Long before the gold rush, Bendigo was and continues to be the home of the Dja Dja Wurrung people (Djaara), the Traditional Owners of this land. Their stories, culture and knowledge remain deeply woven into the region’s landscape.
Gold was discovered here in the mid-1800s, sparking one of the first mass migrations to Australia. People from across the globe came seeking fortune, and their legacy can be seen in the city’s grand architecture, ornate fountains, gardens and public sculptures. Many of these spaces have been thoughtfully preserved, allowing you to step back in time while also gaining a deeper understanding of the First Nations stories that continue to shape Bendigo.