Visit the Macedon Ranges

We are very proud to announce the opening of Campaspe Mill Gallery in Kyneton, Macedon Ranges, and featuring Australian artist Daniel Butterworth. Our inaugural exhibition is free to attend, and opens on 4 July 2026, featuring the nationally renowned Macedon Ranges artist Daniel Butterworth, and his new series of paintings titled “Landscape by the Painter” This new series of landscape paintings by Daniel Butterworth has to be seen to be believed; they are simply incredible. The exhibition is scheduled to be on show for three months and will occupy the entire area of level three of the iconic Campaspe Mill, Kyneton, which also houses Campaspe Mill Distillery, the museum and the bistro. Daniel will also be our artist in residence during this time, and exhibited works are available for purchase. The exhibition hours coincide with Campaspe Mill Distillery's usual trading hours: Thursday through to Monday, 12pm to 5pm. Free entry.

This true country-style community festival welcomes spring in Kyneton with an exciting program of activity spanning 1o days. Along with beautiful daffodils throughout the town and surrounding countryside, visitors can take part in many exclusive events. Visit the event website for more.      

THE NATIONAL INSECT EXPO takes place at Woodend in the Macedon Ranges, and is recognised as Australia's largest insect exhibition showcasing the entire Science of Entomology (Insects) to the general public. The first National Insect Expo was held in July 2022 and over 6000 visitors attended the first event with many travelling from interstate in order to experience this unique event for the first time. The 2023 Expo was again held at the Woodend Buffalo Stadium in September that year and attracted more than 7000 visitors with quite a few arriving from overseas including Madrid, Hong Kong and Berlin. These international visitors were keen to network with Australian breeders and suppliers in order to fascilitate business opportunities at the event. 2025 was a fantastic event with a venue full of exhibitors on show to the public over the 3 days. This event attracted even more international visitors from Singapore and the United States. Now in its fifth year, and to be held on Friday 2 October to Sunday 4 October 2026, this spectacular exhibition will continue to provide visitors with a unique and fascinating look into the world of insects and their relatives. Featuring Entomologists, Insect Researchers, Breeders, Spider and Scorpion Keepers, Insect Educators and Specialist Insect Retailers, this amazing event also brings together a large number of static Entomological Collections, 'Live' Insect displays, Spiders, Scorpions and Related Invertebrates, Childrens Workshops, Entomological Merchandise and the ongoing research work of the National Institute of Entomology Over 100 exhibitors from all over Australia and New Zealand will once more provide spectacular displays, many of which are never seen by the public. Featured Insect Pantomime Entertainment is also provided in order to meet and greet all visitors and Quality Food Catering is also available On-Site during the entire 3 day event. Ticketing - see the Book Tickets link

370 Mount Macedon Road, Macedon VIC 10am to 4pm each day 3 & 4October 2026  

Budburst Wine Festival Spring arrives with the unmistakable excitement of Budburst, when wineries across the Macedon Ranges throw open their cellar doors for one of Victoria's most anticipated wine weekends. Celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2026, Budburst is your invitation to discover the people, places and cool-climate wines that have earned the Macedon Ranges an international reputation. Whether it's your first visit or an annual tradition, Budburst is a chance to slow down, meet the winemakers, explore vineyards bursting into spring and discover why the Macedon Ranges is renowned as Australia's coolest mainland wine region. Budburst is back for another fabulous weekend in the Macedon Ranges. Taking place Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 November 2026. This is your once-a-year opportunity to go beyond the cellar door, sip rare wines you won’t find anywhere else, and meet the passionate people who craft some of Australia’s most exciting cool-climate wines. Over two festival days, more than 26 winemakers across 15 Budburst venues, will open their doors, to offer wine tastings, varied food and entertainment offerings, while sharing their stories. From established icons to hidden gems, Budburst is all about connection - between the makers, the wines, and you. Just under an hour from Melbourne, Budburst is a must for wine enthusiasts, culture seekers, and weekend wanderers Victoria-wide and beyond. Embrace the opportunity to lose yourself in the wine, the produce, and the magic of Macedon Ranges.  Festival hours run from 10am to 5pm each day, with tastings, curated food menus, and the chance to chat directly with the winemakers at every stop. TICKETS Festival Passes start from $39 and weekend passes only $55! On sale from 1st August (early bird 10% saving on tickets, until 31st August). Tickets include:

