French Island (Victoria)
French Island (Boonwurrung: Bellarmarin, Woone, or Jouap) is the largest coastal island of Victoria, Australia, located in Western Port, 61 km (38 mi) southeast of Melbourne. In 1997, about 70% of the island was declared the French Island National Park, administered by Parks Victoria, and was listed in the former Register of the National Estate in 1984. The island is an unincorporated area under the direct administration of the government of Victoria, and is a declared locality of Victoria having its own postcode. Community issues are dealt by the French Island Community Association. The island is otherwise administered by the Department of Transport and Planning. The population of the island in 2011 was around 116 people, of which about 60 were permanent residents. By 2021 the population on census night was recorded as 139 with a median age of 52 years.
| French Island Bellarmarin (Boonwurrung) Victoria | |
|---|---|
Looking west over Western Port to Mornington Peninsula from the coast road | |
French Island Location near Bass Coast Shire | |
| Coordinates | 38°21′00″S 145°22′12″E |
| Population | 139 (2021 census) |
| • Density | 0.818/km2 (2.12/sq mi) |
| Postcode(s) | 3921 |
| Area | 170 km2 (65.6 sq mi) |
| LGA(s) | Unincorporated area |
| State electorate(s) | Hastings |
| Federal division(s) | Flinders |
Compared with Philip Island and areas on the surrounding mainland, French Island is isolated and undeveloped. There are no water mains, electricity mains, or medical services on the island. There is one small general store and post office located on Tankerton Road about 3 km (1.9 mi) from Tankerton Jetty. Many of the locals actively promote environmental tourism. Visitor accommodation includes camping, bed and breakfast, guesthouse and farmstay.