historic and "very attractive" building in Bendigo's city centre has landed on the market and could attract a multi-million-dollar sale price The building is a total 1106m in size across two levels with an 18-space car park with secure electronic access The building could attract offers between the mid and high $3 million range according to McKean McGregor commercial sales agent Tom Harlop If someone was going to buy it you'd spend a bit of money just doing some refurbishment on it and how much you spend will be up to an individual purchase," Mr Harlop said "Someone might go in there and completely redo it and spend $1 million someone might just give it a bit of a basic makeover and spend $300,000 to $400,000 depending on what a prospective purchaser has in mind for the use of the building." The Bendigo Advertiser has been unable to confirm the history of the building however it is understood it has been used previously as government offices A plaque on the building states the building was opened by former Bendigo West MP Arthur Cook and former public works immigration and mines minister John Percy Jones in 1930 The building is located adjacent to the Bendigo Civic Gardens and neighbours the Bendigo GovHub Galkangu the Bendigo Town Hall and the Bendigo Law Courts very attractive looking building and it's just one of those iconic buildings that's been around for a long very nice looking feature about it," Mr Harrop said The building is available via expressions of interest before noon on Thursday For details contact Tom Harrop on 0409 014 657 Jonathon has been living and working in Bendigo since March 2021, currently working as a general reporter. Contact him on jonathon.magrath@austcommunitymedia.com.au. Latest in your inboxView allDaily Today's top stories curated by our news team Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert Your digital replica of Today's Paper Test your skills with interactive crosswords CBA backs Bendigo for the win on the back of strong regional growth The Central Victorian LGA of Greater Bendigo is one of the most popular destinations for Australians looking to relocate to other desirable areas of the state according to recent data from CommBank and the Regional Australia Institute (RAI) which analyses the quarterly and annual trends of people moving to and from Australia’s capital cities and regional areas saw Greater Bendigo record a 65 per cent annual growth in net internal migration (2023 vs 2024) making it the most popular LGA in Victoria for regional movers Known for its thriving art and cultural scene and established education and health services Greater Bendigo has long been a favoured destination among regional movers the RMI has seen a rising attraction among city-dwellers seeking a tree change Greater Bendigo achieved the highest growth among capital to regional movers (63.2 per cent) and placed second nationally after recording a fourfold increase (278.7 per cent) in annual growth among capital-regional movers The release of the RMI data comes as CommBank’s Business Banking leadership and regional team met with several local businesses and community leaders across Central Victoria this week to discuss the issues and opportunities unique to the region Bendigo and the surrounding region have experienced a population gold rush which is only expected to grow due to the area’s rich cultural history Its close proximity to Melbourne also appeals to those seeking the convenience of city living and country charm job opportunities or housing affordability “Despite the growing cost of doing business in regional areas we are seeing strong gains across several sectors including health with Greater Bendigo uniquely positioned to capitalise on this continued population boom With the right investments channelled into the right areas Bendigo is well positioned to support the state’s economic growth.” To support the growing needs of Bendigo and Central Victoria’s community CommBank recently opened a dedicated business centre in the heart of the city the $2.1 million renovation and relocation to the new premise offers a vibrant environment complete with state-of-the-art banking facilities designed to provide business banking customers with tailored services The new centre is operated by a growing team of commercial agribusiness and small business banking specialists who live locally and have an unrivalled knowledge of the environments their customers operate in This is further strengthened by the recent leadership appointment of Fiona Corrigan to the role of CommBank Executive Manager Regional and Agribusiness Banking recently relocated with her family from Melbourne to Bendigo Mr Vacy-Lyle continued: “Our commitment to Bendigo and Victoria runs deep and we continue to invest in our people and banking facilities to support the everyday banking needs of the local community “To help business owners capitalise on economic opportunities across the region we are also working with local councils and chambers of commerce including Be.Bendigo as well as community leaders to unlock areas of investment and create sustained growth locally.”    Further bolstering the bank’s 100 year presence in the region is the recent opening of the Bendigo CBD branch relocating to a new location on 116 – 120 Mitchell St after undergoing a $2 million fit-out to offer customers an improved banking experience In addition to operating the largest ATM network in the country CommBank has renewed its commitment to maintaining its regional branch network until mid-2027 Go to CBA Newsroom for the latest news and announcements from Commonwealth Bank tracks movements between Australia’s regions and capital cities using Commonwealth Bank data from relocations amongst more than 14.3 million customers This enables early identification of growth trends and flags places emerging as hot spots needing fresh thinking on housing and infrastructure Data based on CBA customer address changes over the past five years with prior addresses resided in for at least six months Greater Capital City/Regional Area based on ABS 1270.0.55.001 GCCSA An LGA must have recorded net internal migration inflows in 2024 of 50 or more people to be included in the report The RMI is used primarily to map population movements between Australia’s regional areas and its capital cities it uses an ABS classification of regional that includes areas in and around other centres of population CommBank acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands across Australia as the continuing custodians of Country and Culture. We pay our respect to First Nations peoples and their Elders, past and present. ©2025 Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124 AFSL and Australian credit licence 234945 Picture suppliedThe Bendigo site of a popular stationery mega-store is up for sale All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueA commercial real estate agency is calling for expressions of interest for the Hargreaves Mall property currently leased to retail heavyweight Officeworks called the property an "exceptional chance" to purchase a freestanding commercial investment "The asset offers a rare opportunity to secure a blue-chip investment in the vibrant Bendigo CBD," he said the 2248-square-metre site boasts three levels of retail accommodation which features dual frontages to Hargreaves Mall and Queen Street will provide an estimated annual net income of $379,982 the site is ripe to capitalise on the Bendigo region's expected economic and population growth The Bendigo Advertiser understands the site is currently owned by a Melbourne investor The Officeworks building on Hargreaves Street sold for $4.25 million at auction in 2003. The site was formerly a Coles Fossey retail store. A Central Victorian city sitting pretty amid farmland, Bendigo abounds with quality produce locally reared meat and locally grown grain right at its doorstep Whether you’re in the market for a long meandering lunch or a fancy sit-down dinner Bendigo and the neighbouring region of Heathcote are strongholds for wine growing so visiting one of the best Bendigo restaurants will often accompany a knockout regional pour When you’re looking for a break between activities in the region relax at one of these standout restaurants The upscale restaurant features elegant stained glass windows If you’ve only got time for one lengthy lunch or dinner, make a booking with Alium Dining this is undoubtedly one of the best Bendigo restaurants masterfully shining a light on fresh local and seasonal produce while a dedicated and informed team keep the mood light and welcoming Sink into an inside table or one in the street-facing courtyard to make sure you catch the eye of envious onlookers Delicately balancing flavours and technique to create unfussy the team nails the likes of Confit pork belly with peach chutney chimichurri and parsnip chips while the grill menu (which is larger at dinner than lunch FYI) always boasts excellent cuts with Hasselback potato The menu at Terrae Restaurant is Modern European with meat-focused mains Another restaurant championing the region’s renowned produce (including goodies sourced from the team’s own kitchen gardens), Terrae Restaurant is a newer jewel in Bendigo’s culinary crown. Located inside Hotel Ernest Bendigo, one of the best Bendigo accommodation picks achingly chic restaurant opened in December 2024 to level up the local foodie scene to soaring heights A minimalistic fit-out allows sensational plates to steal the show spanning a tight collective of house-made pastas (think carrot agnolotti with rabbit and broad beans) meat-focused mains (like the charcoal grilled beef with dauphinoise potato) and one killer cheese menu The two-storey red brick Gothic-Revival-style diner is tucked in the historic Mackenzie Quarters Ms Batterhams is perched in a plum spot This slick lounge bar is housed within the historic Mackenzie Quarters – a two-storey red brick Gothic-Revival-style that dates to 1877 and formerly housed a school – within the city’s renowned arts precinct Head chef Travis Rodwell’s Chef’s Share menu changes with the seasons but frequently pays its respects to European destinations such as France Think Confit pork cheek with pico de gallo and a wagyu M7 scotch fillet with tomato and sherry salsa Ms Batterhams has established itself as one of the best spots to fine dine in Bendigo Step into the set of Seinfeld with a visit to Ghosty’s Diner Bendigo’s all-day eatery complete with retro booth seating a record player and low-slung pendant lights including a collection of five hearty burgers and optional add-ons like bacon jam It doesn’t get much more Americana-indulgent than this Feast on prime cuts at The Woodhouse Bar & Grill Get your caveman on at The Woodhouse Bar & Grill—an unapologetic temple of beef brick walls and roaring fireplace will greet you as will the smoky scent of redgum blazing on the woodfired grill you’ll spy dry-ageing loins hanging in chiller cabinets Offering premium cuts sourced from Australian farms pure grass-fed scotch fillets and F1 grain-fed wagyu eye fillets are among this Bendigo restaurant’s culinary attractions You’re also sorted with the menu’s raw bar selection of outstanding seafood delicacies such as yellowfin tuna with apple and mint consommé plus a market fish and seasonal pasta on the mains menu Huevos Rancheros is a classic Mexican dish with fried eggs and salsa Whether you’re rolling into El Gordo for brunch or pulling up a pew for a booze-laced lunch it’s a little slice of hipster Melbourne laneway life in the heart of Bendigo Pick your poison from a rotating menu of authentic tapas plates including dazzlers like the cured meat Bresaola with orange Jamon croquetas and everyone’s beloved patatas bravas Signature Portuguese tarts with homemade pastry is a non-negotiable chaser—trust us Harpoon Social Club offers a variety of cuisines Although this snug Bendigo restaurant hangs its hat on ramen, there’s oh so much more to Harpoon Social Club’s playful menu which toys with a number of cuisines spanning Asia and beyond the half a dozen bao buns crammed with 5-spiced pork plus the burnt cabbage with homemade sticky sauce There’s even a hot jam bao with matcha ice cream for dessert Leave your wheels at your digs to take full advantage of the drinks list where an extensive array of Japanese beers saké and spirits should keep you lubricated It’s also an accommodating spot for vegans and gluten-free diners While Red Smoke Bendigo’s street-facing windows earmark the address as a ‘tapas it’s this CBD hot spot’s barbecue that leaves a lasting impression melt-in-the-mouth brisket with maple sauce Expect generous serves and very reasonable prices at this popular spot which also boasts all the classic barbecue accompaniments you could wish for The space is the perfect spot for a nightcap A local institution, Malayan Orchid has been going strong since 1993 What keeps locals coming back for more is the consistently good Chinese and Malaysian staples (that’s a big yes to drunken chicken thai green curry and san choy bao) paired with warm and friendly service The house banquets are also a steal (and holy grail for indecisive diners who want to sample the full gamut of dishes) They start from $45 a head if you’re dining with a minimum of three pals otherwise couples can do the more extensive $75 per person set menu Lean into serious comfort food at Borchelli Ristorante an Italian fine dining establishment in Bendigo where flavours transport you all the way to your favourite European vacay A two-level Bendigo restaurant with al fresco tables on the pavement and even more on the upstairs balcony the romantic spot dishes up classics like Pork Cotoletta and pastas of every red-sauce and white-sauce description there’s the wonderful Pasta Misto (which translates to ‘mixed pasta’) platter filled with any three pastas or risottos that take your fancy Kids can keep the indulgence rolling with ice-cream and sprinkles while grown-ups can’t refuse the likes of tiramisu and chocolate Jaffa mousse topped with honeycomb and berries Originally written by Chloe Cann with updates by Kristie Lau Adams Discover the best places to stay in Bendigo Chloe Cann is an award-winning freelance travel and food writer Since honing her skills at City St George's University of London with a master's degree in journalism she's been writing almost exclusively about travel for more than a decade and has worked in-house at newspapers and travel magazines in London she's been fortunate enough to visit 80 countries to date though there are many more that she is itching to reach While the strength of a region's food scene tends to dictate the location of her next trip she can be equally swayed by the promise of interesting landscapes and offbeat experiences travel looks a little different these days and website in this browser for the next time I comment Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" Bendigo’s former commercial bank is transformed into an intimate design hotel thanks to the careful eye and exquisite touch of two established care.. Australian Traveller Media acknowledges the traditional custodians of the Country on which we live and work The Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation led the procession Fair weather favoured the 2025 Bendigo Easter Festival Gala Parade last weekend Spectators lined along the route were treated to a stunning display of culture dance and traditional Lion Team performances – all capped off by the awe-inspiring appearance of the Bendigo Chinese Association’s magnificent 125-metre Imperial Dragon The Hare Krishna Street Party community group Bendigo Chinese Association President Doug Lougoon leading Dai Gum Loong along the final stretch of the parade route Crowd favourite Dai Gum Loong is 125 metres long and has more than 7000 handmade scales Bendigo’s SMACS Performing Arts Group The Bendigo Highland Pipe Band marching with Clan-Macleod Pipe Band Bendigo This website uses cookies to ensure you get a better experience La Trobe University has