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Barwon Park Mansion

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Barwon Park Mansion

Barwon Park is an imposing bluestone mansion set in a sweeping rural landscape. When pastoralist Thomas Austin and his wife Elizabeth entertained the Duke of Edinburgh, who was the second in line to the British throne, it became obvious that grander accommodations were required. They decided to build a new house. H.R.H. Prince Alfred visited Victoria two more times, but the house, unfortunately, remained unfinished. Built between 1869 – 1871, the Austin's owned one of the largest homesteads in the Western District. The lavish 42 room mansion was built of basalt and decorated with a unique cast iron verandah and balcony. Thomas Austin died just eight months after the house was completed, but Elizabeth lived at Barwon Park for many years and became a noted philanthropist, founding the Austin Hospital and Austin Homes, Geelong. The house then passed into the hands of the Batson family who later bequeathed it to the National Trust. Barwon Park continues to impress visitors with its magnificent entrance hall and pink and white interiors. On open days, tours run hourly: 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm (last tour), led by National Trust Guides. Entry to the Mansion is by guided tour only. The extensive grounds also offer plenty of space to enjoy a picnic with family and friends. Please visit their website for the updated opening hours.

Winchelsea VIC

12 km away

Bunjil's Lookout — Image credit: Golden Plains Shire Council

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Bunjil's Lookout

Bunjil's Lookout takes it's inspiration from the creation story of Bunjil, the wedge-tail eagle, in the local Wadawurrung culture. The lookout, which is designed as an eagle, boasts spectacular views of the Moorabool Valley, while the structure itself includes intricate carvings of Bunjil and his six helpers. Situated near the towns of Maude and Meredith.

Maude VIC

18 km away

Steiglitz Historic Park — Image credit: Parks Victoria

National Parks and Reserves

Steiglitz Historic Park

Situated between Geelong and Ballarat, Steiglitz is almost a ghost town today but in the 1860s and 1890s it was a busy goldmining township with hotels, shops, churches and a population of over 1000. At the height of the 1860s gold rush, Steiglitz township had more than 1500 residents, four hotels, a newspaper, a variety of shops and even an undertaker. Now most of the town and its surroundings are included in the Steiglitz Historic Park. Enjoy a pleasant bushwalk, relax with a picnic or pan for gold. Of course, a trip to the park wouldn't be complete without a visit to the Steiglitz Court House, with its display of photographs, maps and relics of gold year. The court house is open on Sunday and public holidays, and at other times by arrangement. 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.

Steiglitz VIC

24 km away

Brisbane Ranges National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Brisbane Ranges National Park

Little more than an hour's drive from Melbourne takes you to the state's richest wildflower habitat. Set in a low range of mountains dissected by rocky gullies, the unusual geology of the Brisbane Ranges National Park has preserved plants that have long since vanished from other parts of the region. There are a number of options for bushwalking ranging from short walks to three-day walks. This park is also popular for picnicking, scenic drives, bird watching and camping. Use the Parks Victoria website to book a campsite. Brisbane Ranges National Park is part of the Aboriginal cultural landscape and is the traditional lands of the Wadawurrung People. 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. Remember to stay bushfire ready using the VicEmergency App or Emergency Victoria's website while in nature.

Staughton Vale VIC

32 km away

Elizabeth Bell Ceramics — Image credit: Elizabeth Bell Ceramics

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Elizabeth Bell Ceramics

Tucked inside Geelong's historic Fyansford Paper Mills, Elizabeth Bell Ceramics is where clay, creativity and community come together. Founded by award-winning ceramic artist Elizabeth Bell, she brings over 11 years of experience to every pottery piece and workshop. Elizabeth Bell Ceramics offers a chance to slow down and switch off with hands-on pottery experiences. From two-hour tasters to six-week courses, private group bookings, and hens parties, there is something for curious beginners and passionate makers alike. With the smallest class sizes in the region, every student enjoys an intimate and detailed learning experience guided by our nurturing tutors. Elizabeth's signature rustic-meets-refined homewares such as mugs, vases and oil bottles — are timeless, a little bit magical, and designed for daily rituals, all crafted in a studio where sustainability is at the heart, powered by renewable energy, recycled materials, and locally sourced clay. Come for the clay, stay for the creativity and leave with a story and a piece you will cherish forever.

