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Amusement and Theme Parks

Cyril Callister Vegemite Museum: The man who invented Vegemite

The Cyril Callister Vegemite Museum celebrates the life, work and legacy of Dr Cyril Callister, the Australian scientist who invented Vegemite and the process of Kraft block cheese. The museum makes its home in a repurposed 1950s service station. See photos, posters, vintage ads and memorabilia that include a WWII Australian Army ration tin, Vegemite jars and collectibles from across 100 years and even a Vegemite-inspired dress created for the Miss Australia. Watch a video of the story about Dr Callister and his invention narrated by his grandson Jamie Callister. Visit science space Cyril's Lab, which is also open to small school groups to perform interactive science experiments. View Vegemite-inspired art painted by local artists and school students and use it as inspiration to paint your own Vegemite artwork. You can also see Vegemite through history, six repurposed 44-gallon drums that have been re-created into six Vegemite jar labels from the past 100 years. Try Vegemite-inspired tasty treats including chocolate Vegemite fudge, Chocolate Vegemite freckles, meat pies with Vegemite and shop for Vegemite merchandise. Schools, businesses, community groups, scouts and girl guides, seniors are encouraged to book ahead for history or painting. with Vegemite tours. Groups are by appointment. Please contact the operator via email or phone.

Beaufort VIC

0.0 km away

Steph and Amy standing at the entrance of our store — Image credit: Bloomin Fresh

Shopping and Markets

Bloomin Fresh

Bloomin Fresh is a welcoming boutique, nursery and providore in Beaufort, nestled in Victoria's Pyrenees Ranges. Visitors discover a thoughtfully curated collection of locally sourced products and artisan goods. The shop stocks an eclectic range of locally made preserves, organic whole-foods, natural fibre clothing, homewares, craft supplies and carefully selected books. The nursery specialises in hardy plants chosen to thrive in the local climate—withstanding both mountain frosts and dry summers. Whether searching for unique gifts, quality homewares, plants for the garden or fresh local produce, Bloomin Fresh offers something special for both locals and visitors passing through Beaufort. The shop celebrates a mindful, sustainable approach to living, curated for those who value quality and intention in their everyday choices.

Beaufort VIC

0.2 km away

Beaufort Community Resource Centre and Visitor Information Centre — Image credit: Pyrenees Shire Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Beaufort Community Resource Centre and Visitor Information Centre

Beaufort is an easy going town of unhurried holidaying. Located along the Western Highway, just 35 minutes from Ballarat, this charming rural town is nestled close to the Mount Cole State Forest, Filled with cafes ad galleries, antiques and collectables, it's the perfect location to meander in search of a bargain or get out amongst nature. If you are looking for a weekend away surrounded by sweeping views, good company and fine wine, Beaufort is the location! The nearby Mount Cole State Forest is a place peppered with walking tracks for you to explore. Set up camp in the scenic campgrounds and spend the night under the stars surrounded by nature. Beaufort Lake is located in the centre of the township and provides the opportunity for many water activities from fishing and boating, to skiing and swimming. Around its shores and in the neighbouring reserve you’ll find a network of walking tracks and exercise equipment—a perfect way to stretch your legs and walk off the delights of the town’s cafés! Note: Beaufort Lake is seasonally dry. The friendly knowledgeable staff at the Beaufort Community Resource Centre will be able to assist with your holiday planning and provide you with reliable information on things to see and do. For more detailed information on accommodation and things to see and do, please visit the website.

Beaufort VIC

0.3 km away

Koori Art Trail at the Beaufort Lake

Landmarks and Buildings

Koori Art Trail at the Beaufort Lake

Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the banks of Beaufort Lake. Discover the Koori Art Trail, which features 12 installations that depict the traditional flora and fauna of the area, and pays homage to the traditions, customs and stewardship of the local lands. The Koori Art Trail is an initiative of HM Prison Langi Kal Kal on behalf of the Department of Justice and Regulation and is supported by the Pyrenees Shire Council. The artwork, by indigenous prisoners, is provided to both community and visitors to celebrate the indigenous history of this country. The traditional owners of the region are the Wadawurrung, Dja Dja Wurrung and the Djab tribes. The walk starts at the Boat Ramp, which you can access via the Goldfields Recreation Reserve. You can enjoy a leisurely two kilometres walk around the lake, taking your time to view the artwork. There are lots of spots to sit if you need to take a breather or if you simply want to take in the views because they can be spectacular. This is a great walk if you enjoy bird watching. Please note the Lake can be seasonally dry. You can extend your walk into the neighbouring reserve where you will find a network of walking tracks and a series of exercise equipment. To extend your stay visit the Beaufort Caravan Park.

