Edmonson VC Rowes Lagoon Rest Area, Federal Highway

The Edmonson VC Rowes Lagoon Rest Area is a large, historically significant, and environmentally unique rest stop on the Federal Highway at Wollogorang, New South Wales. Positioned on the main arterial route connecting Sydney with Canberra, this facility is a vital fatigue management zone for the immense volume of traffic travelling to and from the nation’s capital. The rest area is dedicated to Corporal John Hurst Edmondson, who was the first Australian to be awarded the Victoria Cross in the Second World War. This dedication, marked by informative plaques, adds a layer of historical importance to the stop. [Image of the Victoria Cross medal]

What sets this rest area apart is its location adjacent to Rowes Lagoon, a large, shallow freshwater wetland that is an important habitat for a variety of birdlife. This natural feature provides a far more scenic and tranquil backdrop than a typical highway stop, with opportunities for birdwatching from the viewing platform. The facility itself is modern and well-equipped for short-term rests, not for overnight camping. It features a safe, sealed, drive-through design with ample separated parking for cars, caravans, and heavy vehicles. The amenities are excellent, including a toilet block, covered picnic shelters, and rubbish bins, all set within a landscaped and well-maintained environment. It’s an ideal place to break a journey, enjoy a picnic lunch while observing the birdlife, and reflect on the history commemorated at the site before continuing on to Canberra or Goulburn.

Edmonson VC Rowes Lagoon Rest Area – NSW Location Map

Name: Edmonson VC Rowes Lagoon Rest Area
Address: LOT 268 Federal Highway, Wollogorang NSW 2581, Australia
GPS Coordinates: -34.89548, 149.5106

Site Information

Location: On the Federal Highway (M23), between Goulburn and Canberra.
Site Suitable For: All vehicles, including big rigs, caravans, and motorhomes.
Road Access: Sealed motorway access.
Site Surface: Sealed (asphalt).
Camping Permitted: No, this is a day-use rest and picnic area only.
Maximum Overnight Stays: Not for overnight camping. Driver fatigue rest time limits apply.
Picnic Tables: Yes, numerous covered picnic shelters are available.
Potable Water: No.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Good coverage for all major carriers.
TV Reception: Good terrestrial TV reception.
Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, a modern toilet block is on site.
Ullage / Dump Point: Not available onsite.
Drive Through: Yes, a large, well-designed layout with separated parking areas.
Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are provided.
Open Fires: Strictly prohibited.
Generator Use: Not appropriate for this busy location.
Number of Sites Available: Many marked parking bays.
Essentials to Bring: Binoculars for birdwatching.
Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
Fishing: Not applicable.
Short Walks: Paved pathways around the rest area and to the lagoon viewing platform.

Local Amenities (Nearest major city is Goulburn, approx. 40km north)

Pubs & Eateries

The Bushranger Hotel, Collector: Approx. 15km south. A historic pub with a reputation for good food.
The Hibernian Hotel Goulburn: A popular and centrally located pub in Goulburn.
Tattersalls Hotel Goulburn: A classic city pub with a large bistro.
Goulburn offers a vast array of cafes, restaurants, and all major fast-food outlets.

Local Attractions

Rowes Lagoon: The main attraction at the site for birdwatching and nature appreciation.
The Big Merino, Goulburn: One of Australia’s iconic “big things”, a giant ram housing a museum and gift shop.
National Museum of Australia, Canberra: Approx. 60km south, a short drive once you reach the capital.

Caravanning & Camping Supplies

Nearest Caravan Parks: Several caravan parks are located in Goulburn and on the outskirts of Canberra.
Next Free Camps: Other highway rest areas such as the Windmills Rest Area to the north.
Nearest Dump Points: A free public dump point is located at the Goulburn Visitor Information Centre.
Nearest Petrol Station: A major service centre is located at Collector (south), with all options available in Goulburn (north).
Drinking Water Resupply: Available onsite.
Nearest Public Toilets: Available onsite.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The Wollogorang area is part of the Southern Tablelands and experiences a cool temperate climate. Summers are warm to hot, and often dry, although thunderstorms can be expected. Winters are cold, with very crisp nights, frequent heavy frosts, and a chance of sleet or snowfall. The area can be quite exposed and windy. Autumn and spring offer the most pleasant conditions for travel, with mild, sunny days and cool nights.