Festival puts spotlight on local heritage

BENDIGO’s rich history is currently being celebrated as part of the 2025 Australian Heritage Festival, with a series of events including entry to significant places and spaces, talks, heritage walks, workshops, exhibitions and webinars still to take place.

Remaining opportunities include tours of the former Bendigo Law Courts and the former Bendigo Post Office in Pall Mall, the Bendigo Military Museum today, as well as the old Gas Works in Weeroona Avenue tomorrow.

The Star Cinema in Eaglehawk will also host a talk featuring the City of Greater Bendigo’s built heritage adviser Janita Norman today from 5pm to 7pm, followed by guest speaker Simone Ewenson, the City of Greater Bendigo’s collections officer, next Friday evening.

Rounding out the program will be a free open day on Saturday 17 May at Bendigo Heritage Attractions sites including the Central Deborah Gold Mine, Bendigo Tramways and the Joss House Temple.

National Trust Bendigo and District Branch president Peter Cox OAM said the annual festival is an opportunity for people of all ages to celebrate the region’s heritage in many different ways.

“You can hear stories of the unusual and unknown from amazing experts and guides – there’s something for curious minds of all ages,” he said.

“It (isn’t) often that people get the chance to gain access to incredible places and it’s a sneak peek not to be missed, so I encourage you to browse the program and register for events.”

Bookings are required for all events.

The full festival program is available on the National Trust website.