Looking for somewhere new to explore on a weekend away in regional Victoria? The town of Benalla could well be one of the state’s best-kept short-break secrets. Tucked away in the north-east, and offering a mix of amazing street art, bushranging history, a burgeoning food scene and close proximity to stunning silo art, there are plenty of reasons to make a break for Benalla.
Here’s how to spend 48 hours in Gladstone. Book your stay with Choice Hotels.
Here’s how to spend 48 hours in Gladstone!
Day 1
Get on the trail of the Kelly Gang
Benalla Historical Museum. Image courtesy of Visit Victoria.
Benalla is located in the heart of ‘Kelly Country’, the area of Victoria once roamed by infamous bushranger Ned Kelly and his gang of four. Among the exhibits at the engaging Costume and Kelly Museum are a portable jail cell that once held Ned, and a prized sash he received as a boy for bravery when he saved another child from drowning. See other pieces of family memorabilia and watch an informative video on Kelly’s life.
Tour the North East Victoria Silo Art Trail
Silo art by Jimmy Dvate, Goorambat. Image: Louise Reynolds.
Silo art has proven to be a big hit in this part of the world. And standing at the foot of a 20-metre-high mural, it’s not hard to see why these massive artworks draw thousands of visitors. Driving a stretch of the North East Silo Art Trail is a must-do and it’s within easy reach of Benalla. Start at Goorambat (just a 15-minute drive from Benalla) where street artist Jimmy Dvate has created a beautiful rendition of a Victorian Barking Owl, and depicted a trio of the famous Clydesdale horse. Take a break for lunch at the charming Goorambat Railway Hotel. This small family-owned pub offers a big menu, including pizzas built on home-made dough. Continue the silo art tour through nearby Devenish, St James and Tungamah, where artworks celebrate key historical events, local identities and iconic wildlife.
Detour to Dookie
Before returning to Benalla, make a detour to the tiny town of Dookie and hunt for treasure amongst the bric-a-brac and eclectic collectables at the Dookie Emporium. You can also take the opportunity to sample a selection of local drops from the cellar door at Tallis Wines. Around Dookie, keep your eyes peeled for portable metal silos that have been painted as part of the town’s growing nomadic silo street art project.
Feast on fine fare
End your day with a comforting meal in the warm and friendly Ella Goose restaurant, run by local woman Jillian Merkel with her husband and chef Craig Robinson. While the menu gets a refresh two or three times a year, Craig’s delicious signature beef brisket is a mainstay.
Day 2
Enjoy an artistic brunch
Benalla Art Gallery. Image courtesy of Visit Victoria.
Do brunch and discover one of Australia’s best regional galleries at the same time. Benalla’s very impressive art gallery is home to Munro and Sargeant Café. Tuck into eggs prepared just about any way you can think of, or try the delicate crepes or rustic bircher muesli. Then spend some time exploring the gallery’s extensive collection of painted works, photography, sculptures, drawings and prints. You’ll see works by the artists of the Heidelberg School, and significant pieces of Indigenous art.
3pm: Take a stroll in Tondoon Botanic Gardens
Explore Benalla’s street art scene. Image: Alamy.
While you’re in this neck of the woods, it’s also well worth immersing yourself in the beauty of Tondoon Botanic Gardens – which have been recognised by National Geographic as one of regional Australia’s most impressive horticultural sites. Featuring tropical, sub-tropical and wet and dry rainforest species, the gardens overlook tranquil Lake Tondoon and incorporate an arboretum, Japanese garden, sculpture trail, play areas and more. You’re likely to encounter various furry locals as you explore.
7pm: Do a steak out
Gladstone sits right in the heart of Queensland’s cattle country, so wrap up your stay with a casual steak night. Hogs Breath Café opposite Econo Lodge Rusty’s gets top billing for its grilling on TripAdvisor, but there are plenty of classic pubs and other options dotted around the city centre.
Need a place to stay?
Comfort Hotel Parklands Calliope enjoys a picturesque rural setting around 20 minutes drive from Gladstone, and combines period charm with contemporary style. Choose from standard rooms as well as self-contained cabins (popular with families). The hotel’s onsite eatery serves up hearty home-style fare.
About the writer
Adam Ford is editor of The Big Bus tour and travel guide and a travel TV presenter, writer, blogger and photographer. He has previously had the opportunity to travel the world as host of the TV series Tour the World on Network Ten.
Header image from Visit Victoria.