Off the Rails Dunkeld, VIC, Gunditjmara and Eastern Maar Peoples Country
Off the Rails Dunkeld stands on the traditional lands of the Gunditjmara and Eastern Maar Peoples People.
Off the Rails Dunkeld is a volunteer-run, not-for-profit arts and community hub set within the beautifully restored heritage Dunkeld Railway Station. It provides an inclusive space where locals and visitors can connect through arts, educational, creative, and cultural activities, fostering a strong sense of belonging and shared purpose.
Welcoming everyone, Off the Rails invites the community to participate, collaborate, and enjoy the vibrant spirit of this cherished gathering place.
Local Knowledge from Your Hosts:
1. Gateway to the Grampians (Gariwerd): Dunkeld is the southern gateway to the spectacular Grampians National Park, offering immediate access to striking peaks such as Mud-Dadjug (Mount Abrupt) and Wurgarri (Mount Sturgeon), perfect for hikers and photographers.
2. A Foodie Haven: This small town punches above its weight in the culinary scene, boasting the award-winning Royal Mail Hotel, famous for its chef’s-hat dining and extensive wine cellar – one of the finest regional dining experiences in Australia.
3. Ancient Landscape and Rich Culture: The surrounding Gariwerd ranges are home to some of the oldest known rock art sites in the world, preserving the stories and traditions of the Jardwadjali and Djab Wurrung peoples.
4. Nature’s Playground: Visitors can spot abundant wildlife, from emus and kangaroos grazing by the Wannon River to rare orchids and native wildflowers that blanket the landscape in spring.
5. Heritage Charm: Dunkeld’s historic railway station – now home to the vibrant arts hub Off the Rails Dunkeld – is a reminder of the town’s 19thcentury rail history and community spirit.
6. Trails and Tastebuds: The town is a favourite base for scenic drives and cycling routes, as well as farm-gate tours offering local produce, from olive oil to cool-climate wines.
Festival of Small Halls rolls into Dunkeld on Thursday, 12 March 2026 with Irish Mythen (IRE/CAN) and Kaurna Cronin.
Opening the show will be Bonnie Jackson!
With an uncanny ability to craft visual lyrics and stir intense emotions, Bonnie Jackson writes mature and heartfelt songs. Her instinct for honesty and her captivating vocal delivery create earworms that tighten around your chest and won’t let go. Inspired by songwriters such as Lizzy McAlpine, Billie Holiday, Paul Kelly and Tyler Childers, Bonnie’s sound is equal parts contemporary folk, indie pop, and Australian storyteller.
Tickets are priced at: Full Admission – $35
Alternatively, you can purchase tickets locally at the Dunkeld Post Office
Doors Open 6.30pm
Show Starts 7.00pm
Bar service (beer, wine and soft drink) is available at the Hall.
Off the Rails Dunkeld has accessible entry (a ramp is not required, it’s all on the same level)
and has accessible bathrooms (fully accessible toilet). [
