5 Stars – A Truly Unforgettable Experience! We had the most amazing time at Billabong Ranch! From the moment we arrived, the staff were incredibly friendly, welcoming, and knowledgeable. The horse riding was a definite highlight – the horses were well-trained and clearly well-cared for, making the experience enjoyable for both beginners and experienced riders alike. The facilities were top-notch, with plenty of fun activities for all ages. The animal nursery was a hit with the kids, and we all had a blast on the pedal boats and mini golf course. It’s clear that the team at Billabong Ranch puts a lot of effort into creating a safe, family-friendly environment. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or quality time with loved ones, Billabong Ranch has something for everyone. Highly recommend and can’t wait to come back!

We went for a 10am 1h trail ride, was so beautiful and relaxing. The horses we so well behaved and friendly. Had some amazing instructors with us as well, so friendly and made sure we had a good time. Wish we booked for longer tho 1h goes so quickly when your having fun. Would definitely come again for sure!! Thanks Zoe for chatting with us while we rode we all had such a fun time.

What a magical place! It was absolutely beautiful 💛 Our kids loved all of the activities; mini golf, rock climbing, feeding the animals, kayaks, pedal boats and soo much more!! The staff were also amazing! Soo kind and it was very obvious they love their job! Thank you for creating a beautiful place, we will be back!! 😁

We did a 1 hr horse trail ride here on the Easter Sunday and we really liked it. It's bit expensive for what it is, however the girls were very nice and made sure my 7 year old son had a good time. I would recommend this if you are visiting Echuca.

I’m feeling so nostalgic stumbling across this ranch again! My Nan used to bring me here every time we visited Echuca, and I was absolutely obsessed with horses as a kid. I still remember riding Sparks and Sookie like it was yesterday, those horses were everything to me growing up. While I was off riding, my little brother would spend ages playing mini golf, so there was always something for both of us to enjoy. It’s so lovely to see the ranch still going strong and continuing to bring joy to other families. Thank you for being such a core part of my childhood, I’ll always hold those memories close 💛🐴 (Sharing a couple of photos with Sparks and Sookie, taken just over 10 years ago for a bit of nostalgia!)

My girls and I spent a lovely day here. Staff were very friendly and helpful. A great variety of things to do for the kids and family. Food was a good price and really delicious. A huge shout out to the very helpful young man Xavier who came to the rescue and changed my tyre as I had a flat. Thank you 😊 your slushy was well deserved!

Free ? Yes free entry well worth a visit for the kids you will see many animals such a camels 🐪 , buffalo 🐃, goats etc. Rides are available for a small fee. There is a large lake for paddle boats.

Staff are very welcoming, and Neil's enthusiasm and knowledge is great, as well as entertaining. Apart from the mind boggling array of beer related stuff, there are lots of other gems from years gone by. Make sure you also explore the displays outside, including the shipping containers out behind the car park. Number 1 rated attraction in Echuca for a reason.... well worth a visit.

A really worthwhile place to visit. The owner will greet you at the door and gives a great presentation. He is one character and a half and has the best Aussie personality and a great knowledge of the recent Australian past. You will learn things from him you never knew. Was glad we made the effort to visit.

What a delight! We popped into the Great Aussie Beer Museum while in Echuca and were absolutely charmed. The place is so much more than beer though as you’ll find walls of vintage beer cans, brewery relics, retro signs, old petrol pumps, restored automobiles, farm machinery, soda dispensers, and more.  A huge shout out to Neil an absolute legend, the owner whose passion and knowledge of Australian history, culture, and memorabilia really bring the collection to life. He took time to explain many of the items, cracked a few jokes, and made the experience personal and memorable.  The atmosphere is delightfully nostalgic and rustic it’s like stepping back in time. There’s a sense that every object has a story. The restored cars and machinery especially add a touch of old-school charm.  If you’re in Echuca, do not skip this museum. It’s a passion project that’s well worth your time and admission.

Neil was so friendly, greeted us in the car park and explained the best way to view everything. What a place. Everyone should visit at least once. Need a minimum of 1 hour. Would be great to hold a function there.

Alan and Bryan were great tour guides and gave us a lot of information. They were super knowledgeable and friendly. We saw so many great Australian pieces and were blown away by how big the collection actually is. The stories behind some of the items were also very interesting. We visited on the 11/10/2025 and will definitely be back

This is a great place to visit if you want to experience things from days gone by. Awesome people. Awesome collection of old things. Make sure you stay for the presentation.

Had an awesome time at The Great Shed so much to look at from the past . Make sure you have a good hour to 2 hrs to look at everything. Neil’s talk about some of his collection was fun and informative. Jacks Shed is the best , beautiful cars . Thank you Neil, from Paul & princess Cate lol 16/11/25

Great district to visit. Step back in time. See and experience the old world in modern comfort. Steam Trains, Horse & carriage, Paddle Steamers - all ready to experience. Can get very busy. Bookings recommended on Peak Days

Port of Echuca feels like being transported back in time. The restored wharf, the smell of the river gums, and the creak of timber all give it a charming old-town vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere. The highlight is watching and riding the historic paddle steamers still operating on the Murray, hearing the chug of their engines and the whistle echoing off the water is pure nostalgia. Around the wharf you’ll also spot an old steam engine on display and plenty of rustic, heritage-style buildings that complete the old-school river-port atmosphere. Great place for a stroll, photography, or a ride on one of the paddleboats. A must-see if you’re in Echuca!