Beaufort VIC

0.8 km away

Camp Hill Beaufort

Natural Attractions

Camp Hill Lookout

If you're looking for a place to reconnect with nature and refresh your spirit, Camp Hill Lookout in Beaufort is calling your name. Perched high above the charming town, this hidden gem offers breathtaking panoramic views that stretch over the town and surrounding farm round and mountain ranges. Whether you're chasing a sunrise, soaking in golden hour, or simply enjoying a quiet moment surrounded by natural beauty, Camp Hill reminds you just how incredible the world can be. It's more than just a lookout—it's a place to pause, breathe, and feel inspired. Don't miss the chance to experience it for yourself. The lookout consists of a large gravel parking area atop the hill which overlooks the town. There are plenty of bush roads which are great for bushwalking. Camp Hill Lookout can be accessed by car via Muntz Track and on foot via a walking track which heads up the hill through the Camp Hill Recreation Reserve (the sunrises and sunsets are worth the hike) Pick up some goodies from in town and create your own picnic to enjoy with a view.

Beaufort VIC

2.7 km away

Mount Buangor State Park — Image credit: Parks Victoria

National Parks and Reserves

Mount Buangor State Park

Explore a variety of landscapes including eucalypt forest, creek flats, waterfalls and steep escarpments at Mount Buangor State Park. From the peak of Mount Buangor, the highest in the area, you can experience spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. There is a 15 kilometre network of walking tracks in the park; many extend into the adjoining Mount Cole State Forest. The section of the Bukkertillible and Sugarloaf walks between The Cave and 2 Mile Circuit is a semi remote and steep walk suitable for experienced bushwalkers only. Please be aware that in wet conditions this section of track can become quite slippery. Aboriginal Traditional Owners Parks Victoria acknowledges the Aboriginal Traditional Owners of Victoria - including its parks and reserves. Through their cultural traditions, Aboriginal people maintain their connection to their ancestral lands and waters. Before you go: Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe.

Middle Creek VIC

12 km away

Enjoy picnic facilities right beside the lake — Image credit: DEECA

Natural Attractions

Lake Burrumbeet

Lake Burrumbeet is a large freshwater lake, 2 hours drive west of Melbourne, near Ballarat. It is part of the unique lake system of the western volcanic plains. The area is rich in cultural heritage and is popular for picnicking, camping, boating, fishing and walking. Enjoy waterfront views from the two picnic shelters on the shoreline, which include tables and chairs. From here, take a stroll along the foreshore and enjoy the views across the lake as you wander through the River Red Gums. Camping options include smaller sites surrounded by nature close to the entrance. As you move further along the shoreline you'll find open, grassy areas that are ideal for larger groups or those with large vehicles or caravans. All sites are unpowered. The lake is home to a number of River Red Gums and is a potential breeding site for Brolga and other wetland species such as the Freckled Duck. Lake Burrumbeet is part of the traditional lands of the Burrumbeet Balug clan of the Wadawurrung people. The lake's sandy embankments, large sheltering trees, freshwater creek and rich plant and animal resources provided an excellent camp for the Wadawurrung people, who were known to inhabit this area.

Carngham VIC

24 km away

Flying Goolie Gallery — Image credit: Annie Younger

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Flying Goolie Gallery

Flying Goolie Gallery is located in Burrumbeet, 20 minutes from Ballarat, close to the shores of the natural and ecologically significant lake Burrumbeet. Flying Goolie prominently features the artworks of Annie Younger, a sculptor with a 35-year practice. Annie explores an ongoing subject in her work - the creation of characters and personalities with the use of recycled/reclaimed materials. Annie has exhibited throughout Australia, including commissions here and overseas. Flying Goolie is a place for the joyful engagement with art accompanied by food, drink and music. The gallery is set on over one acre of grounds with the inside areas reimagined from a former 122 year old hotel. Sculptures range from fitting in your hand and soaring to 5 metres high. Visitors to Flying Goolie can expect an uplifting experience and leave with a smile on their face. Flying Goolie an easy 20 minute drive from Ballarat, located on the Western highway with entry accessible from Station street.

