Jock Comini Memorial Rest Area | Free Camping near Elmore & Bendigo

The Jock Comini Memorial Rest Area is a cherished stop for travellers journeying along Victoria’s Northern Highway (B75). Situated between the major regional city of Bendigo and the Murray River town of Echuca, this rest area offers a peaceful and welcome respite from the road. Unlike the bustling stops on major freeways, this site provides a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a tranquil overnight stay. It’s a large, drive-through area set back from the highway, with plenty of mature trees offering shade during the hot summer months. The layout easily accommodates all vehicle types, from cars and camper trailers to large motorhomes and caravans.

The site is well-maintained and provides essential amenities for self-sufficient campers, including a clean toilet block and rubbish bins. The ground is a mix of gravel and dirt, generally firm and suitable for setting up camp. One of the key benefits of this location is its position away from the constant drone of heavy traffic, allowing for a more restful night’s sleep. While there is no potable water, power, or showers, its core function as a safe and legal free camping spot is highly valued by the travelling community. Its proximity to the nearby towns of Elmore and Goornong means that supplies, fuel, and a good pub meal are just a short drive away. For anyone travelling the Northern Highway, the Jock Comini Memorial Rest Area is a reliable and pleasant choice for breaking up the journey.

Location Details

• Name: Jock Comini Memorial Rest Area
• Address: Northern Highway (B75), near Elmore, Victoria, Australia

• GPS Coordinates: -36.898952, 144.218913

• Website: Not available

Site Information

• Location: On the Northern Highway (B75), approximately 40km south-west of Elmore and 45km north-east of Bendigo.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicles, including big rigs.
• Road Access: Sealed highway access.
• Site Surface: Gravel and dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, overnight stays are permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours recommended.
• Facilities: Basic, no power or showers.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra; Optus and Vodafone may be weaker.
• TV Reception: Generally reliable for digital TV.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes.
• Open Fires: Prohibited. Use of personal cooking equipment is allowed.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but please be considerate of noise levels and other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Unmarked, large area. Approximately 20+ spaces.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, food, insect repellent.

Local Amenities & Services

• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash.
• Fishing: Campaspe River runs through Elmore (approx. 40 km) and is popular for fishing.
• Short Walks: Onsite area is large enough for a short stroll to stretch your legs.

• Local Pubs:
  • Elmore Victoria Hotel (approx. 40 km)
  • The Shamrock Hotel, Elmore (approx. 40 km)
  • Universal Hotel, Bendigo (approx. 45 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Elmore Bakery (approx. 40 km)
  • A wide variety of options in Bendigo (approx. 45 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Elmore Miniature Railway (check running days) (approx. 40 km)
  • Central Deborah Gold Mine, Bendigo (approx. 45 km)
  • Bendigo Pottery (approx. 42 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Elmore Caravan Park (approx. 40 km)
  • BIG4 Bendigo Park Lane Holiday Park (approx. 42 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Avonmore Rest Area (approx. 20 km south)
  • Elmore Events Centre (check for specific camping availability) (approx. 40 km north)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Bendigo Showgrounds (approx. 45 km)
  • Elmore Caravan Park (check with management for public use) (approx. 40 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Goornong (approx. 20 km) or Elmore (approx. 40 km)
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Visitor Information Centres in Bendigo or Elmore may have taps available.
• Nearest Public Toilets:
  • Onsite
  • Public toilets in Elmore and Goornong townships.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Northern Victoria Area

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and very dry. Temperatures often exceed 35°C, with averages between 16°C and 32°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Warm, sunny days and cooler nights. Temperatures range from 9°C to 26°C. Generally pleasant weather.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often cloudy with frosty mornings. Temperatures average 4°C to 15°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and becomes warmer. A mix of sunshine and showers with temperatures from 7°C to 24°C.