Lorne Attractions

Historic Grave, Wye River

Historic Grave - approximately 5 kilometres east of Wye River, is a memorial to several seamen who drowned trying to salvage the cargo from the ill fated W. B. Godfrey which was wrecked there in 1891.

The Godfrey was sailing from San Francisco to Melbourne in March 1891 when engulfed by thick smoke from a raging bushfire along the coastline. Unable to see or gain their bearings the ship ran aground and was wrecked on the rocks. All passengers and crew escaped with their lives; however, later attempts to salvage the cargo resulted in the drowning deaths of 5 sailors.

The story of the Godfrey is on the display board in front of the lookout just past the grave.

Be Aware:
There is a parking area on the other side of the road to the Historic Grave. Be extremely careful when alighting from vehicles and keep a close watch on the children crossing the road.