If you love towns with character, and stories etched into the walls, Rushworth is your kind of place. Once a bustling gold rush settlement, this heritage township is now a peaceful haven for curious travellers who like to take their time and uncover the past one building at a time.
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Morning
Start your day with a coffee and freshly baked pastry from the Rushworth Bakery, the perfect fuel for a day of exploration.
Step straight into history with a stroll through Rushworth’s Historic Township along the self-guided Heritage Walk. Admire the beautifully preserved gold rush architecture. Wide verandahs, red brick facades, and elegant details hint at the town’s 1850s boom. Each stop tells a story, from miners and merchants to the early settlers who shaped the community.
Take time to explore local stores. The Rushworth General Store is filled with homewares and unique finds, Glasgow House Gallery Antiques and Collectables invites you to discover treasures from another era, and Angie Russi Handcrafted Ceramics showcases one-of-a-kind pieces inspired by the surrounding countryside.
Afternoon
Recharge with lunch at Gus & Ollie’s, a welcoming spot known for its creative, flavour-packed dishes. And yes, their coffee is divine.
After lunch, take a short drive to the Whroo Historic Area, once a thriving gold mining town. Gaze down on the Balaclava Mine, an open-cut site that ran from 1854 until the 1920s. The ruins of this ghost town give a fascinating glimpse into Victoria’s gold rush past.
On your way back into town, stop at the Growlers Hill Fire Observation Tower for sweeping views of rolling hills and farmland. The perfect place to pause, take a deep breath, and capture a photo of the countryside.
Ready to move? Walk or cycle the Waranga Rail Trail, a 19km path winding through quiet bushland, open farmland and around Waranga Basin.
Stay nearby
Extend your visit with an overnight stay to fully enjoy Rushworth’s historic charm. Choose lakeside camping and cabins at Lake Waranga Caravan Park or enjoy the comfort and convenience of the Rushworth Motel in town.