A great historical area focussed on the Murray River riverboats and related industries. Some of these industries are still practised here for tourists. Some good eating places and enough to fill in your day and go on a paddle boat cruise.

the Port of Echuca delivers a memorable day out that celebrates Australia’s inland waterways. The Port of Echuca, located at 74 Murray Esplanade, is a captivating riverside gem that encapsulates the rich maritime and cultural heritage of Victoria’s Murray River region. Visited on a September sunny afternoon, this historic precinct left me enchanted with its blend of nostalgia, natural beauty, and free access, making it an unmissable stop for travelers and locals alike. Often dubbed the "Paddle Steamer Capital of Australia," this vibrant hub offers a step back in time while delivering a modern-day experience that’s both educational and relaxing. The port’s free entry is a delightful surprise, allowing unrestricted exploration of its sprawling 5-hectare site along the Murray River. The star attraction is the restored wharf, a bustling hub in the 19th century when Echuca was a vital trade link between Melbourne and inland Australia. Walking the wooden planks, I marveled at the historic paddle steamers docked along the riverbank, including the iconic PS Alexander Arbuthnot and PS Emmylou, which offer paid cruises but are a sight to behold even from shore. The wharf’s interpretive signs vividly recount tales of paddle steamers hauling wool, timber, and supplies, with over 200 vessels once operating from this port. The adjacent Star Hotel, dating back to 1860, and the working blacksmith forge add authentic touches, while the Discovery Centre provides interactive exhibits on the river’s ecology and Indigenous history—perfect for families or history buffs. The setting itself is a draw, with the Murray River’s glassy waters reflecting the red gums and willow trees lining the banks. I spent time on the grassy esplanade, enjoying a spontaneous picnic with views of the historic bridge and passing houseboats, a nod to the region’s thriving tourism. The port’s layout encourages leisurely wandering, with pathways leading to the Echuca Wharf Brewery for a craft beer or the Port of Echuca Coffee Lounge for a caffeine fix. The free daily events, like the 1 PM cannon firing (weather permitting), add a lively touch, though I missed it by minutes—next time, I’ll time my visit better. Accessibility is excellent, with flat paths suitable for wheelchairs and prams, and ample parking nearby. The only minor quibble is the lack of shaded seating during peak summer heat, but the riverside breeze mitigates this. For a deeper dive, paid options like the 1-hour paddle steamer cruise ($35 adults) or the 1860s Historic Precinct entry ($15) are worth considering, but the free experience alone—spanning the wharf, gardens, and river views—offers immense value. Whether you’re drawn by the paddle steamer heritage, the chance to spot pelicans, or simply a peaceful riverside escape, the Port of Echuca delivers a memorable day out that celebrates Australia’s inland waterways.

Really pretty little place with lots to see. We did the port after dark tour too which was really interesting. I really enjoyed our Echuca stay.

Wonderful place to visit to learn about the history of Echuca-Moama area. Also gives a good idea about how steam engines revolutionized the way people worked and their day to day activities.

Great short trip down the river and back. Very pet friendly. Great people operating boat. Does have a little coffee/alcohol bar.

As lovers of cars and all things old and nostalgic, we thoroughly enjoyed our visit here. It was a little muggy inside (hot day outside) but it was only a minor inconvenience. Great collection of Holdens and Holden memorabilia. Dog friendly too.

Loved our visit to the National Holden Motor Museum. As a mechanic it was great to see all the different models of Holdens from the past decades. There are also some prototype models as well as models used in the product development process. Super interesting place to visit even if you're not a car fanatic. Definitely recommend it if you're in the area or just passing through. There's also a great giftshop which has something for any car nut. Not just Holden fans.

If you’re a car fan or even interested in history the Holden Museum is a must when you’re in Echuca! There’s so much to see and you can get really close to some great and rare examples of Australian motor engineering. Ticket prices are very reasonable and you won’t be disappointed!

A great museum with a range of classic and modern Holden’s that are swapped out every couple of months. With an affordable $10 entry to the museum itself, it grants access for either a 10 minute walk-in-walk-out or more than hour of in-depth reading into the history and information of Holden. The staff are super friendly and approachable and appreciate a good conversation. Overall the National Holden Motor Museum is a must visit for car enthusiasts keen on looking into the discontinued Holden name or rather, just to kill a bit of time while visiting Echuca.

Really great place to visit even if you're not a Holden fanatic (like me). The 50 cars on display are in prime condition and laid out very well. Lots of memorabilia on display as well. The 2 guys that were on duty were friendly and didn't mind a chat. A very informative visit. 👍

Great place for adults to visit to remember their youth & appreciate the vast range of cars that were produced under the Holden banner. The entrance fee was reasonable & the owners were very good about allowing visitors to wander around at their own pace, to get close to the cars & willing to provide information when asked. Well worth a visit, even if you're not particularly interested in cars 'per se'. The evolution of design, the beauty of the vehicles & the historical aspects of the display are inestimable.

Wasn't bad, I'm not a big Holden fan, some others would love it more. That said it was interesting to see the history of Holden from before my time all in one spot. Entry price was fair and plenty of parking available.

Must Visit! Lovely place and owners , Delicious wine. This is a place you need to visit!! 👌❤️☺️

Well worth the drive, the meads were very nice ( I bought a bottle of each) and the pottery lovely - gardens were also beautiful

It was excellent 👍

We had the best relaxing and wonderful experience this weekend, canoeing through the park on the still water of the Murray River. Amazing place for bird watching and rest, I love coming to this park to fully recharge!!! Definitely a must go for a chill holiday

Had a really nice day here relaxing. It has been dry for a while so the roads were solid. I wasn't in a 4x4 but made it riverside on 13inch wheels. Some deeps parts in the tracks so beware. If you are looking to escape and have some peace and quiet see some wildlife then this is a good place to go.

Good place to get away from people and enjoy nature. Some damage from the floods. Very basic facilities.

Beautiful camp-site for the whole family. Very clean and beautiful views.

Really good camping area. We stayed at the Gunbower state Forest so we could take the doggo with us. Watch out for the mozzies and millipedes.

Good boat ramp. Plenty of places to set up camp along the river.

Beautiful spot to camp along the river

Wonderful experience had by my family and I, my little boy always enjoys himself while at EMR, staff are very nice and helpful and always have a smile on their face. I recommend everyone visit here with their family. 10/10

Lovely staff, made it more enjoyable. Great family activity especially if you have kids. Definitely recommend it.

Wonderful 8 min train ride. My One and a half year old LOVED it, and so did the adults.

Tiny train in Elmore!! So fun! Perfect small activity if in the area :) friendly staff and lovely view!

A must to check out these school holidays or when you are passing through Elmore!! A nostalgic and fun experience with my two and three year old for only $5 you can’t go wrong!! Thanks for having us. I would love to help with their mini set ups throughout the train ride, soooo much potential!!

