Looking for a touch of coolness this summer? Take exhibit A, Ben Quilty. There’s perhaps none cooler than this rock-star status artist currently exhibiting at Bendigo Art Gallery.
Well-known for his work as an official war artist, and 2011 Archibald Prize winner, this year Quilty was also the first Australian to exhibit solo at London’s Saatchi Gallery. The works have now moved to Bendigo for a sometimes confronting, emotionally-charged summer show to remember.
You can continue to take the heat out of a visit to Bendigo at the city’s growing collection of basement bars. Escape the sun at Club Rouge or Rocks on Rosalind in View Street, or head below the historic Shamrock into the Gold Dust Lounge.
On the city’s edge the Goldmines Hotel has made it into the top 10 of Australian Beer gardens. Choose a cold local craft beer from the bar and find out why.
Chill out with the latest flicks at Bendigo Cinema. Or settle in for the afternoon at the Aquatic Centre, with its adventure water slide, diving platforms and shady picnic spots.
Locals have long-anticipated the new Bendigo Splash Park opening. The interactive play space features water cannons, tippy buckets and bubblers, and it’s free.
Foodies and families can take an ice cream crawl through the city centre, stopping off at Cold Rock and Frocreations.
Bendigo’s summer sanctuary Lake Eppalock is a favourite for fishing, swimming, and skiing. Adventure seekers can find more thrills at Central Deborah, 228 metres underground on Australia’s deepest mine tour.
The heat means one more thing in Bendigo – the much-loved Summer in the Parks festival. Catch a band or film under ancient boughs in Rosalind Park or enjoy childrens’ book theatre at twilight.