Meet the Locals
The story tellers, the experience makers, the keepers of local legends. These people are the specialists of our great 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.
Meet Tracey…
Tracey’s Favourites…
From the most picturesque photo spots, to the infamous woolsheds dotting our rolling landscapes, Tracey has the inside scoop.
Penshurst Wetlands Gardens
A never-failing spring, a resplendent lake and a series of narrow waterways, the 13 acres of pristine landscape at Penshurst Wetlands Gardens is a photographers dream.
Canola Season
The bursting fields of canola around Greater Hamilton are an absolute sight to behold (and photograph)!
Historic Woolsheds
Tracey has shared with us her favourite images of the region in the first installment of our photo series; Through the Photographers Lens.
Meet Elle…
Elle’s secrets…
Feast your eyes on panoramic views, or treat your tastebuds to a local drop- Elle’s favourite things to do are right here!
Mount Rouse
Stand on the youngest volcanic landscape and take in one of the oldest, The Grampians! Mount Rouse is an extremely unique and breathtaking experience.
Wine Bars
Sip and savour your way around the best Wine Bars across our region.
The Henty Wine Region
With so many great wineries right on our doorstep, The Henty Wine Region presents vineyards to explore, delectable wines to sample and a great time to be had with friends.
About Elle…
Vet and farmer, Elle Moyle, shares with us why she returned to her hometown of Penshurst, and what she likes to get up to when friends visit for a country weekend.
Meet Jasmine...
Jasmine's secrets...
What does a perfect weekend exploring the Greater Hamilton region look like to a fun, creative young family?
The Roxburgh
Great food and amazing atmosphere. It is always a great day and night at The Roxburgh.
The Laneways
A magnitude of magnificent art by talented local artists colourfully lines laneways, gardens, and walls of Hamilton. Don’t just take our word for it, see for yourself.
Family Adventures
There is an abundance of fun, family-friendly activities to be had in this great region. From Ninja parks to Bandicoot spotting to riding the rails, there is something for everyone, young and old, to enjoy!
About Jasmine...
A self confessed compulsive creative, Jasmine is our very own, internationally acclaimed artist, whose work literally lines the streets and laneways of Greater Hamilton, where she lives with her family.
Meet Roger...
Roger's secrets...
You won't meet a local more passionate about the delights of Cavendish than Roger!
Settlers Walk
Peaceful and full of curious surprises, from a bluestone gaol to a historic cemetery, bridges and birdlife galore, this is Settler's Walk.
Cavendish: Insider's Guide
Eat, Explore, Stay, and look forward to future Events in the charming town of Cavendish!
Birdwatching
Calling all Bird Lovers - Spot spoonbills and swans, and learn where the locals love to visit.
About Roger..
Roger Edwards is a painter and ex-forrester who knows the land around Cavendish like the back of his talented hands.
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 Casey...
Casey's secrets...
How does an artist refresh herself and renew her creativity in the Greater Hamilton region?
5 Mins with Casey
We sit down with Grotti herself to ask... what's so great about Greater Hamilton? Join the chat here.
The Grampians
Casey loves nothing more than to hike, bushwalk, camp and get back to nature with her tribe! Discover the National Park's best spots here.
McGuigan's Lane
What do you get when you let a bunch of local artists take over a laneway and spash their creativity all over the floor? A curious and colourful alley ready to explore!
About Casey...
Hamilton-based artist, Casey Manson, aka Grotti Lotti, brings us into her backyard studio to share her local loves whilst creating her colourful and quirky art.
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 Glen...
Glen's secrets...
Discover the tranquility of Rocklands reservoir, or stroll along the Wannon River on Cavendish's Settlers Walk - Glen's favourite things to do are right here!
Art
A vibrant arts culture exists in our region, with a number of local galleries and public art to be found, it's worth taking a look.
Cavendish
Be sure to visit the quaint hamlet of Cavendish. Nestled on the Wannon River, home to the Bunyip Hotel and the annual Red Gum Festival.
Rocklands Reservoir
Rocklands is a treasure trove for outdoor adventurers, offering fishing and camping, as well as opportunities to get out on the water.
About Glen...
Local artist, Glen Mack, delves into what drew him to the Greater Hamilton region, and shares his favourite camping spots.
Favourite Fishing Locations
It's true! Greater Hamilton offers numerous fishing spots, from serene lakes to bustling rivers. Local businesses provide everything anglers need, including bait and licenses. Popular destinations like Lake Hamilton and Rocklands Reservoir attract enthusiasts year-round, ensuring an enjoyable experience for both novice and seasoned fishers.
Konongwootong Reservoir
Konongwootong Reservoir, located 10 minutes north of Coleraine, is recognised for its
indigenous heritage and is a popular site for fishing, walking and bird watching.
🐟 Find red fin, rainbow trout, brown trout
🗺️ Nareen Road, Konongwootong
Glenelg River
The Glenelg River, is famous for its mulloway and estuary perch populations. The freshwater section of the Glenelg has improved exponentially, especially for native fish.
🐟 Find red fin, carp
🗺️ Glenelg River, Balmoral
Lake Hamilton
Centrally located and easily accessible location for anyone looking to cast from the comfort of their boat, shores or nearby piers. Be sure to check permitted usage times.
🐟 Find red fin, rainbow trout, brown trout
🗺️ Mill Road, Hamilton
Rocklands Reservoir
Rocklands is the go-to fishing spot. Launch your boat from one of three boat ramps or simply pull up a chair on the banks and wait for those bites.
🐟 Find red fin, brown trout, yabbies
🗺️ Rocklands, Victoria
Wannon River
Scenic fishing on the Wannon River in Cavendish offers serene landscapes, diverse fish species, and a peaceful retreat for anglers.
🐟 Find red fin, brown trout, black fish
🗺️ Wannon River, Cavendish
Old Reservoir, Hamilton
Fishing is a popular activity at the reservoir, but it is important for visitors to note that the reservoir is open to bank fishing only, boats are not permitted.
🐟 Find red fin
🗺️ N Boundary Road, Hamilton