Sovereign Hill, Ballarat
Set in Victoria on the site of some of the world’s richest goldmines, the interactive museum of Sovereign Hill tells the story of Ballarat, a city built upon the wealth of the 1850s gold rush. Set in over 60 acres, this vast recreation area is Australia’s last remaining popular historical theme park.
An array of activities suitable for family enjoyment is hosted by staff who attempt to convey the costumes and attitudes of people during the 1850s.The goldfield’s township entices visitors with its exciting underground tours of goldmines and opportunities to for pan for gold in streams and view liquid gold being poured.
The highlight of a trip to Sovereign Hill is participating in the gold digging. Visitors pan for real gold in a creek surrounded by buildings and tents such as would have been there during the 1850s. The new Gold Pour melts gold into three kilogram bullion bars. Visitors can also join regular tours of the two mines. The Sovereign Quartz Mine features underground displays, while above ground steam driven machinery can be seen processing the ore. The Red Hill Mine tells the story of a pair of Cornish brothers and how they discovered the Welcome Nugget.
Much of the attraction of Sovereign Hill is its accurate portrayal of the gold rush days.
At night the area comes to life with the sound and light show, Blood on the Southern Cross. This multi billion dollar show uses only voices, sound and light in the open air to reenact the 1854 Eureka rebellion, where government forces fought gold miners. These men were the first to swear allegiance to a non-British flag, and the viewer can feel their pain as the dramatic show reaches its climax.
It is an easy drive from Melbourne, Victoria, and many visitors choose to spend a night in one of the area’s many accommodation options. Sovereign Hill accommodation ranges from budget dormitories to luxury Victorian style hotels. The beautiful Sovereign Hill Lodge with its elegant rooms is situated next to Sovereign Hill township.
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Sovereign Hill Tour
