Your ticket to laughs, music, fun, drama, wonder and joy in Gippsland.
Since its inception in July 1982, the West Gippsland Arts Centre has become Gippsland's premier destination for performing arts. Nestled in Warragul's scenic Civic Park, the West Gippsland Arts Centre proudly serves the community with a huge 750-auditorium, versatile meeting and function spaces, a vibrant community art gallery, welcoming pop-up council service desk, and a social enterprise café run operated by Knoxbrooke.
West Gippsland Arts Centre is a short one-hour drive from Melbourne and a short 10 minute walk from Warragul Train Station.
Nestled on a large, leafy block between residential and light industry is a new gallery in Warragul. WAS Gallery, abbreviated from Warragul Art Studios, was set up by the Lorraine family and opened in 2020. Over the Covid years WAS endeavoured to put on exhibitions and welcome visitors whenever possible. Now it has a full program with shows changing regularly, most running for two months .
A family of artists, the Lorraines took the solid, art deco homestead and turned it into a splendid space to showcase artwork. It also houses a ceramic and design studio for the resident artists who produce work available in the gallery. The established garden on a double block with fruit and mature trees makes for a very pleasant venue to visit and a wonderful backdrop for the gallery. WAS is also ideally situated opposite Linear Park with extensive walks and playground.
The website has the full gallery story, artists' histories and examples of artwork. Entry is free.
WAS is closed over January.
When it comes to diversity, Lardner Park really does have it all.
As one of the largest conference and event centres in Victoria and certainly within Gippsland, with stunning panoramic views, the property boasts in excess of 5,000 square metres of flexible undercover pavilions a 1,000 seat Event Centre and 300 acres of outdoor space to play with.
From agricultural events to international music festivals, world jousting championships and a dedicated art gallery space to the home of the Victorian 4wd show, school functions covering debutante balls and valedictory dinners and sport and physical challenge events, craft and food markets, business conferences and so much more.
This unique destination caters for it all. The facilities also accommodate overnight caravanning and camping and plenty of accommodation facilities in Warragul, Drouin and surrounds. The fully accessible, multifaceted 300-acre property is the epitome of event, conference and exhibition spaces.
Situated just a few kilometres from Warragul and approximately one hour from Melbourne, Lardner Park is conveniently located and easily accessible for exhibitors, delegates and attendees, making it the preferred choice for events and functions within regional Victoria.
Please contact CEO Craig Debnam or Events Manager Pam Ryan at the details provided - they would love to hear from you.
Tarago Reservoir Park offers the perfect setting for a picnic or barbecue with family and friends. The picnic area has sloping lawns set amongst bush settings, with views of the reservoir and surrounding landscapes.
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.
Neerim South is home to an eclectic collection of over 44 sculptures and murals dotted through town. The imposing 22 metre tall Neerim Bower at the southern gateway provides an impressive welcome. Strolling through the main street and community playground you will encounter wonderful works that have been acquired since 2014 as part of Neerim ArtsFest.
The collection features works by talented local and regional artists, as well as those from further afield, including Andrew Kasper, Christine Chochran, Keith Graham, Laurie Collins, Nicole Allen, Phil Henshall and Rudi Jass.
There's plenty of free parking and delightful venues to grab a drink, lunch or dinner. They look forward to welcoming you.
Mount Worth State Park protects a remnant of the forests that once covered the western Strzelecki Ranges. Tall wet forests of Mountain Ash, Mountain Grey Gum and Blackwood grow on the hills and slopes and tree fers flourish in sheltered gullies.
Walking, picnicking and sightseeing are the most popular activities. The Giant's Circuit walk follows an old tramline route along Lorkin Creek to the Standing Giant - a huge Mountain Ash seven metres in circumference and probably more than 300 years old. Two lookouts on McDonald's Track give panoramic views over the Latrobe River valley, the Great Dividing Range and Westernport Bay.
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.
Long before Australians drove the famous Holden cars this iconic brand had its name on saddles, buggies, golf clubs, pedal cars, refrigerators, and even trams, motorboats, war equipment and aero engines. From humble beginnings as a saddlery in Adelaide in the 1850s, the Holden name quickly became synonymous with Australian engineering innovation, industrial pride and ingenuity.
Trafalgar Holden Museum tells that remarkable story and celebrates Australia's Holden heritage from the 1850s to its demise in 2020. Housed in a quaintly preserved 1930s butter factory in Trafalgar, the museum is run by a team of volunteers eager to preserve our national heritage.
