Discover Sunbury: history, gardens and wine region

Explore Sunbury through its historic sites, community garden spaces and activities in town and nearby. The Sunbury wine region adds another dimension, with a range of vintages and a reputation extending beyond Australia to overseas. Galaxy Land adventure playground is a family activity in Sunbury and a practical point of reference when planning a trip with children.

Historic sites and traces of different eras

Emu Bottom was built in 1836 and is described as Victoria’s oldest homestead. Goona Warra Estate has been a historic landmark of Sunbury since 1863. Together, they offer two distinct historical points of reference: the construction date of a homestead and the landmark status of an estate. Anyone interested in the area’s history can consider each as a point of interest in its own right.

A self-guided historical tour can take you to Old Sunbury Courthouse, the bluestone homestead at Craiglee Vineyard and the remains of Aitken’s Gap Gaol. The suggested route brings together different traces of the past: a courthouse, a homestead and the remains of a gaol. These stops give the tour its historical focus.

Gardens, events and local culture

Sunbury Community Garden, also known as Goonawarra Community Garden, has community garden beds and an orchard with about 50 fruit trees, including some heritage varieties. The combination of community beds and fruit trees offers a different focus from the historic buildings. Events and workshops are held in the garden regularly; check with the council for current participation information. As garden features can change, it’s worth checking the latest information before visiting.

Goona Warra Café offers light meals and small dishes with views over the vineyards. Check the latest café information before your visit.

The George Evans Heritage Collection offers another cultural perspective. It comprises more than 5,000 objects, including documents, items and photographs relating to the history of the wider Sunbury and Bulla region. Significant pieces are displayed on a rotating basis in Sunbury. The collection’s scope therefore extends beyond local history to the wider region.

Nature and recreation nearby

Near Sunbury, the Wanginu Park and Hammersmith Court Circuit runs through the Jackson’s Creek Valley. The circuit takes in its steep slopes, native grasslands, woodlands and wildlife. Its terrain, grasslands and woodland provide a scenic focus alongside the town’s historical attractions.

In addition to Galaxy Land adventure playground, Paintball Sunbury and Goonawarra Golf Course are recreational activities for visitors to Sunbury. They appeal to different interests: an adventure playground for families, paintball and golf. Check the current operating information for each attraction before making firm plans.

Explore more destinations: Castlemaine, Mount Buller, Big Hill, Moyreisk, Rupanyup, Fingal, Ivanhoe, East Warburton.

For the broader travel overview: Victoria.