Goose Green

A few miles from Darwin, Goose Green was established as a major sheep handling operation in 1922 and is still home to the largest shearing shed in the Falklands. The site is of great historic interest and is easily visited as a daytrip from Stanley or nearby Darwin. The settlement was made famous by the 1982 Conflict, when 114 Falkland Islanders were held captive in the Community Hall by the invading Argentine force. All captives were liberated by the Second Parachute Regiment on the 29th May 1982 in what was to become the first major land battle of the Conflict.

Maritime enthusiasts will be interested in the story of the Vicar of Bray, one of the last ships to participate in the California Gold Rush. The remains of this ship are situated at Goose Green jetty, amongst which a few brave cormorants and night herons still take shelter.

Also of interest is the world’s most southerly suspension bridge at Bodie Creek, just 20 minutes drive off-road from the Goose Green settlement. Built in 1924-25, Bodie Creek Bridge spans 122 metres of water and was erected to reduce the time taken to drive sheep from the southern parts of Lafonia to the shearing sheds at Goose Green. The bridge is now an aging construction; walking or driving on the bridge are not permitted.

This is also a great jump-off point for exploring the plains of Lafonia or the hills to the north which include the Islands' highest peak, Mount Usborne.

Goose Green has an excellent cafe serving good value hot meals and home-made cakes. Self catering accommodation is available.

Land owner: Falklands Landholdings – Goose Green Farm
Ph +500 32270 or E-mail goose.green@horizon.co.fk
Access: By road, FIGAS
Flora/fauna: Upland goose, ruddy headed goose, cormorant, black-crowned night heron.
Activities: Guided battlefield tours, self -drive exploration, hiking, military history and monuments, meals and snacks
Accommodation: Darwin House Ph +500 31313, Goose Green self catering Ph +500 32228, Stanley operators