Creswick
Discover the history of a town built on gold in Creswick
Renowned as the birthplace of notable Australian figures such as Prime Minister John Curtin and artist Norman Lindsay, Creswick exudes a sense of intriguing historical gravitas. Wandering along the town's gracefully curved main street lined with grand period buildings, it's not hard to imagine yourself travelling back in time to the 1850s when the discovery of gold turned this fledgling agricultural outpost into a thriving boomtown.
With the hills and valleys around the town devastated by logging and over clearing during the gold rush, pioneering forester John La Gerche stepped in to rehabilitate the landscape, and today Creswick also holds the distinction of being the birthplace of Australian forestry. Visitors can marvel at the legacy of La Gerche through the town's splendid street plantings and a dedicated forest walking trail.
There are many other memorable walks to do in Creswick, including the fascinating School of Forestry Loop, the Creswick of the Lindsays Arts Trail(PDF, 3MB), and the Calembeen Park Circuit.
Immerse yourself further in local history at Creswick Museum, where you'll find a permanent display of artefacts and artworks relating to the Lindsay family. Indulge in the region's culinary delights at one of the many local cafes and restaurants(PDF, 2MB), showcasing the finest in regional produce.
Leave time to venture into serene Creswick Regional Park, where you may be fortunate enough to spot koalas among the treetops. Wildlife lovers should also keep their eyes peeled at nearby St Georges Lake for a sighting of the elusive platypus. And those who are fans of a round of golf may spot kangaroos on the fairways at RACV Goldfields Resort (where the course was designed by Robert Allenby and Tony Cashmore).
Finally, embark on an adrenaline-fuelled journey of discovery through the rugged landscapes around Creswick on the new Djuwang Baring mountain biking trail network. Blending natural beauty and First Nation's cultural interpretation, this world-class MTB course is sure to impress riders of all skill levels. The trailhead is located in Hammon Park — just a short stroll from the town centre.
For more tips for things to see and do, call into the Creswick Visitor Information Centre. It's open daily from 10 am to 4 pm.