locale

lo·​cale | \ lō-ˈkal

noun:/ a place or locality where something happens or is set, or that has particular events associated with it. 

Similar: nexus, place, site, spot, area, position.

 
Our  Legendary Locales are much more than just pubs, breweries and wineries they are hand picked, immersive spaces with their own stories to tell, perfectly suited for musical performances with a mix of indoor & outdoor stages back dropped with stunningly serene vistas.
 
We're kicking off proceedings at The Union Hotel Heathcote in the Main Street for Friday Night Family Dinner as the festival settles into the new rhythm of it's expanded 2 day format.

The Heathcote Express Bus Tour rolls out Saturday 26th April where you'll enjoy a magical mystery music tour of the Heathcote region. 

Going Up The Country ... Stars & Bars Festival Heathcote brings together an assemblage of amazingly talented artists with some unique Central Victorian Goldfields locales; combined with an exploration of the finest wine, beer, spirits & food the Heathcote region is quickly becoming known for.


 Alright Ramblers, Let's Get Rambling...


 
 


 

We're back at The Union Hotel Heathcote in 2025 to kickstart proceedings on Anzac Day with a Friday Night Family Dinner on the 25th April from 7pm

The Heathcote Union Hotel  or "The Union" to locals, is a historic hotel located in mainstreet Heathcote.. It's been a prominent feature of the town since the late 1800s, known for their good old fashioned Heathcote Hospitality, great counter meals as well as showcasing the best local wine & beer the region has to offer. 

With its rich history and traditional charm, the Heathcote Union Hotel is a popular destination for those exploring the Heathcote region. If you're planning on a pint, a parmi or a punt they've got you covered on all counts. 

Not to mention the Beer Garden which plays host to our Friday Night Family Dinner for a Pub Feed & Blazing Backroom Rockabilly & Alt Country Blitz to set up your Long Weekend in Central Victoria's Heartland.

Be sure to book your ticket early to avoid disappointment!

Event ticket includes Entry to the Show in the Union Beer Garden from 7pm.

 To book a table for Dinner before the show call the pub direct.


Address: 171 High St, Heathcote VIC 3523
Phone: (03) 5433 2848


       
      


 
Tucked away in the picturesque township of Axedale, the Axedale Tavern is the perfect spot to kick off your regional adventure with a hearty early lunch. This rustic pub oozes charm, welcoming visitors with its friendly staff and a menu brimming with classic pub feeds. Whether you’re in the mood for acrispy chicken schnitzel or a smokey chicken and mushroom pasta the flavors here promise to satisfy.

Step inside, and you’re met with a cozy interior that invites you to linger a little longer. Prefer the outdoors? The beer garden is an excellent choice, offering a tranquil setting to soak in the countryside vibes.  On weekends, live music fills the air, transforming your dining experience into a celebration of local talent perfect for Stars & Bars Festival Midday matinee

A must-visit for travelers and locals alike, Axedale Tavern blends a heady mix of cold beers in the front bar, hearty pub meals in the dining room and a real community spirit. 
 

 
         
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Nestled in the rolling hills of Heathcote, Tellurian Wines is a haven for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. This family-run vineyard is renowned for its expertly crafted Shiraz, which has earned accolades far beyond the region. A visit to their sleek and modern cellar door is a feast for the senses, with every sip telling the story of Heathcote’s rich terroir.

The vineyard is situated on the western side of Mt Camel at Toolleen, on the red Cambrian soil that has made Heathcote one of the foremost regions in Australia for the production of shiraz (Tellurian means ‘of the earth’). Viticultural consultant Tim Brown not only supervises the certified organic Tellurian estate plantings, but also works closely with the growers of grapes purchased under contract for Tellurian.

Further plantings on the Tellurian property in '11 introduced small parcels of grenache, mourvèdre, carignan, nero d'Avola, marsanne, viognier, fiano, riesling and grenache gris to the 20ha of shiraz.

Beyond the wine, it’s the setting that captivates. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards and hills, making it an idyllic spot to unwind. Their knowledgeable team is on hand to guide you through tastings, sharing their passion for winemaking and ensuring every visit feels personal. 

Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious first-timer, Tellurian Wines offers a memorable escape. 
 

 
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
Where vineyards meet hops, Shiraz Republic and Cornella Brewery offer a one-of-a-kind experience in the heart of Victoria. Set on a picturesque 25-acre vineyard, winery and cellar door they're  known for their bold Shiraz wines and adventurous craft beers. This dual-purpose venue is perfect for those who love to mix things up. Step into their rustic tasting room and prepare to indulge in an array of handcrafted beverages that celebrate the best of local produce.

Set amidst lush vines and open fields, the ambiance here is as inviting as the drinks. Guests can relax in the outdoor spaces, savor a picnic on the lawn, shoot some pool or mingle with locals over a pint or tinnie. Famous for Live Music and seasonal events like the Cornella Canola Walk, they add a unique twist to the experience, making each visit feel fresh and exciting.

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a beer aficionado, or both, Shiraz Republic and Cornella Brewery are a must-see Campaspe Shire destination. They also boast excellent onsite cabin accommodation should you wish to linger longer for an extended staycation!


Shiraz Republic


           

 Cornella Brewery


               
 

 
Heathcote's original brewer Palling Bros Brewery is in the heartland of Goldfields Territory, Heathcote! This establishment specialises in handcrafted artisan beer for beer lovers, fine dining, and live music.
 
Their team brews, kegs, bottles, sells and drinks the beer - They love their job!
Founder Henry Rood Palling  Rood Henry to his friends, was one of Heathcote's founding brewers. A legend, honoured by Alfred Deakin (our second Prime Minister) when he was Australia's Attorney General. The guy helped put Heathcote on the map! Palling's are super excited to be back in town & they'd love you to join them - just ask for Henry!
 
To the back of the venue you can see the brewery, all their beers are made on site and poured on tap brewery fresh. Palling's chefs have an amazing menu to cater for everyone’s taste buds, and use locally sourced products.
 
Palling Bros Brewery is a dog friendly venue, with a large beer garden outside to soak up the sun with friends and family while having a beer in hand. A wide variety of craft beer is here to satisfy every beer lover, from our famous Indian Pale Ale, Stouts, Golden Ale, & exclusive mid strength Great Southern.
 
     
 
 
 
 
 

 



 
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