Brighton Beach in Bendigo

02 Jan 2013

Twenty-four members of the Brighton Beach Probus Club enjoyed a four day visit to Bendigo and surrounding towns last year. 

On arrival the group visited the famous Golden Dragon Museum where an articulate guide gave a detailed description of the numerous artifacts on display. The group then walked through the garden with explanations of the many shrubs that been planted in memory of Chinese residents who had passed away.

Learning more about the Chinese people of the early days, Probus members then visited the Joss House. This is the only temple in use today and has a resident caretaker who is always in attendance. He cares for the Chinese as they come to worship.

Day two was a visit to Confectionary Capers situated on the McIvor Highway. A most unusual and indescribable display of wheels and novelty gadgets all driven by numerous pulleys and cams. Built by a retired school teacher each item was titled using a play on words, very cleverly thought out. This one off display is interesting to all ages.

On returning to the city, the group was joined by a lady dressed in period costume who guided the coach through the streets pointing out the many interesting and historic buildings that were used in the gold rush days. Some of these building are still in use today. One such magnificent structure is the Cathedral 0f the Sacred Heart. The Cathedral is open to all visitors.

The Grace Kelly Icon was the next stop situated in the Art Gallery. A large collection of the gowns worn by the famous actress and later as the Princess of Monaco.

A ride on the talking tram completed the day in this beautiful city.

Next morning the group was driven to Maldon where they boarded the steam train to Castlemaine. The smell of burning coal together with the clipidy-clop of the wheels brought back memories for those who had previously been regular travellers on steam trains.

On arrival at Castlemaine, a guide joined the coach taking the group on a drive around the old mining town. Robert O’Hare Bourke, famous for his explorations, was Superintendent of Police. A monument was erected to recognise his fateful expedition with Wills.

After lunch they drove to the Buda House and Garden for a viewing of this home with it original furniture still in place. One family lived in this house for 118 years until 1981 It is now managed by the Castlemaine Art Gallery.

On the final day the group visited the picturesque town of Maryborough.

The beautifully restored railway station, built in 1890, was the place where some ate scones, jam and cream for the final morning tea. The restoration is a credit to the town and in particular Jacqi Peake. The platform is 100 metres long. Adjacent to the café is a Bric-a-brac display which caught the eye of some members. Many memories were brought back as they wandered through the display.

A short drive took members to the Old Flour Mill where there are 300 sewing machines dating back to the late 1800. With a guide on board they drove through the streets of the town and finished at the old gaol, enjoying a great view of the town.

At the final meal together, the winners of the various competitions were awarded with prizes.

This set the scene for a happy drive back to Brighton.