The Blog
Local secrets & inspiration for residents and visitors alike.
Half-Yearly Events Report: Southern Grampians Shire continues to shine
The first half of 2026 has delivered a vibrant run of events across the Southern Grampians, reinforcing our reputation as a welcoming region for...
20 Things To Do In Coleraine
Nestled amongst rolling hills, volcanic landscapes and some of Victoria's most significant native grasslands, Coleraine is a town rich in history,...
Five Minutes With Merron Riddiford, Western District Historian
The Western District has always been a place of stories. They sit quietly in bluestone churches, old cemeteries, family albums, creek beds, former...
Ros McArthur: Painting the Spirit of the Southern Grampians
Tucked into the rolling landscape of Victoria Valley, just outside Dunkeld, award-winning artist Ros McArthur has created a studio experience that...
A Wintery Weekend in Southern Grampians
Day 1: With a hearty breakfast from local café Little Koi, a serving of their classic eggs and bacon or jampacked waffles will have you ready and...
Spring into the Southern Grampians Garden Trail!
When spring arrives in the Southern Grampians, it doesn’t tiptoe in - it bursts out in full colour across the region. With a mix of curated botanic...
Caravan & Camp Your Way Through the Southern Grampians
There’s something special about exploring the Southern Grampians with a caravan in tow or a tent packed in the back of the car. Wide open...
Eat – Shop – Admire, A Day Well Spent In Hamilton
Follow these three treat-yourself steps and have yourself a superlative day in Hamilton.
Op Shops & Collectables
Love a good rummage for antiques, vintage gems or quirky collectables? The Southern Grampians region is packed with charm, character and plenty of...
Dunkeld & Grampians Visitor Information Centre
Open seven days a week, the Dunkeld & Grampians Visitor Information Centre offers a warm welcome at the southern gateway to the Grampians...
The Ten-Step Guide to the Hamilton Art Trail
We love public art here in Greater Hamilton! Art is throughout all our towns and on a stroll through Hamilton’s main street and shopping precinct, you will find colourful pieces of art from some of our region’s best artists.
Your Ultimate Event Guide for 2026
With so many annual events, festivals and community gatherings, the Southern Grampians region is set for another busy and memorable year. Save The...
Summer Splash: Lakes and Waterways
As the temperature rises and the sun stretches long into the evenings, it’s time to take a deep dive through what this region has to offer when it...
Christmas Events in the Southern Grampians
Christmas Events in the Southern Grampians: Share the Season, Country Style As summer stretches across the region, the Southern Grampians come alive...
Christmas Gift Guide for the Southern Grampians
Festive, fabulous, and full of local cheer! Christmas shopping can be a bit of a juggle.. but here’s the good news: you don’t need to venture far...
Top Five Instagrammable Spots in Tarrington
Tarrington’s natural landscape, quirky features and produce are not only worth stopping for but also taking an Insta pic of.
An Insider’s Guide to Cavendish
Culinary mastery, country hospitality, historical exploration, exceptional events, serene stays, proximity to the Grampians National Park and sweeping views of the Western District, that is the Cavendish experience.
Experience the Enchanting Night Skies of the Southern Grampians
Cool, crisp nights under crystal-clear skies transform the night landscape in the Southern Grampians region into a breathtaking spectacle that truly...
Sheepvention in Hamilton
Every year on the first Sunday and Monday of August, the city of Hamilton in Victoria’s Western District takes a deep breath, rolls up its sleeves,...
Volunteers: The Heart Behind Your Visit to Dunkeld
Beyond the doorway of a seemingly typical home at 26 Parker Street, Dunkeld is something extraordinary, The Australian Light Horse Heritage Collection. Mounted to walls, encased in glass cabinets, virtuously displayed on pedestals are the memorabilia and stories of the Australian Light Horse, an exemplary group of horse-mounted infantrymen.
Hop Into Easter: The Ultimate Guide to Southern Grampians Holiday Fun!
Meet ‘Little Franklin’, much-loved member of the ‘Franklin and Friends’ family. Little Franklin is the first finished refurbishment of hospitality superstars (and Hamilton locals), Mackinley, Fennel and Tom.