Opened in 2014, the museum has grown every year and has new and exciting exhibits rotated every three months, with a selection of Holden's favourite son Peter Brock's cars currently on display. Browse through the re-imagined Holden retail shops, showing all the wares produced by Holden by generations of craftsmen. Also see rare military artefacts from Holden's distant past, motor vehicles bodied by craftsmen and later designed in Australia.
The history of Holden is very much the history of Australian manufacturing and the Australian people. All this comes alive at Trafalgar Holden Museum.
Large groups may make a prior booking.
The Garfield Picture Theatre is a beautifully renovated 1920s picture theatre located in the township of Garfield. Garfield Picture Theatre presents a variety of live performances each month and has cabin accommodation available.
A wonderful venue to experience all your favourite nostalgic shows. The theatre is a grand gabled red brick building, with internal renovations creating a grander experience than the original. The front facade still has its original raised cement letters `Garfield Picture Theatre' and sits above a deep cantilever street verandah which extends the front of the building.
Check out the upcoming shows and purchase your tickets online.
Mt Cannibal Flora and Fauna Reserve is home to a vast array of native plants and animals including native orchids and tree goannas. If you are really lucky you may even see a dusky marsupial mouse (dusky antechinus) or Tasmanian marsupial mouse (swamp antechinus)
The 2.3-kilometre loop walking track is moderately challenging with steep sections, steps and rocks, it may be difficult for some visitors. However, the walk is worth the effort with stunning northern views to the Great Dividing Range and southern views down to Western Port Bay. Mt Cannibal is very popular and if you crave peaceful walks in nature, try visiting on weekdays and out of the holiday season.
No dogs allowed to help protect the unique environment.
Mount Cannibal was badly burnt by bush fires in early 2019 but it has already recovered well. This is the perfect spot for a picnic lunch or to just sit and take in the sights and sounds.
Mount Cannibal is situated in the Cardinia Shire in Tynong North just a short distance from Gumbuya Park , and the townships of Bunyip and Garfield.
The reserve is managed by Cardinia Shire Council.
Gumbuya World is the only theme park in Victoria boasting water slides, roller coasters, rides, live shows and wildlife all in one location.
Feel the rush as you brave exhilarating thrill rides, or cool off in expansive water attractions. Then, immerse yourself in the wonders of nature as you encounter wildlife, from cuddly koalas to majestic kangaroos.
One minute you'll be handfeeding penguins, then reach speeds of 70 kilometres per hour on a roller coaster, before rounding the day off with a plunge down one of the epic water slides.
Gumbuya World is Victoria's Wildest Theme Park.
Step back in time at Old Gippstown Heritage Park, Gippsland's much-loved heritage village in Moe, where history comes alive through beautifully restored buildings, fascinating collections, and hands-on experiences for visitors of all ages.
Wander through a charming village of historic homes and businesses relocated from across Gippsland and carefully preserved to tell the stories of the region's early pioneers. Explore blacksmithing, vintage machinery, agricultural displays and transport exhibits that capture the spirit of country Victoria from the 1840s to the early twentieth century.
More than a museum, Old Gippstown is an immersive experience where visitors can see heritage trades in action, discover how families once lived, and enjoy the atmosphere of a bygone era. Special event days throughout the year feature live demonstrations, vintage vehicles, heritage crafts, markets, music and family-friendly activities.
Located just 90 minutes from Melbourne in the heart of Gippsland, Old Gippstown is an ideal destination for day trips, group tours, school excursions and heritage enthusiasts exploring the region. Visitors can relax in the peaceful park-like grounds, enjoy seasonal events, and experience one of Victoria's most unique open-air museums.
Whether you are rediscovering childhood memories, introducing children to life before technology, or simply seeking an authentic regional Victorian experience, Old Gippstown offers a memorable journey into the past. Regular Ghost Tours and other events can be booked via the Old Gippstown website.
The Alpine Trout Farm Noojee is an experience like no other. Come experience the landscape and tranquility of the surrounds. Bring the kids along for a fun day and see them catch a trout or salmon, or just enjoy a great day out with the family. Barbecue facilities are available for you to cook up your catch, we have pan size and one kilogram plus size trout.
Located in Victoria’s Alpine Region at the foothills of Mt Baw Baw in Noojee, Alpine Trout Farm is known for supplying the highest quality products to its customers both domestic and overseas.
If you prefer to take your catch home, we have foam eskys and ice available to purchase.
