Goannas - Evolution and Radiation, Australian Museum, viewed 12 September 2020, <https://australian.museum/learn/animals/reptiles/australian-goannas-evolution-and-radiation/>.

Bush Heritage Australia, Goannas (Monitor Lizards), Bush Heritage Australia, viewed 12 September 2020, <https://www.bushheritage.org.au/species/goannas>.