expanded its footprint in Bendigo acquiring the Emporium Creative Hub lease as part of its plan to revitalise the city centre and strengthen partnerships with creative industries This acquisition from the Victorian Government signifies a major step forward in La Trobe’s long-term aspiration in positioning Bendigo as a vibrant university city Vice-Chancellor Professor Theo Farrell said the Emporium Creative Hub would play an essential role in achieving La Trobe’s vision helping to inspire the next generation of students while contributing to the economic and cultural vitality of the region “La Trobe sees immense value in what the Hub has achieved in supporting creative industries to evolve in Bendigo’s city centre,” Professor Farrell said “The University is committed to building on the great work of the Victorian Government driving collaboration with existing and new creative tenants for the growth of Bendigo.” The Victorian Government established the Emporium Creative Hub in 2019 funded through the Community Support Fund and Creative Victoria Premier and Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan said: “This new hub is making sure Bendigo's beautiful and vibrant creative sector continues to thrive - backing local jobs businesses and attracting thousands of people to Bendigo." said: “The Emporium Creative Hub was established to connect the local creative community and help creative businesses from across our region to thrive it has become a vibrant co-working space that has fostered new ideas “We proudly backed the Hub’s establishment phase as part of our first Creative State strategy and we look forward to its continued success and impact under the leadership of La Trobe University.” said: “This is an exciting step for Bendigo creativity and innovation to further strengthen our city’s vibrant cultural heart “La Trobe’s investment will create new opportunities for local talent boosting Bendigo’s profile as a university city.” La Trobe’s new CBD location complements its existing facilities at the La Trobe Art Institute and the Flora Hill campus The city presence will expand further with the completion of the Clinical Teaching Building near Bendigo Hospital which will house the new dentistry and oral health pre-clinical teaching facilities by 2026 The Hub will remain a co-networking space for creative businesses aiding La Trobe in strengthening industry partnerships and forging new relationships There may be opportunities to expand work-integrated learning for students said the Hub would also provide a unique opportunity to engage a wider demographic “We see the Hub as a chance to unlock Bendigo’s potential; where everyone in the community feels empowered to explore higher education opportunities and discover what La Trobe has to offer,” Marg said “Inviting people into the Hub’s inclusive space will enable them to interact directly with La Trobe Student Recruitment staff and build relationships with our arts cohort many of whom are University alum and have been involved in Hub programs since the beginning.” The La Trobe Art Institute and Bendigo Tech School have collaborated with the Hub for workshops and artist residencies said there would be further opportunities to expand on their strong programming relationship with the Hub La Trobe Art Institute and the Hub have co-curated film screenings artist talks and professional development sessions for regional creatives and audiences,” Dr Annett said “We look forward to working closely in the future to create even more opportunities for artists community and industry to come together.” Pro Vice-Chancellor (Regional) Associate Professor Melanie Bish have been awarded more than $900,000 to co-design a kit for rural Australians to check their heart health at home La Trobe announces plan for student accommodation in Bendigo Works on the long-anticipated $3.74 million Mundy Street bike route through the centre of Bendigo will get underway in mid 2025 although shared with pedestrians at some locations and stretch for 1km from McCrae Street to Back Creek The City of Greater Bendigo is managing the project which has been funded by the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) The new path – to be built on the same side of the street as the Law Courts and Salvation Army – will also include the installation of new pedestrian-operated traffic lights where the path meets the arterial road network at Myers Street The DTP is also installing pedestrian-operated signals at the intersections of McCrae Street and Mundy Street The new traffic lights at these intersections will provide a dedicated bike riders and other vulnerable road users and provide access to the Bendigo Creek Trail and the Bendigo Low Line City of Greater Bendigo presentation and assets director Brian Westley says the project is a key strategic action of six council strategies including the Walking and Cycling Strategy to connect existing off-road and future off-road trails and provide alternate access into the Bendigo city centre to support the growth of the municipality the path will also connect to the Bendigo Creek Low Line which will enable people to access Epsom or Kangaroo Flat off road,” Mr Westley says “The project will be delivered in stages and while it is anticipated there will be some minor disruption to traffic flows in Mundy Street while the work is underway access to businesses and properties will remain open at all times to ensure any disruptions are kept to a minimum.” The council says the project will support safe travel to and from local schools and events in the Bendigo city centre and reduce traffic by providing sustainable active transport options Works are expected to start mid next year and expected to be complete by the end of 2026 Become a Member and help fund our advocacy work Or become our friend and subscribe to receive our fortnightly newsletter. The Great Victorian Bike Ride is set to return in 2025 on 24–28 November, offering an exciting new format while keeping the spirit of this beloved event alive. Bicycle Network Memberships offer benefits to all kinds of riders, on all kinds of bikes. The Peaks Challenge Ride2School fundraiser is on again for this year's epic event on Sunday 9 March. The City of Adelaide will undertake a speed limit review to understand the need for reducing speeds to support business and residents and create a safer city environment. Work on the much-anticipated $38.9 million Sydney Harbour Bridge ramp upgrade has begun.  When completed, the bike lane will link the country's most famous bridge to the bike network in Milsons Point.  Late last year, we launched our Affiliate Membership program, specially designed for cycling groups and clubs. Orange in New South Wales is in line for a nice new stretch of bike path, one that will expand the off-road network and improve access to schools, playgrounds and sports facilities. Work has kicked off on a key Canberra bike route, setting the wheels in motion for safer and more pleasant journeys through the city’s northern suburbs. In a submission to the federal government’s draft National Urban Policy, Bicycle Network and seven other Australian bicycle organisations have called for active transport infrastructure funding to be increased to 10% of federal transport investment. Many of our best bike journeys are along coastlines, or up and down the creeks and rivers that meet the sea. These are generally traffic-free routes, scenic, calm and refreshing. But with rising sea levels some of this vital infrastructure is at threat of inundation, erosion and from changes in groundwater chemistry. CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) Historical Bendigo, Victoria’s small-yet-mighty country town, boasting less than 125,000 people, flows with a surprisingly extensive range of overnight stays. Plotting a break in Goldfields region Whether you’re keen to treat yourself to a boutique hotel in the city’s centre or just plain desperate for a family-friendly change of scenery our guide to the best Bendigo accommodation presents a smorgasbord of possibilities Bendigo’s hotel game thoroughly excels Just add character-filled touches of true Australiana for some of the most memorable Bendigo accommodation you’ll ever come across Each bespoke suite at Bendigo Ernest Hotel is a design lover’s dream Legacies of Bendigo’s gold rush past linger at the Bendigo Ernest Hotel Though it only opened its doors as what we see now in early 2022 the 1864 building has lived several lives including one as the Commercial Banking Company of Sydney See the history for yourself by idling in the hotel lounge believed to have originated from a gold-rush era heist Each of this Bendigo accommodation’s individually designed rooms feature Australian artwork and natural while fur parents will be utterly charmed to learn that there’s a pet-friendly suite that welcomes your house-trained bestie The lodges feature nature-inspired architecture A boutique Bendigo stay unlike any other, Bendigo Lodges is architecturally staggering and environmentally friendly While one is larger than the other (60-sqm vs the two self-contained builds are equally breathtaking inspired by the region’s natural bush surroundings and magazine-styled to perfection There’s not even a check-in counter—the entire system works remotely—and you can expect a delicious blend of polished concrete high vaulted ceilings and warm timbers to help fill your dream home mood board Sonos entertainment systems and electric vehicle charging stations ensure five-star joy no matter where you’re sprawled The architecturally designed hotel mirrors the city’s glorious past Step into a bygone era dressed in ornate architecture, red carpets and chandeliers at Hotel Shamrock a total time warp in the middle of Bendigo While it’s renowned locally as one of the best pubs around this Bendigo hot spot is also home to 37 overnight suites with ensuite bathrooms crisp bed sheets and spacious floor plans equal comfortable and convenient lodgings with two dining areas and that-all-important-bar dialling up the party right downstairs On the hunt for something contemporary and funky? Mercure Bendigo Schaller is the place for you An art-filled Bendigo accommodation pick located slap-bang between Lake Weeroona and the CBD the hotel offers two categories of rooms: standard or superior with the latter promising almost double the space This wheelchair-accessible hotel also has a cafe and bar onsite Quality Hotel Lakeside’s outdoor pool might well be a deal clincher for some it might be the property’s location just opposite Lake Weeroona and only a short stroll from Bendigo’s CBD this Bendigo accommodation’s spacious rooms ooze contemporary chic thanks to a simple neutral colour scheme while some stays feature balconies and pool or lake views There’s also the relaxed Lakeside Restaurant on site lunch and dinner inspired by international cuisines camp and RV your way around the city at these Bendigo holiday parks and wineries which range from peri-urban settings to bushland The luxe glamping tent is fitted out with a private ensuite and a deck with vineyard views Balgownie Bendigo is a scenic spot to sample a few local drops devour a three-course lunch and retire to your choice of indulgence—a decked-out glamping tent or a plush room don’t be deceived by that blank canvas Inside you’ll find almost every mod con from an in-tent split system to a mini bar Choose from the slightly more compact bell tent or go for a safari tent that can sleep up to four guests Both varieties feature private decks with bushland or vineyard views Homestead Deluxe and Queen rooms are beautifully styled and ultra-comfortable and an additional one-bedroom suite looks out over the vines and sleeps up to three Bask in the outback for an elevated camping experience There are multiple BIG4 holiday parks to choose from in the Bendigo region — but BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks – Bendigo is arguably the cream of the crop Not only is this Bendigo accommodation the closest to central Bendigo but it also offers a plethora of different accommodation options and a litany of facilities: think a solar-heated outdoor swimming pool dial up the luxe in a glamping tent or go for a schmick three-bedroom cabin Bring the excess down just a notch by pitching up at the park’s campsite or booking a powered caravan site Though it’s a 30-minute drive from the centre of Bendigo, the rural location of Lake Eppalock Holiday Park is undeniably the allure a stay at this Bendigo accommodation is your ticket to a nature-focused getaway perfect for water babies while various species of perch inhabit the waters so it’s a hit with anglers deluxe and premium cabins available for those who fancy extended creature comforts visitors can exploit onsite facilities spanning a heated pool From spacious abodes begging to be filled with large groups to intimate apartments inviting true romance, the best Bendigo Airbnbs and holiday homes flow with unique charms The Stables at Byronsvale is an idyllic wedding venue Searching for an idyllic winter escape? The Stables at Byronsvale comprise three self-contained apartments immersed in photo-ready Located about ten minutes’ drive from the centre of town this Bendigo accommodation is romance central parquetry floors and full kitchens so you can stock up on supplies and never leave gourmet breakfast baskets and yoga classes can be arranged upon request The apartment is swathed in sumptuous red velvet It would be tough to come up with a better way to describe this Bendigo Airbnb than pure theatre—you need to see it to appreciate it. An atmospheric gem of a place, Grandview Apartment gives off a near stately vibe with exposed red-brick walls dark timber furniture and plush crimson soft furnishings this one-of-a-kind Bendigo accommodation appeals there are plenty of nooks to lean into with a good book its sizable balcony is a lovely spot for sundowners The cosy cottage is heated by a fireplace in winter Almost every conceivable amenity you could need is on offer at two-bedroom Bendigo Airbnb—a hot tub this little cottage – complete with a white picket fence – features a simple modern and minimalist design and is located just on the northern cusp of the CBD across the road from the historical Ulumbarra Theatre The elegant exterior of Harcourt House boasts country charm in spades Travelling en masse? Harcourt House is our top pick and it also happens to be tastefully designed The facade features a fretwork verandah and a palette of smoky greys and creamy whites while inside you’ll find clean lines which features every amenity as well as plenty of pantry staples (tea Enjoy a home-cooked meal while sitting at the kitchen island or venture al fresco and linger over a long lunch on this Bendigo Airbnb’s deck Originally written by Chloe Cann with updates by Kristie Lau-Adams Discover the best restaurants to check out while you’re in Bendigo THE Federal Government has announced more than $20 million in funding to boost housing and community infrastructure in the Bendigo region The City of Greater Bendigo has been allocated $11.3 million via the Government’s Housing Support Program to upgrade three sewer pump stations in Marong and construct six kilometres of rising mains along the Calder Highway This project will ‘unlock’ 2369 homes “The funding provided to the City of Greater Bendigo to improve sewage in one of the city’s vital growth corridors is a common sense and practical project,” Member for Bendigo Lisa Chesters said “This investment from the government is another demonstration of how committed (we are) to Bendigo and Central Victoria working with local government to deliver crucial infrastructure.” Mount Alexander Shire Council will receive $12.19 million through the regional Precincts and Partnerships Program to redevelop Frederick Street/Mechanics Lane in Castlemaine This will include improvements to pedestrian zones underground infrastructure and streetscaping and connect the Town Centre Precinct to the Railway Precinct “We want to see more housing and