VMBSG is delighted to invite members and supporters to our next in-person Professional Development Seminar, to be held at Castlemaine Town Hall and hosted by Mt Alexander Shire Council on:

Friday 1 May 2026
1.00pm to 4.00pm
Castlemaine Town Hall

We have a great range of presentations planned for this in-person session, which is a valuable opportunity to hear directly about changes in the sector, learn from experts, and spend an afternoon connecting with colleagues from across the sector. It promises to be an informative and worthwhile session, and one we expect will be of strong interest to many in local government and the building regulatory profession.

Register for our May In-person Professional Development Session here.

Why not make a weekend of it?

If you are travelling to Castlemaine for the seminar, why not stay on and enjoy the weekend?

Castlemaine is one of Victoria’s most appealing regional destinations, with a welcoming atmosphere, a rich sense of history, and plenty to discover at an easy pace. From beautiful heritage streetscapes and galleries to gardens, boutique shopping, cafes and local hospitality, it is the perfect place to pair professional development with a short regional getaway.

The surrounding district is equally inviting, with nearby towns such as Maldon, Guildford and Harcourt all offering their own charm and easy opportunities for exploring before or after the seminar.

Things to enjoy in Castlemaine and surrounds

There is no shortage of ways to enjoy some extra time in the region.

You might like to browse The Mill, Castlemaine’s much-loved creative precinct, wander through the Castlemaine Art Museum, enjoy the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens, or soak up some history at the beautifully restored Theatre Royal.

For those who enjoy heritage, local stories and a scenic drive, the wider district offers charming townships, goldfields history and easy access to the Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park. If you are staying through to Sunday, the Castlemaine Farmers’ Market is another lovely way to round out the weekend before heading home.

Stay a little longer

There are plenty of accommodation options in Castlemaine and nearby towns, ranging from boutique stays and cosy cottages to bed and breakfasts, guesthouses and motels.

Whether you are planning a simple overnight stay or a more relaxed weekend away, staying locally makes it easy to enjoy the seminar and then take in a little more of what this wonderful region has to offer.

We would love to see you there

We warmly encourage members and supporters to register for the seminar and, if time allows, make the most of the opportunity to enjoy Castlemaine and surrounds while you are there.

It promises to be a valuable afternoon of professional development in a town well worth visiting.

You may also wish to browse the Official Visitor Guide for Castlemaine, Maldon & Surrounds for more ideas on where to stay, eat and explore.