Bendigo

Central bendigo from botanic gardens - View of central Bendigo from the botanical gardens

Bendigo is a regional city in Victoria, Australia. With a population of about 92,000 it is the 4th largest city in the State. Bendigo is located some 140 km (105 miles, 1.5 hour's drive) north-north-west of Melbourne.

It is known for its grand Victorian architecture, built during the Gold rush of the mid-nineteenth century.

Bendigo Halal Travel Guide

Bendigo grew to a bustling town after Gold was discovered in the area in 1851. The wealth of this period resulted in the construction of many fine public and commercial buildings in the downtown, as well as private homes in the surrounding residential areas.

Recent growth has seen the population of the Greater Bendigo municipality (which includes much rural area and the nearby towns of Heathcote and Elmore) reach just above 100,000. Despite this it still retains a friendly country atmosphere.

The town has far less rain than Melbourne due to its position to the north of the Great Dividing Range. Summers are hot and dry, up to 40 degrees Celsius or more on some days. Winters tend to be mild; with lowest temperatures around -5 degrees Celsius overnight and around 15 during the day.

Sheep, cattle, fruit and cereal crops are the most common products of the area. Gold is being discovered again in large quantities at deeper levels in the old mines with new technology.

History

Before European colonial settlement the area was occupied by the clans of the Dja Dja Wurrung people. They were regarded by other tribes as being a superior people, not only because of their rich hunting grounds but because from their area came a greenstone rock for their stone axes. Early Europeans described the Dja Dja Wrung as a strong, physically well-developed people and not belligerent. Nevertheless the early years of European colonial settlement in the Mount Alexander area were bloodied by many clashes between intruder and dispossessed.

Major Mitchell passed through the area in 1836. Following his discovery and the first squatters arrived in 1840 to establish vast sheep runs. Bendigo Creek was part of the Mount Alexander or Ravenswood sheep run.

It is generally acknowledged that Mrs John Kennedy and Mrs Patrick Farrell, wives of workmen on the Ravenswood run, found Gold at ‘The Rocks’ - now an identified location that can be visited at the junction of Bendigo Creek and Maple Street.

The first ‘rush’ took place in November 1851 when miners at Castlemaine (Forest Creek) heard of the new discovery. Alluvial Gold was found in the area of its first discovery (present day Golden Plaza) and then the miners followed the Gold down the creek to what is now Epsom and up the creek to the present suburb of Kangaroo Flat. Further discoveries were soon made in the tributary creeks at Eaglehawk and Diamond Hill.

As a result of the rush of people to the area and the Gold Commissioner’s Office and the Police Barracks and the courts were erected on Camp Hill, now the present Rosalind Park in central Bendigo. The “diggers”, as the miners were called, numbered as high as thirty thousand and came from all over the world; from England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland – along with Germans, Italians, Swiss, French and Americans. The Chinese population reached many thousands in the early Gold rush period but their numbers dropped rapidly as the nineteenth century progressed.

Bendigo quickly grew from a “city of tents” to become a substantial city with great public buildings. The first hospital was built in 1853 and the first town plan was developed by 1854. A municipality emerged and the first Town Hall was commissioned in 1859.

Bendigo was connected to Melbourne by telegraph in 1857 and it was from here that the first message reporting the deaths of Burke and Wills was sent in 1861. Frequent Cobb & Co coaches ran to Melbourne until the railway reached Bendigo in 1862.

In the following decade it made the transition from small mining town to large and wealthy city and becoming established as a key centre for surrounding settlements.

Water supply was always a problem in Bendigo. This was partly solved with a system harnessing the waters of the Coliban River, designed by engineer Joseph Brady. Water first flowed through the viaduct in 1877.

