Herring Island is a very small, 3.2-hectare artificial island. It's technically the only island in the Yarra River and was formed in 1928 by cutting a channel through an old basalt quarry. It's only three kilometres from the city and it feels a world away because it’s only accessible via a punt ferry on weekends and certain public holidays over summer.
And, no, if you're wondering, the island doesn’t smell of fish – it’s named after 1950s scoutmaster Sir Edmund Herring.
On the western end of the island, there are a number of large-scale sculptures that blend subtly into their surroundings. Visitors can choose between two picnic areas, with toilets and drinking fountain facilities.
The Herring Island Punt service operates from 11am to 5pm on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. Check with Parks Victoria for dates as it doesn't run in the cooler months. The service is free and the boat can take up to seven people at a time. Keep in mind there's no set timetable and it runs on demand. It leaves from Como Landing and car parking is available on Alexander Avenue.