| |
Warracknabeal
is a thriving rural commercial township at the centre of the major
grain growing area of the state. Wheat and barley remain the cash
crops, but canola, peas, beans and lupins provide the diversity.
The town's Aboriginal name means 'the place of big red gums shading
the watercourse'.
History
The first to occupy land around the future Warracknabeal, were the
Scott brothers, who in 1845 moved to a spot on Yarriambiack Creek,
which they called "Warracknabeal", after the Aboriginal word describing
the gum trees shading the watercourse.
There they established their "run" or station. Under the Scott's,
the total area of the Station was reported to be up to 124,000 acres
and supported up to 100,000 sheep.
Many of the early settlers found their properties overrun with wild
dogs, rabbits, kangaroos, emus and wild horses but a recurring shortage
of water was their biggest problem.
Finally the government was able to construct the channel system
and provide permanent water and the district never looked back.
Things to Do and See
Wheatlands Agricultural Machinery Museum located on the Henty Highway
has the most comprehensive collection of farm machinery in Australia
and is dedicated to the collection, restoration and display of agricultural
machinery used over the past 100 years, with particular interest
on the wheat industry.
Green Gables Game Farm produces up to 25,000 game birds including
guinea fowl, pheasants and partridges, destined for the gourmet
and restaurant markets around the Australia and overseas.
The Historical Centre in Scott St, houses a unique collection of
early documents, personal possessions and household articles from
the district. Housed in the town's first State Savings Bank, the
collection makes up the history of a typical Wimmera town.
Six buildings in the town have been classified by the National Trust.
The Post Office in Scott Street is an attractive example of Tudor
style architecture. It was built in 1909 and remains a unique feature
of the shopping centre.
The Yarriambiack Creek Walk offers a unique experience in Victoria
with it's proximity to town yet it's relatively untouched environment.
A striking feature of the creek is the largely undisturbed quality
of the trees lining it's banks. It is estimated that some of the
older river red gums and black box are 700 to 800 years old. Many
species of birds and the occasional wallaby can be seen along the
creek.
Other points of interest
The Log Lock-up (1872) classified 'B' by National trust in Devereux
Street. It was built in 1872 when the first permanent policeman
came to town and was used until 1960.
The Court House in Woolcock Street was built in 1891 and currently
being restored.
Events
Horse Racing: Warracknabeal Cup.
Sheep Hills Cup Golf Week.
Vintage Agricultural Machinery and Vehicle Rally.
How to get there
Warracknabeal is 330kms north-west of Melbourne
Melways Ref: 520 C6
Pop: 2400
Visitor Information
Warracknabeal Tourist Information Centre
!19 Scott St
Tel: (03) 5398 1632
or
Horsham Visitor Information Centre
20 O'Callaghan Pde, Horsham
Tel: (03) 5382 1832 Freecall 1800 633 218
Click
Here to View Map
Back to Top
|
|
The Warracknabeal Cup is the highlight
of the racing calendar.
|