We absolutely enjoyed the ride today. All staff members were very professional and kind. The price is very reasonable and the ride is the prefect distance and time for kids Highly recommend

Excellent. Great for families. Nothing better and fun than a miniature train ride.

loved the way it was set up, outdoor & indoor both done in a tasteful manner, very Southern European. I wish I could have stayed a bit longer.

Popped into this winery on a visit to Heathcote. First time here, and seems they just opened. Noticed they have an Alan Border sign on one of the vineyard aisles. Tasting was lovely. The Lagrain was my favourite. They also had a nice Nebbiolo. Will return for sure!

Such a great spot! The wines at Sanguine are amazing and the staff are super friendly and easy to chat with. The tasting was relaxed and fun, not rushed at all. You can tell they really love what they do. Definitely worth stopping by if you’re in Heathcote!

Such a pretty winery! Love that you can make your own cheeseboard. We took our dogs and sit outside. Great for a day out with friends or family.

We had a lovely wine tasting at Sanguine on Thursday.. It’s a beautiful spot and an immaculately clean winery. We were served by Jodi one of the family and could see her brother the wine maker working in the winery behind the cellar door. I highly recommend the wines and you will not be disappointed if you visit.

Great wine, tranquil and well manicured winery setting, last but not least served by of really lovely people who went out of their way to make you feel comfortable.

Great knowledgeable staff, beautiful wines and a great selection to make an individual grazing platter. Don't come here if you don't want to buy great wines, they are all great.

The lake is quite nice, but nothing special. It’s well located in walking distance of the town and a stop on the Talking Tram Tour. There’s a cafe with a great lake view and we appreciated some of the different bird who live by the habitat, but it seemed a bit overhyped for me.

Very nice lake. Good place to run. About 1.4km for a long loop. Shorter if you take the scenic boardwalk route.

Beauteous place for walking, playing, and picnic. Amazing views with great cafes around. The coffee van is also here in the car park, which is very good.

Went here for the Bendigo Sprint Rowing Regatta. Lovely spot. Bar and restaurant at one end overlooking the lake. Coffee and food vans. Lots of people walking around the lake.

A wonderful lake to walk around. This popular venue attracts dog walkers, bike riders, children, adults - just about anyone who enjoys relaxing in the great outdoors. After having a late breakfast nearby, we strolled around this very pleasant park, lake and gardens. The residents of Bendigo are indeed lucky to have such a terrific space to enjoy - as are the ducks, swans and other feathered creatures. Visitors to the city can easily see why this place is so popular. There is even a coffee van :-) Here are some photos of Lake Weeroona. Do yourself a favour and visit!

Lake Weeroona is beautiful. Love to come here on a Saturday and watch the rowing regattas, whilst walking around it. It has a great playground for the kids, a BBQ Pavilion and plenty of benches to sit, relax and enjoy. And if hungry or thirsty, The Boardwalk Cafe will satisfy both.

Great central location to get some exercise in. A bit of 1km loop around the lake which was peaceful of an evening. Some water available along the way for people and dogs.

The Talking Tram ride was such a cool way to explore Bendigo. You get to sit in a beautifully restored tram while learning the history of the city. It’s relaxed, fun, and gives you a whole new appreciation for Bendigo. Great for all ages!

What a different dog friendly experience to go on a hop on hop off tram through Bendigo and learn about its history. Lots of easy free parking nearby and we even got to tour the Central Deborah Gold Mine while waiting for our tram with our dog joining us. Highly recommended

This quaint little hidden gem of a cafe is perfect for your after work coffee or visitors to the town who want something off the beaten path. Plenty of seating, great customer service and delicious well priced food. Gorgeous decorated interior of the vintage tram and in a perfect location, right next to the vintage tram history tour for Bendigo's hot spots.

The tram service provides historic information along the way and stops at significant landmarks. A $20 ticket is valid for the entire day, making it totally worth it if you’re exploring Bendigo city.

Really good and value the money! 18$ you can enjoy the city. The driving will tell you the place that you stop, also the story of the tram. You can visit centre city, tram cafe and 2/3 places more. You can start from centre city or Goldmine or tram cafe. Wherever you park.

Wonderful way to see Bendigo, go early and get yourself a ticket, then just hop on and off through out the day seeing the sights.

I was so pleased to be able to take my dog with me for this tram ride, made it an easier day for me. There are 5 places you can hop off and on to the next one. Just get the time table. There’s good info given as the tram travels along but a little too noisy from the old tram to hear sometimes. The driver had time to give us a bit of a personal history lesson which was interesting and so nice of him. Well worth doing, you can also visit the tram depot museum.

This place is amazing. It shows the Chinese involvement with Bendigo since the Gold rush years. The collection of Chinese artefacts is vast and very interesting to look at. The whole site is very good and the restaurant was a great place for lunch.

Incredible collection of Chinese artefacts. We spent ages wandering around looking at everything. It's just a shame that there isn't more space to display the collection as it's quite overcrowded. We believe that there are hopes for an extension to the building which will open the displays up a bit more. With a little cafe onsite and situated next to a small Chinese Garden it is really a worthwhile place to visit. Thank you to the staff who were very helpful and friendly. We had a lovely visit.

A nice place to visit, full of local history. Kids found it boring as they do, but we didn't care. We enjoyed it. Beautiful gardens with a nice Chinese restaurant next door.

Didn't go into the museum, but thoroughly enjoyed the surrounding gardens and temple, where I offered some incense and did some prayers. A fantastic area with delightful and pretty gardens. Well maintained and spiritual.

We arrived rather late so museum already closed, however we are so lucky to witness the practice of Dragon Show for Moon Festival on Friday 26 September 2025. They are so great to see group of young talents practice & perform. The 5 stars are for them ☺️.

Amazing place to visit and read about their culture. Had a display of the Chinese Bells and was very interactive and informative.. also blew me away with a fully hand carved Jade ceremony chariot.. a must see.

Loved this cultural experience and the history of the Chinese people who settled in Bendigo and surrounds who contributed a richness to the area. Very historical and educational, well worth the visit. Some great interactive displays, the ringing and history of the bells was great.

Our primary reason for visiting the Gallery was to experience the Frida Kahlo exhibition and it didn't disappoint 😍 we spend 2hrs wandering with our eyes fixed on every single exhibit. An absolutely wonderful Gallery with so very much on offer to see, regardless of whether you are interested or not. Just do it!!!

