History and Heritage in the Macedon Ranges
The flow of human traffic that came from Melbourne to the goldfields had an enormous impact on the natural landscape, society and architecture of each village in the Macedon Ranges. Everywhere you look, there are fascinating stories to be told.
Our region has always figured prominently in Australia’s wider socio-political arena. A significant meeting held in the Kyneton Mechanics Institute in 1893 instigated the Corowa Conference that eventually led to the Federation of Australia. The Kyneton District Mounted Rifle Corps was granted the title of ‘Prince of Wales’ in 1862 and merged with two other units to become the famous Light Horse Brigade that charged Bersheeba in World War 1.
Burke and Wills passed through the Macedon Ranges on their ill-fated way to the Gulf of Carpentaria. Today, you can still trace their path on the Burke and Wills Track outside Lancefield.
The Macedon Ranges also has a strong indigenous association, with evidence to suggest that Aboriginal people have lived in the area for at least 26,000 years. The region is home to sites of national significance and local indigenous communities that are still active today.
The Kyneton Museum in Piper Street is the ideal place to learn more about these and the other tales that dot the legacy of the Macedon Ranges. You can also visit the historical societies that are part of most villages in our region.
Gisborne & Mount Macedon District Historical Society
2-4 Hamilton St, Gisborne
Open: Wednesday 10.00am – 4.00pm
Email: history@gisbornemountmacedon.org.au
Phone: +6 3 5428 1450
Kyneton Historical Society
75 Piper St, Kyneton
Open: Tuesday & Saturday 9.30am – 1.00pm
Email: kynetonhs@hotmail.com
Phone: +61 418 545 648
Malmsbury Historical Society
Malmsbury Mechanics Institute, Mollison St, Malmsbury
Open: Friday 9.00am – 2.30pm
Email: malmsburyhistorical@gmail.com
Phone: +61 3 5423 2264
Romsey & Lancefield Districts Historical Society
Lancefield Courthouse, 55 Main Rd, Lancefield
Open: By appointment only
Email: lancefieldcourthouse@gmail.com
Phone: +61 418-172-659
Woodend & District Heritage Society
The Old Court House, 42 Forest St, Woodend
Open: Wednesday 10.00am – 4.00pm
Email: wdhs@vicnet.net.au
Phone: +61 3 5427 3361