Burrumbeet VIC

25 km away

Ben Nevis Summit

Natural Attractions

Borella Walk

Borella Walk is located in Mount Cole State Forest Starting Point at either Ben Nevis picnic area, Ben Nevis Road, Mount Cole or Chinamans Campground, Chinamans Road, Mount Cole. This walk can be done as a one way or return walk retracing your own steps. Named in memory of respected local bird observer Max Borella, this scenic walk celebrates the rich birdlife of the area and rewards hikers with stunning lookout points along the way. Keep an eye and ear out for native species as you make your way through the changing landscape. The track can be quite steep in sections, so it's best to take your time, pause often, and soak up the surroundings. Each rest stop offers a chance to appreciate the tranquillity of the bush and the ever-expanding views below. For those wanting to extend the experience, hikers can camp overnight at Chinaman's Campground, making it easy to turn the walk into a relaxed nature escape. At the summit of Ben Nevis, you'll be rewarded with sweeping panoramic views that stretch across the region — a perfect spot to catch your breath, enjoy a picnic, and reflect on the journey.

Mount Cole VIC

26 km away

Langi Ghiran State Park

National Parks and Reserves

Langi Ghiran State Park

Rugged granite peaks and gentle sloping woodlands are the dominant features of this park. A pleasant walk to the mountain summit presents a view of ancient red gums on the surrounding plains skirted by Mount Buangor in the east and the Grampians in the distant west. Lar-ne-jeering (Langi Ghiran) is from the Djab Wurrung language meaning 'home of the black cockatoo'. Before you go Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe.

Dobie VIC

34 km away

Cycling the Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail — Image credit: City of Ballarat

Natural Attractions

Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail

The 53 kilometre Ballarat–Skipton Rail Trail runs along the former railway to Skipton, from western Ballarat, Haddon, Smythesdale and Pittong to Skipton. Upgraded in 2008, this trail goes through native grasslands, historical gold mining sites and over an impressive trestle bridge near Newtown is open for trail users. History boards with trail information are sited at various points along the trail.

Smythesdale VIC

35 km away

Lambley Nursery's Spectacular Dry Garden — Image credit: Lambley Nursery Pty Ltd

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Lambley Nursery and Gardens

Located in Ascot, a short drive from Ballarat in the central Victorian Goldfields, Lambley Nursery and Gardens is an inspiration to local and international visitors and a must-see for anyone interested in plants and gardening. The gardens, set around a bluestone farmhouse built in the 1860s, offer incredible beauty in every season. Lambley's Dry Climate Garden features a naturalistic design of frost-hardy plants requiring minimal watering and is world-renowned as a benchmark in dry climate and sustainable gardening. Other highlights include a driveway of standard Mt Fuji Cherry trees, flourishing perennial borders, and an ornamental pear walk underplanted with daffodils in spring and white Japanese windflowers in summer and autumn, a rose garden, vegetable garden, orchard, and borders where clipped formality combine with the colour of annual and perennial plantings such as tulips, poppies and salvias. Lambley is well-serviced by cafes and amenities in nearby towns Learmonth, Clunes and Creswick, however, visitors can picnic on the lawns or seating located throughout the garden. All gardens at Lambley are open except those signposted 'private'. Group tours of the gardens, including the private gardens, are available by appointment. Lambley Nursery is a leading online and phone order plant nursery, sending plants to all states in Australia except the Northern Territory and Western Australia.

Ascot VIC

36 km away

Nimons Bridge — Image credit: Golden Plains Shire Council

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Nimons Bridge

Nimons Bridge was Victoria's fourth-largest timber trestle bridge when built and is the third-tallest surviving example. It is also the second-largest composite bridge combining traditional timber piers with RSJ spans and a timber deck. The bridge is the most visually spectacular timber-trestle bridge in Western Victoria and among the most spectacular timber-trestle rail bridges surviving anywhere in Victoria. It is part of the Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail.

Newtown VIC

38 km away

Avoca Waterfalls

Natural Attractions

Avoca Waterfalls

Take a scenic stroll alongside a stony creek to the gorgeous Avoca Falls, a seasonal waterfall which is nestled in a valley within the Pyrenees State Forest. Accessed via an easy 500 metre walk from the nearby Waterfalls Campground, Avoca Falls is a great place to explore. This waterfall typically only flows after heavy rains, but is a beautiful spot to visit with or without water. From the base of the waterfall, you can clamber up either side to reach several more levels in the rocks above. Take care if climbing up, as the grass and rocks can be very slippery. The walking track is narrow and uneven in places, travelling upstream along Number Two Creek. This creek is seasonal, but the walk is scenic with or without water flowing. Follow the track right to the base of the Avoca Waterfall.