more quality community led infrastructure where people need it most,” Minister for Infrastructure Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said “These important projects in Marong and Castlemaine demonstrate our commitment to listening to local voices and investing in the projects that matter in our regions.” Further information on both the Housing Support and Precincts and Partnership Programs are available on the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts website. students to take over city centre siteHundreds of students could get beds in the city centre under newly-revealed plans for a multi-storey building All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueIt comes as business Bolton's Bendigo Office National prepares to leave the site in the heart of the central business district La Trobe University has pounced on the Williamson Street site which it wants to turn into a 220-bed accommodation facility in Williamson Street La Trobe wants to spend about $50 million and finish the build by 2028 The university is yet to lock in exact plans but is likely to build multiple storeys for the "state of the art" building The new beds would come on top of the hundreds of spaces already offered at La Trobe's Flora Hill Campus An artist's impression of the proposed Bolton's and McCredden's building at 87 Charleston Road. Image suppliedWhere's Bolton's going?Bolton's is in the midst of a planning bid to move onto a site on Charleston Road near the historic flour mill and Hume & Isers Mitre 10 It wants to move into a building earmarked for the site which would also include a McCredden's Fishing & Outdoors Bendigo's council is considering that application and is expected to make a decision at a later date 220-bed overhaul: Bolton's to go, students to take over city centre siteLong-held city centre dreamLa Trobe vice-chancellor Theo Farrell first hinted that a new facility could come to an unspecified city centre location in mid-2024 but the university's interest in the area goes back multiple years Then Bendigo-campus director Robert Stephenson asked whether Garsed Street's old Gillies pie factory might be a good site in 2018 "There's relatively little low-medium cost accommodation in central Bendigo so it could open the CBD up to new groups of people," he said at the time The city centre expansion really kicked into gear when the university took over the lease for Mitchell Street's Emporium Creative Hub The university also has an art gallery and lecture space at View Street's La Trobe Arts Institute and its rural health school has a building near the Bendigo Hospital More than 4000 La Trobe students study in Bendigo at any one time I grew up in Bendigo and I want to tell your stories. Today's top stories curated by our news team. Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation. Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening. Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. Going out or staying in? Find out what's on. Love footy? We've got all the action covered. The latest news, results & expert analysis. Every Saturday and Tuesday, explore destinations deals, tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe. Sharp. Close to the ground. Digging deep. Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs, politics and more. Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday. Get real, Australia! Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over. Get news, reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert, ACM's exclusive motoring partner. Your digital replica of Today's Paper. 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Picture suppliedLa Trobe University wants to stick 240 beds in Bendigo's city centre in a move that could breathe new energy into the neighbourhood Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueVice chancellor Theo Farrell said the university was eyeing sites as it attempted to ramp up its presence in the middle of town "One of the things we are going to be doing is increasing our presence in the CBD," he said during an interview with the Bendigo Advertiser ahead of 2024's Open Day La Trobe already has buildings dotted in and around the city centre It would like to spend $42 million revamping its dentistry and oral health facilities over the next three years Professor Farrell said any new accommodation facility could help students studying near the hospital The idea is taking shape at a time of growing scrutiny on the city centre The Bendigo council is expected to soon deliberate on public feedback to a draft population and housing strategy prompting a former mayor to urge for "urgency" around development Former mayor Peter Cox has warned Bendigo's council not to repeat mistakes of the past in the city centre. Picture by Darren Howe"It is plain to see that the Bendigo CBD has not developed," Peter Cox said recently in a submission connected to the council's draft managed growth strategy "There are empty buildings in most streets Warehouses and factories such as the Gillies site in Garsed Street It is not yet clear when and where La Trobe might try to build the new accommodation Professor Farrell discussed the university's future plans with the Advertiser in the week leading up to the Flora Hill campus's open day on Sunday Thousands of potential students are expected to arrive at the campus with their families including school leavers and people thinking of changing their careers About 4000 students are currently linked to the campus and La Trobe wants to increase those numbers in the years to come Professor Farrell took over the university's top job six months ago from Professor John Dewar vowing to keep its focus on regional campuses "And this is core to the strategy of where we are going to go a real focus on addressing workforce skills and workforce needs for the future," the new vice chancellor said Many of the areas hit hardest by skills shortages were in regional Australia including in health "We know that Australia is going to be short of nearly 80,000 nurses in the next year "There's great facilities in [Melbourne suburb] Bundoora but the university's commitment is that we are going to have the same clinical facilities for students in regional campuses Picture by Darren HowePolice have arrested two people after a house fire near Bendigo's city centre Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueIt comes after a fire they allege was deliberately lit Fire Rescue Victoria and Victoria Police responded to reports of smoke on Havelock Street at around 12.20pm on Monday View +14 PhotosPhotos: Police and firefighters respond to a house fire in Bendigo. Pictures by Darren HoweGas and electricity were turned off while firefighters in breathing gear doused the flames The fire was contained to the front bedroom of the house but the house sustained major damage Traffic was blocked along Havelock St between Baxter and Arnold St Police have confirmed no one was injured during the incident They arrested a 21-year-old woman and 20-year-old man at around 1pm near Lake Weeroona Journalist at the Bendigo Advertiser. Email me at georgina.sebar@austcommunitymedia.com.au Picture by Tom O'CallaghanA building left empty by a vacuum retailer's collapse could get a new lease on life sooner rather than later A major Australian business is now eyeing the site and has asked the Bendigo council's permission to freshen business signs up Plans for signs at Bendigo's old Godfreys building which the Commonwealth Bank wants to move into Image suppliedNew CBA branch earmarked to openThe Commonwealth Bank wants to stick a new branch on the site It wants to switch out a host of signs including on the distinctive tower at the front of the building The bank wants to use a new colour pallet for its signs with softer tones than Godfreys' signs "We believe [it] will tie in well with the neighbouring tenancies and surrounds," the bank's architects told the council when that business was operating out of the site Picture fileIt could even improve the area's feel Godfrey's signage was characterised by white letters on a solid red backdrop with the windows on the Mitchell Street side completely covered in a bright logo Video Ezy's signage used orange and black block letters on a light grey background Bendigo's council is considering the Commonwealth Bank's plans and is expected to make a decision at a later date 11.30am: Images show police stationed in Bendigo during a search for a wanted man Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueOfficers had a heavy presence in the city centre on the morning of Friday They arrived after a man fled police and climbed onto the roof of a business View +6 PhotosPolice search after man flees 10:25am: Police chased a man into a Bendigo hotel but left empty-handed after a major city centre operation Victoria Police said they observed a man wanted on warrants on Hargreaves Street who fled and climbed onto the roof of a business shortly before 7am An extensive search of the area was conducted but the man was not located Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or anonymously at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au 9.55am: Police officers stationed at key points along Hargreaves Street have left surrounding streets It is not yet clear what triggered the operation A police officer at the scene said they were seeking a person believed to be in the hotel It is unclear why police were seeking this person It appears police left without the person of interest Police were seen entering a hotel on Hargreaves Street with Bendigo Highway Patrol officers parking near the Mall EARLIER: A police helicopter is circling over the city centre as Victoria Police conduct an apparent operation Four policeman were seen entering a building on Hargreaves Street near the Town Hall A number of police have been seen on Hargreaves Street and Pall Mall this morning Around five police cars have been observed at the scene Hargreaves Street is still open to traffic ShareRed doors to a storied world in Queensland's capitalBy Sarah MaguireUpdated April 11 2023An arty new oasis in the Brisbane CBD spills all the local secrets Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueTHE BACKSTORYA mural at the hotel's reception featuring Sammy the Bengal tiger.There are 158 Indigo hotels around the world even in the Galapagos on San Cristobal Island including this latest addition in Queensland opened last year and part of the multinational IHG hotel group Hotel Indigo Brisbane City Centre is rich in hyperlocal themes and references its creators having scoured a five-kilometre radius for neighbourhood stories to incorporate into the hotel's design where guests pass through six-metre-high red doors that pay giant homage to the fairy doors hidden in laneways around Brisbane in particular a tiny red one on Burnett Lane Hotel Indigo Brisbane City Centre.Indigo sits close to the Brisbane River on Turbot Street which runs through Brisbane's legal district amid barristers' chambers and the city courthouses where the desk resembles a vintage legal filing cabinet and illuminated numbers on the wall reference key dates and case numbers of infamous local incidents These include a 1942 bar brawl between Australian and US servicemen and a 1912 "Black Friday" strike led by unionist Emma Miller who stuck her hair pin into the police commissioner's horse on the protest march to nearby Parliament House Indigo describes itself as a boutique luxury and lifestyle brand but the artworks and murals through the hotel (with local themes by local artists) make it a bolder and more dramatic sort of place Among my favourite works is Sammy the Bengal tiger inspired by the escape of said tiger in the 1880s from a menagerie of performing animals kept just up the road soar six metres high (one is revealed only at night) while hotel corridors feature a blue butterfly motif celebrating Queensland's native Ulysses species I didn't know until after my visit that if you look closely A guestroom at Hotel Indigo Brisbane City Centre.Beige begone A shade of maroon is the stand-out colour in my 15th-floor one-bedroom suite which has a view into high-rise office blocks so you can watch from the couch (a curvalicious maroon number) or in bed is set up for business as well as pleasure with a sizeable desk where you can work and eat lunch (I ordered pan-fried gyoza from room service) at the same time reveal more little butterflies on the wall Hotel Indigo Brisbane City Centre.As well as Izakaya Publico Japanese restaurant which claims Australia's first and only warayaki (straw-fired) grill just off reception is the speakeasy-style 1603 bar where young staff dressed in black jeans and maroon T-shirts deliver cocktails and dishes either grilled like butta barra (pork belly) skewers and kingfish with jalapeno salsa you follow the dots to the Voco hotel next door which shares its rooftop pool with Indigo guests I accidentally order a sandwich for dinner not twigging what the "sando" in "katsu sando" is short for salted slaw and tonkatsu sauce in crustless white bread is simple yet sublime - my most delicious mistake ever How much: Nightly rates from about $259 for a standard room ShareWords bySarah Maguire Celebrities are flocking to it in big numbers. ReviewTucked away in Byron Bay, this stylish stay offers more than just good looksYou'll experience a sense of calm from the moment you arrive. Ditch airport dramas in the UK by travelling by train - here's a guideTurn up the bliss factor by swapping flights with rail journeys. A new cruise ship has scored pole position at the famous Monaco Grand PrixThe glamorous vessel will be used as a floating hotel. In southern Spain, time slows down - and the tapas keeps comingSlow travel is on the rise; here's where to experience it. Picture by Tom O'CallaghanA food company could soon move into a prominent empty shopfronts in Bendigo's city centre Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe business wants to set up in the empty old Telstra Shop building on the corner of Hargreaves Street and Mitchell Street Vietnamese food chain Bami wants to set up a street food restaurant at the site It has asked the Bendigo council's permission to install "Bami Special Vietnamese" signs and stick vinyl graphics on a number of windows Bami would not be the first food venue to use the shopfront Another was cafe Pure & Natural, which was a fixture in Bendigo for 27 years before closing in 2012 Bami's interest in the site comes after another business floated plans for an escape room next door A separate business has been eyeing off a former Chemist Warehouse space Bami Vietnamese was founded in Adelaide in 2016 by childhood friends and life partners Trien Le and Mai Nong It has since expanded to 17 locations including Warrnambool, which opened in early 2024 11.10AM: Police have charged a man after reports of a fight in Bendigo on Friday Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe 48-year-old man has been charged with assault-related offences The charges follow a report to police of two men fighting at Lyttleton Terrace about 3.10pm The man has been bailed to appear before Bendigo Magistrates Court on August 19 Police investigators arrive at the scene of an apparent fight in the city centre. Picture by Darren HoweOne man in hospital, another in custodyUPDATE, FRIDAY 4.45PM: Police have released more details about the fight that saw officers swoop outside the Bendigo Service Centre (formerly Centrelink) Officers were called to the scene at about 3.10 after calls about two men involved in an apparent brawl who they took to hospital with non-life threatening injuries Police found a 48-year-old Bendigo man a short distance away That man is now in custody and is "assisting police with their enquiries" Officers have urged anyone who witnessed the incident or had any other information to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. They can also make a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au A dog out the front of the Bendigo Service Centre