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.