Inspired By Locals
We’re telling the stories behind the places and the faces of the Southern Grampians. Curated by the locals, just for you.
Hear about Greater Hamilton,
from those who know it best – our locals
They are the story tellers, the experience makers, the keepers of all the secrets and must-dos in our wonderful region.
They are our locals. Let them inspire your next visit.
Meet Jimmy…
Jimmy’s secrets…
There’s nothing this chef loves more than local produce, except maybe… putting!
Cavendish
A peaceful and picturesque township, renowned for its ‘Bunyip’ encounters, idyllic riverbank and majestic Red Gum walks. Stop a while and experience Cavendish.
The Bunyip Hotel
With food supplied, cooked and served by locals, the Bunyip Hotel masterfully highlights this impeccable region.
Royal Mooralla Golf Course
Golf among the gums at this distinctly Cavendish and locally loved golf course.
About Jimmy…
James (Jimmy) Campbell left Melbourne’s Movida to return to his beloved Mooralla and share his passion for local produce as chef and owner of The Bunyip Hotel. His fare is raved about by Cavendish locals and visitors who discover this hidden gem alike.
Meet Frank…
Frank’s secrets…
Who better to unlock the secrets of the Hamilton Botanic Gardens than our friend, Frank, the Head Gardener himself.
Hamilton Botanic Gardens
Superbly designed by the curator of the Melbourne Botanic Gardens, the Hamilton Botanic Gardens features sweeping lawns, twisting and curving pathways, picturesque bridges spanning across glistening lakes, rockeries with prickly cacti, brilliantly colourful plants and contrasting foliage.
The Botanical
Very cool retro booths purposefully placed so you can enjoy your bevy while looking out over the lovely and lush Botanic Gardens. Take a seat and relax at The Botanical Restaurant and Bar.
Hamilton
Artistic flare, botanical beauty and sensational shops… There is so much to see and do when you visit Hamilton’s vibrant town centre.
About Frank…
Living in the region with his family for over 15 years, 8 of which as part of the Parks & Gardens team, Frank Verschuren is the perfect local to share his thoughts on the stunning Hamilton Botanic Gardens- the third oldest in Victoria (and the best in the region).
Meet Stefan…
Stefan’s Favourites…
It’s true, there’s nothing like that local knowledge to unlock new discoveries and set you on a path of adventure.
Be an Explorer
Stefan reveals insights on the world-class experiences you can discover from the Greater Hamilton region in this blog.
Nigretta + Wannon Falls
The two magnificent falls of Greater Hamilton are an absolute sight to see, plus there are so many more in the greater surrounds! Explore (and chase) the waterfalls.
Rocklands Reservoir
Exceptional location, spectacular landscape and immense family appeal, Rocklands Reservoir is a must-see, must-camp and must-play destination.
Stefan’s Story…
From growing up in Hamilton to adventuring across the globe as The Cactus Explorer, aka Stefan Burger has a unique perspective on the plants and landscapes of our region.
Ones To Watch
DISCOVER NIGRETTA FALLS
Beautiful and powerful, the magnificent Nigretta Falls is a wonderful day trip, just a stone’s throw from our lovely little village of Coleraine.
BE INSPIRED BY BALMORAL MURAL
Don’t forget your camera for this one. Nestled in Balmoral, this mural, created by world renowned artists, has bursts of colour everywhere.
EXPLORE ROCKLANDS
A day trip, a weekend away, or a family camping trip, Rocklands Reservoir is your natural getaway, to both disconnect and reconnect.
Meet More Locals
MEET THE MAKERS
Treat yourself to a day of indulgences where you will be spoilt for choices. There is something special around every corner from undiscovered laneways to boutique stores, these are the places you can meet the locals and discover what truly makes Hamilton the place it is today. A superlative day is to be had by simply following these three essential treat-yourself steps….
MEET THE ARTIST
A creative virtuoso and proud local of the Greater Hamilton region, Grotti Lotti (aka Casey Manson). Making an impact on the art world, Grotti Lotti paints vibrant and contemporary nature-inspired art, stocks shops and markets nationwide, runs a successful online store, ships her pieces worldwide and all while being a spirited mum to three lively children.
BUY LOCAL
Shopping small and supporting local is easy.
Discover our unique makers and retailers online.
BOOK LOCAL
It’s easy and convenient to book directly with our local accommodation operators.
Booking direct is another way to shop local and support small.
Our Team’s Top Picks
We asked our tourism team, their top picks for places to visit and things to do in Greater Hamilton… here’s where they recommend.
HIRL Nature Reserve, Hamilton
A magnificently established 100ha reserve of native flora/fauna and home to more than 120 Eastern Barred Bandicoots.
Rocklands Reservoir
Fishing, boating, canoeing, hiking, picnicking, camping and so many more exceptional outdoor activities can be had at this spectacular landscape, home to the largest water reservoir in Victoria.
Campes Motor Museum
Visitors can learn about the history of Campes Coaches and wander through the extensive collection of vintage cars and memorabilia – a motor enthusiast’s dream come true!
100 Things To Do in Greater Hamilton
Countless opportunities for adventure await with our curated list of activities. READ MOREFrom The Blog…
Summer In Greater Hamilton
With the sun shining and the weather warming, summer is one of the best times to get out and about exploring. We’ve pooled our local insights to collate for you a quick guide to spending summertime in Greater Hamilton. Enjoy! 1. Lake Hamilton for the whole...
The Ten-Step Guide to the Hamilton Art Trail
Step between, on and into the Hamilton Art Trail; an immersive journey through the Hamilton CBD’s spectacular public art spaces and a sure-fire way to add a pop of colour into your day (and Instagram feed)! Step One Start your walk from Brown Street, out the...
Honouring The Lighthorse – The Australian Light Horse Heritage Collection
Beyond the doorway of a seemingly typical home at 26 Parker Street, Dunkeld is something extraordinary, The Australian Light Horse Heritage Collection. Mounted to walls, encased in glass cabinets, and virtuously displayed on pedestals are the memorabilia and stories...
Fishing in Greater Hamilton
Well, it’s oh-fish-al, Greater Hamilton is an angler’s haven. With an overwhelming pool of inland creeks, lakes and reservoirs, you’ll be hooked (line and sinker) on Greater Hamilton’s freshwater fishing experiences. We've enlisted local expert, Ray White from the...
A Wintery Weekend in Greater Hamilton
Day 1: With a hearty breakfast from local café Little Koi, a serving of their classic eggs and bacon or jampacked waffles will have you ready and roaring to go – kickstarting your 48-hour exploration of Greater Hamilton. Give breakfast time to settle and ease in to...
Sites & Settings – The Ultimate Caravan & Camping Guide for the Southern Grampians
With over 20 campgrounds, both paid and free and over five caravan parks scattered throughout the Southern Grampians, there are plenty of sites and settings for you to set up base for exploration and relaxation, certain to make you one happy camper!...
Inspo for your Next Visit
Infused with every inspiring aspect of our region - the Greater Hamilton e-mag is a real page-turner. It’s never been easier to embark upon your next getaway. Be inspired.
Acknowledgment of Traditional Owners
We acknowledge Greater Hamilton is in Gunditjmara, Djab Wurrung and Bunganditj Country. We acknowledge this land that has been cared for by the traditional owners, past and present. Traditional Owners sharing the beauty and joy of these lands and waterways is a privilege, one we repay with respect for their country, Elders and people.
