Hope I'm not falling victim to misinformation, unfair exaggeration, etc. in even asking about this--and apologies to Aussies if I am--but I'd welcome any advice on how bad a fly problem my wife and I might expect when we travel through Southeast Australia in February. I assume they're not an issue in Sydney and Melbourne, but the other places we're planning to go to are Apollo Bay, Port Fairy, Penola and Halls Gap.

I've seen a couple of useful threads about flies after searching, but would still welcome any info re these areas. I guess I'd also be curious about whether they're just out during the heat of the day, from dawn til dusk, etc.

If the flies are likely to be really bad, we might alter our planned itinerary. Regardless, thanks for any info, advice on best insect repellent, etc.