Town snapshot – Wye River - Surf Coast Times

The size of Wye River is about 35.8sqkm with the population of Wye River in 2016 sitting at 51 and by the 2021 Census the figure was 67 showing a population increase of 32% in the area during that time.

Wye River is a small coastal town situated between Lorne and Apollo Bay, along one of the most spectacular sections of the Great Ocean Road.

Located on the river it’s named after, with a rugged and bushy mountain backdrop, it’s picturesque scenery where the rainforest meets the sea is a visitor’s delight.

Once considered a secluded getaway destination that most people drove past or stopped for beer and a pub meal, Wye is now considered one of the most premium living or holiday options on our coastline.

The town boasts a very popular caravan park beside the river, and the town’s hotel is perched high above the beach, offering visitors great views while eating and drinking.

The main sandy beach near the river mouth is patrolled during the warmer months of the year, while the surrounding rocky platforms, rock pools and reefs are great for fishing and exploring.

There was a significant decline in population after the Christmas 2015 bushfire’s which devastated the area destroying over 100 homes in its path which the town has now recovered from with more fire resilient residential structures continuing to pop up in their place.

CoreLogic data indicates that the predominant age group in Wye River is 50-59 years with households in Wye River being primarily childless couples and are likely to be repaying on average $2,367 per month on mortgage repayments, and in general, people in Wye River work in a labourer occupation.

AGENT PERSPECTIVE:

“The Separation Creek, Wye River and Kennett River market has experienced a steady buildup of listings over the past year and the rate of sales has certainly declined.

“A classic buyers market is in play at present which is not to dissimilar to most surrounding townships along the coast.

“With so much choice on offer for quality beach homes and vacant blocks along this spectacular part of the Great Ocean Road, the astute buying time is right now, in context of the last 5 years and the next 5 years.”

Michael Coutts – Director, Great Ocean Road Real Estate.