Stawell Gift Hall of Fame

In the heart of the Northern Grampians Shire, between rugged sandstone ranges and valleys, is the Stawell Gift Hall of Fame. A tribute to one of Australia’s most iconic events, the Hall of Fame tells the story of the Stawell Gift and helps visitors connect with the natural beauty and Aboriginal culture of the Grampians National Park. From the views at Boroka Lookout to the Easter Festival, it’s more than a race – it’s an experience that combines sport, history and the Grampians.

History of the Stawell Gift

Since 1878, the Stawell Gift has been an Easter weekend escape for the gold miners of the area. What was a 2.3 km dash in 1878 has grown into a world-class sprint with athletes from around the world. The handicap system is an integral part of Stawell and Victoria’s history. Over the years the race has grown and is now a major event and part of local folklore, run by the Stawell Athletic Club and celebrated with outdoor adventure activities around town.

The Story Behind the Race

The Stawell Gift was born from the gold rush that shaped much of regional Victoria. As the miners settled in Stawell they needed recreation and socialisation and the footrace was born. Held over Easter, this hands on experience has been an annual event for over 100 years. With the Grampians and country life of Stawell as its backdrop the race quickly gained status. Today it’s part of the town’s fabric and Victoria’s sporting landscape with modern entertainment to go with the race.

Hall of Fame

The Stawell Gift Hall of Fame is a time machine, where you can see the history of this iconic event. Browse memorabilia and artefacts that tell the story of the race from the start to now. Exhibits include historic race gear, photos and trophies, showcasing the hard work and skill of the athletes who have competed over the years. The gift shop has all the souvenirs you need to commemorate the race and the Grampians.

Memorabilia and Artefacts

The Hall has an incredible collection of memorabilia and artefacts from past events. You’ll see old running shoes, timing devices from the early days of the Stawell Gift and more. The displays also feature rock formations that mirror the Grampians Peaks Trail just outside Stawell, representing the strength and endurance of the runners. Stawell’s Annual Easter Festival, held in conjunction with the race, has local food, art and entertainment so you can experience the country life.

Hall of Champions

The Hall of Champions is where we honour the incredible athletes who have run the 2.3km track over the years. Here you’ll find profiles of past winners with their stories of training and victory. It’s where the names of champions past live on, and shows what it takes to win such a legendary event. The Hall includes local heroes and international athletes, linking the past to the present. Their stories are of the natural beauty and ruggedness of the mountains and hills that surround the course.

More Than Just a Run

Beyond the Stawell Gift, there’s more to the Grampians than just a footrace. Visitors can visit Aboriginal rock art sites, walk the Grampians Peaks Trail or climb the peaks of Mount William and Mount Abrupt. Whether you’re an adventurous hiker, a rock scrambler, or a rockhopper through beautiful rock formations, the Grampians have something for everyone. The 360-degree views from Boroka Lookout and Reed Lookout are breathtaking from Victoria Valley and beyond.

Nature and Outdoor Activities

For those who prefer more laid back adventures the Grampians National Park has natural rock pools, deeper rock pools and scenic town attractions like the Fyans Creek Footbridge. The nearby Zumsteins Picnic Area is a quiet spot for family days out and if you like fishing Lake Bellfield and Lake Wartook are nearby. Native animals including kangaroos, wallabies and exotic mammals like emus roam free in this natural wonderland. You can also do Grampians Tours and sample local wines from Pomonal Estate, a boutique winery experience.

Stawell Easter Festival

Stawell comes to life at Easter with its annual festival, carnival rides, live music and more. The Stawell Gift is a local market with handmade crafts and gourmet food from the region’s holiday houses and farm gate shops. The wine festival is the highlight, where you can taste local wines and enjoy the town’s laid-back atmosphere. The Royal Mail Hotel is nearby and has luxury meals made from local produce, which is perfect for post-race celebrations.

Getting Here

Getting to Stawell is easy, just a 3 hour drive from Melbourne. You can take the scenic route through the valleys, towns and Black Range State Park. Or stay at Breeze Holiday Parks – Grampians and be in the middle of it all for the race and the natural beauty. For a different perspective, join a Grampians tour or book with Grampians Helicopters to enjoy aerial views of the mountain ranges and see the region over centuries.