Architect William Charles Vahland left a major mark on Bendigo during this period. He is credited as innovating what was the most popular residential design of the period, low cost cottages with verandahs decorated in iron lace which became a popular style right across Victoria. He transformed the Bendigo Town Hall between 1878 to 1886 into a grand building and designed more than eighty more public and private buildings, including the Alexandra Fountain and the Masonic Temple (now the Capital Theatre) and the Mechanics Institute and School of Mines (now the Bendigo Regional Institute of TAFE), 'Fortuna Villa' in Golden Plaza, (which was the home of 'Quartz King' George Lansell) and the Law Courts, former Post Office and the expanded Shamrock Hotel in Pall Mall.

A tram network began in 1890 and was used for public transport.

Travel to Bendigo

How to travel to Bendigo by car

Bendigo is just over one and a half hours drive north of Melbourne on the Calder Freeway (Highway). The freeway is now all dual carriageway. The final stretch of the Calder duplication project opened to traffic on 20 April 2009.

If you are coming from Sydney, take the Shepparton exit from the Hume Freeway and then follow the signs from Shepparton to Bendigo.

Fly to Bendigo

While Bendigo does have a small airport, it will likely be much more convenient to fly into Melbourne. From there, hire a vehicle and take the M79 (Calder Freeway) which starts just by the airport. If you do not wish to drive, take the Skybus into Southern Cross Station and get the train to Bendigo. Alternatively take the shuttle direct to Bendigo from the airport. For a cheaper option, catch a 8185 479 to Sunbury Station and get the train to Bendigo.

Travel by train to Bendigo

Bendigo is served by trains which run from Melbourne's Southern Cross Station into the south of Bendigo. These run about once an hour. The journey takes roughly two hours from Melbourne. As the route is used by many commuters, trains may be more crowded in the early morning and late afternoon/early evening on weekdays. From the station, most of the CBD is within walking distance. Alternatively buses run into the centre of the city and other parts of Bendigo from the station.

Vline also operates a coach twice daily from Adelaide direct to Bendigo.

Get Around in Bendigo

Bendigo has a local urban bus service. The network covers all parts of Bendigo with a standard frequency of one every half hour on a few routes and one an hour on others. Services on most routes are infrequent in the evenings and on weekends. There is also a tourist hop-on/hop-off tram running up and down the main street.

Parking is metered in most parts of the downtown. Expect to pay about $1 per hour for parking and to have parking limits of 1–2 hours in the downtown. Because of these restrictions parking is generally easy in the downtown. Parking is free on Saturdays however time limits do still apply. You can also find free parking at some Shopping Centres.

What to See

Bendigo Art Gallery 2012 - Bendigo Art Gallery

• The tourist information centre is housed in the old post office building on Pall Mall (the main through road) - opposite the Shamrock Hotel. It also has an interesting exhibition of Bendigo Heritage.
• There is a Chinese Arch, Chinese Garden and Chinese Museum which has tours and one of the original Joss houses is open to the public. You can get to this by taking the Tourist Talking Tram Tour from the Central Deborah Gold Mine, which is close to the downtown, or it is just a short walk east along Pall Mall from the town centre and the visitor information centre. Access to the arch is free. Access to the museum, garden and shrine has a small charge. The museum has many old Chinese exhibits. The garden has goldfish, is Chinese styled, but has a fair bit of concrete to detract from the effect.
• Rosalind Park is just behind the visitors centre. It has the potential for a river to flow through it, but this only happens after rare storms. Otherwise a basic garden with a fountain and a memorial. From the main section of the park it is a short but somewhat steep walk up to the Poppet Head Lookout or to the Bendigo Art Gallery.
• Bendigo Mosaic and Poppet Head Lookout. At the high point of Rosalind Park, you can climb a look out created from an old mine shaft. From it there is extensive views over the region. There is a mosaic of tiles explaining the legacy of Bendigo at the base of the tower.
• Sacred Heart Gothic Church. Quite a stunning cathedral for a town the size of Bendigo. It is used by the local catholic community. Set on the high point of the town, it is a short walking distance from the town centre.
• The Art Gallery is located on the edge of Rosalind Park, between the Poppet Head Lookout and the Gothic Church. Has a good collection of period Australian paintings, some contemporary work, sometimes travelling exhibitions.
• The Easter fair procession is the oldest continual festival in Victoria. The imperial dragon called Sunday Loong takes pride of place each year at the festival needing over 50 strong members of the public to carry it. A variety of other activities take place over the Easter weekend including markets and carnivals.

