Summer entertainment for all the family

WITH plenty of attractions and activities to see and do in the Heathcote region over the summer holidays, no one will be able to voice the age-old complaint “I’m bored!”

Best of all, many of the activities are free and there’s something for all ages and interests.

 

For the kids

The children’s play space next to the CFA in High Street sits beneath shady trees and features swings, slides, a trampoline, climbing activities, water pump and a flying fox.

The barbecue and tables next door are perfect for a picnic lunch, and nearby is the starting point for the Goldfields Library Story Walk.

 

Discover history

With some dating back to the 1850s, more than 20 historic buildings remain today, including the Court House, Union Hotel, Masonic Hall, Mechanics Institute and St John’s Anglican Church.

Many of the buildings are in High Street, the longest main street in the Southern Hemisphere, and are identified with plaques and information signs.

Maps are available at the information centre.

The Heathcote Historical Society Museum is housed in the 150-year-old, former police lock up on Camp Hill, Herriot Street and opens on Wednesdays and public holidays from 10am to 3pm.

Further afield is the Redesdale Bridge, one of the oldest iron lattice-truss bridges in Victoria and at Graytown the remnants the World War Two-era prisoner of War camp.

 

Out in nature

Pink Cliffs Reserve with its unique colourful rock faces ranging from pale pinks to deeper reds is perfect for picnics, bird watching, wildflowers, and photography.

The Pink Cliffs walking track offers lookout points and scenic views, provides information signs and is rated as an easy walk.

Known for its stunning colour display in autumn, the Valley of Liquid Ambers is a cool, shady place in summer to enjoy a picnic with short walks to the swinging bridge and Powder Magazine.

Viewing Rock overlooks Heathcote on the McIvor Ranges allowing visitors a panoramic view of the township and a return walk to Devil’s Cave provides more scenic views.

Other walks in the area include Mount Ida and Dargile Forest walks, and the One Eye State Forest.

 

Fishing and boating

Nearby Lake Eppalock is filled almost to capacity and provides excellent boating and jet ski opportunities with five public boat ramps, as well as two locations with barbecue and picnic facilities.

The lake is stocked with red fin, golden perch, trout and Murray cod making it ideal for shore or boat fishing.

 

Cycling

At a distance of 49 kilometres, the O’Keefe Rail Trail extends from Heathcote to Lake Weeroona in Bendigo, and takes cyclists through native forests, waterways and farmland.

Graded as easy, there are multiple access points along the trail for shorter rides.

 

Sports

Heathcote Golf Club is regarded as one of the best golf courses in country Victoria.

Family friendly, new members and visitors are welcome to play the scenic course and driving range and cart hire is available from the golf shop.

Catering for all levels, the Heathcote Bowling Club has two synthetic greens, community facilities, and everyone is welcome.

The Heathcote Tennis Club caters for all ages and abilities and offers social as well as competition tennis and coaching.

Whether you are a local or a visitor, there is always lots to do and the Visitor Information centre in High Street is open every day except Christmas Day from 9am to 5pm for further information.