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Visitors do not travel all the way to Melbourne and then suddenly grind to a halt. Melbourne is considered a travel hub and is a useful stopping off point for further travel and adventures. The state of Victoria is filled with interesting sights to see and must-see towns. Bendigo, a small town (pop 88,000) two hours drive from Melbourne (or take the train), is an example of a picturesque town that is well worth a visit. It is situated in the centre of Victoria and was the home of the Jaara Aborigines. Europeans displaced these locals when gold was discovered. In the 1880's, the area had the richest gold fields in the world. The remains of the 19th century boomtown are lovingly maintained. Historic sandstone buildings border large gardens and planted trees. Quaint shop fronts and miners cottages have managed to withstand the onslaught of modernization leaving a step-back-in-time feeling for those who choose to walk down the streets. The Bendigo Visitor centre in the former post office is a useful initial stopping off point. Some highlights on a trip include visiting the Chinese Dragon museum containing the world's oldest and longest imperial dragon ' Sun Loong'. The elegant Rosalind Park with its waterfalls and conservatory is worth a visit while those with the soul of a mole would love to enter the restored Central Deborah Gold Mine, visitors can descend the equivalent of thirty stories. The Bendigo Pottery is Australia's oldest working pottery and of course no visit is complete without tasting a Shiraz or cabernet, Australian of course, at a local winery or bar. Those who feel a little lucky may pan for gold at the nearby Whipstick Park. |