RV Friendlies & Events

Charlton, known as 'The Friendly River Town', is situated on the banks of the Avoca River, at the junction of the Calder and Borung Highways. This small attractive rural town of tree lined streets was established for pastoral purposes, not gold mining like many other towns in the region. Charlton is full of historical buildings from days gone by and is definitely worth exploring. The Tourist Information Centre is housed in another historic building, 'The Traveller's Rest'. Drop in and pick up all the brochures needed to enjoy your stay in Charlton. Former Prime Minister, John Curtin spent a short period of his youth in Charlton, and the Traveller's Rest has a display dedicated to him. The enormous grain silos denote the main local industry, although Charlton is also a large beef producer. The wool and sheep industry also contribute to the local economy. Like many rural towns, it is feeling the effects of the drought, so any input into the economy will be welcomed.Those wishing to visit Charlton can find short-term parking at Travellers Rest Area, off the Calder Hwy. Here, visitors will have access to a dump point and potable water. Charlton is rich in history and a wonderful place to base yourself when exploring the region. The Charlton Golden Grain Museum is located in the former mechanics' institute, circa 1882. The Museum contains collections of items relating to the local history and is open by appointment, (phone 03 5491 1755). Located opposite the Museum, St Andrew's Presbyterian Church, circa 1871, is the epitome of churches from that era. A prominent historical landmark is the former hotel 'Vale of Avoca', which was built on the site of an early bark hut inn in 1879 and now operates as a Bed and Breakfast. The nearby Wooroonook Lakes provide facilities for water sports and provides an ideal spot for a picnic. East of Charlton is Wychetella Forest containing many native animals including the rare Mallee Fowl. The town of Charlton holds many events throughout the year including the Art Show and Charlton Agricultural Show and Rodeo held every October. In December, the Mardi Gras is a great way to celebrate the Christmas Season.Tourist/Visitor Centre       Shire Offices, 1 High St, Charlton VICPh: 1300 520 520www.buloke.vic.gov.auEast Charlton Hotel Ph: 03 5491 1613Casual Parking       Travellers Rest Area, off the Calder HwyShort & Long Term Parking            Travellers Rest Area, pwr $25.00 pvpn, pick up keys from the East Charlton Hotel, Ph: 03 5491 1613 for shwrs; Gordon Caravan Park, off the Calder HwyDump Point  Travellers Rest AreaPotable Water          Travellers Rest Area; Gordon Park Caravan ParkHospital        19 Grandview St, Wycheproof, Ph: 03 5478 0700, (20min)Doctors Surgery     94 High St, Ph: 03 5477 6865Pharmacy     23 High St, Ph: 03 5491 1521Supermarket            28 High St, Ph: 03 5491 1909

Nakadoo is a family business-owned rural farm located just 4kms north of Coonamble on the Castlereagh Highway. The farm is an authentic country experience, complete with billy tea on offer for visitors. The farm offers RV parking free of charge, with showers, toilets, bins and water available. Pets on a lead are welcome. While visiting, be sure to take a tour of The Shed, which has a collection of farm and household items from the years past and information on how people lived and worked in the bush. There are even some props from the Lord of the Rings movies. Please note, there is a $10 per person charge for entry to The Shed. Visitors will also have the chance to meet some of the farm animals; from Wooly the highland, longhorn steer to lambs, chooks and many more. Nakadoo runs horse and cart rides, with short and long run options available.Cost: Nil charge, $10 for entry into memorabilia shedParking: Neg stay limit, pets on lead, m/coverage, showers, bins, toilets, waterOpening Hours: 7 days

Heywood is a small country town situated on the Fitzroy River, 352 kilometres south-west of Melbourne, Victoria. The town was settled by Europeans in the mid-1800s, however prior to this it was occupied by the Gunditjmara people. To the north and east of Heywood is the Budj Bim National Heritage Landscape, containing possibly the worlds’ oldest and most extensive aquaculture and human settlement sites.On the last Saturday in February each year, Heywood comes to life with the ‘Wood, Wine and Roses Festival’. The festival showcases the art and craft of the region, holding competitions for best cut flowers, crafts, painting, woodwork and photography. Gourmet food and wine stalls are available, along with entertainment, parades and rides. It is a fun-filled day for both visitors and locals of all ages.The campsite on Hunter Street East allows parking for up to 48 hours, with a dump point, potable water and bins provided. There is no cost to stay and pets are permitted on leads.Tourist/Visitor Information Centre        Portland Visitor Information CentreLee Breakwater Rd, Portland VICP: 03 5522 2130www.glenelg.vic.gov.auCasual Parking (near retail centre)Apex Park, Cameron St, HeywoodShort Term Parking           Hunter St East, Heywood, (48hrs), bins, water, pets on lead, nil chargeDump Point  Hunter St East, Heywood (Lat Long: -38.1311, 141.6327)Potable Water          Hunter St East, HeywoodHospital        21-23 Barclay St, Heywood, ph 03 5527 0555Doctors Surgery     21-23 Barclay St, Heywood, ph 03 5527 0555Pharmacy     Keatings Pharmacy, 63-65 Edgar St, Heywood, ph 03 5527 1683Supermarket            Daly’s IGA, 60/64 Edgar St, Heywood, ph 03 5527 2286