Sunbury: History, Gardens and Wine Region

Sunbury offers a range of interests to explore: historic sites, a community garden, recreational activities and the wine region each have their own appeal. If you’re looking for a hotel in Sunbury, you can first consider which of these themes you’d like to shape your stay. Local and regional offerings provide specific starting points, from architectural history to garden culture and landscape.

Historic sites and their stories

Goona Warra Estate has been a historic landmark of Sunbury since 1863. Emu Bottom is considered Victoria’s oldest homestead and was built in 1836. The two sites have different historical points of interest: Emu Bottom’s construction date is a specific point of reference, while Goona Warra Estate has been a landmark since 1863. If you’d like to explore history beyond these points of reference, you can include a self-guided historic tour. It can take you to the Old Sunbury Courthouse, the bluestone homestead at Craiglee Vineyard and the remains of Aitken's Gap Gaol. The selection therefore includes a courthouse, a homestead and the remains of a gaol. As a self-guided itinerary idea, the tour offers an additional perspective on Sunbury’s historic sites.

Gardens and regional history

Sunbury Community Garden, also known as Goonawarra Community Garden, combines community plots with an orchard of about 50 fruit trees, including some historic varieties. The plots and the fruit trees give the garden two distinct aspects: community gardening and fruit growing. Events and workshops are held regularly. If you’d like to take part, check dates and specific participation details with the council beforehand.

The George Evans Heritage Collection offers a broader historical perspective. It comprises more than 5,000 items, including documents, objects and photographs relating to the history of the wider Sunbury and Bulla region. Significant items are displayed on a rotating basis in Sunbury; the exhibits on view can vary. In terms of its subject matter, the collection broadens the focus beyond individual historic sites to the history of the region.

Wine region and a meal break

The Sunbury wine region produces a range of vintages and has a reputation that extends beyond Australia to overseas markets. Goona Warra Café offers light meals and small plates overlooking the vineyards. If you’re planning to visit the café, check the latest visitor information before you go.

Recreation and landscape

The Galaxy Land adventure playground is a family-friendly recreational activity in Sunbury. Paintball Sunbury and Goonawarra Golf Course are recreational activities for visitors to Sunbury. The three activities differ in kind: a playground, paintball and golf. When choosing, you can consider which type of recreation interests you. Before visiting, it’s advisable to check the latest operating information for these attractions.

Wanginu Park and Hammersmith Court Circuit are located in the area around Sunbury. The route passes through the Jackson’s Creek Valley and takes in its steep slopes, native grasslands, woodland and wildlife. The landscape and nature offer a different focus from the historic sites and recreational activities in town. If you’re prioritising nature when choosing a destination, the circuit is a distinct point of interest in the surrounding area.

Discover more destinations: Cavendish, Toolleen, Mccrae, Staghorn Flat, Mitre, Sunshine West, Ouyen, Smythesdale.

Go to the main travel overview: Victoria.