Ballarat - Golden City Paddle Steamer and Museum - Central

Ballarat - Golden City Paddle Steamer and Museum

Ride The Golden City paddle steamer replica and see Lake Wendouree from a different point of view.

The Golden City Paddle Boat is operated by The Golden City Paddle Steamer Museum Society, a volunteer group, located at Lake Wendouree. The Paddle Boat is a replica of it's namesake, which operated on the lake from as early as the mid-1880's.

Lake Wendouree is situated in the heart of Ballarat and provides habitat for numerous species of birds and a vast range of flora and fauna. It is a popular recreational spot for anglers, boating enthusiasts, runners, walkers and photographers.

Public Cruises on the Golden City Paddle Boat normally operate from October to April (weather permitting). Boarding takes place on the western side of the lake, behind Pipers restaurant and leaves Gardens Wharf for 45 minute cruise on the hour from 1 pm on Sundays. Tickets are purchased at the time of boarding.

The 45 minute cruise sails at a leisurely pace around the lake via Fairyland to view water bird habitat, then past View Point, Lake Wendouree Rowing Club boat sheds and the 1956 Olympic Rowing Course.

Opening Hours:

Public cruises and private bookings are available from the start of October to the end of April.

Cost:

Cruise Prices

Museum
The Lake Wendouree Museum houses numerous historical photographs, artifacts and paddle boat records dating back to the late nineteenth century.

The Museum's prized possession is The Golden City Paddle Boat, a working replica of its namesake which operated on the lake from as early as the mid 1880's.

The Golden City Paddle Steamer Museum Society Inc. is located on the eastern side of Lake Wendouree, opposite Lake View Hotel and next door to The Boatshed Restaurant.

The Museum is open each Sunday 10am to 3pm for showings like the Historic Lake Wendouree Photographic display. The museum can open at other times by request from the public, businesses or groups (phone 0438 391 385).