Bridgewater on Loddon sits proudly on the wide banks of the Loddon River, and has a rich history from the gold rush era in the mid nineteenth century.
Once the crossing point for gold diggers, today it is a key destination for visitors seeking a place to launch their boat, cast a reel or canoe down the majestic Loddon riverscape.
If its a retail hit you’re after, Loddon has you covered.
Take a step into the historic church’s op shop, or wander through the antique and collectibles shop, swing by the Water Wheel Winery and grab a bottle or two, or grab a delicious picnic lunch from the ever popular Bridgewater Bakehouse, which was awarded first place for Australia’s best vanilla slice in 2018.
In the late 1830s, central and southern areas around the current Bridgewater township were selected by squatters and held under licence.
The township was established after a nearby discovery of gold.
This commodity attracted prospectors from far and wide, as a result, the township began to thrive.
Undoubtedly, the influx of people on the hunt for gold, lined the pockets of the local business owners and operators.
But it was the liquid gold of the Loddon River, that was responsible for the community’s prosperity and wealth.
Water afforded the local community a comfortable and thriving existence, cementing the Loddon River as Bridgewater’s heart and lifeline.
In its heyday, Bridgewater boasted up to 11 hotels, general stores, bootmakers, breweries, cordial, cheese and butter factories, butcher shops, blacksmiths, saddlers shops, bakeries, flour mills, fruit and lolly shops, the railway and its own Chinese market garden.
The Shire takes its name from northcentral Victoria’s largest watercourse, the Loddon River.
Home to many threatened species and a source of great pleasure to Victorians for generations, the Loddon River’s journey begins in Victoria’s Great
Dividing Range, not far from Trentham.
Its journey continues some 392km north through the rural townships of Newstead, Bridgewater, Serpentine, Boort and Kerang, before joining the
mighty Murray River between Barham and Swan Hill.
When reasonable water levels flow, the Mill Rapid downstream of the Calder Highway bridge provides technical whitewater kayaking of Grade 3 standard, featuring a short fast run.
The Bridgewater Triathlon attracts competitors from all corners of Australia and in February 2023 it will celebrate its 17th year.
Top 5 things to see & do Bridgewater
1. Kooyoora National Park is where local and visitors alike can travel back in time to the township’s origins and go gold prospecting.
For those with a taste for adrenaline, there is abseiling and rock climbing as well as an incredible amount of Aboriginal heritage and native flora and fauna to enjoy.
The park is the reputed home of the infamous Captain Melville, who built a reputation for robbing the gold out of the wagons passing below, seeking refuge in the park’s many caves.
2. The Bridgewater Ski Club is proud to boast about the Loddon Rivers capabilities.
There is a designated 3.2km general water skiing area, a 950m slalom and ski jump area with water skiing events held throughout the year, including the Australian Masters in January, the preMoomba tournament in February and the Bridgewater Ski Club Tournament.
3. Bridgewater’s Historical Water Hole has afforded the many generations of Bridgewater residents many memories.
Whether you want to swim, have a leisurely paddle or just dip your feet in while watching the kids have a frolic, it is a great spot to spend a hot summers day.
4. Chinaman’s Hole is popular with locals and tourists alike.
It is a serene spot that’s ideal for a picnic, or to drop in a line for a spot of fishing.
Many wonderful fish can be caught along the length of the river include redfin, Murray cod, golden and silver perch.
5. Step into the iconic Bridgewater Hotel.
The glorious, art deco inspired country pub is primely located beside the majestic Loddon River and boasts a magical beer garden with eye catching views of the river. It’s much more than a “small country pub”.