17 Things To Do in Dunkeld
Located at the foot of Wurgarri (Mount Sturgeon), Dunkeld embraces its magnificent natural environment in all different shapes and forms. From...
Honouring The Lighthorse – The Australian Lighthorse Heritage Collection
Beyond the doorway of a seemingly typical home at 26 Parker Street, Dunkeld is something extraordinary, The Australian Light Horse Heritage Collection. Mounted to walls, encased in glass cabinets, virtuously displayed on pedestals are the memorabilia and stories of the Australian Light Horse, an exemplary group of horse-mounted infantrymen.
6 Best Golf Courses in Southern Grampians
Fore! Well, six actually… six supreme Southern Grampians golf courses. For the golfing enthusiast, the self-proclaimed pro and everything in...
Celebrating Christmas in Southern Grampians!
With the sun shining and the weather warming, summer is one of the best times to get out and about exploring.
Summer In Southern Grampians
With the sun shining and the weather warming, summer is one of the best times to get out and about exploring.
Four Reasons To Stretch Your Legs In Penshurst
As you travel along the Great Southern Touring Route, be sure to park yourself in Penshurst, stretch your legs and discover these three local delights.
Fishing in Southern Grampians
Well, it’s oh-fish-al, the Southern Grampians region is an angler’s haven. With an overwhelming pool of inland creeks, lakes and reservoirs, you’ll...
100 Things To Do in the Southern Grampians
Narrowing down an abundance of options, we’ve devised a definitive checklist of 100 things to do in Greater Hamilton.
Sites & Settings – The Ultimate Caravan & Camping Guide for the Southern Grampians
With over 20 campgrounds, both paid and free and over five caravan parks scattered throughout the Southern Grampians, there are plenty of sites and...
Be An Explorer… Unearth World Class Experiences!
Explore Victoria, discover World Heritage Sites and unique features that don’t exist anywhere else in the world!
Local Knowledge – Cecily’s Favourite Southern Grampians Walks
Having lived in Hamilton for 40 years, former teacher and now visitor information volunteer, Cecily has incredible insight into our great region, especially when it comes to walks. With a passion for exploring our remarkable natural environment on foot, Cecily shares with us her favourite Greater Hamilton walks…
12 Things To Do In Penshurst
Nestled beside the extinct volcano of Mount Rouse and connecting the Great Ocean Road to the Grampians National Park, Penshurst is a place where you...
Uncover the Cosmos at the ASV Messier Star Party
The Astronomical Society of Victoria (ASV) is bringing its highly anticipated Messier Star Party to Greater Hamilton this March long weekend. As the largest astronomy club in Australia, the ASV has a rich history stretching back over 100 years dedicated to connecting communities with the night sky.
Emerging From Darkness – Don’t Miss Your Chance…
The highly anticipated Emerging From Darkness: Faith, Emotion & The Baroque exhibition has opened to immense support at Hamilton Gallery, but there’s not long left to experience this once-in-a-lifetime collection of baroque masterpieces! Featuring important works seldom seen outside of major institutions, Emerging From Darkness offers a rare opportunity for audiences right here in Greater Hamilton.
Snap a Selfie with a Southern Grampians Masterpiece
They’re vibrant and vivacious, inspiring and ingenious, upbeat and unique, they are Southern Grampians’ masterpieces. With over twenty magnificent...
In Full Bloom – Willow, Violet and Flora
Catching your eye as you drive along the Main Street of Tarrington is a gorgeously upcycled flower stand. Cleverly crafted from two reconditioned apple boxes (sourced from a nearby organic apple farm) and roofed with an old, recycled copper range hood, the ‘Willow, Violet & Flora’ roadside shop is picturesquely placed at the gates of a weatherboard homestead and sprawling farm.
Glenthompson’s Insta Style
Laying it out for your viewing pleasure, take a look at a selection of Glenthompson’s supreme Insta posts.
