Stawell brings together the history of the Stawell Gift, art, a memorial and nearby nature destinations. You can plan your trip around different interests: the Easter race, art and local history, or outdoor activities. These attractions are spread across different areas: the race and Hall of Fame are in Central Park, the memorial is in Cato Park, and the nature destinations are nearby.

The Stawell Gift and its history

The Stawell Gift has been held every year at Easter since 1878. There were exceptions from 1942 to 1945 because of the Second World War and in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is regarded as Australia's oldest and richest short-distance race; Central Park in Stawell is its home. If you're planning your stay around the race, you can plan for this recurring Easter event.

The Stawell Gift Hall of Fame is also in Central Park. Its collection includes artefacts, memorabilia, multimedia clips and archives dating back to the origins of the Stawell Gift in 1878. That founding year links the event's tradition with the collection's historical perspective. For travellers who want to understand the sporting event in its historical context, the Hall of Fame offers a specific cultural destination. The race as an event and its history in the collection provide different ways to engage with the same subject.

Art and heritage in Stawell

Not every cultural stop in Stawell revolves around the race. The Stawell Railway Station Gallery showcases works by local artists; exhibitions change, so check what's currently on display before planning a specific visit. The Stawell Cultural Heritage Trail is another interesting attraction in town. The gallery is an option for changing displays of local art, while the trail focuses on cultural heritage.

The Stella Young memorial in Cato Park

The Stella Young memorial is in Cato Park. Footpaths from two accessible parking spaces lead both to the memorial and to accessible toilets. On 2 September 2025, the local council reported that the completed facility was available to visitors. Check the current condition of the paths and facilities before visiting.

Nature destinations nearby

Two nature destinations with different features are located near Stawell. The McCann Dam nature walk is a 2 km circuit; there are basic picnic facilities just off Stawell-Deep Lead Road. At Stawell Ironbarks Forest, you can walk or ride a bike; seasonal conditions may affect access. The choice is clear: the McCann Dam nature walk offers a measured circuit, while Ironbarks Forest gives you the option of walking or cycling. Local conditions and facilities may change; check them before visiting.

Discover more destinations: Lethbridge, Whittlesea, Tourello, Bundalong, Eagle Point, Mount Cole, Beechworth, Bellbrae

For the broader travel overview: Victoria.