Fyansford VIC

33 km away

The Papermill Gallery

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Fyansford Paper Mill

The Fyansford Paper Mill is located on the Barwon River and overlooks the picturesque Buckley's Falls, making it one at a kind in the Geelong and Bellarine region. It was constructed in the 1870s and is one of the remaining heritage industrial style precincts in Australia. The 2.8 hectare site is being transformed into a thriving food, beverage, arts and cultural precinct in Geelong. It is home to over 15 businesses, including a winery, café, gallery, yoga studio, jeweller, homewares shop and escape room. There are also a number of small independent artists who have private studios across the site. The Fyansford Paper Mill is a local secret, only located 15 minutes from the centre of Geelong. It is the perfect visit for anyone to discover and enjoy a variety of food, arts and activities.

Fyansford VIC

33 km away

An easy walk, big views, and the sound of rushing water at Buckley Falls. — Image credit: Tourism Greater Geelong and The Bellarine

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Buckley Falls

Pack your bikes, scooters and picnic supplies into the car and head off for an afternoon adventure at Buckley Falls in Highton. With the River Red Gum Walk leading right up to the lookout over the stunning waterfall, you can make your way there on foot or on wheels. You may like to park at Queens Park carpark and take in the sights as you make your way up the trail to the lookout. Or park at the small carpark located alongside the falls providing easy access for a quick pit stop to appreciate the view. On your walk, keep an eye out for tawny frogmouths, gang-gang cockatoos and rainbow lorikeets – all commonly spotted in the area along with many others. You may even be lucky enough to spot a swamp wallaby along the water’s edge. After you’ve taken in the view at the falls, follow the River Red Gum Walk downstream, cross the bridge when you reach the Barwon Aqueduct River Trail and make your way up to Fyansford Paper Mills for some quick refreshments and to explore the makers hub with a gallery, ceramist and unique wares. For the adventurous, take on the continuous 20 kilometre loop of the Barwon River Trail, which takes you on a picturesque journey along the banks of the river through Fyansford and South Geelong.

Highton VIC

34 km away

Golfing at Queens Park Golf — Image credit: Queens Park Golf & Range

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Queens Park Golf & Range

Nestled within Queens Park Sporting Precinct, Queens Park Golf and Range provides an exquisite 18-hole course framed by the Barwon River and scenic walking trail leading to Buckley Falls. Featuring an 18-hole golf course and eight-bay driving range (6-covered and 2-open air bays) the course is suitable for year-round practice and play with convenient golf cart and equipment rentals available. The Golf Shop has a selection of golf essentials - golf balls, gloves, tees and apparel from a range of leading brands. The café and bar open throughout the week from sunrise to sunset. Drop in for muffin and fresh coffee, refuel with a snack before, during or after your game – or enjoy a cold drink with friends on the 19th. Choose from a variety of grab and go snacks, hot or cold drinks and alcoholic beverages. With a Par 66 course layout, the course caters to golfers from beginners to seasoned players. Queens Park Golf Course is your ultimate destination for practice, play, and enjoyment – a community hub where golf is played. Conveniently situated in Highton, Geelong and a short 25-minute drive from Torquay and the Surf Coast, the course is open to the public seven-days a week, welcoming you from the crack of dawn to the twilight hours. Come and discover everything that Queens Park Golf and Range has to offer.

Highton VIC

34 km away

Enfield State Park — Image credit: Parks Victoria

National Parks and Reserves

Enfield State Park

Now a haven for wildlife, Enfield State parks was once dominated by tents and diggers from around the world during Victoria's gold rush. Visit the park in spring and be rewarded by colourful and unusual wildflowers. Picnic facilities are available at the Surface Point picnic area and at Enfield picnic area. Remote Long Gully, which can be reached by vehicle or on foot from Surface Point, also has a picnic ground. You should bring your own firewood, as it is not always available locally. The park features many walking tracks of various lengths and terrain. Horses can be ridden on formed vehicle tracks open for public use but must not be taken on walking tracks. An increasingly popular activity, many opportunities exist for bike riders to experience the park. Bicycles are not permitted on walking tracks, but tracks are available for use. 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.

