Following the discovery of alluvial gold along the Bendigo creek in 1851 many people came from all parts of the world to seek their fortune
By 1855 it was estimated that there were approximately 5,000 Chinese people living in & around the Bendigo diggings
The Bendigo Joss House is a Chinese place of worship, the term Joss being derived from the Portuguese Dios meaning god
There were at least 6 other Joss Houses in the surrounding area. This building is now the solo remaining structure of the large settlement that covered the area known as the Ironbark Camp
The Bendigo Joss House was constructed in the 1860s. The temple was used by the Chinese Masonic Society as their temple from 1890s - 1930s.
It is one of the few remaining original buildings of its type in Australia
Beautifully embroidered altar cloth
The main altar is dedicated to Guan-Di, the god of war & prosperity. The Chinese saw Guan-Di as a wise judge, guide, protector & provider of wealth & prosperity - all the qualities that worshippers needed in this strange land
The animals in the cabinet represent the 12 years of the Chinese horoscope cycle
In the corner lies a brick-based kitchen stove. The Chinese believe that a good stove will guarantee peace in the family, while a bad stove will bring strife.
This stove existed for those in the community who lacked adequate cooking facilities
The building was constructed with locally hand made bricks & painted red, the traditional Chinese colour denoting strength & vitality
Culturally & historically, this building is of significance on a national level. It's the oldest Chinese place of worship left on its original site in Australia
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