• A keepsake Macedon Ranges wine tasting glass
• A festival passport with all the details you need to make the most of your weekend
• Wine tastings across all participating wineries

Designated drivers and children under 18 are invited to join the festival for free. TRANSPORT OPTIONS Leave the driving to someone else and jump on one of the hop-on/hop-off Budburst bus routes. On Saturday Budburst buses will take ticket holders directly to cellar doors around the Macedon Ranges, allowing you to visit up to 5 Budburst venues, with 6+ wineries on each loop. Bus tickets are an additional $70 per day, on top of your Budburst ticket fee.  More information available on the Budburst website. If you prefer to plan your own adventure, a number of suggested self-drive itineraries will be available on the festival website.   What makes Budburst special? Unlike many wine festivals held in a single location, Budburst takes place across the Macedon Ranges, with participating wineries opening their cellar doors for a weekend of wine, food and hospitality. Every winery creates its own unique experience. You might find yourself enjoying a guided tasting with the winemaker, settling in for lunch overlooking the vines, discovering a local artist's exhibition, listening to live music or sampling a festival-exclusive wine release. No two stops are the same, making every Budburst itinerary a little different. The festival is the perfect opportunity to explore the diversity of the region's cool-climate wines, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Gamay and sparkling wines, while meeting the passionate local producers behind every bottle. What's included with a Budburst ticket? Festival passes include wine tastings at participating wineries, a wine glass and a Budburst passport to help plan your journey across the region. Single-day and weekend passes are available, giving you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Some wineries also offer additional food experiences, masterclasses and special events, which may require separate bookings. As Budburst is one of the Macedon Ranges' most popular annual events, purchasing tickets before the weekend is recommended. How do the Hop-on Hop-off buses work? One of the easiest ways to experience Budburst is aboard the popular Hop-on Hop-off Bus service. Operating throughout the festival weekend, the buses connect groups of participating wineries, allowing you to relax and enjoy the day without needing to drive between venues. Simply choose your route, hop on and off throughout the day, and spend as much time as you like at each stop before catching the next bus. Bus tickets are purchased separately from festival passes, and services often sell out ahead of the event, so booking early is encouraged. If you're travelling by car, designated drivers are welcome, with free entry for non-drinking drivers and visitors under 18. Is Budburst suitable for first-time visitors? Absolutely. You don't need to know the difference between Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris to enjoy Budburst. The weekend is designed to be welcoming, relaxed and accessible, whether you're a seasoned wine lover or simply looking for a memorable spring day out. Many visitors are surprised by how intimate the experience feels. Rather than large crowds, you'll find friendly cellar doors where you can chat directly with the people who grow the grapes and make the wine, often in the very vineyards where it all begins. Can I make a weekend of it? Budburst is the perfect excuse to stay a little longer. Less than an hour from Melbourne, the Macedon Ranges offers boutique accommodation, award-winning restaurants, village shopping, beautiful gardens, walking trails and spectacular spring scenery. Many visitors spend the weekend exploring nearby villages including Woodend, Kyneton, Macedon, Gisborne, Lancefield and Romsey between winery visits. With so much to see beyond the cellar doors, staying overnight allows you to experience the region at a more leisurely pace. Plan your visit Many participating wineries have limited capacity, and some offer experiences available only during Budburst weekend. Planning your route in advance will help you make the most of your visit, particularly if you're travelling with friends or booking a Hop-on Hop-off Bus. Whether you're discovering the Macedon Ranges for the first time or returning for another vintage, Budburst is one of the best weekends of the year to experience the region—meeting the makers, tasting exceptional cool-climate wines and enjoying the beauty of spring in wine country. ABOUT MACEDON RANGES WINE The Macedon Ranges wine region is less than an hour by car or train from Melbourne’s CBD. Popular wines include refined Chardonnays and award-winning Pinot Noirs as well as elegant sparkling varietals. Many wineries are boutique and family-owned, creating signature wines using traditional techniques. As a result, the region is appreciated for cool-climate wines that are limited in quantity and exceptionally high in quality.