Judy is a lovely tour guide! She taught me about the history of the painting and artist, and stories about what the painting is about. She showed me a lot of details I wouldn't have picked up and I'll be paying more attention to art from now on.

I've heard such wonderful things about the Bendigo Art Gallery and have been meaning to visit for ages. The exhibitions always sound so interesting and well-curated, drawing in people from all walks of life. I particularly love seeing how they celebrate local artists and showcase diverse perspectives.

Visited a few years ago when it was the Elvis Exhibition. What a wonderful Gallery and immaculately presented. Despite being a busy afternoon session, everyone was friendly, gave each other room to take photos and admire the King of Rock n Roll. A true asset to Bendigo.

I love this place, I could just sit and enjoy every brushstroke. There are so many massive paintings, and each one is absolutely beautiful.

Bendigo Art Gallery is reason enough to make the trip up the Calder. Housed in a graceful heritage building seamlessly blended with a sleek contemporary extension, it feels both historic and fresh. High-ceilinged rooms flood with natural light, while clever architecture guides you from grand 19th-century spaces to crisp, modern galleries without a hitch. Curation is top-class for a regional institution. The permanent Australian collection gives real depth. How about thinking of Heidelberg School landscapes in one room and bold contemporary works in the next, yet the blockbuster touring shows are what really shine. Whether it’s fashion icons, photography retrospectives or pop-culture tributes, the gallery consistently punches above its weight, drawing crowds that rival big-city institutions. Labels are informative without lecturing, and there’s always a thoughtfully placed bench or two so you can linger over a favourite piece. Practical touches round out the experience: friendly staff happy to chat about works, an airy café with excellent coffee and local bites, and a well-stocked shop that goes beyond generic souvenirs. The whole visit feels welcoming rather than stuffy, making it easy to lose a couple of hours in art-driven bliss. Five stars from me! Bendigo Art Gallery sets the gold standard for regional culture in Victoria.

Stunning gallery - Frida Kahlo was incredible (excepts labels & interpretation almost impossible to read unfortunately) & permanent collection really well arranged! Very helpful concierge & shop staff

The architectural beauty of the cathedral is beyond beautiful. indeed one of the best landmark of Bendigo. The solemnity, peace and tranquility you will feel when you enter the church will warm your heart.

A beautiful church to visit.The Sacred Heart Cathedral is one of the most significant religious and architectural landmarks in Australia. Its history reflects the prosperity of Bendigo during the gold-rush era, as well as the dedication of the Catholic community over nearly a century. Rich in history. A must visit place.

Experienced peace and tranquility here. One of the most beautiful churches in the regional area. Had the opportunity to connect with God further. Truly a stunning and must visit place in Bendigo!

The Cathedral is truly a magnificent sight! Its grandeur and serene atmosphere create a deeply spiritual experience. The architectural details are breathtaking, inviting reflection and reverence at every turn.

The architecture was absolutely stunning. Truly impressive craftsmanship and a peaceful atmosphere. Definitely worth a visit! ✝️⛪️

a beautiful space. magnificent cathedral. helpful and knowledgeable volunteers, who have amazing stories of the cathedral's history.

I was lucky enough to be here for a wedding. After travelling in England this is just as beautiful 😍

It was a great experience visiting the Central Deborah Gold Mine in Bendigo. It operated from 1939 to 1954 to a depth of 422 metres. It yielded 929 Kg of gold from its mining operations. The best part was going 61m underground with a hard hat ON to see how the gold mine workers worked in those days and how gold was mined from there. The tour guides were quite knowledgeable and kept everyone engaged throughout the tour. The Surface tour is a great way to know more about the gold mine and how things operated back in the days. Definitely worth a visit if you are in Bendigo.

We did the underground mine tour, with Graham, it was great!! He gave us lots of really good info but it was still fun. It was so surprisingly wheelchair accessible! They really had thought of everything we felt really comfortable with everything. All the staff were actually really friendly and helpful, and a good shop!

Going underground at the Central Deborah Gold Mine was an unforgettable experience. The tour guides were fantastic, explaining the history and stories of the miners. It’s both fun and eye-opening — a must-do if you want to really dive into Bendigo’s gold rush past.

Absolutely worth a visit to this fab centre, our tour guide (nathan) was superb and we he learnt so much about what life as a miner really was like. Sadly we didn’t come away with any gold nuggets but we did come away with a lot of the educational type and they’re priceless !! We booked the first tour - 10am, then took the ‘talking tram’ into town for lunch. Thoroughly recommend you doing that too if you have time

Everyone except for me thought this was going to be boring, they were all wrong. The underground mine tour was awesome and very informative. Our guide was very friendly and knowledgeable. He made everyone comfortable and answered all questions thrown at him. A must-see/do if in Bendigo.

Great place to visit. Very informative, outlining how Bendigo was formed. Can highly recommend a tour of the mine and could not rate our tour guide Ollie any higher. A very knowledgeable man who knows his stuff. Well done Ollie….

A 60 metre deep gold mine. Our guide explained everything in details. There are some big gold nuggets in display. Recommended to Book early before going

We are huge fans of Salute Oliva genuine extra virgin olive oil, especially the 2ltr cask. Such a fantastic idea and non drip! We love it so much we dropped in to their cellar door sales when passing through Boort on our 'round Oz trip (and stocked up!) The owners are passionate about their craft and delightful people. Only too happy to support this small Australian business.

Salute olive taste great I was Lucy to go to the river graze witch is a part of the Melbourne food and wine festival. on Saturday I wen to the river graze got to taste great olive and olive oil was great to. You dot get talk to me any food pictures but it was great to meet Marlies & peter elcher. keep up the great work.

Excellent organic oil and my family best olives.

Great insight into a small scale farming operation. The Olives are delicious.

Very friendly couple and great quality oil.

Very Interesting and informative. Love the products.

Was a beautiful day for a walk with our dogs around the park. Some enjoyable little chats with others along the way. We really enjoyed soaking in the beautiful trees.

Visited the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens on the last day of Autumn and it was a magi al experience. There were a lot of colours still to see and the kids loved the play area. A must visit place and a lovely 1.5hr drive from Melbourne city.

Great garden to visit and take a rest in the town, anytime, any seasons.