Top Travel Tips

• Visit the landscape. Bendigo is the centre of a thriving area - a number of nearbyfruit cocktailries are well worth the visit. Bendigo Shiraz is generally very full flavoured and big.
• Central Deborah Mine - 2 minutes drive or a short walk towards Melbourne from the town centre - There are three variations on the mine tour. There is the surface tour where you can look around the mine workings, which have been reconfigured a little for tourism. There is Gold panning available and you can climb the poppet head and follow the overhead link to the battery crusher. THe standard underground tour goes underground into the old minue workings. There are various types of drilling rigs and other demonstrations making for a very interesting tour. This tour also includes the self-guided surface tour. The third adventure tour does all that the first two tours do, but also includes about 30 minutes on level 3 of the mine. This involves going down ladders and seeing a section of the mine that hasn't been extensively modified for tourism use. It also includes a lunch or cornish pasties back in a function room that has been built back on the main level of the mine.

• Bendigo Tramways - , - Ride the historic Bendigo tourist tramway

• Swim at Leisure_and_Entertainment/Swimming_pools public pools around the town. $3.50 for kids, $4.50 adult, $11.50 family (2 kids, 2 adults). The closest to the downtown is the Bendigo Aquatic Centre which features a water slide, 10m and 5m diving platforms, diving boards, an Olympic pool, a kids swimmingpool and a baby pool. If you like a cold swim, go to Brennan Park. East Bendigo is more than half-filled with lap-lanes. The only indoor swimmingpool is at the Peter Krenz Leisure Centre which also features a gym and mini-golf.
• The Zone Family Entertainment Complex - 1 Gildea Lane, East Bendigo - ☎ +61 3 5441 7046 Under 9yo activities: Mini go-karts, playground with ball pit. All ages activities: Laser tag, roller rink, 18 hole mini-golf, arcade machines, outdoor maze. Other activities: Go-karting is popular but you must be over 8 years old and over 130cm tall. Paintball is available for over 18 year olds. Single tickets can be purchased (prices range $6-45 depending on activity) or there are combo passes which are better value. Staff will help to find the best pricing for the activities you want to do. The Zone sells food, drink and Coffee.

• It is also worth visiting Online Bendigo to see what upcoming events are on prior to your visit.

Shopping in Bendigo

Hargreaves mall bendigo - View of Hargreaves Mall from the central multi-storey parking lot.

• The Marketplace - An indoor shopping plaza with clothes, electronics, jewellery, private massage, manicure, woolworths, other specialty shops and a food court. It is on Mitchell Street opposite the train station and has large, free parking lots.

• Hargreaves Mall - An outdoor pedestrian mall with cafes, clothes and several arcades branching off it with more retail and some art spaces and is the home of the original Myer Shop. Bendigo Original Pie Shop does awesome Chicken and is the stretch of Hargreaves street between Mitchell Street and Williamson Street. There is a large multi-storey parking station opposite the Library just off Williamson.

• Bath Lane - Overshadowed by the Bendigo Bank building, it is a one-way street with cafes and boutiques, including Indulge Chocolates which have amazing hot chocolates!

• The Bendigo Pottery - 146 Midland Highway, Epsom - ☎ +61 3 5448 4404 You can buy pottery. There are also tours, a cafe and hands-on pottery workshops.

• There are antique shops and second hand retail outlets on View Street, opposite the Bendigo Art Gallery.
• Other Shopping Centres include Strath Village in Strathdale, Centro Lansell in Kangaroo Flat.

