St Arnaud
FEELS LIKE creativity lives around every corner
St Arnaud is a town that transforms the old into something beautifully new. Gold rush cottages now house galleries, silos bloom with murals and gardens burst with native flora. This is a place where creativity and curiosity walk hand in hand.
Wander the historic streetscape, where buildings like Love’s Cottage and the Mechanics Institute whisper stories of fortune and resilience, or you can spot the delicately carved bulls head atop the old Crone’s Butcher and hear how the town’s meat was delivered in an iconic Model T Ford. The town’s bid for UNESCO World Heritage listing speaks to its pride in preserving the past. At the Raillery Hub, art spills from repurposed spaces, while Kyle Torney’s silo mural draws eyes skyward, hearts inward, and minds expand with the virtual reality tour available on any smart devices.
Whether you’re walking, riding or four-wheel driving, nature is never far. Canola fields blaze gold in spring, butterflies drift through the community garden and cycling trails lead into Iron Bark country. The Wax Gardens and Queen Mary Gardens offer quiet moments among native blooms, while Pioneer Park invites picnics and reflection.
This is the birthplace of Landcare, where environmental care began as a grassroots movement and grew into a national legacy. Locals still lead with heart, from country music events to a beautiful butterfly garden.
St Arnaud is imaginative, warm and proudly quirky. Whether you are chasing murals, wildflowers or stories woven into bricks and mortar, this town invites you to explore deeply and leave inspired.
See, Eat & Stay
FAQs
Can I see Silo Art in St Arnaud?
Yes. St Arnaud is part of the Silo Art Trail and features a striking mural by local artist Kyle Torney. His work tells stories of the town’s people and history, and the silo and virtual reality tour is a must-see for art lovers and photographers.
What are the best gardens to visit in town?
St Arnaud is known for its blossoming gardens. The Wax Gardens showcase native orchids and grass tree flowers, while Queen Mary Gardens and Pioneer Park offer peaceful spots for walking, picnicking and reflection. The nearby St Arnaud National Park is a haven for explorers, with four-wheel drive tracks, and walking paths.
Where can I learn about local history?
The town’s gold rush heritage is woven into its streetscape, with buildings like Love’s Cottage and the Mechanics Institute offering glimpses into the past. The Visitor Information Centre also provides maps and local insights.
What is the Butterfly Garden and can I visit it?
The Butterfly & Bible Plant Garden is a community-created space filled with native plants that attract butterflies. Locals are campaigning for a “big butterfly” sculpture to celebrate the town’s quirky charm and environmental values.
Are there any art galleries in St Arnaud?
The Raillery Hub is a vibrant gallery space housed in a repurposed railway building. It features exhibitions from local and regional artists and reflects the town’s creative energy.
What outdoor and nature experiences are available near St Arnaud?
St Arnaud is surrounded by landscapes that invite exploration. Cycling trails wind through Iron Bark country, offering a peaceful ride beneath tall native trees. In spring, canola fields blaze gold across the horizon, creating a different kind of gold rush for photographers and nature lovers. The Wax Gardens showcase rare native orchids and grass tree flowers, while Queen Mary Gardens and Pioneer Park provide shaded paths, picnic spots and seasonal colour. For those seeking quiet reflection or a gentle walk, these gardens are ideal. The town is also close to national parks and bushland reserves, making it a great base for birdwatching, wildflower spotting and scenic drives.
