Newstead Racecourse & Recreation Reserve

Newstead Racecourse and Recreation Reserve is a historic and spacious reserve located in the town of Newstead, Victoria, situated on the banks of the Loddon River in the heart of the Goldfields region. Once renowned as the longest racecourse in Australia, it now serves as a community recreation area and welcomes RV travellers for short stays.

The reserve encompasses approximately 80 acres and offers a serene and shady environment. While no longer hosting regular horse races, the grounds are utilised for various community activities and events, including equestrian groups, model plane enthusiasts, motorcycle groups, vintage car rallies, and bird-watching groups. A dedicated area within the reserve is available for camping, particularly catering to self-contained recreational vehicles. The reserve is managed and maintained by a volunteer committee. Stays are limited to a maximum of 72 hours.

While powered sites are mentioned as a feature of the reserve's facilities in some contexts (like the hireable function area), the general camping area appears to primarily offer unpowered sites. One source mentions "No power but fresh water available" for the camping area. It is advisable to confirm the availability and donation amount for powered sites, if any, upon arrival or by contacting the reserve.

During the annual Newstead Live festival, specific camping fees apply for different areas within the reserve, with varying facilities, including some with shower and toilet facilities but generally no electricity in the camping areas themselves.

Facilities: The reserve offers a range of facilities for campers and visitors:

• Toilets
• Showers (access may require a key from the Newstead Rural Transaction Centre)
• Potable water
• Covered barbecue area
• Outdoor kitchen/function room (available for hire for events)
• Dump point
• Shady camping areas
• Open community space
• Cricket nets
• Goal posts
• Netball court
• Oval
• Rotunda
• Seats
• Tennis courts
• Turf wicket
• Accessible toilets/changing rooms (in the pavilion)
• Pavilion with an open community space and kitchen (available for hire)
• Designated fire pits (fires permitted in these areas, subject to fire bans - note: no fires directly on the ground)

The reserve also provides free wireless internet access within the town of Newstead. Pets are permitted.

Distance to Tourist Spots Nearby: Newstead Racecourse & Recreation Reserve is well-located for exploring the central Victorian Goldfields region and its diverse attractions.

• Newstead Town: The reserve is located in Newstead, within walking distance of the town's facilities, including a supermarket, post office, cafe, hotels (like the Crown Hotel), the Newstead Arts Hub (in the renovated railway station), and the DIG Cafe. Explore the town's heritage sites, such as the Avenue of Honour and the War Memorial.
• Loddon River: The reserve is situated on the banks of the Loddon River, offering opportunities for fishing, swimming, and enjoying the riverside environment.
• Castlemaine: Located approximately a 10-15 minute drive south-east of Newstead (around 10-15 km). Castlemaine is a significant goldfields town with a rich history, known for its art galleries (including the Castlemaine Art Museum), The Mill Castlemaine (a creative hub with various businesses), and heritage architecture.
• Maldon: Situated approximately a 15-20 minute drive west of Newstead (around 15-20 km). Maldon is a remarkably preserved goldfields town classified by the National Trust, offering a step back in time with its historic streetscape, the Victorian Goldfields Railway (steam train rides to Castlemaine), and the Maldon Historic Reserve.
• Daylesford and Hepburn Springs: Located south-east of Newstead (approximately a 30-40 minute drive, around 30-40 km). This region is famous for its natural mineral springs, spas, wellness retreats, and a vibrant food and arts scene. Attractions include the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa and the Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens.
• Bendigo: A major regional city located north-east of Newstead (approximately a 40-50 minute drive, around 45-55 km). Bendigo boasts impressive Victorian architecture, the Bendigo Art Gallery, Central Deborah Gold Mine, and a wide range of shopping and dining options.
• Mount Alexander Regional Park: Located south-east of Newstead (distance varies), offering opportunities for bushwalking and enjoying panoramic views from the summit.

Newstead Racecourse & Recreation Reserve offers a spacious and affordable donation-based camping option in a historic setting, providing a great base for exploring the charming towns, natural landscapes, and rich goldfields heritage of central Victoria.