Only 20 minutes drive from Halls Gap, the historic gold mining town of Stawell is the closest major commercial centre to the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park.

Stawell is famous for hosting the annual Stawell Gift, first run in 1878. Check out the track at Central Park from the Stawell Gift Hall of Fame which also showcases memorabilia of the most prestigious footrace in Australia. The 120-metre handicap race is held annually over the Easter long weekend.

Travel to the nearby Black Range Scenic Reserve and take the walk to Bunjil's Shelter– a huge rock overhang with ancient rock art depicting Bunjil, an Aboriginal spirit figure.

Local tips:

Take a break at pretty Cato Park - walk around the lake and kids can enjoy the playground.
Visit the Stawell Historical Society, a Museum and Research Centre housed in the old Pleasant Creek Courthouse. Showcasing the history of Stawell and District from the original discovery of gold in 1853 to the present day.
Enjoy the Stawell Cultural Heritage Trail, a self guided driving or walking tour of Stawell which links interpretive signage throughout the township.
Inspect the town's historic gold rush architecture and on the hour at 12pm, 3pm, 6pm and 9pm, watch the animated clock at the Town Hall depicting two gold miners.
Stop in at one of the many cafes on Stawell's Main Street or visit Grampians Ale Works, an independent family-owned brewery.
Visit Big Hill lookout for some of the best views over the Black Range and the Grampians National Park. A great place to have a picnic and watch the sunset over the town.

Stawell Highlights

Attraction

Big Hill Lookout

Panoramic views from Big Hill Lookout in Stawell look across and over the Black Range and the Grampians National Park. A great place to have a picnic…