Overview
Discover the rich history and remarkable legacy of the Chinese miners who came to Victoria during the gold rush. Through the 1850s, thousands of Chinese miners arrived alongside prospectors from the United Kingdom, Europe and America to prospect for gold. By 1855 nearly 19,000 Chinese had landed in the colony, and by 1857 the population had risen to 26,000.
Gardens and dragons
Get an introduction to the region's Chinese heritage in Bendigo's Chinese precinct, Dai Gum San (Big Gold Mountain). Explore the exhibitions and genealogical artefacts at the Golden Dragon Museum and wander the classical gardens.
Head further afield to visit the Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre in Ararat, the place where Chinese prospectors discovered one of the world's richest shallow alluvial goldfields – the Canton Lead.
Stories from the grave
Get a glimpse into the past at the White Hills Cemetery, Australia's largest Chinese burial ground. Pay your respects, trace family roots, and discover remnants of Chinese diggings, including circular shafts, introduced by Chinese miners for safety reasons.
Learn about burial customs on a visit to the Chinese sections in Ballarat's two cemeteries. See ceremonial burning towers, read about Chinese burial customs, and get a full record of all burial sites, including names and origins.
