Newstead is a thriving country town midway between Ballarat and Bendigo, and 140 kilometres north-west of Melbourne. Situated on the Loddon River, in the heart of the Goldfields, the town is largely a farming community of wool and dairy.

Newstead Racecourse and Recreation Reserve was once the longest racecourse in Australia, and now welcomes RV travellers to camp at their serene, shady site. Stays of up to 72 hours are permitted for a donation of $10per person per night via the honesty box at the entrance. Potable water, barbecue facilities, a covered bar area, toilets and showers are available, with a dump point being installed soon. 

There is plenty to do in the Newstead area including bushwalking, fishing, swimming, as well as day trips to the nearby Daylesford/Hepburn Spa region and historic Maldon. The town offers plenty of facilities including a supermarket, post office, café and hotels. Newstead also provides free wireless internet access to visitors while in town.

Cost: $10 to the honest box

Parking: 72hrs, c/seating, water, BBQ, toilets, showers (key from RTC), kitchen/function room (fee). Not available: ANZAC Day weekend & 1st weekend in Oct due to pre-booked events.

Opening Hours: 7 days