There are plenty of fish and barbecue areas for you to relax and unwind. They have smoked trout, dips, drinks, caviar, fresh trout and smoked trout and salmon. Come and catch your own, fishing rods and bait are free of charge.
Come to Alpine Trout Farm and enjoy a day out with the family and see what Noojee has to offer, with its breathtaking surroundings and things to do. Visit the Noojee Trestle Bridge, the Noojee Heritage Centre, or come and have a meal at one of Noojee’s pubs.
Surrounded by beautiful forest, the impressive Noojee Trestle Bridge is the tallest surviving wooden trestle bridge in Victoria, towering an impressive 21 metres high. It is a two hour drive east of Melbourne.
The bridge – spanning 102 metres - is one of the last remnants of the old railway that ran from Noojee to Warragul. Originally built in 1919, it burnt down in 1939 and was rebuilt in the same year.
Nestled among mountain ash forests, this is a fantastic spot for a family day trip. You can take a short walk up the stairs to experience spectacular views from the top of the bridge, or enjoy the peaceful surroundings from below while you picnic at one of the tables.
The Noojee Trestle Bridge is next to a car park located down a gravel road off Mt Baw Baw Tourist Road. Alternatively, you can walk or cycle the Noojee Trestle Rail Trail starting from Noojee township.
This three kilometre (one-way) trail starts at the Noojee Railway Station Precinct, where you will find car parking, interpretive information, picnic and toilet facilities, as well as a fully restored J-class steam locomotive.
The rail trail follows the historic railway line, which operated between 1919 and 1954.
Moondarra State Park is known for its wildflower displays, particularly along Seninis Track where sixteen species of native orchid have been recorded.
Scenic drives, bushwalks, picnicking, swimming, camping, fishing and nature study are popular activities. Some roads are suitable for bike riding.
Spring is the main wildflower season and along with summer, are the most popular times to visit the park. Although, there is plenty to do all year round.
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.
The Noojee Heritage Centre is a heartfelt tribute to the region's rich history and vibrant culture. Located just an hour and a half from the heart of Melbourne, it features a charming replica of the original Noojee railway station.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, a railway buff, or simply visiting the beautiful Baw Baw region, this is a must-see destination. Here, you can admire a stunning 1950s J-class locomotive that will evoke nostalgia.
The rail station was established in 2005 through the passion of the Noojee and District Historical Society (N&DHS), which aimed to celebrate the enduring spirit of the pioneers and dedicated Australians who have significantly shaped the collective heritage.
Their enthusiastic team of volunteers is always ready to help you uncover and appreciate their rich history.
The Noojee Heritage Gifts and Coffee Café offers a cosy spot to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee while browsing for the perfect birthday gift, unique souvenir, or great book. While the café still showcases fascinating displays, other exhibits have been relocated to The Lamp Room, a Platform and Goods Shed, and the revamped 1960s Louvre Van Carriage.
Start your adventure on the Noojee Railway trail and tramway walks.
The Buttongrass Nature trail in Bunyip Park is a self-guided trail that winds through woodland and a beautiful wet heathland.
Along the way you will encounter a variety of flora including hakeas, wattles, tea-tree and button grass.
The trail is 3.5km return and is an easy walk. Toilets and car park are nearby.
Seven Acre Rock, two hours drive east of Melbourne, is a large rocky outcrop that provides extensive picturesque views of the Yarra State Forest and Bunyip State Park. On clear days you can even see Western Port Bay and Port Phillip Bay.
Enjoy a short walk through mountain ash forest to the outcrop to take in the views, and finish with a scenic lunch at the picnic area below.
It's a 1.3 kilometre walk with occasional steps and short steep hills. Be sure to stay clear of the edge as this is a natural lookout with no barriers.
It is close to Powelltown and easily accessible from Noojee or Gembrook.
The area has a rich history, having been badly damaged in the 1926 Black Sunday and 1939 Black Friday bushfires. As the forest struggled to regenerate naturally, mountain ash was planted, creating the thick landscape seen today.
Coal Creek is a living history museum, recreating the time of settlement and the story of the coal miners from South Gippsland.
Coal Creek was established in 1974 when a new home for the old Korumburra Courthouse was required. From this single building a historic village was born. The park has undergone many changes over its 40 plus years of operation, all of these changes culminating in an authentic feeling coal mining village spanning from the 1870s to the 1920s.
Coal Creek is home to over half a million collection items ranging from trains to thimbles. Each piece is important as it helps them tell the story of life in South Gippsland during pioneer times.