Stretch Your Legs At Cavendish
Save your sanity and expel some energy with a stopover at the charming town of Cavendish
5 Reasons to Visit Budj Bim
Besides being the 20th site in Australia to make the UNESCO World Heritage list, here are five more reasons to visit the spectacular Budj Bim.
SOUTHERN GRAMPIANS’ TOP 10 INSTA IMAGES FOR 2022
It’s time to enjoy Greater Hamilton’s top 10 Insta images for 2022! Thank you for sharing, thank you for capturing, and thank you for loving our region as much as we do.
Road Trip! The Must-Stop Pitstops From Mount Gambier to Hamilton
Take the scenic (and sensational) route as you travel from Mount Gambier to Hamilton. These are our must-stop pitstop suggestions. From...
Trading the Coast for the Country
If the feeling of sand in your toes (and literally everywhere else) is getting too much for you these summer months then pack a day bag and escape to the country.
Three Local Loves of Glenthompson
Who better to highlight the loves of Glenthompson than the locals? Check out these three local loves, composed by the people who know it best.
Historic Coleraine
With a settled history dating back 200 years and an Aboriginal history dating back thousands of years, Coleraine is a country town steeped in stories of former days.
Six Spots for Bird Watching in Southern Grampians
There are so many beautiful bird species to spot and observe in their natural environment. In fact, Australia lays claim to over 800 different...
Three Reasons To Stretch Your Legs At Branxholme
Visitors will be well rewarded by a stopover at Branxholme, so next time you are driving through, pull up, get out, stretch your legs and take in these four sights.
The Grampians Peaks Trail – Planning Your Peak Experience
Pop on your hiking boots, pack your snacks, fill up your water bottles and get set to experience the highs of the Grampians Peaks Trail; an epic 164km route that winds up, through and around the spectacular landscape of Gariwerd (Grampians National Park).
4 Must-See Art Shows
Four must-see art shows over three months… From watercolour to mixed media to photography and everything exceptional in between, celebrate our region’s most talented artists at these upcoming art and photography exhibitions.
Rock n’ Soil – Volcanic Fix!
Situated within the third largest volcanic plain on earth, the Western District has plenty to offer those wanting a volcanic rock fix! Shaping much...
TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN CAVENDISH
Culinary mastery, country hospitality, historical exploration and all within a close proximity to the Grampians National Park! Cavendish is a...
Wildflowers Galore
Everlasting Button - credit Russell Scott (via tumblr) Spring has sprung, and now is the best time to see the region pop with colour. From...
Family’s Big Day Out in Southern Grampians
An exceptional compilation of family-friendly activities, all located within this fantastic region.
Henty Wine Region
South West Victoria, home to the outstanding Henty Wine Region covering a large area extending from the Hopkins River across to the South Australian...
Top 5 Things To Do in Southern Grampians this Winter
1. Explore the wonderful waterfalls The regions waterfalls are extra breath-taking at this time of year with the extra spill and splash Winter...
Rocklands Reservoir – 3 Reasons To Go Today
Down-to-earth in action, enjoyable in nature and something that will appeal to the whole family… Camp, fish and walk at Rocklands Reservoir.
Wintery Wonders of the Southern Grampians
Relish in the comforts and delights of Greater Hamilton’s wintery wonders. From gushing waterfalls to warming log fires to rich red wines. Winter is truly wonderful!
The Ten Most Instagrammable Spots In Dunkeld
Drop a pin or use a hashtag for these ten Instagram-worthy settings and scenes of spectacular Dunkeld. This is #Dunkeld and it is #awesome.
The Good Food Guide to Southern Grampians
Seedy flapjacks, stacked burgers, farm fresh servings, flaky pastry pies and fresh seafood... The proof is in the pudding (and the pictures) when...
Through the Photographers Lens – Danielle Thomas
This blog features the photography of Danielle Thomas and her business, One Day Collective. She is a prominent wedding photographer in the Southern...
Play – Ride – Discover; Three Fun Things To Do With The Kids In Hamilton
For the young and young at heart, Greater Hamilton is certainly the place for spirited, entertaining and joyful undertakings. Come outside and play!