Enfield VIC

35 km away

Federal Mills — Image credit: Hamilton Group

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Federal Mills

Step inside North Geelong's iconic Federal Mills, a heritage-listed woollen mill built in 1915 and now a vibrant hub for foodies and history lovers. Explore beautifully restored red-brick buildings that once produced uniforms for WWI soldiers, now home to artisan experiences. Indulge at The Paddock Bakery, dine at 1915 Restaurant, sip craft gin at Anther Distillery, browse Popcultcha's treasure trove of collectables and explore the Geelong Vintage Market. Don't miss the striking Silo Art, hand-painted by Bellarine artist Sai Neoh. Just two minutes from the Spirit of Tasmania terminal, Federal Mills is the perfect stop to taste, discover, and connect with Geelong's rich past.

North Geelong VIC

35 km away

Celeste and Sarah Natural Supply Co — Image credit: Natural Supply Co

Shopping and Markets

Natural Supply Co

Natural Supply Co is the destination for all things natural, organic and zero waste. Located in buzzing Geelong West, this lovely store stocks products for the whole family. You'll find your favourite eco-friendly and sustainable brands like Baggu, Botanicals by Luxe, Bondi Wash, Ever Eco, Seed & Sprout, Eye of Horus, INIKA, Ere Perez, and Biologi skincare at Natural Supply Co, alongside about 100 others. Natural Supply Co earned B-Corp certification in 2026, meaning that the business meets high, verified standards of social and environmental performance and public transparency. Stock up on your bamboo earbuds, reusable baking mats, baby wash, cruelty free makeup and an organic cotton tote to carry it all in - you'll be surprised by the breadth of amazing goodies available here.

Geelong West VIC

36 km away

Guests creating their own signature scent during an Aysha Hansen perfume workshop.

Shopping and Markets

Aysha Hansen Custom Fragrance Creation Workshops

Craft a fragrance that is uniquely yours in an intimate two hour masterclass led by perfumer Aysha Hansen. This hands-on experience will introduce you to the artistry of modern perfumery, guiding you through the delicate balance of natural ingredients, aroma chemicals and accords. Your journey begins with an introduction to 70 meticulously selected ingredients sourced from around the world. With expert guidance, you'll learn to blend top, middle and base notes, unlocking the secrets of fragrance composition to create a scent that tells your story.

Newtown VIC

36 km away

An exterior shot of the Little Malop Street Redevelopment exterior view from Johnstone Park — Image credit: Peter Foster Photography

Entertainment Venues

Geelong Arts Centre

Located in the cultural heart of the city, Geelong Arts Centre continues to cement its place as Australia's largest dedicated regional arts centre. Geelong Arts Centre is a host of world-class productions, concerts and comedy shows. It also fosters deep local accessibility and champions emerging talent. The recently redeveloped building is inspired by Geelong's history and its circus and theatre traditions. It has a strong connection to Country, serving as a source of inspiration and a gathering place for the community. Incredible shows are performed year-round, with events for all ages and to suit every taste. Now is the perfect time to explore the Geelong Arts Centre and immerse yourself in the finest events experiences the region has to offer. Explore what's on through the website.

Geelong VIC

37 km away

Barwon Grange

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Barwon Grange

The only survivor of a fashionable and picturesque mid-nineteenth century villa built along the Barwon River in Geelong. With the Barwon River as the vista, the house was built for successful merchant and banker Jonathon Porter O'Brien and his wife Ann. They filled their Gothic Revival style home with elegant and modern furnishings. Today you can see these recreated interiors, including many decorative and domestic objects from the late 1850s, including a rare Minton ceramic chandelier. The cellar was stocked with wine and spirits, the conservatory filled with plants, sculptures, a collection of coral and two canaries in brass cages. The couple kept an extensive library which featured a Cyclopaedia of Medicine and Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. The O'Briens lived in the house for only a year but, over 170 years later, the villa's unique features continue to reflect the lifestyle of the 1850s and the prosperous merchants of Geelong, whose wealth grew after the discovery of gold in the Colony. Visit the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) website to check opening hours when planning your visit.

