Immerse yourself in the unique history, art and culture that is Buda Historic Home and Garden. Once the home of the Leviny family, it’s one of Australia’s unique treasures still largely intact from the goldrush days.

What winter pastimes did Ernest Leviny and his family enjoy more than 100 years ago at Buda, their stately Castlemaine home? Delving into the family’s collection of personal diaries, letters and other records reveal a little of how the family spent the winter months.

“I earned a shilling yesterday plucking a pair of ducks it took me nearly all morning. I think I would rather go without the shilling next time . . .” [Dorothy Leviny 5th March 1900]

“Last night Mary and I went to the Fether’s for the evening, we played Ping Pong and today I am stiff . . . some of us may go to Jo’s tonight, so I hope we don’t play it there. We didn’t see the ghost as we came home, Fred brought us to the gate, we were rather late, it was nearly twelve.” [Dorothy’s Diary 13th August 1902]

Stroll through the tranquil and ever-changing heritage listed garden and take time to imagine what life was like for these inspired artisans of Central Victoria.