The famed Warrnambool attraction was ranked seventh in the travellers’ choice awards on the world’s largest travel website TripAdvisor. 

The website uses comments and ratings to rank attractions and accommodation. 

The former swamp, which began its new life in the 1970s, came in ahead of Melbourne’s Albert Park, Werribee Park, Auckland Domain and Sydney’s Hyde Park. 

It’s also ranked the number one attraction in Warrnambool and along the Great Ocean Road with a five out of five ranking, according to the website. 

Of the people who left feedback on the site, 101 rated the playground as “excellent”, 18 as “very good” and three as “average”. 

There were no “poor” or “terrible” ratings.

One of the latest reviews came from a Singapore tourist who said the adults in their group had just the same amount of “fun and exhilaration” as the children.

“The highlight was the flying fox play equipment,” she said. 

“There was one for children below 12 metres and another from a higher platform for adults (or children above 12 years old). 

“When we had just arrived, my father queried if we had to pay for the flying fox or not. Peeps ... the entire playground is free!”

More praise came from a Bacchus Marsh reviewer: “Little kids love the slides, swings, sandpits, and other play areas. 

“Bigger kids enjoy the boat rides, flying fox and maze. Parents love the idea that the kids are outside enjoying the fresh air and exercise. 

“What is not to love about this place?”

Warrnambool City Council tourism services manager Peter Abbott said the award was recognition of what people in Warrnambool already know. 

“Locals have known how great Lake Pertobe is for years, so this just confirms it,” he said. 

“When I ask people what was their favourite thing about the region, Lake Pertobe is always their first response.

“There are comments from all over the world on TripAdvisor about how wonderful the whole area is so it’s not just locals that think it’s wonderful.” 

Mr Abbott said award ranking was great recognition for the staff that “work tirelessly” to make sure the park is kept spotlessly clean all year round. 

“They start very early to make sure everything is clean and in order for when people start arriving,” he said. 

“They do a fantastic job, especially in summer when there is a high amount of traffic down there, to keep everything looking great and the lawns growing. 

“Parks and gardens staff may not see themselves as being in tourism, but comments about the cleanliness and appearance of Lake Pertobe show they most certainly are.”