Newtown VIC

37 km away

Geelong Library & Heritage Centre — Image credit: Copyright

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Geelong Library & Heritage Centre

The spectacular Geelong Library & Heritage Centre is the perfect place to relax, learn, work and discover. Superbly located in Geelong's Cultural Precinct, adjacent to the beautiful Johnstone Park, it is an easy walk from the Geelong Railway Station, CBD and waterfront area. Open seven days a week, the Geelong Library & Heritage Centre is the ideal place for visitors to relax and recharge - browse a newspaper, enjoy a huge collection of books and digital items, explore cutting-edge technology, and make use of the fast, free Wi-Fi. Families will love the dedicated level for children and youth which features age-appropriate collections, exciting digital technology, outdoor deck and parents' room. The Geelong Library & Heritage Centre is home to the Geelong region's vast heritage archive and the beautiful Heritage Reading Room is a must-visit destination for local history and family history enthusiasts. Regular Storytime sessions, craft and 3D printing, plus author talks, exhibitions and special events take place at the library throughout the year. The high ground - Wurdi Youang - the largest of the event spaces - is perfect for your special celebration, product launch, conference, performance or wedding. Smaller meeting and discussion rooms are also available.

Geelong VIC

37 km away

Discovering the Impressionists, installation view, Geelong Gallery, 2026 — Image credit: Geelong Gallery

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Geelong Gallery

Geelong Gallery is one of Australia's oldest and leading regional galleries, just a short walk from the heart of Geelong, discover historical and contemporary art, including works by Frederick McCubbin, Clarice Beckett and Emily Kame Kngwarreye. Enjoy free entry to the Collection, a vibrant program of exhibitions, talks, tours and kids' programs, plus a Gallery Store featuring local design.

Geelong VIC

37 km away

Sounds of colour — Image credit: Kris Gugger

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Focal Point Gallery

Focal Point Gallery is a boutique gallery specialising in photography. They have small exhibitions that change every month, with framed and unframed photos available at affordable prices. They also have a range of coffee table books, with many specific to the local region, as well as unique gift cards featuring work by their principal Craig "Watto" Watson. If you shoot film, they also have a good range of film available, plus any other needs for analogue photography.

Geelong VIC

37 km away

Lara Museum and Historical Centre

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Lara Museum and Historical Centre

One of Lara's oldest historic buildings, The Lake Bank Hotel, is Lara's only surviving 19th century hotel. It was constructed for Scottish immigrant James Henderson and operated as a licensed hotel until 1908. The distinctive limestone buildings were home to five generations of Mr Henderson's family until purchased by Mr Bisinella in 2010. Two long-time Lara residents and friends, Ian Board and Les Kelly, had long held a desire to establish a Museum in Lara, and that desire was increased after they were involved in organising a remembrance day in January 2009 for the 40th anniversary of the disastrous 1969 Lara Bush Fires. However, they struggled to find a suitable building to bring the dream to life. When they learnt that Mr Bisinella had purchased the Lake Bank Hotel they approached him about the possibility of using the historic buildings as a community museum. He enthusiastically agreed and embarked on the major restoration project that again made the old hotel ready for public use. A community organisation, The Lara Heritage and Historical Inc, was incorporated on 12 January 2012, and its volunteer members operate the museum. The museum was officially opened on 18 April 2013.

Lara VIC

37 km away

National Wool Museum, Geelong

Entertainment Venues

National Wool Museum, Geelong

Located in a beautifully restored 1872 bluestone woolstore near Geelong’s waterfront, the Museum is a vibrant and inclusive gathering place. Here history, wool, fibre, textiles, science, fashion, handcraft and art come together. Aligned with Geelong’s UNESCO City of Design designation, the National Wool Museum explores 60,000 years of human endeavour and industry of the region. From Australia’s first Nations living culture and heritage to the emerging and advanced industries of today. The Museum has two curated galleries and regular travelling exhibitions from Australian and International museums including Wildlife Photographer of the Year from the Natural History Museum, London. Award-winning exhibition, On the Land: our story retold is a modern museum experience which will help visitors connect with the land and generations of those who lived on these lands before. The museum takes you on a journey by exploring Wadawurrung Country, a history of farming, land management practices and innovations in the wool industry. While at the Museum you can also indulge yourself with a visit to the National Wool Museum Shop for the highest quality woollen garments and speciality gifts. The Museum is easily accessible by car, train and Port Philip Ferries. Metered street parking is available in town and the waterfront.