Good track for a pram in wet weather, undercover area, playground and toilets close by. (DAS coffeehouse is very close, and very good) Plus some friendly ducks that like to follow you around.

Beautiful place. Went for a drive so my learner driver could get some experience and it was the perfect drive for it. Got to the gardens and it was a beautiful day beautiful scenery and a beautiful walk with the family and the dog. Was able to get some lunch first and sit at one of the many tables to eat.

A beautiful botanic Gardens for this lovely country town. Great playground for the kids. Bridges over a little creek, lots of flowers and beautiful big trees. Large areas under shade with also big open areas. Nice location too, though next to the train line... Kids love it, but it is slightly loud (think you'd get used to it though) - and fur next to The Mill precinct. Would definitely spend more time at the gardens next time we visit!

A beautiful gardens really. Great for walking around, Saturday fun runs, and mediations. I love most, that the gardens were built by the prisoners of the jail. Making beautiful spaces for contributions with Us All.

Awesome small art museum with an impressive collection including some 20th century Australian masters such as Fred Williams, Jeffrey Smart and Charles Blackman. When I visited they also had some excellent works by first nations and women artists on display too.

Don't miss the nice place in the charming town of Castlemaine. Recommend to anyone interested in Australian art and history. The museum's collection of Australian art is truly outstanding. Friendly stafffs.

A regional gem. Housed in a historic building, the curator has chosen an interesting theme. We had a great time visiting the three galleries. Don't forget to visit the museum downstairs.

Wonderful art museum, I love the Art Deco facade! Great paintings from some local artists and some older famous ones such as Fred Williams, Frederick McCubbin and Margaret Preston. Great day out.

What a fabulous art museum. A must visit

The brief tour was good, quite informative. I didn't care for the negative stereotypes of the first nations people but I do applaud them for having the artistic guts to put them on display. Decent history though an oxymoron on a few levels.

Can’t believe this is not permanently government funded. It’s a good place to duck in to find out about the history of Castlemaine (downstairs) and upstairs it’s an eclectic mix of art. There is something for every art to get inspiration from with such diversity of techniques used.

A very colorful place, caused a lot of emotions, but I will say that I was impressed. Incredible amount of sculptures and art objects. The pictures were quite depressing, which created an atmosphere of isolation. In general, the museum is very interesting and large with patios. I think this is one of the most impressive places in the city. The only thing was that there was not enough information about the place and history, I would like that they would give out a brochure or there was a website with history.

Sensational, surreal, sexy, spooky and surprising, the Bromley Collection Museum at the Old Castlemaine Gaol is a must visit for all art aficionados. Kudos to David and Yuge for creating this whimsical wonderland. I had an amazing experience and can’t wait to return for more!

Love what Bromley has done to the place. Having visited the gaol on school camps in the 2000’s, was sad to see the site closed for such a long time. But now - wow, easily one of the most unique art galleries in the world.

A must see!!! From the outside the gaol looks to be an interesting place to check out. Once you go inside… it is amazing!!!! The art works collected inside from numerous well known artists is incredible. The art is displayed within the old gaol, which for me, lightened the atmosphere. The art provided a layer of inspiration, over the history of the gaol and it was interesting to learn about different artists on display. Well done for preserving the space and allowing the history to come through, definitely lightening the mood of the dire conditions of the historic gaol.

Impressive collection and sympathetic use of the Old Castlemaine Gaol. According to Google David Bromley (famous artist) purchased the building in 2018. He and his wife have transformed it into a great visitor attraction which I recommend visiting.

An ABSOLUTE MUST SEE if visiting Castlemaine - or a sufficient reason on its own to visit the town. David Bromley's collection is AMAZING. It is even more stunning in this truly unique space. Just GO!

Good place nice views...an amazing to be on a sunny day...staff is very friendly, it's built in a prison castle so can go for prison tour as well. I would like to see more food options there

5 stars for the food and the fishing experience. Would have gone higher! This was hands down the best meal we had while in Victoria. Superbly crafted and showcased the best local had to offer from the food to drinks etc. The fishing kept the teenagers enthused and saw many younger ones super excited! Everyone here was welcoming and proud of what they had. And so they should be. Terrific venue, location, food and service

We had a great day at Tuki. We ate in the restaurant, the food and service were excellent. The staff explained each dish and the food and drink were exceptional. Great local produce, beer and wine! After lunch we went fishing and caught a few trout. The team cleaned and processed the fish for us and we took them home to eat. The property is beautiful with great views. It was a great day and highly recommend!

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 A Truly Special Experience at Tuki Trout Farm From the moment we arrived at Tuki Trout Farm, we were welcomed like family. The personal service was second to none—every member of the team, from the friendly owners and talented chef to the hardworking farm hands, went out of their way to make our stay unforgettable. Even the owners’ adorable grandson and their charming dogs added a warm, homely touch that made the experience even more special. The cottage was cosy and well-appointed, with breathtaking views that made for the perfect escape from the everyday. The surrounding landscape is simply stunning—rolling hills, tranquil lakes, and fresh country air. We were especially impressed by the quality of the food. The on-site restaurant showcases exceptional locally sourced ingredients, with a particular highlight being the farm’s own trout and lamb. Every meal was a celebration of fresh, honest flavours and true paddock-to-plate dining. Whether you’re after a romantic getaway, a peaceful retreat, or just a taste of authentic country hospitality, Tuki delivers on all fronts. Can’t wait to return!

What a fantastic experience! We had an amazing day at the trout farm — it’s such a relaxing, beautiful setting and a great way to unwind. The $80 package for a two-course meal and fishing was excellent value but just watch out for the 15% Sunday surcharge. The food was absolutely delicious — fresh, beautifully cooked. The added fun of catching your own fish made it even more memorable. The staff were warm and welcoming, and the whole place had a peaceful, friendly vibe. Highly recommend for a weekend escape or something a little different. We’ll definitely be back!

Absolutely wonderful stay at Tuki. The food was amazing and a credit to chef Julian who served us at the table. Wonderful hosts Robert and Jan made us and our furry kids feel so welcome. We will definitely be back!

Fantastic paddock to plate experience. You won't get a more personalised dining experience - we talked to the Chef and the owner of the farm, so we got the inside word about the fantastic local produce used in the dishes on the menu.