Picture by Darren HoweWitness saw bloodied manEARLIER: Police are outside the Bendigo Service Centre (formerly Centrelink) after an apparent fight Officers have confirmed there appears to have been a brawl A witness who asked not to be named said a man was sitting out the front of the building with a dog when the brawl unfolded The incident appears to have involved another man but it is not clear how it all began The witness saw a man bleeding heavily from what appeared to be a head wound which is understood to have been from one or both of the men A small area was cordoned off a short time ago but people could still get in and out of the building Email me at juanita.greville@austcommunitymedia.com.au Tom O'CallaghanJournalistI grew up in Bendigo and I want to tell your stories. Picture by Enzo TomasielloBuildings are starting to rise in what is expected to be one of the biggest changes to a city centre street in a generation All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueConstruction crews are putting up walls in a 73 home build in the heart of Bendigo It is a moment people can start appreciating the final build's dimensions for the site next to St Andrew's Church in Myers Street ready to start forming up for level one there on Building Two - down towards Myers Street - we've got inground services and we're also getting ready to pour our floor," he said "And we're starting to do the inground services there on Building Three on Mollison Street Three new buildings are rising next to St Andrew's and include apartment blocks up to five storeys high View +7 PhotosThey are being built by housing agency Uniting with the backing of the church's congregation and millions of dollars in state-government co-contributions we should have have most of the structures up on all three buildings," Mr Innes said we'll probably start to see the roof starting to go on." All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueMilky Lane Bendigo located at the corner of Williamson Street and Lyttleton Terrace and the venue was removed from the business' website which has multiple locations in New South Wales and Queensland Milky Lane founder Christian Avant said it was a "sad day" the support for some reason wasn't there for us in Bendigo to the level that it is in other cities both big and small," he said Picture by Jonathon Magrath"We built a stunning venue which took off really well when it first opened but as winter hit and cost of goods kept increasing along with wages it became harder and harder to turn a profit "This is the hardest period I've ever seen for hospitality and closures are happening every single day we're just really sad when it's one of our own as it is here." A promotional image of Milky Lane's offerings Picture suppliedConsistent numbers not enoughIn August 2023 Mr Avant said it had taken about four years to open the restaurant which was made increasingly difficult as the building Mr Avant said the store brought in about 700 people each week; however that number was "well under the levels" needed and what stores in similar-sized towns were doing "We just needed more love which we sadly weren't able to get," he said "We did our best to keep it afloat and had a few bites to buy the venue from the existing owner but nothing ended up making perfect sense." Mr Avant said the closure was "in no way the fault of the franchisee or the team there" "But these restaurants require large volumes to stay afloat and we weren't able to sustain it 12 months of the year." The decision was mutual between the franchisee and Milky Lane HQ "We cannot see an outcome where we return to Bendigo Victoria will be a huge rollout in Melbourne," Mr Avant said More: 15 Bendigo businesses that survived or died in 2024 The City of Greater Bendigo has adopted the new Managed Growth Strategy to guide its residential development of the next 30 years Increased life expectancy amongst existing residents local birth increases and new residents moving to the region all contribute to an expected 87,000 new residents calling Greater Bendigo home by 2056 The Managed Growth Strategy sets out a framework for how a long-term supply and diversity of housing will be delivered to cater for the growing number of smaller households and to promote housing in well serviced locations free from constraints The strategy establishes a policy position that over the long term 70 per cent of all dwellings in urban Greater Bendigo will be located in the established areas (existing suburbs) with 30 per cent in potential growth areas including in Marong Councillors also approved the Council resolution to adopt the Managed Growth Strategy with the inclusion of land in Ravenswood (on the east side of the Calder Highway) as an investigation area but noted that City of Greater Bendigo officers will prioritise the planning of identified potential growth areas including Huntly Based on an assumed growth rate of 1.6 per cent each year it will mean 38,000 additional dwellings will be needed with around 32,000 of these located in urban Bendigo The strategy is designed to ensure the city is well positioned to meet the housing growth needs for a leading regional municipality The Managed Growth Strategy has been informed by a number of background studies including the new Housing and Neighbourhood Character Strategy Also presented at the Council meeting was an amendment package to implement the Managed Growth Strategy and Housing and Neighbourhood Character Strategy into the planning scheme Any proposed rezonings recommended through this amendment would be the subject of a separate formal exhibition process with anyone potentially impacted by the amendment having an opportunity to provide a submission said the Managed Growth Strategy was critical to plan for future growth over the next three decades “We all want Greater Bendigo to remain a great place to live into the future and our direction has changed to accommodate the predicted growth,” Mayor Metcalf said the preferred solution was to rezone land for housing on the outskirts of urban Bendigo to accommodate population growth Houses delivered in these areas are nearly all detached dwellings of three or more bedrooms “This form of housing has met market demand and will continue to meet it in the short to medium term but a greater diversity of housing types is needed to meet future community needs “The strategy brings a fresh direction to managing growth It has been prepared to make best use of existing infrastructure to limit development in areas of environmental risk particularly the potential impacts of flooding and bushfire and better enable residential development in well serviced locations to reduce the need for residents to drive to access shops more residents will be living in various types of housing around existing commercial centres along major transport corridors and near train stations.”  An action plan has been developed to support the newly adopted strategy:  Image: Francesco Scatena/shutterstock.com   Disaster recovery support is now available to flood impacted communities in Bourke Brewarrina and Walgett in northern New South Wales... Australia’s 537 councils have called on the next Federal Government to ensure that the financial sustainability of local government is.. With the federal election approaching fast and renewables still a critical issue for government the Local Government Association of Queenland.. All content published on this site is the property of Prime Creative Media Bendigo is preparing to take a small bite of the Big Apple drawing inspiration from it’s famous High Line to prepare a people-friendly public space of its own –  with big wins for people who ride bikes With $5 million in new funding from the state government the City of Greater Bendigo is moving ahead with the Low Line Project a reimagination of the Bendigo Creek channel through the CBD The project will convert a bluestone-lined creek bed into a key corridor for active transport providing a 4.4km-long bike riding and walking path separated from motor traffic Like New York’s renowned High Line public park which runs along a 2.3km stretch of disused elevated railway through Manhattan the Low Line is sure to be a local attraction It will fill a missing link in the existing 20km Bendigo Creek Trail, between Golden Square and White Hills (view the map of the Bendigo Creek Trail here) Riders will enjoy scenic journeys along the waterway instead of navigating city streets and busy road crossings through the Bendigo CBD There will be wayfinding and safety signage and seven landscaped entry and exit ramps to provide connections to Rosalind Park Lake Weeroona and Golden Square Recreation Reserve “The Bendigo Low Line will fill a major gap in the city’s active transport network and will repurpose and evolve the Bendigo Creek to support a key active transport corridor for 95,000 people who live within 5km of the creek,” says Greater Bendigo Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf “It also completes a major project identified in six council strategies provides a major separated walking cycling route through the Bendigo city centre and has strong community support.” The $5 million provided by the State Government  will fund the construction of 2.95km of the shared pathway while 1.45km will be funded by the City of Greater Bendigo The start of construction is slated for late 2024 Creative ambitions: La Trobe Art Institute Director Dr Karen Annett, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Regional) Associate Professor Melanie Bish, Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards, Vice-Chancellor Professor Theo Farrell, designer and Hub regular Louise Davis and Bendigo head of campus Marg O'Rourke. Photo: SUPPLIED LA Trobe University has purchased the Emporium Creative Hub lease in Mitchell St as part of its plan to help revitalise the city centre and strengthen local partnerships. The creative co-working and events space was established in 2019 by the Victorian Government via support from the Community Support Fund and Creative Victoria. The CBD location adds to the University’s existing facilities at the La Trobe Art Institute in View Street and the Flora Hill campus, with its city presence to expand further with the completion of its Clinical Teaching Building near Bendigo Hospital by 2026. The venue will remain a space for creative businesses and there may be opportunities to expand work-integrated learning for students in the future. Vice-Chancellor Professor Theo Farrell said it will play an essential role in achieving La Trobe’s vision, helping to inspire the next generation of students while contributing to the economic and cultural vitality of the region. “La Trobe sees immense value in what the Hub has achieved in supporting creative industries to evolve in Bendigo’s city centre,” he said. “The University is committed to building on the great work of the Victorian Government, driving collaboration with existing and new creative tenants for the growth of Bendigo.” Bendigo Head of Campus Marg O’Rourke said it will also provide a unique opportunity for La Trobe to engage a wider demographic. “We see the Hub as a chance to unlock Bendigo’s potential; where everyone in the community feels empowered to explore higher education opportunities and discover what La Trobe has to offer,” she said. “Inviting people into the inclusive space will enable them to interact directly with La Trobe student recruitment staff and build relationships with our arts cohort, many of whom are University alum and have been involved in Hub programs since the beginning.” Room for improvement: Nationals MP Gaelle Broad wants an increased police presence in the CBD, saying that crime in the city has "skyrocketed." Photo: SUPPLIED NATIONALS Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad is calling for an increased police presence in Bendigo’s main central shopping area, citing recent statistics showing that crime had “skyrocketed” in the city. “Many residents and local businesses are very concerned about rising crime around Bendigo and keen to see an increased police presence in the Bendigo mall, or even a police booth,” Ms Broad said. She said recent Crime Statistics Agency figures showed that crime had skyrocketed in the city. Ms Broad said the figures showed that in the 12 months to 30 September 2024, stealing from retail stores had doubled, aggravated robbery was up 69 per cent, residential aggravated burglary had risen by a “whopping” 89 per cent; and motor vehicle thefts were up 50 per cent. “I have been approached by people who feel uncomfortable and unsafe in the mall,” she said. “Retailers are feeling scared, and staff are concerned for their safety.” Ms Broad’s comments were prompted by the continued presence in Hargreaves Mall of temporary barriers outside the Free Choice tobacco store, more than a year on from when it was rammed by a car at about 4.30am on 29 January 2024. Two men were later charged over the incident, which involved a fire and caused an estimated $4 million in damages to the store and nearby buildings. “It is disappointing to see the temporary barriers still in place 12 months after the tobacco store was destroyed, and its continued impact on local businesses,” Ms Broad said. She said she was now “very concerned” about crime, hooning and ongoing anti-social behaviour in the city centre. “Numerous retailers including Cotton On, Typo and Colliers Shoes have left the Bendigo mall, and many shop fronts remain empty,” she said. Ms Broad also took a swipe at the State Government, which she said is not doing enough to address rising crime. “There are over 1000 vacancies in Victoria Police, and they weakened bail laws and scrapped the role of Minister for Crime Prevention,” she said. “Residents feel scared, and the State Government need to prioritise community safety.” A Victoria Police spokesperson said theft from motor vehicles is the most common offence across Greater Bendigo as opportunistic offenders prey on unlocked vehicles. “Local police continue to run targeted patrols around known offending hotspots, but also encourage the community to ensure their cars are locked and valuables a removed,” they said. The spokesperson said retail theft is the second-fastest growing crime in Victoria and Bendigo is not immune, with shop stealing the second most common crime. “Bendigo police are addressing this issue with foot patrols and targeted operations. “For example, local police arrested 32 people in the latter half of last year as part of an operation addressing shop thefts and anti-social behaviour in Bendigo’s CBD.” The spokesperson said criminal damage is the third most common offence, followed by theft (other) offences which most commonly relates to a wallet or phone being stolen when the owner puts it down, as opposed to being robbed. “Robberies remain at low levels and are below offending rates from earlier in the decade,” they said. Meanwhile, a State Government spokesperson said their thoughts are with anyone affected by crime. “That’s why Victoria Police are out every day holding offenders to account, backed by a record $4.5 billion from this Government and more than 3600 new police officers,” they said. “We have also strengthened the bail test, a trial of electronic monitoring will start in the coming months for serious repeat offenders, and we’re creating a new separate offence for committing a serious crime while on bail.” Bendigo is coming to life with a four-month long Fiesta Bendigo in celebration of the  Frida Kahlo: In her own image-  an Australian exclusive exhibition that is coming to Bendigo Art Gallery this month - March 2025 Central Victoria’s regional city will come alive with both Mexican and Frida-inspired experiences and events all throughout Bendigo and surrounds with the exhibition opening on March 15 2025 - encouraging visitors to the goldfields town to “Come for Frida and Stay for the Fiesta” Frida Kahlo: In her own image presents an intimate view of one of the most influential artists of the twentieth century This exclusive