Through the Photographers Lens – Angela Kenna
Angela Kenna is a professional photographer based in Hamilton. She specialises in family & newborn portraiture as well as wedding photography....
Chasing Churches
We have created a series of local guides, taking you to the stunning churches dotted throughout our region. Enjoy!
Through the Photographers Lens – Gill Fry
This blog features the photography of Greater Hamilton local, Gill Fry. Discover more of her photography on her website and on social media...
Calling all Bird Lovers
The Southern Grampians region is an ideal place to base yourself for birdwatching. Finding birds here is easy; you can hear them wherever you are...
Through the Photographers Lens – Tracey Kruger
This blog features the photography of Southern Grampians local, Tracey Kruger. You can discover more of her photography in her books and on social...
Laneway Art
Flowering fauna, abstract expressionism, native wildlife and so many more forms of muse are vibrantly presented in Hamilton’s McGuigan Lane.
Talking Henty Wines With Martin From Bochara
Martin Slocombe of Bochara Wines took some time out of his busy harvesting schedule to talk Henty Wines and the Bochara taste bouquet.
Behind the Beans with Bruach from Rox Coffee
Down a mural-clad, festoon-lit laneway in Hamilton you can find a passionate local busily roasting aromatic coffee beans…
5 Minutes With Casey Manson of Grotti Lotti
Somewhere in between painting contemporary art, stocking shops nationwide, running a successful online store, shipping art worldwide and being a spirited mum, Casey Manson of Grotti Lotti spoke with us…
Cycling in Southern Grampians
Fun and family-friendly cycling tracks of Greater Hamilton. Time to get pedalling…
Waterfalls in the Grampians Region
Explore a world of waterfalls. The Greater Hamilton region is the ideal base from which to explore some of the best.
The Ultimate Guide to Dunkeld Accommodation – From Luxe to Less
With so much to see, explore and experience in and around Dunkeld, why not pack a bag and stay on. From luxe to less, the choice is yours…
3 Hamilton Foodie Stops You Can’t Miss
Eat, drink and enjoy at these three can’t miss Hamilton cafes who are completely conquering the cafe scene.
Festival of Colours
A lifetime’s work, a living library, a festival of colours; The Peter Francis Points Arboretum has long been regaling visitors and locals of Coleraine with its rainbow of flora.
An Insider’s Guide to Coleraine
From a decadent chocolate factory to a classic car collection to incredible natural wonders, Coleraine has so much to offer and we have the insider’s guide to it all.
An Insider’s Guide To Penshurst
Home to beautiful bluestone buildings, a noble horse race, a never-failing spring and lush green scenery, explore Penshurst with the help of this Insider’s Guide…
5 Minutes With John Nagorcka From Hochkirch Talking Biodyamic Wines
Hochkirch Wines – a family-owned, family-run vineyard and part of the infamous Henty wine region. We talk dynamically bio-dynamic wines with owner, John.
Getting Active In Southern Grampians
With a myriad of active events happening in Greater Hamilton, this mantra is not only attainable but also enjoyable. Check out our ultimate list of active happenings in the Greater Hamilton region.
The Story Behind The Balmoral Mural
The artists themselves share the stories and inspiration behind the famed and fabulous mural.
Inspo for your Next Visit
Infused with every inspiring aspect of our region – the Southern Grampians e-mag is a real page-turner. It’s never been easier to embark upon your next getaway. Be inspired.
Acknowledgment of Traditional Owners
We acknowledge that the Southern Grampians Shire is on the traditional lands of the Gunditjmara, Djab Wurrung, Jardwadjali, and Buandig people. The Southern Grampians is a place of immense cultural, spiritual, and historical importance - home to some of the oldest living cultures on Earth. We recognise, and respect, the deep and ongoing connection First Nations people have to this Country, and we pay our heartfelt respects to Elders past, present and emerging. As you explore this remarkable region, its mountains, waterways, stories, and skies, we invite you to reflect on its ancient heritage, honour the enduring custodianship of its Traditional Owners, and join in our shared journey of reconciliation and cultural preservation.