Lost Trades Fair 2027 at Hanging Rock

Step into a world where craftsmanship, creativity and centuries-old skills come alive at the Lost Trades Fair. Returning to the spectacular Hanging Rock Reserve in the Macedon Ranges on 20–21 March 2027. Less than an hour from Melbourne, this remarkable event brings together more than 150 of Australia's finest artisans alongside international guest makers, celebrating traditional trades, handmade skills and the enduring value of creating something built to last. Watch blacksmiths shape glowing steel, wheelwrights fit red-hot tyres, weavers work intricate textiles, woodworkers carve by hand, and skilled makers share techniques passed down through generations. Your ticket includes entry to Hanging Rock, allowing you to combine this globally renowned artisan festival with time exploring one of Victoria's most iconic natural landmarks. Wander between demonstrations, hear the stories behind the crafts, enjoy local food, discover beautiful handmade objects, then take a walk to the summit or relax beneath the towering gum trees with a picnic. Whether you're passionate about traditional craftsmanship, searching for a unique weekend escape, or simply curious to see extraordinary skills in action, the Lost Trades Fair offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of every age.

Why visit the Lost Trades Fair?

• Watch more than 150 master artisans demonstrating traditional skills throughout the day.
• Meet Australian and international makers and hear the stories behind their craft.
• Experience live demonstrations including blacksmithing, woodturning, leatherwork, weaving, ceramics, stone carving and many more.
• Discover artisan talks and presentations exploring heritage trades, sustainability and craftsmanship.
• Browse beautifully handcrafted pieces made by the people who create them.
• Enjoy local food and regional produce from the Macedon Ranges and surrounding regions.
• Bring a picnic and spend time exploring Hanging Rock Reserve.
• Climb the famous Hanging Rock Summit Walking Trail or enjoy the gentler Base Walk while you're there.
• Free shuttle buses operate between Woodend Railway Station and Hanging Rock for ticket holders.
• Less than 90 minutes from Melbourne, making it one of Victoria's best artisan day trips or weekend escapes.

Why Hanging Rock is the perfect setting.

There are few places in Australia where history, landscape and creativity come together as naturally as Hanging Rock. Known for its dramatic volcanic rock formations, Indigenous cultural significance and the enduring mystery of Picnic at Hanging Rock, the reserve provides a memorable backdrop for the Lost Trades Fair. Between artisan demonstrations, visitors can explore the Discovery Centre, walk beneath towering rock formations, climb to the summit for panoramic views or simply enjoy the peaceful surrounds that have inspired artists, writers and visitors for generations. Your event ticket includes entry to Hanging Rock, making it easy to experience both the fair and one of Victoria's most iconic natural attractions.

Stay longer in the Macedon Ranges.