exhibition features Kahlo’s personal belongings on loan from the Museo Frida Kahlo in Mexico for the first time in Australia The Exhibition illuminates the resonant dialogues between Kahlo’s clothing and styling Sealed in a bathroom for 50 years after Kahlo’s death this precious collection’s rediscovery sheds new light on Kahlo’s carefully crafted appearance Kahlo constructed a captivating public image which addressed geopolitical issues of her time Fiesta Bendigo will explode in colour like a timeless Frida Kahlo artwork with multiple murals and colourful installations around the CBD including the famous Bendigo sign in Rosalind Park - as well as a new installation “VIVA” inspired by the artist’s last painting “Viva La Vida” Bendigo businesses will be adorned with festive bunting to add to the Fiesta A special new Taco Trail will be introduced during the Fiesta celebrating the famous food fare of Frida’s native Mexico get ready to spice up your taste buds with Bendigo’s new Taco Trail - a delicious journey across Bendigo to find the best taco in town From sizzling meats to zesty vegan delights more than 20 local Bendigo venues are serving up their most creative and mouthwatering tacos for the public to taste and vote on Visitors to Bendigo who test out the Taco Trail when visiting participating local eateries can vote for their favourite taco and go into the draw to win a VIP Weekend for two in Bendigo valued at over $1,000.00 The pair said the decision to sell after nearly three decades was driven by a desire to enjoy more time with family and to go travelling "We were ready to retire and rediscover our house and we will get to enjoy our grandkids a bit more," Mrs Clohesy said He said the business was only on the market for three weeks before being snapped up While happy to be moving on after many years in the Bendigo business landscape the Clohesys said it would still be hard to say goodbye to their many faithful customers "Our customers have been fantastic," Mr Clohesy said "They have been loyal and we want to thank them for their patronage because that has been very important "We have got customers who have been here since day one .. Mr Clohesy said he also wanted to thank the employees both past and present who had helped keep the business going City Central Newsagents has been taken over by first-time business owners and new Bendigonians Lakshmi Kavya Kadiyala and Abhilash Babu Yarlagadda The couple said they were excited about the prospect and were hopeful the community would continue to support the business during its transition phase and beyond The Clohesy celebrated 25 years in the business in 2023 Picture by Brendan McCarthy.The pair have been training for the last three weeks to learn all the ins-and-outs of the newsagency industry "We want to do our best for the community and do as much as we can (to keep the business going)," Mr Yarlagadda said The first day for the new owners will be Monday long-time employee Barbara Dublé has decided to retire on the same day - May 25 after being at the newsagency since before Terry and Geraldine Ms Dublé had been working at the newsagency before the Clohesys took over and said the timing seemed right to bow out Ms Dublé said she would miss the people who regularly visited the shop Geraldine and Barbara have seen many lottery winners over the years Picture from 2023 by Darren Howe Ms Dublé said she could not speak more highly of her former employers and wished them all the best in their retirement "It has been really pleasant working here and they are very generous with their time." Ms Dublé said she was looking forward to spending time with her children grandchildren and great-grandchildren in her retirement WA boy in Bendigo, happy to be in Central Victoria. On your bike: Bike Bendigo's Nicola Dunnicliff-Wells, Maree Edwards MP, City of Greater Bendigo mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf and CEO Andrew Cooney, and WeRide Australia's Peter Bourke at the funding announcement. Photo: SUPPLIED THE State Government has announced five million dollars in funding to go towards building the Bendigo Low Line project. The 4.4km-long bike and pedestrian path will join the Bendigo Creek Trail between Golden Square and White Hills. The 20-kilometre Bendigo Creek Trail runs from Crusoe Reservoir to the Huntly Streamside Reserve. The path will include connections to Rosalind Park, the Golden Dragon Museum, the Central Deborah Gold Mine, Lake Weeroona and the Golden Square Recreation Reserve. The Low Line name has been inspired by New York’s High Line, an approximately 2.3-kilometre-long elevated linear park and rail trail situated on the west side of Manhattan. “The Bendigo Low Line will serve as an active transport corridor and provide safe and efficient off-road transport in and out of the Bendigo city centre,” said City of Greater Bendigo mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf. “(It) will fill a major gap in the city’s active transport network and will repurpose and evolve the Bendigo Creek to support a key active transport corridor for 95,000 people who live within five kilometres of the creek.” The funding from the State will go towards construction of 2.95 kilometres of the shared pathway, with the remainder to be paid for by the City of Greater Bendigo. The project is expected to start in late 2024 and is a key part of the City of Greater Bendigo’s Reimagining Bendigo Creek plan, which was drafted in 2020 and is expected to involve “incremental changes” over the course of 50 years. Drive north of Melbourne along the Calder Freeway and in just under two hours you’ll arrive at Bendigo, a gold rush town that has grown into a thriving regional centre experiencing yet another boom. As a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, culinary experiences should be at the top of your agenda when travelling to Bendigo, but there’s much more to see and do beyond dining at top-rated restaurants Here’s our pick of the best things to do in Bendigo for memorable moments Balgownie Estate Bendigo is the region’s oldest working commercial winery while Harvest Food & Wine arranges tastings out of its elegant Catch local artisans in action at Bendigo Pottery Established back in 1858, a visit to Bendigo Pottery is a shopping trip history lesson and art class rolled into one attend a clay decorating workshop or try some simple clay play – there’s plenty of interactive experiences to enjoy here you’re also invited to watch artisans creating the famous pottery that’s found in homes Australia-wide in addition to shop for homewares and unique vintage finds at the Antiques and Collectibles Centre Bendigo Art Gallery offers a fascinating mix of contemporary and historical paintings One of Australia’s oldest and largest regional galleries, Bendigo Art Gallery is a must-do when you’re in town the gallery on View St has hosted many noteworthy international exhibitions that sell out in advance so hop online and check the gallery’s website to see what touring exhibitions are scheduled during your stay well-curated gallery spaces are always filled with a fascinating mix of contemporary and historical paintings The Gallery Shop is also a top spot to pick up a piece of Bendigo to take home with you Don a hard hat and mining scrubs at the Central Deborah Gold Mine Your entire clan will love putting on a hard hat to learn about Bendigo’s gold rush history at the Central Deborah Gold Mine Sixty-one metres below the earth’s surface you’ll get to walk in the footsteps of the miners who worked hard in the underground tunnels searching for gold in challenging conditions you’ll also be able to see heritage-listed buildings including an engine room and blacksmith’s shop Colourful blooms grow inside the park’s manicured gardens Right in the centre of Bendigo you’ll find one of Bendigo’s most beautiful greenspaces, Rosalind Park A paradise packed with horticultural treasures on a hot day you’ll be able to cool yourself under the shade of grand be sure to see the park’s annual display of colourful tulips the walled Yi Yuan Chinese Gardens are a peaceful spot for quiet reflection set aside an hour or two to take it all in See the largest Buddhist stupa in the Western world Fifty metres high, the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion is the biggest stupa (or pagoda) in the Western world A place for people to seek peace and learn about Buddhism this sacred spot sits within 200-plus acres of bushland in the Whipstick Forest so it’s perfect for spending a few hours navigating a self-guided wander through the Peace Park where you can spin prayer wheels clockwise to send compassionate energy out into the world The StupaView Cafe is also open daily from 10.30am Located in the White Hills area of Bendigo, the sprawling Bendigo Botanic Gardens are nearly as old as Bendigo itself The perfect spot to enjoy a picnic lunch followed by a wander you’ll be able to see a wide variety of seasonal flowers in bloom during the warmer months the whimsical children’s playspace is so impressive it’s won awards If you’ve got budding scientists in your family, then pencil in a trip to Bendigo’s Discovery Science & Technology Centre chemistry and beyond is pure exhilaration within these four walls Head into the planetarium to go on an interplanetary journey or build something with blocks in the Kaleidoscope space – there are activities for all ages and abilities here Good times await at the Bendigo Bowling Centre Looking for a fun rainy-day activity? Book an afternoon bowling session at the Bendigo Bowling Centre this longstanding ten-pin bowling centre is the official home of old-school fun in Bendigo An on-site cafe also provides comfort food like hot dogs and pizzas plus you can get your caffeine hit thanks to barista-made coffee from Barth Lane Coffee Roasters Head chef Travis Rodwell’s Chef’s Share menu at Ms Batterhams pays homage to European culture light-drenched space or under the sun in its al fresco street-side setting Join a paint and sip session at Pinot & Picasso Sipping wine while painting a canvas is a fun way to get to know each other on another level. Book a painting (and drinking) session at Pinot & Picasso Bendigo and you’ll get to leave with a unique memento of your trip to Bendigo to hang in your home you might uncover some hidden creative talents too Enjoy live music, local brews and a tour of the city all at once aboard Bendigo’s beloved Blues Tram – a heritage tram that rattles through town carrying passengers and musicians Inviting two musical performances on every trip the fabulous initiative is also an invaluable opportunity for local musos to gain fresh exposure Upcoming artists are listed on the website to make sure you check it out before you take a ride Discover the rich cultural heritage at the Golden Dragon Museum You might be surprised to know that Chinese immigrants who arrived during the gold rush played an important role in shaping Bendigo. Opened in 1991, the Golden Dragon Museum is a cultural centre dedicated to preserving the heritage of Chinese culture in Australia Spend a few hours here wandering around the beautiful gardens and seeing Loong the world’s oldest surviving complete processional dragon This heritage-listed venue hosts a variety of performances all year round Bendigo’s renowned Ulumbarra Theatre was once a gaol the heritage-listed venue hosts a rotating calendar of events all year round contemporary dance performances and beyond this thriving hub is where creativity and culture come to life in Central Victoria The Star Cinema offers a nostalgic movie experience Located within the old Eaglehawk Town Hall, Star Cinema is considered one of Australia’s most beautiful cinemas Showing a range of new releases and classic movies a night in this vintage cinema’s plush couches will delight film fans An active events calendar spans expert Q&A panels film festivals and cultural collaborations so stay across the website to ensure you don’t miss a trick Admire the view while sipping on cocktails at Nimbus Rooftop Hargreaves is a moody wine and cocktail bar that’s open late most nights Stop in for an espresso martini to kick off proceedings or cosy up in a nook and polish off a bottle of pinot noir while grazing on an antipasto Tooborac Hotel & Brewery serves up craft beers on tap Hop in the car, drive 50 minutes southeast and you’ll hit the small town of Tooborac. With a population hovering at around 300 people, this town punches above its weight thanks to the legendary bluestone Tooborac Hotel & Brewery – the oldest National Trust-listed country pub in Victoria Enjoy a hearty Sunday roast by the fire washed down with a porter or pale ale Or pop into Tooborac’s pie shop for a just-baked beef and ale pie instead Drive half an hour south of Bendigo and you’ll hit the town of Harcourt, which is home to wineries, distilleries and one of the best spots to mountain bike in Victoria. La Larr Ba Gauwa Park is a mecca for mountain bikers and it’s a top hiking and picnicking spot too With a range of trails suitable for different levels of experience and fitness jumps and drops will thrill mountain bikers of all descriptions Head to the magical Oak Forest to soak up the serenity in the shade Train enthusiasts won’t want to miss riding an old steam train along the Victorian Goldfields Railway the journey winds its way through forests and farmland offering passengers incredible views as well as insight into how steam trains operate this is a feel-good trip that all ages will delight in Lake Weeroona Playspace comes with a toddler playground Originally written by Jo Stewart with updates by Kristie Lau-Adams Jo Stewart is a freelance features writer who pens stories about nature, pop culture, music, art, design and more from her home in the Macedon Ranges of Victoria. When not writing, you can find her trawling through vinyl records and vintage fashion at op shops, antique stores and garage sales. