- Plan Your TriP -
&
- DISCOVER VICTORIA -
Make the most of your Chopped Festival weekend by turning it into a mini-break. Carisbrook sits in the heart of Victoria’s historic Goldfields region — a place of grand architecture, gold rush history, boutique food and wine, and wide-open country landscapes.
Whether you’re here for a day or staying a little longer, there’s plenty to explore. Discover local trails, enjoy regional produce, and soak up the culture and heritage that make this part of Victoria so unique.​
“Chopped Festival is proudly supported by Visit Victoria”
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Getting Here
By Car
Carisbrook is around 2 to 2.5 hours northwest of Melbourne. Take the Calder Freeway (M79) towards Bendigo, then follow signs to Maryborough and Carisbrook. Allow extra time for traffic and rest stops.
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By Train/Bus
V/Line services run from Melbourne to Castlemaine and Maryborough. From there, you can connect with local taxi or shuttle services to Carisbrook. Check the V/Line website for up-to-date timetables.
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Event Parking & Access
Onsite parking will be available at the Carisbrook Racecourse & Recreation Reserve, with overflow parking as required. Please follow event signage and directions from traffic staff on arrival.
​ STAY A LITTLE LONGER
Local Stays
Make your Chopped Festival weekend a real getaway. Carisbrook and nearby Maryborough offer motels, hotels, bed & breakfasts, and holiday rentals. Book early, as accommodation fills up quickly in October.
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Festival Camping
Bring your gear and stay close to the action! Festival camping options are available at the Carisbrook Racecourse & Recreation Reserve, with facilities and quiet hours in place. Full camping details will be shared on our event info page closer to the date.
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Visitor Information
Want to explore more? Drop into local visitor information centres for itineraries, last-minute bookings, and tips from regional experts. Visit Maryborough Regional Visitor Centre or check the official Visit Victoria website for inspiration.
​ Things to See & Do
Food & Wine
Discover country hospitality at boutique wineries, local breweries, and farmers markets. From casual cafés to hearty pub meals, there’s plenty of flavour to explore around Maryborough and Carisbrook.
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Nature & Outdoors
Take a bushwalk in Paddys Ranges State Park, known for wildflowers, native birds, and picnic spots. Closer to town, enjoy a stroll or fishing at Goldfields Reservoir, or head to Bristol Hill Reserve for sweeping views across the region.
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Culture & Heritage
Step back into the Gold Rush era. Wander through Maryborough’s historic architecture — the grand Town Hall, Post Office, and Railway Station are standouts. In Carisbrook, explore the rare Log Gaol (‘The Logs’), built in the 1850s from red gum logs.
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Arts & Local Makers
Visit the Central Goldfields Art Gallery, housed in the old fire station, to see local and touring exhibitions. Or browse craft markets and galleries to pick up unique, handmade treasures.
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More to Explore
Want to plan beyond the festival? Browse official guides from Visit Victoria or the Bendigo Region – Maryborough & Surrounds for itineraries, attractions, and local events.
​ Explore More of
Victoria’s Goldfields
Bendigo
Rich in culture and history, Bendigo offers underground tours at Central Deborah Gold Mine, Chinese heritage at the Golden Dragon Museum, and a thriving art scene at Bendigo Art Gallery. Pair your visit with fine dining at Masons or a relaxed coffee at Percy & Percy.
> Explore Bendigo
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Ballarat
Step back in time in Ballarat, the Gold Rush city. Wander grand heritage streets, discover Sovereign Hill and the Eureka Centre, or enjoy local art at the Art Gallery of Ballarat. Relax by Lake Wendouree and dine at award-winning spots like Pipers by the Lake or Hop Temple.
> Discover Ballarat
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Goldfields
Beyond Carisbrook, the Goldfields region brims with character. Hike or cycle the 210-km Goldfields Track, explore the historic towns of Castlemaine and Maldon, or dive into arts and theatre at local galleries and venues. Finish the day with regional wine and boutique stays.
> Explore the Goldfields​
​ Travel Tips
What to Pack
October in central Victoria means warm days and cool evenings. Bring a hat, sunscreen, sturdy shoes, and warm layers for nights at the festival. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle.
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Sustainability
Help us reduce waste: use your own keep cup, bottles, and cutlery where you can. Recycling bins will be clearly marked at the festival.
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Staying Connected
Share your trip on social media with #visitvictoria and #visitmelbourne, and follow @visitmelbourne for more travel inspiration.
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Local Info
Drop into the Maryborough Visitor Information Centre for maps, tips, and advice on making the most of your stay.