I wish I could rate 10 stars!! This hidden gem was hands down one of the most special farm stay and paddock-to-plate experiences I've ever had. From the moment we arrived at Tuki, everything felt thoughtfully curated and deeply personal. The highlight was the 7 courses degustation dinner—every dish a celebration of local produce, beautifully prepared and presented. Chef Julien even came out personally to check in on us, which made the evening feel truly special. When they found out we’d just gotten engaged, we were surprised with a complimentary champagne—such a kind and thoughtful gesture. The stay itself was just as memorable: a cozy fireplace, a spa bath, views across the farm from bedroom and lounge area, locally roasted coffee, and fresh milk from the cows on site. Huge thanks to Chef Julien for the incredible meals and to Robert and Jan for creating such a welcoming, warm environment. We left feeling rested, full, and already planning our return trip!

Grand old building. History laid on.

After receiving state funding from Heritage Victoria the magnificent Maryborough Station underwent a 4‐year three-stage restoration of the façade, the slate roof and clock tower and glazed lantern covering the main carriageway platform completed in 2012. It is a tribute to the Victorian Railways, Architectural Works Department completed in 1890 as an outstanding example to the school of Victorian railway architecture developing a regional rather than national or international modern style. It is one of the finest examples in the country of Queen-Anne architecture which displays many hallmarks of the Anglo‐Dutch style which is enlivened at the roofline with gables and an asymmetrically placed clock tower. During the 1970’s much of the original facade ornamentation, the orbs, pedestals and ball-caps and rendered octagonal chimney crowns were sadly removed. These were carefully re-cast and reinstated as part of the restoration programme. The exterior was re-rendered using Adelaide ‘Brightonlite’ yellow-ocher oxide cement render. The residents of Maryborough were delighted with the result and applauded its face-lift and remarked “this is how it was meant to be” and how they could remember the way the station looked originally. An outstanding feature of Maryborough Station is its long platform covered by a continuous glazed lantern at the apex. This is said to be the longest single platform outside the Melbourne region and measures 1010 meters including the rail motor sidings. Today, Maryborough Station operates an art gallery emporium, a fully licensed restaurant in the grand dining hall (thanks Lloyd) and VLine post and freight services for passenger and goods trains. Maryborough Station is an exceptional country Victorian attraction and well worth the visit. Thank you and all the best, Chris Wilmar

Staff very rude argued over Coke Zero and Diet Coke insisting no difference in taste Meal average Only good thing is the cheese cake Service poor

On our way home to Mount Gambier today we stopped in to Marlborough station hoping for coffee and early feed....OMG we were not disappointed... The best cooked breakfast I have ever experienced....every mouthful delicious and well presented...chai late..prefect... What lovely friendly staff.....amazing atmosphere....do your self a favour if travelling and looking for a good feed...worth the stop....

Friendly service. Great coffee.

Next market day 17th September 2023 //Excellent market. Good array of stalls from veggies, food, pies, community BBQ with sausages, hamburgers so reasonably priced, to the most delicious tomato sauce, preserves, jams and bric a brac to raise money for the community. You'll find this store outside the local post office and down another street. Then there's the best flaxseed oil from Stony Creek organics, the olives are delicious at very fair prices for certified organic, excellent honey and the best healing balms from a stall in the 'yard sale area'. It's a bit hidden but we'll worth looking. There was only one veggie store the day I went so I was a bit disappointed. I was also hoping to find a butcher there or supplier of local grassfed or organic meats. Loved the eggs from navigator region and the yummy pea shoots they sell. There's heaps to explore Museum is also open to have a look. The architecture is beautiful and the town is quaint. There are amenities of toilets, drinking fountain, playground and BBQs and seating area available. Lovely day out and after stop off at Clunes historic town to purchase handmade woolen socks and products. Will definitely be back again. Thank you♥️ Please give a thumbs up if you got value from my review 👍

Wow, what a fantastic market! And SOOO much bigger than I expected. Plus, the layout means you get a lovely meander through Talbot. Bring cash, the mobile reception for tap and go isn't fantastic.

A fun hour or so of strolling over a couple of streets around the small town, of local or handmade produce.. mostly food but a few other bits and pieces.. pleasant atmosphere.. worth a visit..

A wonderful rural farmers market. Has nearly everything you need for the weeks meals. Plenty of options for brekkie & coffee whilst you browse. Busy even though it was a drizzly morn. Stall holders friendly.

What a beautiful village 14 k's out of Maryborough Vic. Gardens maintained by Volunteers. A nice place for an overnight stop in a B&B. You'd have to drive to Maryborough for dinner.

A fantastic market. Great fresh produce, vegetables, fruit, beautiful crummed mushrooms, bread, honey etc. Great variety of market stalls. A lot of different fresh cooked food to buy for lunch or a snacks. If your looking for a nice weekend away this would make a perfect stop on the Sunday. Or if your in the area do yourself a favor & drop in. On every 3rd Sunday of each month. Check out their wed sight for updates or changes. The photos are a very very small offering of what is truly there. Sorry didn't get more.

I drove to Talbot 'cause l'd heard it was a great Market . I thought it might be foreshortened 'cause of Covid BUT no ... a wonderfully eccentric mix of stalls . What added to the Buzz was the friendliness . I chatted with a great mix of humans ... My Dog loved it too ❤ l took home Sausage , Honey + Books .

We chauffeured a group of 4 guests (2 local, 2 visiting from NZ) to Eastern Peake. We had booked a tasting session and the regional produce board. This is always a fantastic experience for our Silver Mink Tours guests. Jacki the Cellar Door Manager is so knowledgeable, welcoming and perfect for this role. My guests lapped up family time while enjoying fabulous regional wine and produce.

We did a wine tasting and grazing board at Eastern Peake and it was incredible. The grazing board was made with local produce, and the wines were divine. The lovely woman that served us was very knowledgeable and offered an additional tasting of another red which was so generous. Highly recommend and will definitely be back on our next trip to Ballarat!

We had an amazing wine tasting with Jackie! The cellar door was beautiful and all of the wines were very good. They have a large range of varietals and also offer cheese boards and snacks. Jackie was very knowledgeable, provided great service and made us feel very welcome.

