This month the fantastic team at Sandhurst Diocese will be hosting the Term 2 Education Working Group meeting in Bendigo Victoria.
Bendigo throbs with a rich history, a vibrant arts scene, and a down-to-earth charm. While you’re in town, here are some recommendations to maximise your downtime and unearth the hidden gems of this historic city.
Things to do:
Vintage Tram: Delve into Bendigo's gold rush glory. Take a ride on the iconic vintage tram, offering a delightful commentary on Bendigo's architectural heritage.
Central Deborah Gold Mine: Experience first-hand the life of a 19th-century gold miner.
Yi Yuan Gardens: Immerse yourself in the stories of Chinese immigrants who played a significant role in Bendigo's development. Visit the fascinating Golden Dragon Museum, boasting a stunning recreation of a traditional Chinese garden – the Yi Yuan Gardens.
Bendigo Art Gallery: The gallery is one of Australia's oldest and largest regional galleries. Housing an impressive collection of contemporary and historical works, it's a feast for the eyes.
Rosalind Park: Explore Bendigo's stunning botanical gardens.
Bendigo Heritage Walking Trail: Stroll along in a self-guided tour through Bendigo's historic landmarks.
Cafes:
Sim'R Cafe - This cafe is known for its delicious breakfast options and friendly service. They also have a great selection of cakes and slices.
Percy and Percy - This former milk bar has found new life as one of Bendigo's favourite corner cafes. They offer a great selection of breakfast and lunch options, as well as coffee and cakes.
Hoo-gah Cafe - This café is modelled on the Danish concept of hygge, which is a quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that goes hand in hand with contentment. They offer a great selection of coffee, tea, and light bites.
The Boardwalk Bendigo - This café is located on the shores of Lake Rosalind and offers stunning views of the water. They have a great selection of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, as well as coffee and cakes.
Edwards Providore - This providore is a great spot for a coffee and a pastry. They also have a great selection of sandwiches, salads, and takeaway items.
Restaurants:
Harpoon Social Club: This casual and fun bar offers a fusion of Japanese and American cuisine, sure to please a variety of palates. Their menu includes delicious dishes like sushi and ramen alongside crowd-pleasing favorites like burgers and tacos. With a great selection of craft beers and cocktails, Harpoon Social Club provides a lively atmosphere perfect for catching up with friends.
El Gordo: Looking for a taste of Spain? El Gordo is a vibrant tapas bar and restaurant that will transport you straight to the heart of Spain. Their menu features a wide variety of tapas dishes, from pintxos (skewers) to patatas bravas (spicy potatoes) and everything in between. You can also choose from larger plates to share, perfect for a group. Don't forget to explore their selection of Spanish wines and sangria for the complete Spanish experience.
Marmalade Café & Restaurant: This warm and inviting restaurant offers a seasonal menu that changes regularly, featuring modern Australian cuisine with a focus on fresh, local produce. Marmalade Café & Restaurant boasts a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, perfect for a group of friends to enjoy a delicious meal and conversation.
The Dispensary Bar and Diner: This trendy bar and diner offers a unique fusion of Asian-inspired fare and classic American diner dishes. Their menu includes crowd-pleasers like burgers, pizzas, and loaded fries, alongside Asian favorites like bao buns and dumplings. The Dispensary Bar and Diner boasts a vibrant atmosphere with a great selection of drinks, making it a perfect spot for a fun night out with friends.
After Dinner:
The Deck Bendigo: This lively bar and grill offers a relaxed setting with indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for a casual get-together. Their menu features pub classics alongside pizzas and share plates, ideal for groups.
Babylon Lounge & Garden Bar: For a sophisticated and stylish evening, head to Babylon Lounge. This upscale bar boasts an elegant interior with a spacious garden bar, perfect for enjoying balmy Bendigo nights.
Piano Bar Bendigo: If you're looking for a more intimate setting with live music, Piano Bar is a hidden gem. This cosy bar features talented local pianists playing a variety of genres, creating a relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere.
Nimbus Rooftop Bar & Restaurant: This trendy spot combines stunning city views and a delicious menu with a vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy delectable food, craft beers, or creative cocktails with your group.