Nhill is a small wheat town situated in the north-west of the Wimmera. The town makes a great base and springboard for exploring the Little Desert National Park and Big Desert National Park, renowned for their vast range of fauna and flora. There are around 670 varieties of flowering plants. History The name Nhill is thought to be derived from the Aboriginal word 'nyell', meaning 'white mist on water'. Land around Nhill was first taken up by selectors in the 1870's and its prosperity since then has been built on agricultural, cereal and wool production, as well as light industry. Nhill's place in history is reflected in its post office, the restored former cottage of Australia's leading lyric poet, John Shaw Neilson, the historical society museum and the draught horse memorial. The main street also features a monument to the Mallee Fowl. Things to Do and See John Shaw Neilson Cottage is where the famous lyric poet once lived. You can see his original childhood cottage, which has been restored and relocated from his birthplace in Penola, South Australia, to John Shaw Neilson Park. In town is the memorial to the faithful 'Clydesdale Horse' which worked so hard to cultivate the Wimmera. The memorial is affectionately known as the talking horse and is a favourite with visitors. Other Points of Interest Historical Society Museum- McPherson St. The boardwalk from Jaypex Park at Nhill Lake has a birdhide to view the many different varieties of birds. The Post Office built in 1881 is classified by the National Trust. See the largest concrete single-bin silo in Victoria, located in Davis Street. The Mallee Fowl Monument near the Hindmarsh Shire Office and the Mallee Fowl Aviary at the Little Desert Lodge at Winiam. Events Vintage machinery rally- March. Little Desert Wildflower Exhibition- September / October. Nhill Agricultural Show. How to Get There Nhill is 373kms northwest of Melbourne   Melways Ref: 519 K7 Pop:1,900 Visitor Information Victoria St Tel: (03) 5391 3086 Click Here to View Map Back to Top     Desert banksias in the Little Desert National Park.