Generous tasting, great collection of wine, combined with the view and local cheese board is a perfect weekend gateway experience!

My partner and I visited the winery over the weekend and had the most delightful tasting. The sommelier was very friendly, very knowledgeable and curated our tastings perfectly. Have loved the Latta label for years so it was a real treat to get to visit the winery. Do yourself a favour and book yourself in for a visit

A delightful wine tasting accompanied by charcuterie board. Jackie our host was very friendly and efficient Highly recommend

Went with my partner and we shared both the standard and longer tasting, and the charcutterie board. Wide range of great quality wines, large delicious board with GF crackers available. Excellent setting, friendly and knowledgable host. Highly recommended.

“Expect the unexpected “ was the wording on the menu for the tasting platter . Totally delicious . Thankyou Linda for your food passion and wine knowledge . We will return .Ally .

We had a very enjoyable tasting experience and lunch at Blue Pyrenees. We tasted all the wines available and found plenty that we liked. We particularly enjoyed the Sauvignon Blanc and the Shiraz Marsanne. The staff were all very friendly and provided excellent service, particularly the lady who guided us through the tasting and organised our platter lunch. The platter was a good size with an interesting mix of very tasty food.

Absolutely fantastic experience with beautiful wines and incredible platter, Linda was lovely to talk with and described the wines great. Will definitely be back.

My wife and I had the best time at Blue Cafe just last Monday. Without a doubt Linda makes the most flavoursome hot and cold platter we have ever eaten and — we have eaten a great many on our travels. We love the variety, texture and diverse tastes on the platter washed down with a bottle of sparkling rose — a beautiful lunch outside in the sun with our dog Maisie.In fact this is our fifth platter here and it is by far our favourite winery destination. Linda is a star who remembers us and always makes us feel very welcome Great job Blue Pyrenees Ian and Jill

We visit at least once a year for the wonderful platters and wine. They cater to all our dietaries (gluten free, pescatarian) with ease and their kids menu is small but really well done.

Amazing food. Fabulous wines. Friendly staff. Edward & Linda are friendly and fun! Don’t leave without ordering the delicious House Platter (…it gets better every time… always something different to tantalise the tastebuds!) that pairs perfectly with any of the wines available. One of the best cellar doors in the state!

Amazing experience!!! Séan met us as we strode up to the cellar door and gave us an impromptu tour of the corking process for bubbles "methode tradionelle"...... absolutely intriguing! The freezing process following time on lees, the cork size pre insertion...... to see it in action was incredible!! Then upstairs for an amazing platter & wine tasting with Linda! That platter was next level......catering for our dietary requirements and also substantial!!! Linda's wine knowledge was exceptional! We will definitely be back.....and.......Linda, we hope you celebrated your birthday in style following dry July! 🙌🥂🎉

Wonderful dog friendly winery with an incredible menu of bespoke wine. Taste after taste, every bottle better than the last. Our hosts Annie and Lily were generous with their time, with helping us navigate the area as tourists, and fed us a delicious platter of antipasto. Top notch winery experience: we can’t wait to come back.

Such an amazing place! Annie was a great host. Very knowledgeable, accommodating and easy to deal with. An afternoon of relaxing music A must see place to visit for an afternoon of great wine & entertainment! highly recommend

We have loved Taltarni wines for many years now which we get here in WA, and were excited to be stopping in on our road trip through Victoria. It was one of the stops we had been looking forward to for a long time. The CD was absolutely amazing and all that we hoped it would be, we had very high hopes. Unfortunately Anne who looked after us left us highly disappointed, she clearly didn’t know much about the wines, we asked a few simple questions but her responses were rude, and she acted like we were interrupting her day. Having waited so long to go there, we left with only 2 bottles as we just wanted to get out of there. We still love the wines, at least they didn’t leave a bitter taste in our mouths.

Dropped in there with friends for a cheese and meat platter and wine . Was very disappointed with the lack of knowledge from the woman serving- Anne - she was outright rude and was obviously lacking in her knowledge. She spoke very rudely to another staff member who looked embarrassed. The cheese platter wasn’t as good as the one we had last year. There was an amazingly knowledgeable woman last year who was friendly and helpful. We bought a lot of wine last year . But she was gone and had been replaced by this Anne who was just plain rude and had no idea about the wine. We left unhappy. We were going to book a large group for November but have decided to go elsewhere instead.

Annie ensured we had the most amazing experience tasting the wines available at Taltarnie. She also provided platters that were a delight, patient, knowledgeable a credit to the winery.

Came in for Easter weekend. The lady behind the bar was useless. Her customer skill were clearly lacking. And it was obvious she knew nothing about the wine she was pouring. Also the coffee was undrinkable. Taltarni use to be our favourite place to visit….we won’t be back

Beautiful native setting for the tasting room. Lovely use of timber throughout. Very helpful new customer service girl, friendly but not pushy! Wide choice of wine to taste!

Wow - a totally unexpected experience. Having known the wine, now experienced the cellar door. Lisa is fabulous, took us through 9 different wines. Omg amazing wine, great chats & what a view !

Stunning looking winery with equally stunning wines. Top shelf is pricey but very special wines and are among the best I've had the pleasure to experience. Lisa at the cellar door was lovely, helpful and knowledgeable. Thank you.

We had a great timr in Dalwhinnie. The wine and cheese platter was stunning and Lisa was very welcoming and generous. We were looked after very well. The view is also stunning. It will stick in your mind forever. We would come back again.

Great winery in the hills around Avoca to spend time tasting wines and having a cheese platter

What a great place! Had a wine tasting yesterday, wine was delicious and the service even better. If you are visiting, ask for Lisa!!! She was a vibrant and lovely character that made the experience so great. We will be back 🥂😊 🪨

Perfect experience if you want to learn and test premium wines🍷, if you are in Melbourne is one MUST visit spot 1️⃣

Lisa was great value, cellar door itself is stunning. Wine speaks for itself, though it was certainly helped by the surrounds. Worth a stop!

Site states it is open from 9 AM. Drove 100 km to see this, only to be told they are not open every day. Told them they need to update their computer advice, and was told they are not on the computer. Apparently this site doesn't exist. Woman was rude and unhelpful.