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Bendigo’s former commercial bank is transformed into an intimate design hotel, thanks to the careful eye and exquisite touch of two established care... Australian Traveller Media acknowledges the traditional custodians of the Country on which we live and work, and pays respect to Elders past, present and emerging. Get the latest travel news, reviews, offers and more, direct to your inbox. © Australian Traveller Media 2025. All rights reserved. Picture by Tom O'CallaghanA cafe is moving in the latest sign of how much the centre of Bendigo is changing to accommodate office workers All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Anxious Goat plans to close its Hargreaves Street premises on April 26 Owner Mandy Bloomfield is shifting her operation to 87 View Street to take advantage of a changing city centre "People are coming back [to the office] but only a couple of days a week so our whole clientele has changed," she said It has been a while since the cafe's baristas could expect to work non-stop from 8am to 12pm to keep up with office workers' coffee and lunch orders "There's still a few businesspeople but it is definitely not what it was four or five years ago," Ms Bloomfield said "COVID really made all of us look at what's working "I can't blame people for wanting to work from home if that is an option for them." The cafe is increasingly likely to serve retirees and out-of-towners along with workers dividing their time between the office and home It makes a move closer to the Bendigo Art Gallery and its tourist foot-traffic more enticing She expects The Anxious Goat will change its opening hours to weekends for the first time as it tries to draw in tourists The new site is also close enough to her current one to keep serving loyal customers from the Bendigo Bank headquarters and other major businesses which cafes at the eastern end of the city centre rely on The new premise is likely to be operating by the early weeks of May but exact dates are still to be locked in Multiple businesses have been considering what staying in the city centre will look like in the post-COVID era Queen Street's Ray White Bendigo has gone on record saying its three-storey redevelopment hopes have been shaped by a determination to stay in the middle of town "We could have opted to move out of town but that takes people out and then all of a sudden they are not buying the pie or spending money at the shop on their lunch break," managing director Rory Somerville said in March as he discussed rebuild plans We need that to have a vibrant city centre." New boundaries: If approved by the State planning minister, downtown Bendigo could have better-defined rules around heritage and development. Photo: FILE CITY of Greater Bendigo council has given the go ahead to a series of changes to the municipal planning scheme. The changes, officially known as Planning Scheme Amendment C279gben, will now be sent to the Victorian Minister for Planning for approval and are not expected to be realised for another 12 to 18 months. The amendment follows the adoption of the Bendigo City Centre Plan in May 2020, which recommended the introduction of better-defined precincts, heritage guidelines, zones and overlays. “The Bendigo City Centre Plan was developed to provide vision and clear direction to manage growth in the city centre,” said municipal director of strategy and growth Steve Hamilton. “The Planning Amendment C279gben with its supporting documents have been prepared to implement this. “The proposed amendment will provide a logical strategic planning framework that’s clearer, less complex, and more responsive to allow for a well-designed compact city to thrive and flourish.” The amendment also takes in the council’s Stage 2 Heritage Study, which advocates for revising the Bendigo Civic and Commercial Precinct to create two precincts, removing the Upper Reserve from the Rosalind Park Precinct to create a stand-alone precinct, and applying heritage overlays to four new individual heritage locations. “Heritage is at the forefront of consideration when it comes to understanding how the city has changed over time and how it will continue to change into the future,” Mr Hamilton said. “The built environment heritage of Bendigo is central to its appeal and attraction and is part of our city’s DNA. “To preserve the heritage value of the City Centre, we need to now take a conservative approach to any changes to heritage buildings and streetscapes.” Locals will get the chance to have their say on the amendment when it is put on public exhibition. as provided to the City of Greater Bendigo.BENDIGO could be set for a third multi-million dollar hotel development with a 148-room boutique establishment proposed for Mollison Street Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueA proposal received by the City of Greater Bendigo outlines a $30-million development estimated to create more than 60 ongoing jobs It comes within days of an unrelated application to build a $30m luxury hotel at the corner of Williamson and Mollison streets A 4.5-star hotel is also proposed for Bendigo's Hargreaves Mall The prospect of competition did not deter Spring Design and Development directors Rachel and Peter Irons "We're still really confident in what we're putting to the market," Ms Irons said The property group's proposal includes two buildings with the entire development to allow for more than 200 cars to be parked The applicants are seeking a reduction in the visitor bicycle parking requirements with a double-sided bicycle parking rail proposed for Mollison Street for visitors and 15 on-site bicycle parking spaces for hotel staff Traffic engineering assessors for the applicants said a residential hotel typically didn't generate a demand for visitor bike parking The statutory bicycle parking requirement for a hotel of the proposed size is 32 VISION: Woods Bagot was engaged to design the buildings Picture: SUPPLIEDThe existing shops at 113-133 Mollison Street would need to be demolished to make way for the hotel and a liquor store would be among the affected retailers "We want to work with them to give them opportunities to be relocated," Ms Irons said She said the idea had been to extend on the site's retail opportunities before realising its potential as a high-end hotel The proposal was shaped by the experiences Mr and Ms Irons had enjoyed in Bendigo and the region citing arts and cultural attractions among the destination's appeal Mr Irons also drew on the city's "amazing" wines working a specific request in the design brief: "I wanted a wine bar with a fireplace." Woods Bagot architects wrote that the proposed hotel "continues the traditions and supports the spirit of Bendigo" Inspiration for the design was drawn from the city's existing structures and 'unique DNA' Mr and Mrs Irons envisioned such a hotel being used for conferences The maximum building height of the proposed development would be 22.2 metres with six storeys intended for one of the buildings The multi-level car park would be two storeys The plans lodged on May 6 propose a seven metre setback from the neighbouring Victorian-era property at 135 Mollison Street Covering general news and Bendigo council. The City of Greater Bendigo has completed an upgrade of the Bendigo Airport, resulting in a new, larger terminal and an expanded business park. The airport’s increased capacity allows for more flights, greatly increasing tourism and business opportunities for the region – while the upgrade’s construction and the new business park lots are supporting the growth of local industry. The almost $12 million project is a joint initiative between all three levels of government, with the Federal and Victorian governments investing $4.5 million each and the City of Greater Bendigo contributing $3 million. Infrastructure Magazine had the opportunity to interview City of Greater Bendigo CEO Andrew Cooney about the recently completed upgrade and gained his insights into how the project got started and how important it is for the region. Mr Cooney said that in 2014 a business case was prepared to attract $15 million to upgrade the airport’s runway, which was officially opened in 2017. “This project delivered a 1,600m code 3C runway and represented an incredible asset for a regional city, capable of landing aircraft carrying up to 70 people,” Mr Cooney said. “In April 2019, the city welcomed the arrival of QantasLink and regular passenger flights between Bendigo and Sydney. However, development of the airport was always considered a two-step project, with the second step being expansion of the terminal and development of a business park. “The original terminal building was once a kindergarten and while it was given a basic renovation when the Qantas service started, as the service increased in popularity it was evident an expanded terminal would be needed. “In 2022, all funds for the project were secured including $4.5 million each from the State and Federal governments. The city initially contributed $985,000 and added a further $2.1M, due to rising construction costs experienced on the project. The additional funds ensured the terminal could be complete and provided trunk infrastructure to an initial nine business park lots.” The new terminal building is approximately four times bigger than the original structure and is set to provide expanded travel options to passengers. Mr Cooney said that the new terminal features an expanded departure lounge, a new café and space for a future security screening area. The old terminal was demolished in August of 2023 in order to make way for the new facilities. “There’s also a new entry foyer, baggage check-in, indoor baggage claim area, new restroom facilities, new administration area and asphalted car park with 183 parking spaces. “Landscaping has been done by Djandak, a Dja Dja Wurrung Traditional Owner business.” A special feature of the airport is the landscaping and interpretive signage prepared by Djandak. Djaara woman Timani Nicholls-Moore provided cultural and creative direction around the garden design and – together with Djaara man Andrew Saunders – provided cultural advice for the signage. “The project also delivered an expanded apron, which can fit two, 70-seat aircraft and puts the city in a great position to attract other airlines and future flights to other destinations. “An expanded terminal and additional apron space means the capacity for more flights to more destinations. “The city has recently undertaken some market research to find out where people want to fly to. Top destinations included the Gold Coast, Adelaide, Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast. Discussions are ongoing with airlines to identify opportunities to establish new flights out of Bendigo.” Mr Cooney said that, additionally, the airport’s emergency services facilities have been bolstered and include a new helipad that can accommodate a wide array of emergency service helicopters, such as flood and fire response, as well as military and police activity. “This specific aspect of the project was funded by $300,000 from the Federal Government’s Regional Airports Program. “Bendigo is in the centre of Victoria, making it ideally located to support a response to an emergency anywhere in the state. “Thanks to the expanded apron, the airport is also a refilling site for large air tankers, one of a handful of sites in the state, and means Bendigo is a standby location during extreme fire days. This adds to the airport’s other emergency service uses, including as an Air Ambulance and State Government fire base.” Mr Cooney said that despite construction taking place as the economy was emerging from COVID-19 – resulting in cost escalations in the industrial sector that impacted construction efforts – the City was still able to deliver a vital facility that is set to continue growing local industry. “The nine business park lots have been delivered and are ready to be developed by local industry. “The development of the initial business park lots close to the city centre provides a great economic opportunity. Bendigo needs more appropriately zoned industrial land.” Mr Cooney said that more than 50 local companies took part in the project and more than 370 people worked on the site. “The head contractor, Nicholsons, is a regional Victorian business with an office in Bendigo that used a range of local subcontractors, including for electrical, sewer and water infrastructure. “There were also six consultants/civil design experts – a mix of Melbourne and local businesses – that supported both the terminal project and business park, which represents the work of about 16 people. “Projects of this scale are not only an investment in local infrastructure, a valuable transport service and future business growth, they deliver real employment opportunities and are an investment in the skills and capability of local industry.” Mr Cooney said that the Bendigo Airport services much more than just the Greater Bendigo and central Victorian region. “Passengers can travel from as far as southern New South Wales to use the service, demonstrating that the ease of travel from Bendigo is a big driver, particularly when it comes to parking, checking in and waiting in a comfortable new space. It provides a stress-free way to travel. “The City is planning for a population of approximately 200,000 people by 2050. We are proud of the fact that Bendigo is accessible by road, rail and air.” Mr Cooney said that the airport is part of an ongoing effort to ensure that the City of Greater Bendigo is an attractive place to live, work, and travel to and from. “We see the airport as being another feather in our cap when it comes to attracting people to live and work in the region, as well as making our region more accessible from a tourism perspective.” With the new terminal and business park now officially open, Bendigo Airport is set to be an even greater economic driver and important emergency services hub for the Bendigo region and beyond. The Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) has reported on its impact across the country’s north, with $148.3 million in drawdowns... 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Unauthorised reproduction is prohibited Developers and architects are working to redesign aspects of the proposal including decreasing building height and improving site access Picture: Supplied The state's planning tribunal has overturned a City of Greater Bendigo decision to approve an apartment development in the city centre Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueReal estate developer Scott Jackman said he is determined to transform the former All Saints' Anglican Church site on the corner of MacKenzie and Forest Streets into fourteen dwellings despite VCAT refusing to issue a planning permit VCAT member Tracey Bilston-McGillen said "any development of the remaining site must be considered within the context of the surrounding heritage buildings." acoustics and the level of development failing to satisfy the planning scheme's heritage framework were the three key reasons Ms Bilston-McGillen refused to issue a permit Mr Jackman said objectors to the proposal have made a concerted effort to obstruct the development and described VCAT's decision as "infuriating" "I find it frustrating that objectors would take a singular myopic view and I don't think its particularly community-minded," he said Andrew Reiner and Rhianwen Seiter brought the matter to VCAT and said they are pleased with its decision "While we were supportive of the adaptive reuse of this site we are pleased that VCAT's decision agreed with us and our heritage expert that the proposed development was not consistent with protecting the heritage value of the precinct," Mr Reiner said Mr Reiner and Ms Seiter own neighbouring hospitality venue Ms Batterhams which is among the MacKenzie Quarters precinct "We are constantly struggling with vandals entering the property and causing further destruction to it in its current form," he said "Only last week we had the police called twice." Picture: NICHOLAS NAKOSA conservation management plan completed for the Anglican Diocese of Bendigo in 2012 outlined the history and significance of the site's buildings is the oldest church in Bendigo and understood to be the location of the first Christian service held in the city Deemed to be of state significance are two of the church's vast number of stained glass windows and the associated school and Master's Residence Millson Developments proposed to demolish the east end of the church building and adapt it for residential use Of the fourteen dwellings and townhouses it sought to build with additions on the north eastern elevation Three dwellings would be located on the corner of View and MacKenzie Streets two dwellings would front MacKenzie Street and five dwellings are proposed in the northern part of the site Vehicle access to the site would be provided via MacGillivray Lane to a basement car park Mr Jackman said a new application is being developed to address the concerns raised by the VCAT member HERITAGE: The Master's Residence has been retained as part of an adjoining development Picture: Supplied"I am committed to delivering a fundamentally significant development project for Bendigo," he said The Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme amendment C197 said it provides an appropriate and significant new development opportunity on land prominently located in central Bendigo "The objective of the amendment is to allow and facilitate maximum possible flexibility of uses within the existing heritage building," the amendment said "Suitable uses could include boutique offices The design and development overlay of the site states that design objectives of new developments "will blend with and are less prominent than the heritage buildings already on site and nearby." Ms Bilston-McGillen said the design of the MacKenzie and View Street buildings are "visually prominent due to their height and gable form." "They are not designed to be visually 'less prominent' than the Church or adjoining Master's Residence." An