Halal Restaurants & Food in Bendigo

• Clogs - a famous local restaurant on Pall Mall in Bendigo. It has a wide selection of Pizzas / Pasta and other dishes (modern Australian)
• Bull Street - There are many casual restaurants in this small street of Bendigo, including The Match.
• The Woodhouse - wood-fired Pizzas and fancy Steak in a hearty atmosphere. Williamson street.
• Malayan Orchid - an excellent restaurant specialising in Asian cuisine.
• Bunja (Thai) - an restaurant specialising in (Thai) cuisine.
• GPO - modern Australian cuisine impressively presented opposite the historic General Post Office Building.
• Typhoon - (Thai) cuisine in a casual and friendly atmosphere.
• Guards Room Wine Bank - Fine dining upstairs at the Wine Bank.
• Whirakee - Lovely restaurant in centre of Bendigo with view of Alexandra Fountain in downtown.
• The Dispensary - Chic new eatery in Chancery Lane off of Pall Mall, fine food and great list in funky atmosphere.
• Wild Mint - cafe under the new Bendigo Bank headquarters in the main CBD. Asian inspired light lunches and more substantial evening meals.

• Bendigo Shiraz - some good Bendigofruit cocktailries are: Chateau Leamon, Waterwheel, Balgownie, Mandurang Valley, Harcourt, Blackjack, Connor Park. Many other smallfruit cocktailries are in the neighborhood.
• The Rifle Brigade Brewery - located on picturesque View Street Bendigo. pumps out some very nice soft drinks and meals too.
• Wine Bank - in View Street. A great selection offruit cocktails, both local, Australian and imported, in the relaxed atmosphere of an old bank building from the Gold Rush period - ornate ceilings and architectural detail are just part of the experience.
• Star Cafe - Corner of Pall Mall and Mundy Street - Known as 'Star'. Plays Top 40 music from resident DJs. Sometimes hosts events. General age 18-25. There is an outdoor area and the main dance floor and the 'rave cave' and a quieter area for sitting down (not that quiet, you're in a nightclub remember!)

• Universal on McRae McRae Street - Known as 'Uni'. Plays Top 40 music, similar to Star Cafe but in general the age bracket is slightly higher (20-30)

• The Metro and Puggs Irish Cafe - Bull Street - Live Music with a dance floor and a pub atmosphere.

• Black Swan - opposite Star, a nightclub, targeted age group above 25.
• The Pub (currently closed) - Cnr Hargreaves Street and Mundy Street.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Bendigo

Bendigo - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Bendigo, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Bendigo. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Bendigo and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Bendigo. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Bendigo. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Bendigo: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Bendigo.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Bendigo: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Bendigo, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Bendigo.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Bendigo, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Bendigo, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Bendigo and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Bendigo, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Bendigo, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Bendigo without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Bendigo is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Bendigo.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Bendigo is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Bendigo, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Bendigo Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Bendigo

eHalal Group Bendigo is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Bendigo. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Bendigo.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Bendigo ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Bendigo. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Bendigo, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Bendigo are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Ramadan Celebrations in Bendigo

Ramadan 2025 in Bendigo

Ramadan concludes with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which may last several days, usually three in most countries.

The next Ramadan shall be from Friday, 28 February 2025 to Saturday, 29 March 2025

The next Eid al-Adha shall be on Friday, 6 June 2025

The next day of Raʾs al-Sana shall be on Thursday, 26 June 2025

The next day for Mawlid al-Nabī shall be on Monday, 16 September 2024

Muslim Friendly Hotels

The Shamrock Hotel provides luxury lodging.

• Shamrock Hotel - ,
• Kenrode House 94 Abbott Street, Bendigo - ☎ +61 400 580 498

Stay Safe

Bendigo is generally a safe city, although like anywhere it is important to take common sense safety precautions.

Go Next

Bendigo is an ideal place from which to explore the Goldfields region of Victoria. From Bendigo you can visit neighbouring Castlemaine and Heathcote. The train from Bendigo to Melbourne stops in Castlemaine. It takes roughly 25 minutes to reach Castlemaine by train

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