Very welcoming friendly service,egg gallery amazing

Beautiful eggs in a beautiful, humble town. I love Beaufort and I love this gallery

a very entertaining experience, many lols had

egg craft

Tour guide was great and relatable. Very knowledgeable about the history or the asylum and has been a guide for 6 years. The tour was maybe a little long- the last hour could have been compacted into being a 5 hour tour. Not particularly scary in my opinion. Many gadgets to detect paranormal activity were supplied. The tour guide made the night more enjoyable that’s for sure.

I went on the 8pm Friday night tour of the Ararat Lunatic Asylum with my sister and a friend while we were in the Grampians. This was a two hour tour, and I would say there was probably about 20 people on the tour with us, with a maximum of 30 people allowed. I have to say that I think 30 people would be too much for this tour, so I was glad that we weren’t at capacity. If this tour was kept at say 15 people, people could ask more questions and it would actually be a little bit more creepier. We knew that there could be up to 30 people so it’s not a criticism of what is advertised, just an observation. Michelle was our guide, and she was very dramatic and theatrical, and set the scene quite well. Michelle was very knowledgeable about the asylum and there was a lot of interesting information that she told us as we went through the different buildings. She’s very well prepared and extremely engaging. This is not a huge point, but given the horrible things done to some of the people in their asylum, perhaps a little bit more sensitivity around some of the stories would have been good, particularly around suicide. Michelle did acknowledge the use of language around mental illness that is not appropriate these days. However, I would have liked to have found out some more stories about some of more individual patients to give a little bit more context to some of the stories As this is pitched as a ghost tour, be prepared for some theatrics with the storytelling. I did, however, get a very eerie feeling when I walked into the asylum, this was a place with some really horrific things happened. In many ways, this is actually very sad tour when you think about the terrible things that people are capable of doing to others. Be prepared for quite a few stairs, and a small walk down a gentle hill to the morgue. The tour is often in the dark, to add to the atmosphere. Some of the people on the tool asked to carry lamps, with one lady asked to be the last person to make sure everyone stayed together. I did find myself using my camera phone in some places, especially when going down and up stairs. There are obviously sensor lights and lighting around the place as well, but it’s dimly lit to add to the atmosphere. Being very old and in disrepair, there is a strong musty smell, and I will admit that I did find many elements of the tour creepy, and did hear some noises that I think were unexplained. My sister also captured a photo that perhaps has an unexplained figure in it. I think I also took a photo with an unexplained element (window in the dance hall). There is definitely a very creepy feel to the place, and the energy does reflect the dark history of the place. If you’re going on the ghost tour, you need to park in a small car park, so I would recommend getting there a little bit more than 15 minutes earlier than recommended. I would not recommend the tour for anyone who is mobility restricted due to the stairs, and there are no chances to sit down during the tour for those people who might need this. Directions to the car park could probably be a little bit clearer on the website, and there could be better lighting in the car park as well. The asylum itself is very musty, so be prepared for that as well. I would recommend this as a fun night out, and some genuine creepiness as an added bonus. I would also really be interested in the day tour with a bit more focus on the history and to see the building from a different perspective during the day.

Aradale has been on my bucket list for many years, Saturday night I finally got to experience this. After the long trip up from SA we entered our 6 hour tour and boy it was worth it. Our tour guide Jasmine was unbelievable in so many ways, her passion, love and dedication was incredible. I learnt so much and experienced something so new. I absolutely loved every moment of our tour

Went on the weekend and did the 4 hour tour. Alice was our guide and she was amazing! Can't fault her delivery or her knowledge. She really made the tour. The tour itself was incredible, access to so many amazing parts and rooms. Highlight was being locked in the chillers in the morgue! Would definitly do the tour again and looking to do the 6 hour investigation next time! Thank you so much for an amazing night

Aradale has a long, dark history, a by product of the time it was built and how mental health was managed. The building has a heaviness and sadness about it. Tour is very informative and well organised. We are going again to book the paranormal tour. Highly recommend the experience

Our group was to large, unfortunately. The atmosphere was great overall. Personally, I'd rather come during the day to take in more of what the history has to offer and actually see the building.

I had the absolute best experience on the 6hr ghost investigation at Aradale. The setting itself is already chilling and full of atmosphere, but what made the night truly unforgettable was our incredible guide, Jasmine. Jasmine struck the perfect balance between knowledgeable historian and paranormal investigator. The investigation itself was fascinating. We had moments of genuine chills, strange unexplained activity, and plenty of chances to explore. If you’re curious about the paranormal or just want an unforgettable night out, I can’t recommend this tour enough. Aradale is already incredible, but with Jasmine leading the way, it’s truly next level.

Lovely spot for a walk, park run or cuppa. (I managed all three while staying in Ararat for the long weekend) The swans are super cute and friendly too.

Absolutely beautiful park! Alexandra Gardens is a hidden gem in Stawell – peaceful, clean, and very well maintained. The lake and walking paths are perfect for a relaxing stroll, and there’s plenty of shade and space for a picnic. Loved the kids' playground and the ducks by the water! Great spot to unwind with family or just enjoy some quiet time in nature. Highly recommend visiting if you're in the area.

Beautiful place for picnics and family time.

This is a good one, free outdoor swimming pool with changing facilities and couple of electric bbq. Small lake, slides for kids to play with many other options. There is a prison next to it, so don’t forget to walk up. Dedicated fern park, which needs more maintenance but still a pleasant experience.

After I did the tour at J Ward across the road (which was brilliant by the way) I brought my picnic lunch here and sat at the tables and watched the ducks and swan mum and dad with their 6 babies. There is a cafe to get lunch, coffee and ice cream and good clean toilets. Shame some of the garden has fallen into disrepair but it is still lovely to have lunch and go for a walk on the well maintained sealed pathway. My visit tired in perfectly with the Gaol visit and having lunch in the gardens was an added bonus

These gardens are very pretty. The orchid house is in full display and the flower scents fill your nose as you walk in the doors. The lake is full and there are many water birds. The cafe is a real bonus. Such a variety in the menu and very reasonable prices. The gardens are a short walk from town or there's plenty of parking. We love it.

A beuatiful and lish gardens and playground. We stop here on our way through to Adelaide every year, and on other holidays that take us out west. We highly recommend stopping here and expericing these gardens with kids.