While some visitors come for the day, staying overnight lets you experience even more of the Macedon Ranges. Wander Woodend's cafés and galleries, discover cellar doors and cool-climate wines, explore Macedon Regional Park, visit local gardens, browse village boutiques or enjoy a long lunch before heading home. With lots of accommodation places to stay ranging from cosy cottages and boutique hotels to luxury country retreats, the Lost Trades Fair is the perfect centrepiece for an autumn weekend away. Entry to Hanging Rock Reserve on 19 March, 20 March & 21 March 2027 The 2027 Lost Trades Fair is a declared major event day at Hanging Rock Reserve. Access to Hanging Rock across 20 and 21 March 2026, is exclusive to Lost Trades Fair ticket holders only. Event ticket fees apply and tickets must be pre-purchased. There are no gate sales. On 19 March 2026, Hanging Rock Reserve is closed for the installation of temporary event infrastructure ahead of the Lost Trades Fair. 2027 Lost Trades Fair Tickets go on sale in December 2026. Do I need to book tickets? Yes. Tickets must be purchased online before the event, as they are not sold at the gate. Booking early is recommended, particularly if you're travelling from Melbourne or planning a weekend in the Macedon Ranges. Does my ticket include entry to Hanging Rock? Yes. Your Lost Trades Fair ticket includes entry to Hanging Rock Reserve, so you can enjoy both the fair and one of Victoria's most iconic natural attractions during your visit. Can I buy a weekend ticket? Yes. Both single-day and weekend passes are available, giving you the flexibility to spend more time exploring the artisans, demonstrations and Hanging Rock. Can I get a refund or change my ticket? Tickets are generally non-refundable and cannot be transferred to another day. Check the organiser's ticket conditions before purchasing. How do I get to the Lost Trades Fair? Hanging Rock is an easy drive from Melbourne via the Calder Freeway. You can also catch a V/Line train to Woodend, where complimentary shuttle buses operate to the event for ticket holders throughout the weekend. Is there parking? Yes. Free onsite parking is available for ticket holders, with accessible parking located close to the event entrance. How long should I spend at the Lost Trades Fair? Allow at least four to six hours to experience the fair. If you'd like to climb Hanging Rock or explore nearby villages, wineries and gardens, consider making it a weekend escape in the Macedon Ranges. Is the Lost Trades Fair suitable for families? Yes. The fair is family-friendly, with fascinating demonstrations, hands-on activities for children and plenty to capture curious minds. It's an enjoyable day out for visitors of all ages. Is the Lost Trades Fair wheelchair accessible? Accessible parking and toilets are available onsite, and many areas of the event can be accessed by wheelchair. As the fair is held outdoors on natural surfaces, some areas may be uneven. Can I bring my dog? No. Dogs are not permitted within the event, except for registered assistance dogs. Can you buy things at the Lost Trades Fair? Yes. Many artisans sell their handcrafted work, giving you the opportunity to purchase unique pieces directly from the people who made them. From ceramics and furniture to jewellery, leather goods and homewares, every purchase supports traditional craftsmanship. What traditional crafts will I see? The fair showcases a remarkable range of heritage trades and traditional skills, including blacksmithing, woodworking, leatherworking, weaving, pottery, silversmithing, bookbinding, basket making, tailoring, stone carving and more. Live demonstrations run throughout the weekend. Can I climb Hanging Rock during the Lost Trades Fair? Yes. Your ticket includes access to Hanging Rock Reserve, so you can walk to the summit, explore the reserve and enjoy its unique volcanic landscape during your visit. What else can I do near Hanging Rock? Extend your stay by exploring the Macedon Ranges. Visit nearby Woodend, Mount Macedon and Kyneton, discover boutique wineries, galleries and gardens, enjoy local cafés and restaurants, or head into Macedon Regional Park for scenic walks and waterfalls. Where should I stay? Choose from boutique hotels, country cottages, vineyard stays, luxury retreats, farm stays and campgrounds across the Macedon Ranges. As the Lost Trades Fair is one of the region's most popular events, booking accommodation well in advance is recommended. What makes the Lost Trades Fair unique? Few events offer the chance to see so many traditional trades demonstrated in one place. Combined with the natural beauty of Hanging Rock and the opportunity to meet the makers, the Lost Trades Fair is unlike any other artisan event in Australia. Can I make a weekend of visiting the Lost Trades Fair? Absolutely. Spend a day at the fair, then discover the villages, cool-climate wineries, galleries, gardens, walking trails and exceptional food and wine that make the Macedon Ranges one of Victoria's favourite regional escapes.