Byaduk, where every day is a day to climb volcanoes, chase lava tubes and soak up views for days at Harman’s Valley lookout.  Add it to your next visit.

Aboriginal for running water, Byaduk and nearby Byaduk North were developed on permanent streams that spring from the volcanic tunnels that stretch from Mt Napier to the sea.

Red-hot molten rock once spewed high into the air from nearby Mt Napier, a large volcano, while the black river of cooling lava took over all in its path. One of the locals faves, the Byaduk Caves, was formed by this lava flow, leaving a series of what are known as lava tubes – the most extensive in Australia.  It’s also home to the rather odd and strangely shaped tumuli (known as lava blisters) formed along the lava flow, a rare volcanic phenomenon seen as mounds of rocks up to 10 metres tall resulting from cooling lava.

From Harman’s Valley Lookout you will witness the dramatic landscape, and the meandering route of the flow. This area is an important volcanic connection to the newly proclaimed UNESCO World Heritage Listed Budj Bim landscape to the south.

The breathtaking cultural landscape of Budj Bim is home to an ancient aquaculture system, dating back 6600 years.  This complex pattern of weirs, channels, ponds and pools has long supplied, and still does, the Aboriginal Gunditjmara people with a year-round food source.  Budj Bim is a must-visit natural wonder. 

The Byaduk General Store is a hidden gem – and worth the visit to Byaduk alone. This little bluestone cottage store, founded in 1861, today is a treasure trove where you can find flowers, fashions, local marinades. There is something – or some things – for everyone.  Gorgeous Byaduk local, and current owner Robyn, is one of the many treasures to be found there.

On a sunshine filled day, you can park yourself under one of the large shady trees surrounding perhaps the most picturesque cricket ovals you are ever likely to see at the Byaduk Cricket Grounds.  Enclosed in a quintessential country white picket fence, you can enjoy the sights and sounds of a local match, or simply indulge in a gourmet picnic with local produce from the region. It’s a reminder of the simple things that fill your heart.

An easy drive from Hamilton, Byaduk is a little town with big heart.