Central Goldfields Discovery - Two Day Accessible Itinerary

In February 1869 just 3cm beneath the soil the largest recorded alluvial gold nugget – known as the Welcome Stranger was found. The 61cm by 31cm nugget was taken to Dunolly to be measured on the bank’s scales, however at 69kg the gold needed to be broken on an anvil to actually fit on the scales. Today, the Moliagul Historic Reserve is a picturesque picnic spot with a walking track showcasing points of interest from the gold rush era and a granite obelisk marking the spot of the incredible discovery.

Grab a pie or maybe a sandwich and enjoy some lunch at the Dunolly Bakery. Dine in or takeaway to relax in the nearby Rene Fox Memorial Gardens.

The Dunolly Historic Precinct showcases the rich gold era heritage of this captivating town. The crowning jewel is the Dunolly Courthouse, which was built in 1863 as the original town hall, complete with library, reading room, council chamber and offices. The Dunolly Town hall was built in 1884 and originally was used as the county court, before swapping functions with the original Borough of Dunolly Town Hall in 1890. The nearby police stables and lock up were constructed in 1863 and complete the historic legal precinct.

Spend the afternoon exploring this interesting window into the history of Victoria's Central Goldfields.

Guided tours are available by appointment.

Arrive in Maryborough this afternoon and check into the Gold Country Motel and Caravan Park. An accessible room is available on request. 

Freshen up and perhaps take a look at the shopping along Nolan and High Streets before heading to dinner. 

Settle into Maryborough's Bull & Mouth for a choice of mouthwatering menu options to suit any taste or dietary needs. This historic establishment was first opened in 1855 as a single story goldfields watering hole. In 1904 as the riches of the gold rush flooded in the hotel was rebuilt to its current glory. More recently, some major renovations have created a modern and accessible cafe and restaurant while staying true to the building's historic and majestic architecture.

After a delicious breakfast at Tracks Cafe in the historic Maryborough Railway Station, find out for yourself if this impressive station was a case of mistaken identity or a rich gold rush town showing its wealth. See the expansive platform and ornate architecture as you make up your own mind which version of the story you believe.

The great wealth of the gold rush era, and the stunning architecture of the period, is beautifully apparent in Maryborough’s McLandress Square. The town’s civic centre features European-style heritage buildings including the imposing Italianate palazzo-style post office, which was built in 1877 and still serves as a post office today. The town hall was built in 1887 after the local council established there was a need for a large building to house public functions.

The tiny town of Talbot boasts an authentic country farmers’ market experience from 9am until 1pm on the third Sunday of every month. Explore over 80 regional produce and artisan food stalls, listen out for live music, forage for a yummy breakfast and coffee, chat with farmers and don't forget to pick up a raffle ticket for your chance to win our famous Barrow Raffle. Plus browse the adjacent Town Hall Market for unexpected treasures. Named as one of ‘Australia's 10 best farmers markets’ this is a market event not to be missed. 

The Talbot Provedore and Eatery is a relaxed and inviting eatery located in the picturesque Central Goldfields town of Talbot. State winner of the ‘Best Licensed Cafe’ in the 2017 Golden Plate Awards, the Talbot Provedore and Eatery is all about supporting local producers and showcasing their food and wine both in the Provedore and on the Eatery menus.