Goldfields Overview

In 1851, the first year of Victorian statehood, a group of miners unearthed one of the largest gold nuggets ever to be discovered by humans. A year later, the London Times reported that over 50,000 impatient diggers had converged upon Victoria’s goldfields, shovels in hand. As paupers prospered, the Australian government began taxing the nouveau riche, igniting the brief and bloody Eureka Rebellion of 1854. The chaotic hustle of the Goldrush has dissipated in recent times, and today’s visitors can enjoy a relaxed stay amid picturesque historical townships. Sovereign Hill, a large living museum in Ballarat, offers a vivid portrayal of what life was like in the 1850s. Looking beyond the rich regional history, tourists have come to savor the region’s picturesque vistas and soothing spa region. Although most of the gold has been harvested, towns like Ballarat and Bendigo remain prominent centers in Victoria.

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