The world focussed on Ballarat as the cry 'Gold' echoed around the globe. People from all nations poured into Ballarat to seek a fortune, many found the real Australia and decided to make this great land their home. Today, you too can capture the excitement of these bawdy times as you visit the scene of revolt, rebellion and the emergence of democracy at Eureka and Sovereign Hill.
Highlights:
Travel the Western Highway - stagecoach route of the 1850's
Bacchus Marsh - a landscape of orchards - once a resting place for the Cobb & Co stagecoach
Ballarat - enjoy a complete town tour of this gracious city with its exquisite gardens and noble statues
Eureka Stockade - site of the 1854 Miner's Rebellion
Gold panning in Red Gully Creek
Join the "Journey through the Labyrinth of Gold" guided tour
Witness original working conditions and demonstrations of early mining equipment
Visit the Gold Museum
Perhaps try some homemade boiled lollies! Maybe a Devonshire Tea at the New York Bakery?
The Chinese Village - highlighting Chinese involvement in the goldfields
Take in the atmosphere of Main St.
Watch the Giant Crushing Battery
Treat yourself to lunch at the United States Hotel
Ballarat Wildlife Park is a high standard, well-planned fauna reserve affording excellent opportunities to 'mix' with native Australian animals. Visit Ballarat Wildlife Park nestled in native bushland habitat where you can join a guided tour.
Be greeted by Patrick the Wombat
Feed free range kangaroos
Experience an emu encounter
Meet and touch koalas
See Tasmanian Devils feeding
See goannas and giant lizards
Shudder at the sight of venomous snakes and voracious crocodiles