Donald, combines all the charm and leisurely lifestyle of a country town. Situated on the Richardson River at the junction of the Sunraysia and Borung Highways', the town is nearby to Lake Buloke, a lake of great environmental interest with it's extensive wetlands providing breeding areas for a range of wildlife.

Donald and the surronding district is a traditional cereal growing area for wheat and barley. High quality fat lambs, wool and wheat are the principal products of the area. Diversification into field peas, safflower, canola and other crops has become increasingly popular, presenting the opportunity for some interesting agricultural tours of the area.

History

Reminders of Donald's past can be seen in many places around town. The tourist information centre is located in the old police station which dates back to 1868.

Things to Do and See

Donald offers a wide range of recreational activities, mainly based on the nearby lakes and sporting fields. Water skiing and general water sports as well as good fishing opportunities are on offer at Lake Batyo Catyo and Browns Lake.

Steamtrain Park on the corner of Hammil and Walker Street's is the site of the old J524 class steam locomotive.

Bullock's Head Lookout, is a natural growth on a tree trunk standing on the Richardson River near Byrne Street. From the lookout the formation resembles a bulls head. When the river floods there is great interest whether the bull will drink or not.

Scilley's Island has an interesting paved walk and bike track, that extends from Corack Rd at the northern end of Donald, across the main bridges through the Johnson Goodwin Village back to the centre of town.

Mount Jeffcott Reserve, located 20km from Donald off the Borung Hwy contains rare tree and plant species. The wildflower reserve is ideal for hiking or 4-wheel driving and is ideal for kangaroo spotting and views of Lake Buloke.


Other Points of Interest

Agricultural Museum, adjacent to main sports ground.

The main shopping centre boasts many original and restored buildings from the 1860's and 1870's.

Georgie's Hut was the home of George the Chinaman who lived there for 80 years supplying Donald and the district vegetables from his market garden.

Apex park is an attractive spot with picnic and barbecue facilities located between two bridges.

Major Events

Scottish Dancing Country Weekend - June
Donald Country Racing Cup - November
Angling Cup Fishing Competition - November

How to Get There

Donald is approximately 250kms north-west of Melbourne
Melways Ref: 520 F7
Pop: 1700

Visitor Information

Caravan Park, Hammil St,
Ph: (03) 5497 1764
or
Buloke Shire Council
Ph: (03) 5497 1300

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