Parks to Pottery Path

The whole family will adore beautiful Rosalind Park – 60 acres of grassy open spaces, lush leafy trees, a fabulous playground, ornate statues, an historic conservatory, a fernery and beautiful old gardens to explore, located on the edge of the Bendigo CBD.

Rosalind Park was the site of the Government Camp of the 1850s and so became the focus of public life and administration. Prior to 1851 the area we now call Rosalind Park was a grassy woodland with large River Red Gums (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) lining the Bendigo Creek that was a chain of deep permanent fresh water pools. The creek would have been an important source of food and water for the Dja Dja Wrung people who lived in this area. 

Explore Bendigo's grandest Visitor Centre! Discover hidden treasures inside one of Bendigo’s most beautiful historic buildings, originally the Post Office, opened in 1887. This classic example of Renaissance Revival style architecture now operates as the Bendigo Visitor Centre. It is now also home to the Living Arts Space, showcasing the best of local artisans, and the Post Office Gallery, showcasing the region's heritage.

The Bendigo Visitor Centre is forging an Australian leadership role in the delivery of innovative visitor servicing programs and has been recognised for its achievements by winning state tourism awards and also the prestigious Australian Tourism Award in March 2011. The Bendigo Visitor Centre awaits the opportunity to welcome you to Bendigo.

Chinese heritage is an integral part of Bendigo. From the goldrush to the present day, the Bendigo Chinese community has influenced the proud history of Bendigo – from its traditions of charitable works for local hospitals to its spectacular displays in the Bendigo Easter Fair.

Born of the long association with the people of the region, the Bendigo Chinese Association is proud to present the Golden Dragon Museum – a living history of the Chinese people of Bendigo from the goldrush of the 1850’s to the present day. Having become the hub of Chinese cultural activity in Australia, the museum allows visitors to experience first hand. Chinese arts and crafts with visiting artisans and tradespeople.

Lake Weeroona is the jewel in Bendigo’s crown. This beautiful ornamental lake and reserve, set on 18 hectares, was transformed from a dusty mining area in the 1870s. Take a walk around the picturesque lake, enjoy a coffee, a heart warming meal or a delicious homemade gelato. The kids will love the amazing playground and the wide open space to burn off some energy. To make the visit even more exciting, catch a vintage tram from the city centre to the lake.

As a not-for-profit, social enterprise of Access Australia Group, PepperGreen Farm offers hospitality, tourism, horticulture, micro business skills training, educational demonstrations, well-being programs and a retail outlet and cafe for local makers and producers. PepperGreen Farm aims to create opportunities for people of all abilities whilst forging strong relationships with the wider community.

Originally serving as a Chinese market garden, PepperGreen Farm is now a tourist and training precinct set on a historic significant, two hectare site close to the heart of Bendigo offering a range of enriching experiences for visitors. With a bus stop and the Joss House tram stop located at the front of the premises and onsite car parking getting there is easy. Entry is free. Our paths are designed for universal access. 

At the heritage-listed Bendigo Joss House Temple, a Chinese place of worship which was opened in 1871, you will discover more about Chinese beliefs and the story of the Chinese who came to Bendigo in search of gold.

During your visit the dedicated guides at the temple will regale you with fascinating stories about the lives of Chinese migrants on the Bendigo goldfields back in the mid-1800s and explain some of the intriguing beliefs and rituals that were practiced at the temple during this time.

Officially opened in 1854, The White Hills Cemetery became a necessity after the enormous population boom after gold was discovered in the area. It is a particularly significant graveyard as it was designated by Bendigo's Chinese population as a remembrance park to bury their dead.

The initial burials took place without registration, therefore the first person buried at the White Hills Remembrance Park is not known. The earliest recognised grave at present is that of Gustave Alphonse Eugere Vazie who died in November 1853, aged 19 months. 

There are many notable features, including original entrance pillars and gates designed by Vahland. a unique Victorian style rotunda; Chinese graves believed to be of world significance; a monument erected to the memory of Robert (Pump Handle) Benson; and the largest monument in the Remembrance Park – Major Robert Moorehead of the Prince of Wales Light Horse.

Enjoy the wide open spaces, the beautiful gardens, the playground and the natural wetlands. There are various picnic facilities dotted throughout the park. Barbeques and toilets are available.

The Bendigo Botanic Garden was planned during the early days of the gold rush, with land alongside the Bendigo Creek officially set aside in 1857. Many plants for the 15 acre area were supplied by Ferdinand von Mueller, Melbourne Botanic Gardens director, some of which still survive today.

In the 1870s a lagoon was dug into the creek to create a natural wetland, a picnic shelter was built in 1904 (still used) and a large walkthrough bird aviary was erected in 1987. The striking Arch of Triumph at the garden’s entrance was constructed as a WWI memorial in 1925.

Experience the history and craft of Australia's oldest working pottery with demonstrations, hands on activities with clay and interpretive displays.

Visit the Interpretive museum, step back in time and learn about the production processes, machinery, working conditions and traditional skills of the Bendigo Pottery from its beginning in 1858 to the present day.

Relax with a coffee or light meal and wander around the extensive sales gallery featuring a huge range of traditional and contemporary ceramics. Explore the new Antiques & Collectables Centre with over 40 individual sites under the one roof. Visit one of the smaller studio galleries including artists in textiles, metal sculptures, glass beads, printmaking, photography, painting & jewellery.