Central Goldfields
In Central Goldfields Shire, you can discover the history of the
early goldfields while immersing yourself in the charm of
provincial Victoria. Take the opportunity to experience rare,
cultural treasures in the villages of the goldfields and escape
urban life on the walking paths and cycling tracks that wind their
way through the box ironbark forest linking small, delightful
townships. Heritage buildings, picturesque streetscapes and a range
of activities await you, set against the backdrop of genuine
country benefits such as clear skies, open spaces and a relaxed
pace of daily life.
Travel by train and be greeted by Maryborough's finest
attractions
Board the train at Ballarat and enjoy a relaxing journey, arriving at
Maryborough's iconic Railway Station. Break your journey with a
coffee or meal at the Station Café while you peruse the antique
emporium.
Then step outside the main building and into Station
Domain - a new, world class, outdoor facility for all to
enjoy. With regular weekend entertainment during the summer months,
Station Domain is the ideal place to picnic, gather and celebrate,
with attractions such as a large playground, outdoor amphitheatre
and extensive grassed areas. Visit Maryborough and experience
Station Domain for yourself.
Food and Wine
Enjoy local cuisine created with fresh local produce, and a
variety of local wines. Old-fashioned country style meals and
service are offered at local historic pubs and alfresco dining or
light lunches are readily available. Try a glass or two of great
local wine or partake of locally brewed ale. Be tempted by freshly
baked loaves, cakes and pastries. If you're planning a day of
hectic activity, grab a delicious wholesome breakfast before you
go.
Head out on a Taste of Gold Food and Wine Trail to discover
hidden treasures off the beaten track. The Central Goldfields Trail
features a variety of natural foods, wines, beverages, tourist
attractions and country style accommodation. Pick up a trail
brochure from the Central Goldfields Visitor Information Centre to
begin your journey.
Events
The region is proud to host a number of different events and
festivals throughout the year, including:
- • Farmers' markets;
- • Sporting events;
- • Food and wine festivals;
- • Heritage and arts festivals;
With so much on offer there is sure to be something to tempt
everyone. A full list of annual events can be obtained by
contacting Maryborough's Visitor Information Centre on 5460
4511.
Arts and Cultural Heritage
Central Goldfields Shire offers an array of activities involving
arts and cultural heritage.
Visitors can engage in the arts by:
- • Visiting historic museums and places of interest;
- • Viewing fine works at the Central Goldfields Art
Gallery;
- • Exploring hidden goldfields cemeteries;
- • Cycling to historic early goldfields villages;
- • Searching for antiques and collectables at one of the "hidden
gem" collectors' shops; or
- • participating in the Taste of Gold Heritage Weekend, held in
April every second year.
Retail
Maryborough is well on the way to establishing itself as the
shopping hub of the Central Goldfields. Shop around in the
sophisticated speciality stores and outlets throughout the
area.
A little shopping in Maryborough is sure to surprise. You'll
find there are great fashion and shoe outlets, gift shops,
homewares, collectables, decorator items and arts and crafts. For
those who enjoy hunting for special finds, the region has a number
of antique and collectable stores to browse in.
With four large supermarkets and Country Target and Kmart in
town, Maryborough has all you need for variety store shopping. For
those who are inclined towards D.I.Y there are some fabulous
hardware stores to choose from.
The surrounding towns of Dunolly, Talbot and Carisbrook, offer
visitors niche shopping and market experiences. The Talbot Farmers'
Market, held on the third Sunday of each month, draws people from
all over Victoria and is widely considered an exemplary farmers
market.
Sports and Leisure
Maryborough and Surrounds is the envy of central Victoria with its
highly regarded sport and recreation facilities. The town boasts
many opportunities for visitors with attractions such as: parks and
walking tracks; indoor and outdoor aquatic facilities; cycling
tracks; golf courses; and gold detecting.
Or visit www.visitmaryborough.com.au