Historical Heartbeat: Bendigo’s Art & Culture Tour Recap – Art, Stories & Connections for International Students

BY AWCPD Event & Media Team

Melbourne, VIC – On 16 August 2025 – International students embarked on a cultural journey into the heart of regional Victoria at the Historical Heartbeat: Bendigo’s Art & Culture Tour. Organised by the Australia Women and Children Protection Development (AWCPD) under the Victoria Art & Cultural Trail program, as part of the State Government’s Study Melbourne Inclusion Program (SMIP) with support from Study Melbourne. This exclusive experience blended history, art, and community connection against the stunning backdrop of Bendigo’s rich heritage.

DISCOVERING BENDIGO ART GALLERY

Bendigo Art Gallery — Located in Bendigo, Victoria, the gallery is one of Australia’s oldest and largest regional galleries, featuring 19th-century European works, Australian art from the 1800s, and contemporary Australian pieces.

International students enjoyed an exclusive guided tour of the Bendigo Art Gallery, immersing themselves in the city’s artistic heartbeat. Through expert insights, students explored curated exhibitions that reflected Bendigo’s unique role in shaping Australia’s art scene — from historical masterpieces to contemporary works. Guides shared stories behind key artworks, opening new perspectives on how culture, history, and community identity are woven into Bendigo’s creative legacy.

GUIDED INSIGHTS AND INTERACTIVE LEARNING

The program encouraged students to engage in discussions and ask questions, fostering a deeper appreciation for Bendigo’s art and its broader cultural significance. Many participants remarked on how the gallery’s rich collection provided both a window into Australia’s artistic heritage and a platform for cultural exchange.

BEYOND THE GALLERY: EXPLORING BENDIGO

Following the gallery visit, students took a walking tour through Bendigo’s charming streetscapes. From the grand gold-rush architecture to hidden laneways, the stroll offered a living backdrop that connected the gallery experience to Bendigo’s wider cultural identity.

BUILDING CONNECTIONS & LASTING MEMORIES

The event drew remarkable interest, attracting over 100 registrants from more than 25 countries. More than just a gallery visit, this event created a welcoming space for international students to share experiences, exchange cultural insights, and form new friendships in a relaxed, small-group setting. The day highlighted the powerful role of art in bringing people together, leaving students with not only a deeper appreciation of Bendigo’s artistic heritage but also meaningful connections that will enrich their international student life in Victoria.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION

For more information about the VACT program, visit our website: https://www.wcpd.org.au/vact

NEXT UPCOMING EVENT

Urban Inspirations: Sketching Workshop - Sat, 20 Sept 2025

Media Contact

marketing@wcpd.org.au