TRAVELS WITH KINGDEANO ADVENTURES
When most people hear the name Stawell, their minds leap straight to the legendary Stawell Gift, Australia’ s oldest short-distance footrace. For over a century, athletes have charged down the 120m grass track at Central Park each Easter, propelled by the unique staggered handicap system that gives slower runners a tantalising head start. It’ s one of those events etched into the national sporting psyche. So naturally, when we realised our travel dates wouldn’ t line up with the Gift itself, we did the next best thing: we headed straight for the Stawell Gift Museum.
The museum is a treasure chest of Australian sporting history. Its memorabilia and artefacts reach back to 1878, telling stories of legends, long-shot champions, and the community that has kept the race thriving for generations. After soaking up the history, we wandered over to the oval itself, picturing the roar of the Easter crowds while admiring the old grandstand that has witnessed countless victories.
But Stawell has more than athletics pride to explore. A friend had tipped us off about the Stawell Gold Mine, a real working operation and the largest in Victoria. The public viewing area offers a look into the world of modern gold mining, from excavation methods to the transformation of raw ore into solid gold bars. With the observation area being outdoors, we could bring our dog, Twyla, along.
A short drive away, Big Hill Lookout beckons you for a stop. Perched above town, it offers sweeping views perfect for photos or a relaxed picnic. We grabbed a few snacks from town and sat back to take in the panorama, the kind that reminds you why country Victoria charms so many travellers.
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