Bendigo Unearthed
If driving into Bendigo for a day trip isn’t on your to do list this year then do yourself a favour and put it at the top. Named a UNESCO city of gastronomy in 2019, alongside 65 others worldwide, this culture, art and history rich city is a regional treasure.
It’s one thing to visit for the day but making the move permanently? The ABS records a net 22,651 Melbournians have relocated to other parts of Victoria during the pandemic and for those looking to join them we can see why you are tempted.
With a population forecasted for 2021 at 123,632, the median 3 bed house price sitting at $575.000 and the established airport flying direct to Sydney with Qantas (Adelaide and Brisbane following soon), the appeal to snap up one of the many period homes and immerser yourself in the welcoming and diverse community is great.
Whether you are a family, couple or solo and thriving, there are people to meet, places to see and plenty of things to do. From the locals here are some of the best:
Food & Beverage
Edwards Providore - the local providore that keeps on giving… from breakfast to wholesome recipe boxes, flavoursome ready made take home meals and homely homewares you have no choice but to take home a slice of Bendigo.
Harvest - local food and wine handcrafted (literally) by the ever talented and knowledgable husband and wife team Marsha and Linc. Say hi and immerse yourself in the deli before you leave!
Ms Batterhams - deemed the new girl with a past this lounge bar and fine dining converted school hall is the night out for dinner you deserve.
Nimbus Roof Top Bar - cocktails and views of the noteable and pretty skyline of Bendigo. We can’t let you say no.
Culture
View Street Arts Precinct accompanied by The Meadow, Juno and Gathered. Simply put, it’s just cool.
Chancery Lane - be charmed by this endearing laneway successfully combining an eclectic mix of fashion, food and fun.
Djaara Lights - a deeper dive into Bendigo culture alongside the traditional owners of the land. Mixing art work of the Dja Dja Wurrung people with augmented reality.
Credit image from Bendigo Region of side view of the Bendigo Art Gallery on View Street.
Art
The renowned Bendigo Art Gallery - did someone say Elvis is coming to town? A visit from the king proving the Bendigo Art Gallery is renowned and ready for you.
Bendigo Pottery - they say there is a potter in all of us… well, even if there isn’t get your hands dirty and learn something.
Self guided artists walk - discover why Bendigo was named the premier arts and cultural destination of regional Victoria.
Look up! The architecture of CBD is full of historic heritage buildings and it’s lovely.
Need more? We’ve got suggestions on fashion, events, outdoor experiences and our neighbours. Hint Castlemaine could very well provide you with the best Bahn Mi you’ve ever eaten alongside a rare quirky find at the bizarre.
Bendigo, small town community vibe meets thriving city? Don’t mind if we do.
It’s been a pleasure writing for you.
Stevie