During their monthly Heritage Days, held on the first Saturday of every month, their expert guides host free tours of the park showcasing Coal Creek's rich mining history, the fascinating evolution of the park and community and the historical displays.
Coal Creek is also the perfect venue to hold your special event. Surrounded by acres of period buildings and native bushland, there are plenty of options when it comes to choosing the perfect setting for your needs. Coal Creek creates a stunning backdrop for a memorable wedding ceremony, birthday celebration, photoshoot or seminar.
Groups can book tours of the park and the education program is a must for schools.
Prepare your bikes and pack your adrenaline for this awesome bike track.
The park includes 25 kilometres of progressive trails, catering for beginners through to Level Gnarly. There's a pump track and a kids trail too.
Every element of the park reflects the area's mysterious history, from tombstone-shaped signage and a "Mad Cow Trail", to a pump track in the formation of a skull and crossbones.
An easy 1 hour 45 minute drive from Melbourne gets you to the heart of the Latrobe Valley. The park has facilities including a sealed car park, toilet block and picnic areas.
The pump track is suitable for any bike, including BMXs, scooters and skateboards. The trails can be ridden with any type of bike, however a bike with gears is the best choice as there are uphill sections.
Distance: 2.5 kilometres return
Duration: 2 hours
Start and finish: Outside Mt Baw Baw Alpine Resort's ticketing and snow patrol office, at the base of the Summit T Bar lift.
Grade: Level 3 - Suitable for most ages and fitness levels. Some bushwalking experience recommended. Tracks may have short steep sections, a rough surface and steps.
Nestled high in the Great Dividing Range, Baw Baw National Park is spectacular all year round. The Mt Baw Baw Summit Trail climbs from the resort through snow gum woodland. Along the trail you'll find several picnic areas and many varieties of native flora and fauna.
Meander to the summit of Mt Baw Baw (elevation 1564m) and be rewarded with stunning views across West Gippsland. On a clear day you can see Bass Strait. Situated at the summit is the historic cairn used as a survey reference in 1903.
The Leongatha Gallery sells a large variety of original art and craft items, which are all created by talented local artists and crafts people from the Gippsland area.
Browse through the Gallery and you will find many unique hand-crafted items, produced with traditional and modern techniques. You will find everything from jewellery and clothing to homewares and many different styles of beautiful artwork, all of which make one-of-a-kind gifts.
The Gallery is staffed by volunteers and is open subject to their availability. It is closed on Sundays and public holidays. Please visit the website for location details and further information.
Starting from Mortimer Picnic Ground, the Four Brothers Rocks hike follows the old Hacket Track to the Four Brothers Rocks, a collection of large, granite rocks offering sweeping views across the park.
Approach via Gembrook-Tonimbuk Road which is unsealed but suitable for 2WD vehicles. The walk is situated in Bunyip Park with easy access to a car park.
The Mortimer Nature Walk is a short (1.2km) mostly flat nature walk looping through the Bunyip State Forest. The walk is close to a picnic area by the creek and is suitable for all abilities.
The terrain can be sandy/muddy at times. Toilets and a car park are nearby.
Keep an ear out for the Southern Boobook or look up into the leaves of the Mountain Grey Gum.
Just outside Noojee, two hours drive east of Melbourne, Toorongo Falls is one of Gippsland's must-see natural attractions.
Toorongo Falls Reserve is a scenic destination for walking, camping and exploring waterfalls. The 2.2 kilometre loop Toorongo Falls Walk takes in the spectacularToorongo Falls and Amphitheatre Falls.
The walk passes through tall, wet forest along the Toorongo and Little Toorongo rivers. Enjoy spectacular close-up views of the powerful 25 metres high Toorongo Falls and smaller but equally beautiful Amphitheatre Falls.
At the start of the walking track enjoy a picnic beside towering mountain grey gum and mountain ash eucalyptus, with the sound of the Toorongo River in the background. The site features multiple picnic tables and a toilet block.
There are two campgrounds in the reserve.
Toorongo Falls Campground One is an open, grassy camping area with expansive flat campsites along the beautiful Toorongo River. The campsites are suitable for tent and vehicle-based camping with fire pits and picnic tables. It can be accessed year-round by all vehicle types and is suitable for large caravans. It's close to the Toorongo Falls Walk.
Toorongo Falls Campground Two is a flatter large, grassy camping spot further up the road, good for small caravans and campervans. It is closed each year from early June until September school holidays.
