In Marengo, traces of a prehistoric landscape meet a varied coastal history. At the rocky coastal headland near the Marengo Beacon, non-marine sedimentary rocks from the Early Cretaceous are visible. They are dated to 110 million years ago and formed as the Australian continent separated from Gondwana. The broad shore platform also preserves evidence from the past: dinosaur footprints from ankylosaurs and carnivorous theropods, as well as fossil bones from dinosaurs and reptiles, can be found there.
Rock, River Landscape and Fossils
Directly below the Marengo Beacon, layers of mudstone, sandstone and siltstone alternate. They reveal a prehistoric freshwater river landscape with a backwater area. The rocks and their layers tell a different story from the fossils on the shore platform: here, the focus is on the landscape in which the deposits formed; there, on animal tracks and bones. If you are interested in the natural history of the coast, both places offer different clues for understanding Marengo beyond its present-day landscape.
The Marengo Beacon and Its History
The Marengo Beacon was erected in 1858 as a navigational aid. This followed two shipwrecks in quick succession at Haley Reef, which lies 100 metres off Marengo. A specific timeline is also recorded for the four Marengo Beacons: they were completed less than two months after the Grange shipwreck. The Beacon’s history thus links its navigational role with the dangers it was intended to address.
In the summer of 2019–20, the Marengo Beacon was removed after new electronic reef markers made it unnecessary as a navigational aid. Residents called for its restoration. The Council then decided to create a replacement: part of the original timber would be used, and a modified ball would be installed on top so the replacement could not be mistaken for the original Beacon.
Reef Life and Access to the Sanctuary
The Marengo Reefs Marine Sanctuary is less than 50 metres offshore. The inner reef can be reached by boat, swimming or small watercraft; at very low tide, it is possible to walk there from Hayley Point in Marengo. Strong tidal currents occur in the sanctuary. In suitable conditions, the reef can be reached from Marengo beach for snorkelling. Check local conditions before planning access by water or at low tide.
Habitats range from the intertidal zone to the subtidal area. The intertidal reef provides habitat for marine snails such as abalone and periwinkles, as well as tube worms, barnacles and bryozoans. The sanctuary is also home to bull kelp, large brown algae, and red and green algae; sea squirts and sponges are found there too. The subtidal zone includes stands of temperature-sensitive giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera), among other species. The larger island in the sanctuary is a resting place for Australian fur seals, is designated a Special Protection Area and is closed to access.
A Walk as an Alternative to the Coast
For those wanting to include a circuit walk alongside rocks, fossils and reef life, Marengo Bush Reserve has a five-kilometre circuit. The different highlights can help you tailor your visit to your interests: the Beacon’s history, geological and palaeontological evidence, or the sanctuary’s habitats. Water levels and local conditions remain important factors when planning access to the reef.
Explore more destinations: Gladysdale, Delatite, Dalyston, Moolap, Romsey, Seaford, Taradale, Yackandandah.
For the broader travel overview: Victoria.