apartment building located on the corner of MacKenzie and Forest Streets is proposed to have a gable presentation and constructed of a mixture of brickwork glazing and tiles and is approximately 14.6 metres tall Mr Jackman said architects are devising plans to reduce building height increase setback and address access concerns Politics reporter at the Bendigo Advertiser The Fire Danger Period (FDP) will begin at 01.00am on Monday 19 December for the following municipalities in CFA’s North West Region: The Fire Danger Period (FDP) will begin at 01.00am on Wednesday 28 December for the following municipality in CFA’s North West Region: FDP restrictions already apply across parts of Victoria and CFA will be introducing further FDPs for municipalities in the coming weeks based on assessments of the amount of rain grassland curing rate and local conditions The return of a La Nina weather pattern has led to widespread rainfall and flooding in parts of the State however that doesn’t mean communities can become complacent about the increasing fire risk this season The Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for summer identified potential for increased grassfire conditions for the 2022/23 fire season due to significant grass growth and delayed harvest activities the fire season is expected to be normal in Victoria north east and eastern Victoria where the potential is below normal CFA District 02 Acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer Mick Hembrow said widespread rainfall in winter and spring has led to high grass fuel loads and the region could experience significant grassfires during this fire season “This year with the unseasonal weather conditions and with the approaching holiday season we have decided to give the community as much notice as possible of the introduction of the Fire Danger Period,” he said “While Municipalities and Government agencies will be working to have fire prevention slashing works completed we ask the community to also prepare their properties reduce fuel loads and have their Bushfire Plan discussed and prepared within their family we ask everyone to be aware of changes to the fire danger rating system the new signs that are currently being installed and what action to take for each rating level While CFA firefighters are preparing for the bushfire season they are urging the community to use common sense and take responsibility for preventing fires Residents in the affected municipalities should take this opportunity ahead of the FDP to conduct safe private burn-offs to reduce fuel loads and clean up their property If you are using fire to clean up your property ahead of the FDP, you should notify authorities of the burn-off at the Fire Permits Victoria website at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au No burning off is permitted during the FDP without a Permit to Burn which can be applied for through the Fire Permits Victoria website There are very strict conditions attached to these permits and the liability sits with the permit holder to ensure they always act safely.  Monitor weather conditions and do not burn-off during days of high winds More information about burn-off restrictions specific to your area can be found by consulting your local council More information and restrictions are published at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/fire-danger-period-restrictions Victorians can find out “Can I or Can’t I?” information at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/can or by calling VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226 the fire danger rating system changed and is now nationally consistent across every state and territory The system reduces the number of danger levels from six in the previous system Victorians can learn more about the new fire danger rating system on the CFA website View all stories View more contacts The Facebook feed is contained within an iframe and as such is not available via keyboard access. 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Tweets by CFA_Updates We are currently experiencing issues with our embedded Twitter feed We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Custodians of the land Copyright 2025 CFA (Country Fire Authority) Picture; TOM O'CALLAGHANLA TROBE University students have unveiled plans to make your visits to Bendigo's city centre even better once the pandemic is gone Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueEleven students taking part in the university's innovative CityStudio program have begun testing ideas with the public All have been inspired by a city centre rebuilding during the coronavirus recovery "We're in this period of transition from more temporary outdoor dining options There's now this rush to make those sorts of ideas more permanent," she said a team of students have been prototyping pop-up seating for takeaway businesses after students noticed people with takeaway food had too few places to sit a separate group has created a chalk mural on a wall and has been getting passers-by to give their thoughts on what permanent changes they'd like to see for outdoor dining students David Maras and Lachie Saunders prepared for a round table on Hargreaves Mall's so-called "lanterns" - the former toilets that the City of Greater Bendigo wants to turn into pop-up business spaces The pair want community groups and the council to bolster conversations on the lanterns and uncover any gaps in communications One of the two "lanterns" that the council wants to turn into pop-up business spaces Picture: DARREN HOWEMr Maras said it was exciting to be part of a project that would help groups improve the Mall's shade and vibrancy Both are goals the council also wants to work on there might be some ideas about how different organisations can communicate and help the community be that driving force for plans," Mr Maras said He said the council had given the pair lots of access to help shape their thinking about the round table including sharing details of the plans already in train for the Mall Hargreaves Mall has triggered strong reactions over its 39 year history especially since a redesign a little over a decade ago others as a spring board and municipal focal point it's an area that's a bit of a blank canvas There are people who say it's a place where nothing really seems to go on but I see it as an area that can be the heart Have you signed up to the Bendigo Advertiser's daily newsletter and breaking news emails You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in central Victoria Picture by Tom O'CallaghanColiban Water could leave its Bridge Street head office in a possible major shake-up in the city centre All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe company is sounding out experts to help its search for a new centre of operations "It is very early days in our investigations and this is a non-binding EOI [expression of interest process] that is currently in the market," a spokesperson said "We are looking at a range of opportunities for our growing organisation including renovating the current building or moving to a new site." Coliban would prefer head office staff to have a building in the city centre close public transport and other amenities found in the area Any new office would need to be big enough to fit up to 250 staff members and Coliban wants a minimum 3000 square metres of space plus amenities like secure car parks and charging stations for its vehicles while being able to deliver the services our customers require and improve customer interactions," the spokesperson said The company operates water and wastewater services for 130,000 customers across 16,500 square kilometres of central and northern Victoria Workers at its head office include customer support officers Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation says the development will help Indigenous women stay in the increasingly unaffordable regional city Traditional owners have partnered with community housing providers in central Victoria to build a new housing project aimed at addressing the high rates of homelessness faced by Aboriginal women meaning “young women” in Dja Dja Wurrung language is being built in the Bendigo suburb of Flora Hill in a partnership between the Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation (Djarra) and community housing organisation YWCA YWCA previously ran a community centre on the Flora Hill site says the name was chosen to reflect the intent to develop housing that meets the needs of Indigenous and non-Indigenous women through a culturally safe and gender-responsive design framework Sign up to receive Guardian Australia’s fortnightly Rural Network email newsletter “We can build as much housing as we want but if it is not built for women’s needs and responsive for gender I don’t see how we’re going to solve the housing crisis,” Phillips said “Everything that we do on our builds now … we’re actually looking at how we design and build for women so their needs are catered for.” A digital rendering of the 35-unit Burnayi Lurnayi housing development in Flora Hill Illustration: YWCA AustraliaThe development is due to be completed in 2026 and will deliver 35 new homes with at least half to be allocated to First Nations women The rental vacancy rate in Greater Bendigo is just 2.3%, which includes properties at all price points. According to the 2024 national Rental Affordability Index, the average weekly rent in regional Victoria is $450 and regional centres such as Bendigo have become more unaffordable. says the lack of affordable housing locally makes it difficult for First Nations women to stay on ancestral lands “A priority for DJAARA is to support Dja Dja Wurrung People to live on Country,” Carter said “But a lack of affordable housing is a big barrier We are currently exploring how DJAARA can make a valuable contribution in the provision of housing.” Phillips says the partnership with Djarra started with a phone call and was born out of a joint understanding of the need for First Nations women’s housing. Free newsletterSubscribe to Calla Wahlquist's fortnightly update on Australian rural and regional affairs Read more“There were a lot of workshops held and I think what was important was the first one was actually held on the land to talk about what was important for them,” she said “The team did a lot of work talking about the yarning circles to enable that healing connection to the land In the future there are plans for community planting days with Djarra Really making sure that we do have that for First Nations women Phillips says the project will also be built in accordance with YWCA’s existing framework for gender responsive housing it is around what do women need and what women are telling us that they need,” she said The $19m project is being partially funded through the Victorian state government’s $5.3bn big housing build policy which aims to deliver 12,000 homes for social and affordable housing across the state with $1.25bn set aside for regional Victoria with the rest to come from the Lord Mayors’ Charitable Foundation The Victorian government has also announced a draft target of building 37,500 more new homes in the Greater Bendigo city council area by 2051 as part of a plan to build 2.24m new homes statewide Alicia S Cook is a journalist who has worked in Bendigo Sign up for the Rural Network email newsletter The Weekly SOURCE is published by DCM Media IT SEEMS THE PAGE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR HAS GONE ASTRAY GO BACK TO THE HOME PAGE. Luna is a 17 apartment and commercial development in the King and Queen streets area of central Bendigo CENTRAL Bendigo is set to get a substantial multi-storey development with works expected to begin on a project in the King and Queen streets areas in early 2024 The architecturally designed Luna will include four commercial spaces and 17 residential apartments with the development of the project being managed by the Bulum Group Due to the continued success of Bendigo’s property market a spokesperson from the Bulum Group said the apartments are set to attract new business Since VCAT’s decision to approve the development on 8 February the Bulum group has been working to bring the development to market “We are excited about our new opportunity and relationships in Bendigo and what it will bring to the city We believe the city is more than ready for a development like this,” said senior development project manager Nick Merriman Luna is set to be one of Bendigo’s highest end development projects the Bulum Group is in the final preparation phase before beginning construction “We are thrilled with progress and excited to be working with MacDonald & Co on the building,” Mr Merriman said Bringing the inspired modern and urban design to life will breathe further energy into this remarkable city.” McKean McGregor Real Estate has been appointed as the agency to find owners for the residences and commercial spaces “We are extremely privileged to be working on this project and are thrilled to be bringing the products to the Bendigo market,” said Jayden Donaldson licensed agent and McKean McGregor director “We know there is an active market for modern inner-city apartment living and we are excited to start talking to interested parties.” Situated in the vibrant King and Queen Street precinct Luna will be a modern and welcome addition to the Bendigo skyline with a mixture of two and three bedroom apartments over three floors The four ground floor commercial spaces will all have street presence All residences and commercial spaces are open for expression of interest via luna-bendigo.com.au. For further information on the residential apartments contact Mr Donaldson on 0437 177 379 or Michael Brooks on 0418 135 444. For further information on the commercial spaces contact Jeremy Brown on 0417 590 171. Councillors for the city of Greater Bendigo Link copiedShareShare articleAfter a turbulent period in the international spotlight the growing central Victorian city of Bendigo is at a crossroad as ratepayers elect a new city council global debates have been played out at a local level forcing the community to reflect on how it sees itself and how it wants to be known Councillors for the City of Greater Bendigo the past four years can be seen as triumph or disaster Talk to any 10 Bendigonians and you will almost certainly get 10 different views on what has transpired because it is hard to make simple judgements given the contrasting images to come out of central Victoria since 2012 Huge crowds flocked to see internationally-acclaimed art exhibitions armies of tradesmen and women worked on enormous new buildings young and old alike relaxed in the city's cafes But at a time of global fear about Islamic extremism groups of masked pro- and anti-mosque protesters clashed in the streets black balloons were strung up from trees and light posts Bendigo projects an image both rustic and sophisticated mixing its gold rush history with contemporary art and culture projected to grow from about 100,000 residents now to double that within a few decades and small towns on Bendigo's fringe are being transformed into bustling suburbs But income levels are lower than the State average and Bendigo is less culturally diverse than Victoria as a whole much that has taken place in Bendigo over recent years can be interpreted as global trends writ small: questions about the role of government and the place of Islam in a largely Christian society In a city that has voted for Labor at the State and Federal levels for two decades it has also been possible to see elements of Trump A central player in this time of tempest has been the City of Greater Bendigo Since the outgoing council's election in 2012 the atmosphere in the chamber has been described privately as difficult Councillors have launched a series of code of conduct investigations against each other All but one of the city's executive team has departed — for a variety of reasons — leaving just the chief executive Craig Niemann standing And yet