Wildlife, natural attractions and history at Cygnet River’s Duck Lagoon

In Cygnet River, koalas are regularly seen in the River Red Gums standing tall along the river flats and plains. One of the best places to find them is at Duck Lagoon, a birdwatcher's paradise, with lots of waterbirds and bushland birds in the seasonal river and wetlands. It’s also a great place for a picnic.

The Historic Rural Region of Cygnet River

Discover some of the region’s history when you walk around the lagoon to the ruins of an old eucalyptus distillery, one of the island’s earliest industries thanks to the plentiful Narrow-leaved Mallees. Nearby is an old apple orchard, likely planted by one of the area’s pioneering families.

The Cygnet River region hosts a growing number of micro-industries, including and a vibrant cellar door, distillery and brewery scene.

The Distiller

Island Stays

Duck Lagoon Camp Ground

  • Cygnet River
Caravan, Camping and Holiday Parks
Duck Lagoon Camp Ground is located in a small reserve near Cygnet River.

Duck Lagoon offers picnic areas and bird watching…
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Cygnet River Experiences that are truly memorable

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Cellar doors, Breweries and Eating out

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  • Kangaroo Island Spirits

    • Cygnet River
    Breweries and Distilleries, Wineries
    Kangaroo Island Spirits (KIS) is South Australia's first boutique distillery and was established in 2005.
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  • Kangaroo Island Spirits Distillery Experiences

    • Cygnet River
    Food and Wine Tours, Half Day or Less, Customised
    We are a Gin and Whisky Distillery with a cellar door, an interpretive garden and a full production unit and have an…
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  • Walk Kangaroo Island

    • Cygnet River
    Nature and wildlife, Adventure and Outdoors Tours, Cultural and Theme Tours, Extended, Walking and Biking Tours
    It’s amazing what you see when you slow down to a natural pace – the tiny details, the big sky.
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  • Exceptional Kangaroo Island - Luxury Small Group and Private Tours

    • Cygnet River
    Nature and wildlife, Adventure and Outdoors Tours, Cultural and Theme Tours, Extended, Full Day, Food and Wine Tours, Walking and Biking Tours
    Since 1990 Exceptional Kangaroo Island has offered all inclusive small group day and extended tours of Kangaroo Island,…
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  • Exceptional Kangaroo Island E-Bikes

    • Cygnet River
    Nature and wildlife, Adventure and Outdoors Tours, Food and Wine Tours, Half Day or Less, Customised, Walking and Biking Tours
    Exceptional Kangaroo Island has recently launched a new electric bike (e-bike) circuit through the Cygnet Valley, exploring a…
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  • Kangaroo Island Wool

    • Cygnet River
    Agri, Mining and Industry, Shopping and Markets
    Kangaroo Island Wool sets a new standard in the wool industry with a focus on modern farming practices, animal husbandry, and…
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  • Kangaroo Island Wool Mill Tour

    • Cygnet River
    Cultural and Theme Tours, Shopping Tours
    Experience the Artistry of Wool at Kangaroo Island Wool's Captivating Mill Tour! Unveil the fascinating journey of how raw wool…
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  • Springs Road Kangaroo Island

    • Cygnet River
    Wineries
    Springs Road vineyard is an amazing site producing beautiful wines. Cellar door and vineyards are located in Cygnet River just…
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  • Springs Road Wine Experiences

    • Cygnet River
    Food and Wine Tours, Half Day or Less
    Springs Road vineyard is an amazing site producing beautiful wines. Cellar door and vineyards are located in Cygnet River just…
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  • Kangaroo Island Providore

    • Cygnet River
    Restaurant and Cafe
    Kangaroo Island Providore are passionate about showcasing the best of our island's locally sourced produce and artisanal goods.
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  • Duck Lagoon

    • Cygnet River
    Natural Attractions
    Here you may observe the birdlife on the Lagoon from the shelter of the bird hide.
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Our Simple Guide

Wedge Tailed Eagle (Aquila audax) Wedge Tailed Eagle (Aquila audax) Wedge Tailed Eagle (Aquila audax)
Birdwatching
Our Simple Guide to the Beautiful Birds of Kangaroo Island
  • Buck Kangaroo by Quentin Chester

    Iconic Wildlife

    As one of the world’s best nature-based destinations, learn about and get up close to the iconic Kangaroo Island Wildlife, including the Kangaroo Island Kangaroos.
  • Chapman River Kayaking

    Best free things to do on Kangaroo Island

    It's time to explore Kangaroo Island with the family, there are so many activities you can do for free. From beaches to cave walkways, to history, fishing and waterfalls. There are so many great adventures to be had.

  • Events

    Kangaroo Island Islanders know how to celebrate a good time! Markets, art, food and wine events to festivals, exhibitions, and live performances across the Island in unique settings!

Local Secrets

Horse Races

Kangaroo Island has a dedicated Horse Racing course and two popular racing events. In January, Racing at the Cygnet is a family picnic style event. In February, the SeaLink Kangaroo Island Cup Carnival is spread over 4 huge days with 2 days of racing. This is quite the event on the Kangaroo Island where you can taste the local produce and beverages. Dress to your race day best and join in with a range of festivities.

Iconic Wildlife Spotting

Spend part of your day at Duck Lagoon. The l.agoon is a fantastic place to spot Koalas in the gum trees, kangaroos lazily watching on from nearby, and plentiful birdlife. Here you may like to observe the birdlife from the shelter of the bird hide. You can investigate old relics from the past, or just wander on the scenic walking trail which takes you along the banks of the lagoon and the Cygnet River

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