Geelong VIC

37 km away

MoPA: Museum of Play and Art — Image credit: MoPA: Museum of Play and Art

Amusement and Theme Parks

MoPA: Museum of Play and Art - Geelong Children’s Museum

MoPA: Museum of Play and Art is one of Australia's most acclaimed children's museums. Attracting thousands of visitors from all over the country, every single week, MoPA is based in one of Geelong’s oldest buildings and is home to a huge range of immersive exhibits and experiences that will entertain the kids all day. The on-site cafe provides a great selection of foods at very affordable pricing, and the coffee is amazing.

Geelong VIC

37 km away

Charles Rose Signature Rings — Image credit: Charles Rose Signature Rings

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Charles Rose

Charles Rose Geelong Art Gallery and Fine Jewellery store features a three storey art gallery and fine diamond jewellery showroom. A superb collection of very fine hand made diamond jewellery items is complimented by a fine art gallery on the upper levels. Charles Rose is the premier Australian jewellery design house and manufacturer in Victoria, and the Geelong Store is an exceptional presence on the Bellarine Peninsula.

Geelong VIC

37 km away

Geelong Cats - GMHBA Stadium

Entertainment Venues

Geelong Cats - GMHBA Stadium

The Geelong Cats' home is GMHBA Stadium in Geelong. The club hosts a number of AFL and AFLW match days plus a range of other events including season launches, Women in Sport, Business Luncheons and more. The Stadium is home to the Club's retail store, the Cats Shop and Nina's Cafe. Also located on site is the Geelong Sports Museum which showcases the sporting stories of Geelong and renowned Asian fusion restaurant, Club Chin Chin. GMHBA Stadium boasts the largest event space in the region as is the venue for the Cat's hospitality business, Higher Mark. It has 32 premium event spaces offering external terraces and sweeping floor to ceiling windows with stunning views of the stadium and city skyline. Higher Mark's versatile spaces can be adapted to suit all event size requirements with facilities from two to 2450 guests. The experienced chefs offer a range of creative menus, with a focus on local produce to cater for each memorable event.

Geelong VIC

37 km away

Geelong Street Art — Image credit: Visit Geelong Bellarine

Landmarks and Buildings

Geelong Street Art

Geelong has some vibrant and beautiful street art ready for you to discover. Just by wandering through the streets and laneways, you will be delighted and surprised by the abundance of artwork free for you to enjoy. Here are some places you might like to check out to get you started. To The Unknown Mariner - incredible due to its scale and beauty, this work of art aims to celebrate and pay tribute to Geelong's maritime history. The weathered face of an old man at sea depicts the harsh life lived out in the elements. Designed by Cam Scale, located in Brougham Street. Union Street Mural - designated as a community art space, all kinds of colourful and interesting murals are created and change every three to five years. Designed by artists and young people from Geelong. Moi-Yo Miller - once a famously beautiful magicians assistant, now a famously beautiful Mural, Moi-Yo Miller sits on the corner of James Street and Minns Lane. Created by Michael Cassar, this mural celebrates one of Geelong's very own famous faces. Denny's Place - this laneway celebrates the idea of homegrown talent. Showcasing two portraits of important people from the region, it is a street art spot not to miss. Little Malop Street is full of colourful delights ready for you to start your street art discovery.

Geelong VIC

37 km away

Visitors at the Geelong waterfront bollards

Landmarks and Buildings

Bollard Trail

The Geelong Bollards are a much-loved public art trail along the Geelong waterfront, sharing stories from the city's past. More than 100 painted bollards can be found between Rippleside and Limeburners Point. Each one represents a person or character connected to Geelong's history, including early explorers, local families and community figures. Artist Jan Mitchell was commissioned by the City of Greater Geelong in the 1980s to turn old pier timbers and piles into colourful works of art. Set beside Corio Bay, the bollards are now one of Geelong's most recognisable waterfront attractions.

Geelong VIC

37 km away

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