the city can point to some serious accomplishments that promise to benefit Bendigo for decades The most expensive public works in the council's history have been approved: the transformation of the Old Bendigo Gaol into the Ulumbarra Theatre the expansion of the city's basketball stadium and the start of work on a brand new indoor aquatic centre The biggest project of the lot is the new Bendigo Hospital which will open early next year as "the best in regional Australia" with the expectation that it will transform the surrounding neighbourhood into a health services hub Councillors and staff boast that other regions across Australia are jealous of Bendigo's ability to win government funding grants and say they are asked at conferences for the secrets to their success The Age once described Bendigo as Victoria's coolest town, with some solid justification Exterior of the recent additions to the Bendigo Art Gallery The Bendigo Art Gallery now has a reputation that far exceeds its physical size thanks largely to the work of long-serving director Karen Quinlan looking up at Marilyn's lacy underwear This was just one of a series of successes for the gallery People look at a three-storey statue of Marilyn Monroe in Bendigo after it was erected to coincide with an exhibition on the former star at the Bendigo Art Gallery gets a lot of credit for those achievements but the gallery is not loved by those locals who dismiss it as elitist or as an expensive decoration The ill-feeling was an important element in a fight that started before the 2012 council election and was a big factor in how the next four years played out The battle centred on council expenditure and rate rises as residents complained that the City of Greater Bendigo was out of touch and running at levels ratepayers could not afford The Art Gallery was a prime target for the campaigners: it was better A call for an independent review to shake up the City of Greater Bendigo's operations dominated the 2012 election campaign and ultimately changed the shape of the council councillors voted to approve the review and one of the supporters Peter Cox and newcomer Elise Chapman also voted for the review and would become central figures in what was to follow But the Art Gallery emerged essentially unscathed some of the review's biggest early critics became ardent supporters because of the budget and workplace culture improvements it yielded the review proved deeply disappointing for some of its proponents who wanted deeper cuts to the council's operations That turnaround is an example of how the early allegiances within the council shifted and goes some way to explaining the division that followed several councillors were involved in code of conduct complaints either as the complainant or the subject of a complaint Peter Cox and Barry Lyons all served as Mayor and were all the subjects of code of conduct complaints made by review supporters Elise Chapman or Helen Leach who alleged they were treated unfairly over time although Ms Ruffell's misconduct finding was later overturned It is easy to imagine that closed-door council meetings were all headlocks and screaming matches but those involved say the gatherings were instead marked by simmering tension interspersed with brief outbursts or muttered comments But it was the application to build Bendigo's first mosque that will be one issue that is remembered in years to come Anti-mosque campaigners brought in fliers explaining their opposition to Islam at a Bendigo council meeting on June 19 If the June 2014 meeting was when the issue hit the national headlines the succession of rallies featuring the United Patriots Front and the Bendigo Action Coalition reinforced the narrative that Bendigo was a community divided more than 12 months on from the first of the rallies The sounds — competing chants of "Nazi scum off our streets" and renditions of the Australian national anthem in Rosalind Park — still echo Faded posters advertising the rallies can be found on walls Mosque backers were keen to point out that most of the hundreds who objected and took part in the rallies were out-of-towners but there was a significant local flavour to the debate as two opposing protest groups gather in Bendigo Protesters walk down High Street in Bendigo during a March for Diversity in support of a planned mosque in the city A member of the United Patriots Front carries a flag at a protest in Bendigo against a controversial mosque on August 29 Several hundred protesters held demonstrations for and against a new mosque for Bendigo on August 29 Anti-racism supporters cover their faces ahead of protest in the central Victorian city of Bendigo on August 29 Chapman went on to be pre-selected by Pauline Hanson's One Nation as the party's lead Victorian candidate for the Senate at this year's Federal election and called for a Royal Commission into Islam before dropping out of the campaign She also remains the subject of a separate code of conduct complaint lodged in the wake of comments on social media that sought to link Islam to cases of female genital mutilation but Ms Chapman is challenging the ruling and the case is due before the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal later this year Bendigo was the venue for a series of protests Opposing sides saw themselves as either standing up against the "Islamification" of Australia or against racism and intolerance The councillors who voted in favour of the mosque plans and who complained about Ms Chapman's comments became known as the "Gang of Seven" by detractors who gathered in social media groups such as Voices of Bendigo and Rights for Bendigo Residents There were regular posts in these forums from Australian and overseas writers about the dangers posed by Islam and crimes committed by Muslims; there was derision of the European Union's intake of refugees; and there was unfounded fear that an Islamic housing estate could be built near the Bendigo mosque and council meetings became forums for mosque opponents to argue their case out loud often with fancy dress and placards with slogans accusing the council of bias or corruption and many of those there that night recall feeling sick in the stomach Then-mayor Peter Cox is escorted out of a disrupted public council meeting right) are escorted out of a disrupted public council meeting In response to the protests, the community-led Believe in Bendigo group was formed to fight for what it argued was the city's reputation for inclusion and harmony. There has also been an attempt to bring Muslim custom and ceremony into the mainstream, and to include Islam in a new multi-faith council of local churches. There is an argument about whether the City of Greater Bendigo itself could or should have acted much earlier to head off the community concern that followed. Was it inevitable, or even foreseeable, that the fight over a mosque in Bendigo would become a proxy for much bigger concerns? Or is the view that the City of Greater Bendigo should have been on the front foot just wisdom in hindsight? The debate, fed by outcry about the council's direction and infighting, coincided with disquiet globally about Islamic extremism, immigration and the movement of refugees, so was Bendigo just the city in the wrong place at the wrong time? In a legal sense, the anti-mosque case was formally defeated when the High Court decided in June this year to dismiss a final attempt to appeal against the approval of the plans, but the broader implications for Bendigo's reputation are less certain. Anecdotal evidence suggests it is common for people from Bendigo to be asked when travelling, even overseas, about the mosque debate — the city and the issue have become synonymous. But Bendigo itself appears to have retained its lustre — the $13 million boost delivered to the local economy by the Marilyn Monroe exhibition shows tourists are still willing to come and spend. The response from Bendigonians themselves at this weekend's council election is sure to shed further light on just how the city sees itself after such an intense period of its history. This article contains content that is not available. eight years after a heritage-listed building was demolished there The now empty land was once a foundry and precious link to Bendigo's gold rush with clients including mining magnate George Lansell Then it became an "eyesore" according many "I'd be happy to see it turned into rubble," the then member for Northern Victoria Damien Drum said in 2012 a health hazard and it looks like it's within an inch of falling down." the then-owners were reluctantly making plans to demolish the building in the interests of public safety Workers demolishing an Ironbark foundry in 2012 Picture: PETER WEAVINGThe foundry began in 1872 and fueled Bendigo mines' insatiable demand for iron machinery according to a Bendigo Advertiser article that marked its opening It gradually branched into farming equipment and other tools and in the 1910s then-owners renamed it the Golden City Implements Company The business never lost its sense of history according to Yolande Collins and Mike Butcher's 2005 book Bendigo at work "To step through the doors of the Golden City Implement Works in the early 1990s was to step back in time," Collins and Butcher wrote many still belt-driven by overhead shafts and pulleys Around the machines were piles of wooden patterns carefully put aside until another use could be found for them "Under foot was the same bare earth floor that had been trodden by generations of workers for 120 years." Some of the historic equipment that was still to be moved on the day the foundry shed was demolished Picture: PETER WEAVINGGolden City closed on 24 December 1998 following the retirement of then-owner Charles Osborne the family hoped the City of Greater Bendigo would turn it into a major tourist attraction "This is one of the oldest surviving foundries in Australia and would perfectly complement the city's other historical attractions," Charles' son Lance told the Advertiser in 2001 "It's a fantastic reminder of Bendigo's industrial history (However) the city or a similar community-based organisation hasn't appeared interested in purchasing it Heritage Victoria listed the site and a host of equipment tools and even rubbish at the site in 2001 about the time the Osbornes first put it on the market Heritage Victoria had given the Osborne family permission to demolish the building to keep people safe "You could lean on it and it would fall over," Peter Osborne told the Advertiser More history: What happened? Bendigo's tomatoes were once the envy of the state The building was still revealing its links to Bendigo's past on its final day in 2012 The Osbornes salvaged a handful of souvenirs Current owners want to build a 120-place childcare centre on the site which Heritage Victoria "no longer (considers) to be of cultural heritage significance" The council is yet to decide whether to approve the application Special thanks to local historians Kay MacGregor and Darren Wright who sourced historical documents for this story Picture: NONI HYETTA DEVELOPER hopes to re-activate Bendigo's city centre Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Williamson Street Business Centre will be a business home for as many as 80 people sitting above Bendigo's central post office Read more: Co-working, the offices of the future? Developer Scott Jackman said users would be able to come into town to get work done in a place that was secure and professional "We felt that there was a real void in the market How do people move from the home office into a business without being anchored by a lot of capital?" he said "Hopefully this is a nice transitional space." Mr Jackman said landlords needed to step up to the plate "The important message for the township is to say that's 50 more people walking around town," he said BIG PLANS: Developer Scott Jackman inside a new co-work space on Williamson Street Picture: NONI HYETT"Where do they buy their coffee and we start to create the city a space where we want to come and we start to see some re-activation of the spaces." Accident brought me to journalism, but every day convinces me again that strong media is more important than ever. After a starting off as the sole reporter in a tiny NSW town, I’m loving the teeming metropolis that is Bendigo. Focussed on health, business and education. Got a tip? Email elspeth.kernebone@bendigoadvertiser.com.au. Picture by Noni HyettCREATIVES are on notice: only the "the most innovative and creative" designs will do for the 2026 Commonwealth Games baton design Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueOrganisers of the Games to be held in Bendigo and other Victorian regional centres have launched the search for a group to design and fabricate the King's baton to the "highest possible standard" "The Baton is an exceptionally high-profile icon of the Games," they said in a newly released tender document More news: House buyers of Bendigo, do not expect the prices to drop soon "It is one of the highest profile marketing tools available to Victoria 2026 and its partners." how have others pulled off such a difficult job Lynn Walker with the queen's baton when it was relayed through Bendigo in 2018 Picture by Noni HyettPlastic found on beaches: how Gold Coast 2018 did itThe 2026 King's baton will be the third from an Australian Games to wend its way into Bendigo in 20 years Batons from those relays reveal some of the challenges designers might face and the creative ways they have been solved in the past That might rule out a baton made of solid Bendigo gold designers will have to find ways to showcase unspecified materials found in regional Victoria More news: Cold snap hits Bendigo: sub-zero weather, rain, frost on the way The team designing Gold Coast's baton found highly creative ways to deal with those particular combinations of challenges That included using plastic discarded in the ocean and on beaches That team's final "boundless energy" design borrowed from structural designs of surfboards and marine craft along with macadamia wood in a nod to the sustainable Indigenous customs of the region GPS tracking and Bluetooth to help track the baton as it made its way through the Commonwealth Martin Leach runs up View Street with the 2006 baton in the build up to Melbourne's Commonwealth Games Picture by Bill ConroyShaped like an athlete: How Melbourne 2006 did itMelbourne 2006 designers also wanted a lightweight design with other elements including magnesium and resin The 1.5-kilogram baton was "packed with technology" according to details kept by Museums Victoria and a transmitter that sends information to the web via satellite," it said "Two-hundred light emitting diodes provide visual effects triggered by radio frequency identifiers in runners' thumb rings and in the baton stand." The baton's curved form was inspired by the shape of an athlete The 2006 baton during a civic reception at the Capital before Melbourne's Commonwealth Games Picture by Bill ConroyThings 2026 designers HAVE to includeThe 2026 baton designers will not just have to think about materials unique to regional Victoria Victoria's First Peoples' culture and knowledge must also feature prominently Groups like central Victoria's Dja Dja Wurrung have emerged as key figures in planning and have already been consulted on a range of Games topics including designs for Bendigo's athletes' village Baton designers will have to allow space to store a message from King Charles They will likely have until March 2024 to finish designs for the batons and accessories needed and until August to fabricate and test everything The baton is scheduled to leave Buckingham Palace in September 2024 for a tour of 72 Commonwealth nations Whoever wins the design and fabrication contract will need to give training and support for any repairs and maintenance while the baton is on its journey Digital subscribers now have the convenience of faster news, right at your fingertips with the Bendigo Advertiser app. Click here to download