Sunflowers in the Kitchen Garden at Government House Victoria

Regional visits

Regional visits are a part of the Governor's program of community engagement, allowing the opportunity to recognise the contributions of Victorians, interact with volunteer organisations, engage in discussions with community leaders, and support cultural activities

October 2025: Regional Visit to Greater Bendigo City

Following a briefing with Greater Bendigo City Council, the Governor visited Vossloh – a global rail technology group which had opened a new manufacturing plant in Bendigo earlier in the year.

The Governor then visited the Clinical Teaching Building at the La Trobe Rural Health School, where she was guided on a tour of the facilities and met some of the students who benefit from them.

The Governor paid a visit to the Golden Dragon Museum and to the Bendigo Art Gallery – spaces that showcase the rich stories and cultural identity that define this region.

The day concluded with a civic reception at Bendigo Town Hall, where she had the opportunity to speak with community members about their ideas and aspirations and was entertained by the Bendigo Youth Choir, of which she is Patron. The choir premiered Australian Way of Life, by local artist and composer Gabriel Macura.

The following day, visits to Thales and to Australian Defence Apparel provided an important insight into the innovative work of these companies in the defence sector.

The Governor toured the Capital Theatre and sat down with representatives of the local arts sector for a roundtable discussion.

Concluding the Regional Visit, the Governor toured Peppergreen farm, which, as part of WISE Employment Services, provides employment for over 60 people living with disability.

Background information 

Greater Bendigo City

Greater Bendigo is a major regional centre servicing the towns and rural areas of the Loddon region, about 150 kms northwest of Melbourne.

In recent years, there has been a diversification of Bendigo’s economy from a reliance on manufacturing to other key industries and sectors such as health, education, retail, tourism and the creative industries.

Commerce, finance and government administration are also important activities. The 1880s gold rush wealth is evident in the streetscapes and historic buildings and is a major drawcard to the area today.

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