Joanna

Off the coast of Victoria, lies a hidden gem. It whispers tales of a bygone era. This gem, the Joanna, isn’t a glittering jewel. It’s a shipwreck, a haunting reminder of a maritime tragedy. The Joanna was a schooner. She met her unfortunate end at the mouth of the Johanna River on September 22, 1843. Imagine the waves crashing against her hull as she succumbed to the unforgiving sea. The Joanna’s demise gave its name to the small locality nearby. Johanna, Victoria, a quiet coastal spot west of Cape Otway, bears the schooner’s name as a constant memorial. The area is sparsely populated. According to the 2016 census, only 63 people call Johanna home. A post office once served this tiny community. It opened in 1913 but sadly closed its doors in 1967. Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Johanna is its powerful surf beach. This long stretch of beach breaks and reefs is known for its unpredictable nature. The waves can double in size within a few hours. This raw power makes Johanna a popular, if challenging, destination for surfers. In fact, the famous Bells Beach Surf Classic competition has been relocated to Johanna on occasion. This happened in 2003 and 2010 when the surf at Bells Beach was too flat. Johanna’s westerly-facing beach catches swells that miss Bells Beach. This makes it a reliable spot when other surf locations fall short. So, as you stand here, envision the ill-fated Joanna. Remember the small town that bears her name. Feel the power of the waves that crash against the shore. The Joanna’s story is a poignant reminder of the raw beauty and unpredictable nature of the sea.