Buninyong Information Centre

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About Buninyong

Buninyong lies at the foot of landmark Mt Buninyong, the old volcano that has signalled home to countless generations of local Wathaurung people and to the more recent settlers of the present township 11KM south of Ballarat in Victoria.

Enclosed by farmlands and wooded ridges, Buninyong's historic gold-era buildings and gardens give it a picturesque tranquillity and charm. At the same time, its contemporary cafés, shops, markets, festivals and amenities all contribute to a spirited community life in the peace and beauty of the countryside.

Founded in 1841, the little town was the earliest inland settlement in what was then the Port Phillip District of NSW. Buninyong's blacksmith dramatically changed its course in August 1851 when he discovered gold, starting a rush that gave birth to Ballarat and the enormous riches of the Victorian goldfields.

Today, the "first-settlement" benefits from its proximity to the prosperous regional city of Ballarat, but Buninyong still proudly protects its independent identity. This is preserved by a strong sense of local community, our historic town centre and the encircling green belt of bushlands and farms, all presided over by our beloved Mount.

This site aims to cover all aspects of public life in Buninyong and the surrounding district, for visitors and local residents alike. It covers neighbouring Mt Helen and nearby hamlets such as Scotsburn, Clarendon, Lal Lal, Yendon, Navigators, Magpie, Napoleons, Scotchmans Lead, Durham Lead and Garibaldi.
If you can't find what you are looking for on these pages, clicking a link to one of the local community groups, businesses or services with specialised knowledge should bring the answer.
Alternatively, you can email us at the This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.and we will do our best to follow up your query (apart from family history enquiries which should be sent to the Buninyong and District Historical Society).
Full contact details for this website are on our Contact Us page - we'd love to hear from you!

The current Buninyong Visitor Guide (below) is a handy guide to Buninyong. It includes map, photos and local information. Print copies are available from the Buninyong Information Centre.

2021 Buninyong Visitor Guide
Buninyong Visitor Guide