Percydale VIC

38 km away

The Lee Medlyn Home of Bottles Collection — Image credit: Hepburn Shire Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

The Lee Medlyn Home of Bottles Collection

The Lee Medlyn Home of Bottles Collection consists of over six thousand historical bottles and other related objects dating from 1500 AD to the present. This hugely significant holding includes glass and ceramic vessels created for the storage of beer, wine and spirits, aerated waters, preserves, and condiments, along with pharmaceuticals. In 1868, Ernest Eberhard established a successful cordial and aerated water production facility in Clunes. Eberhard bottles can be viewed as part of the collection. Housed in the old South Clunes State School (which was, for over 45 years, the Clunes Interknit Mill), The Lee Medlyn Home of Bottles Collection is a must see for all visiting history buffs.

Clunes VIC

38 km away

Airmen recording message by Morse Code

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Ballarat Aviation Museum

Ballarat Aviation Museum is located within the grounds of the Ballarat Aerodrome. The museum is dedicated to the history of aviation. It has a great collection of aircraft, engines, aviation radios, cameras and aviation memorabilia. The Ballarat Aerodrome was a Royal Australian Air Force base during World War Two for the No.1 Wireless and Air Gunners school, and post war the School of Radio. Learn about the stories of nine Ballarat men who completed their training between 1940 and 1945. The training in Morse Code was one of the skills required by these men. You will have the opportunity to test your skills relaying a message in Morse Code.

Mitchell Park VIC

38 km away

Clunes Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Clunes Museum

Discover the story of a town built on gold at Clunes Museum, which is housed in the former warehouse (circa 1860) of contractors Nichol and Wallace. The beautifully curated and presented collection is an opportunity to step back in time and trace the history of this tightknit community in Central Victoria. Highlights include: The Gold Room: View artefacts related to natural history, the Dja Dja Warrung First People, and the discovery of gold. Sir John Longstaff Kitchen: See a kitchen typical of a 19th century miner's cottage. Laura Hudson Parlour: Learn about the domestic life of Laura Hudson (1848-1953) and see the contents of a typical miner's cottage parlour. Rivett Bland/Mayor's Room: Learn about the mining era and Clunes' local government over the decades. Entry to Clunes Museum is from Collins Place through the reception area of The Warehouse (Hepburn Shire Council Hub). A voluntary gold coin donation would be appreciated. Group tours can be arranged with prior notice. Check the Museum's website for the latest information on opening hours.

Clunes VIC

39 km away

Screenprint workshop in action — Image credit: Rogue Planet

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Rogue Planet Art Gallery

Rogue Planet is a screenprint studio, gallery and creative hub nestled inside a beautifully restored piece of Victorian goldfields history. The former Clunes School of Mines building dates to 1892, and still features original wall stencils and historic gold-smelting furnaces. It is one of only two schools of mines remaining in Victoria. Visitors can explore a welcoming gallery space showcasing the work of local and visiting artists. Original prints, paintings and handcrafted works are available to browse and buy. Monthly shows bring a rotating program of exhibitions, meaning there is always something new to see. Rogue Planet also runs hands-on workshops in screenprinting and other creative skills, suited to all experience levels. Talks and community events are held throughout the year. There is always something to discover. The building sits creekside in Clunes, one of the most architecturally intact gold rush towns in Victoria. The main street is lined with heritage buildings, independent shops and cafes, making Rogue Planet a natural stop on a day trip or weekend getaway. Whether visitors come to make, to browse or simply to soak up the atmosphere, Rogue Planet offers a genuine and unhurried creative experience in a remarkable historic setting.

Clunes VIC

39 km away

Ballarat Turf Club

Entertainment Venues

Ballarat Turf Club

Located just over an hour's drive from Melbourne, the Ballarat Turf Club offers a country atmosphere with metropolitan quality. Racing is held across the year on their turf and synthetic tracks, with the club proud to host 37 race meetings per season. The Ballarat Turf Club also features premium training facilities which is utilised by nearly 80 trainers and approximately 700 horses. All upcoming race days and events details on their website. On race days, visit their bar and bistro for drinks and a meal. On non-event days, the tracks are actively used for training from Monday to Saturday in the morning. Visitors are walk-in to see the horses in training as they prepare for their next run. If you would like to watch the jump outs, this can be arranged by contacting the club at least a day prior. It is subject to the Ballarat Turf Club racing calendar. On request and subject to availability, free tours of the facility are also offered. This includes access to key areas that are often used typically on a race day and some of the tracks they commonly use. To book a tour experience, please contact them via phone or email. Please note that on non race days, the only public entry point is via 72 Midas Road. Their office is open from Monday to Friday.

