Yesterday was a dull windy day in Melbourne. I thought I had better get the washing up to date as we were leaving Melbourne today (Monday). Most of the washing dried because of the strong wind. Later in the afternoon we went to Scott and Courtney's for our last chance to see them and Sophie this trip. After a very tasty dinner we had to say goodbye. It was so nice to see Sophie. They grow so fast at this age. It's amazing how when we first arrived she was walking only a short distance unassisted, now she is walking all the, time.
This morning we set off to Bendigo which is only 150 kms from Coburg. As we reached the Calder Highway, it was a sunny morning at about 15 degrees - fairly warm for this time in the morning.
As we approached the Macedon Ranges not long after, it soon fell to 10 degrees with cloud over the mountains.
On the way we turned off the highway to visit Kyneton, one of the historic towns which was developed as a stopping place for diggers en route to the 1850's goldfields. This is one of many beautiful parks and gardens in this small town.
From here we headed back to the highway, then turned off to Castlemaine where we stopped for lunch. Gold was discovered in the Castlemaine area in 1851, then known as Mt Alexander, and was once the world's richest alluvial goldfield. The subsequent prosperity led to the the erection of many sandstone buildings.
This monument in the middle of a roundabout was dedicated to the early gold diggers.
Some of the majestic buildings constructed during the gold rush.
Back on the road again to Bendigo, one of Victoria's largest cities, with a population of over 90,000. Gold undoubtedly put this region on the map more than 150 years ago, with Bendigo once the richest place in the world with 9 billion dollars worth of gold found between 1850 and 1900. The magnificent buildings that arose from this wealth continue to shape the region today.
The spire of the Catholic Cathedral can be seen for miles. It is the 3rd largest cathedral in Australia, after Sydney and Melbourne. It is a magnificent building both inside and out.
The ceiling above the altar is stunning with the intricate woodwork, Peter was in awe of the joinery!
The ceiling above the main section of the church, with hand carved angels on either side-
Production of gold ceased in 1954. Chinese migrants flocked to the goldfields in this area and their culture is still evident today.
We were only going to stay here one night but there is so much to see we have decided to stay an extra night. Also Peter has decided to go gold prospecting tomorrow. The first 3 hours they teach you how to use a metal detector, then you have the rest of the day to have fun and see if you can find anything of value. I will spend the day doing some touristy things.
The caravan park we are staying in has many cabins as they all do today. These look particularly attractive painted in bright colours.
That's all for today,
So till next time
Cheerio and love from
Lesley and Peter.
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