Northern Grampians Shire Council

St Arnaud’s development commenced with the gold rush of 1850. Originally named the New Bendigo Goldfield, the settlement was renamed St Arnaud shortly after, honouring the commander of the French Forces in the Crimean War – Jaques Leroy de St Arnaud – Marshal of France and a senator. He lies buried with Napoleon 111 in Les Invalides in Paris.

Many streets in the town are named after British military leaders involved in the same war.

Over the years, modern facilities have been subtly introduced to the town, without detracting from the old world character and charm associated with its past history. Like other towns born in the gold rush, St Arnaud is richly endowed with solid civic buildings, hotels and stores lavish with cast iron lace work. Another unique feature of the town is the bushland which completely encircles it, providing habitat for many native animals and plants.

Gold detecting areas still remain close to the town. The Teddington Reservoir, Avoca River, Lake Batyo Catyo, Lake Wooroonook, Volcano Reservoir, Lake Jil Jil and Walker’s Lake cater for fishing enthusiasts, while Lake Batyo Catyo is also popular for all water sports.