Miners Rest VIC

39 km away

Avoca Moonambel cycle loop — Image credit: Pyrenees Shire Council

Natural Attractions

Avoca Moonambel Cycle Loop

The Avoca Moonambel cycle loop ride takes you from the Avoca township, to Moonambel and then return. It is filled with quiet country roads, stunning landscapes and plenty of wildlife and farm animals along the way. Starting from either Avoca Chinese Garden or Moonambel Community Common, this gravel ride allows you to enjoy the Pyrenees scenery from a different perspective, allowing you to be more in nature and intimate with the backcountry of the Pyrenees region in central Victoria. The ride covers a distance of 46 kilometres, with an estimated 3.5 hours of total ride time. This loop is suitable for gravel bikes, hybrid, and mountain bikes. The trail is suitable for riders of all fitness. Gradients are mostly gentle. The trail surface varies along the trail and is made up of either compacted gravel or bitumen. There are plenty of opportunities to detour off the trail to visit 20 wonderful wineries and cellar doors that offer an impressive variety of award-winning wines – it is easy to eat and drink your way around the region. Many cellar doors are accompanied by decks and terraces overlooking vineyards so close that you feel like you are dining amid vines. Some Cellar Doors are only open weekends or by appointment. It is best to refer to the Visit Pyrenees Website or Visit Pyrenees App for opening hours.

Avoca VIC

39 km away

Gallery shelves

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Ross Creek Gallery

Ross Creek Gallery is nestled in the serene bushland just a short 10-minute drive from Ballarat, Wadawurrung Country. The contemporary gallery is seamlessly integrated next to Ruby Pilven's mudbrick studio, creating a peaceful and inspiring environment. With its abundant natural light streaming through three expansive windows, along with 15 spotlights, a versatile hanging system spanning three walls with 20 hanging wires, and 10 pristine white plinths, the gallery offers an ideal setting for artistic expression. The gallery hosts recent ceramic and 2D artworks by Ruby Pilven and Janine Ronaldson as well as rotating exhibitions by local artists. The gallery is also open by appointment.

Smythes Creek VIC

39 km away

Arch of Victory and Garden of the Grieving Mother

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Arch of Victory and Garden of the Grieving Mother

The Arch of Victory was built to commemorate the Allied victory in World War I and to provide a sense of comfort and meaning to a community emerging from four years of grief and anxiety. The foundation stone was laid by General Sir William Birdwood on February 7th, 1920.  Thirteen local tradesmen undertook the four-month construction and utilised 70,000 bricks donated by the Selkirk company. Standing 17.5 metres high and 19.7 metres wide, the Arch is crowned with the emblem of the AIF - the Rising Sun. Opened by HRH Prince Edward, the Prince of Wales, on June 2nd, 1920.  His connection to Ballarat endured, and on the Arch's 50th anniversary, now as the Duke of Windsor, the Duke of Windsor responded to an invitation from the President of the Arch of Victory / Avenue of Honour Committee, Keith Price. The Garden of the Grieving Mother provides a place for contemplation and reflection. Inspired by the experiences of those who remained at home during wartime, it honours the grief and anxiety and resilience of mothers, fathers, families and friends waiting for news of loved ones serving overseas. While rooted in the World War I experience the garden pays tribute to the mothers and families of all Australian servicemen and women. At its centre stands a life-sized bronze statue by acclaimed Australian artist Peter Corlett OAM.

Alfredton VIC

39 km away

Gallery 127

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Gallery 127

As part of the Avoca Community Arts and Gardens Hub located at the newly transformed heritage listed Avoca Railway Station, Gallery 127 presents exhibitions of local and regional artists as well as solo exhibitions by single artists, including photographic and sculptural works. Local history displays, workshops and artist studio spaces are also available together with a permanently operated community plant nursery situated on the station's platform.

Avoca VIC

40 km away

Barking Owl

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Avoca Silo Art

The Avoca silo artwork depicts the Australian Barking Owl, a bird native to the local Pyrenees Ranges. The Avoca silo displays the first glow-in-the-dark artwork in the Australian Silo Art Trail. The silo has two separate glow-in-the-dark features that can be experienced after dark. First, set behind the owl is a Glow in the dark starburst sky. The starburst sky and the owls eyes both glow in the dark when charged by the silos installed floodlights. Nightly projection with audio and visual from 8pm allow 45 minutes for this full experience. (This projection is located to the left face of the silo from the Owl mural). There is also an interactive glow wall set on the Pyrenees Ranges below the owl where you can draw your own artwork using nothing more than light from a torch or phone torch.

Avoca VIC

40 km away

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