But the real thing - meandering among second-hand stores, the dealer stands and their items on display – serves to reinforce just what an enthralling pastime hunting for your particular treasure can be.

A collector is someone who collects objects because they are beautiful, valuable, or interesting and there’s no better place to search for your particular treasure than the amazing cornucopia of gems on offer at the many establishments on the antique trail in central Victoria.

Take the time to start your journey at the Bendigo Antiques & Collectable Centre at the Bendigo Pottery.

Open every day, there’s no rush to compete with other collectors anxious to ensure they don't miss anything. There’s so many interesting items to potter among, you could spend a day each week and keep discovering something new.

Every week the dealers, ranging from keen amateurs to serious experts, work hard to update their stands to both encourage newcomers and provide a good source of supply to serious collectors.

Maybe you’re searching for some antique buttons (most items over a century old are allowed the honour of being called antique), vintage furniture, prints, pottery, jewellery, Asian artefacts, antique weaponry, fine porcelain, sterling silver, vintage clothing, a tractor seat or retro kitchen wares.

You won’t be disappointed.

There is something for everyone at the Antiques & Collectable Centre, it’s a fine browse for serious collectors and a sentimental journey for many.

You can take a break, bring a friend and prepare to spend the day, with a break for lunch or coffee, before resuming your treasure hunt.