Goldfields Tourist Information
Goldfields Tourist Information
Bendigo
All the elements of the heady Goldrush days are still alive and evident in Bendigo. Its success as a prosperous gold town led to its development as a city with a rich and diverse cultural heritage. Start your visit to Bendigo with the Talking Tram Tour. Travel through city streets listening to the comentary on Bendigo's architecture abd history - it's easy to recognize the oppulence and flamboyance that characterised those days.
Bendigo boasts some of the best preserved examples of Victorian architecture. The Shamrock Hotel (1897), the law courts (1896) and the Italianate Post Office (1887) are clear signs of the grandeur evident throughout the city. Don't miss Fortuna Villa, once the largest private residence in Australia, and the former home of Quartz King George Lansell. If walking is your style try one of the self guided heritage walks.
Explore the authentic mining sights. The Central Deborah Mine, which only closed operation in 1954, provides an interesting tour incorporating the techniques of underground mining. Don a hard hat and miner's light and travel 61 metres underground to experience the trials and tribulations of a miner's lot.
The Chinese presence on Victoria's goldfields and their influence on the culture is part of Bendigo's heritage. At the annual Bendigo Easter Fair, the Easter Monday Parade highlights the Chinese contribution to Bendigo's history. The giant Sun Loong, world's longest Chinese Imperial Dragon, awakens this one day only to lead the festivities. At other times of the year see Sun Loong at the Golden Dragon Museum. More Chinese culture can be experienced at the Chinese Joss House, the oldest in use in Australia, or by trying a banquet at some of Australia's best Chinese restaurants.
Art and craft lovers will revel in the rich diversity of small artisans whose crerative works can be found everywhere. The Bendigo Art Gallery, too, reflects the city's colourful past, hosting a fine collection of Australian paintings. At Bendigo Pottery, Australia's oldest ceramics manufacturer, see historic kilns, classified by the National Trust, and the art of hand potting, and tour the pottery factory employing modern techniques to continue the tradition started at Bendigo Pottery in 1858. Take the opportunity to purchase items at factory prices and visit the Central Victorian Motor Museum.
For outdoor lovers, Bendigo has more options. The Botanic Gardens is perfect for picnics. The Whipstick State Parks are a bushwalkers delight and even provide bicycle paths and opportunities for gold fossicking. The Bendigo Creek Linear Park and the Bushland Trail are great ways to explore nature and areas of historical interest. In summer, enjoy the fishing, boating and swimming at Lake Eppalock. At nearby Heathcote venture into wonderful natural sights, including legacies of the gold rush, such as the awe-inspiring Pink Cliffs.
The diversity of accommodation and attractions in Bendigo will entice travellers to spend a few days or a few weeks in this fascinating part of Victoria's Goldfields.
