Tours of the Former Bendigo Gas Works

The Bendigo Gas Works are one of around three remaining intact 19th century gas works in the world, and the only one in Australia. It is on the Victorian Heritage Register and regarded by the Institution of Engineers Australia as an internationally significant example of an entire provincial gasworks.

The Bendigo Gasworks operated from 1860 until 1973 when natural gas was introduced and remain as they were at the time of closure; a treasure of industrial heritage frozen in time. The site is rarely open and access is only possible via a guided tour. Our knowledgeable guides will tell the story of the retort house and a number of other fascinating features including the gas holders, condensers, purifier shed, stables, engine room and boiler house.

This is an industrial site. Enclosed shoes with low heels must be worn for your safety. There are steep steps to the retort house and some uneven ground. No children under 12 years are permitted on the tours. Each tour to take 1 hour 15 mins. Parking is available in nearby streets or catch tram to Lake Weeroona and a short walk.

Where to meet for tour

• Arrive 10 mins early and enter via the gate on Weeroona Avenue and wait at marquee. National Trust volunteers will check tickets and direct participants for each tour of the Gas Works.

Conditions of entry

• Pre-booking essential
• Before tour, participants must undertake a brief site induction
• This is an industrial site. 
• Enclosed shoes with low heels must be worn for your safety.
• There are steep steps to the retort house and some uneven ground.
• No children under 12 years are permitted on these tours
• No disabled toilets accessible on site
• Numbers are strictly limited to 15 persons per tour