Tag:nagambie
The 1836 Australia Felix Expedition, led by Major Thomas Mitchell, is integral to Australia’s exploration and colonisation history. This expedition, Mitchell’s third significant journey, was notable for discovering and naming “Australia Felix,” a fertile area in western Victoria.
Background and Objectives
Major Thomas Mitchell, a Scottish Surveyor-General of New South Wales, had established himself as a prominent explorer through two earlier expeditions. By the mid-1830s, European settlers in New South Wales were increasingly interested in expanding their grazing lands and discovering new areas suitable for agriculture. Reports about promising territories to the south heightened the need for further exploration.
To address this, Mitchell’s third expedition was authorised with two primary objectives:
1. Investigate the course of the Darling River, which he had partially explored during his second expedition.
2. Explore the lands south of the Murray River to assess their potential for European settlement.
This journey promised to provide vital insights into Australia’s interior and open new frontiers for settlement.
Preparation and Team
Mitchell’s expedition team was meticulously organised and consisted of soldiers, convicts, and Aboriginal guides. The group also included skilled surveyors and draftsmen to map the terrain and hunters and labourers to ensure the journey was well-supplied. They relied on seventy animals, such as horses, oxen, carts, two boats and a boat cart to transport necessary supplies, including provisions, scientific instruments, and weapons.
One of the most notable expedition members was John Piper, a Wiradjuri guide whose knowledge of the land and its resources proved invaluable. Indigenous guides like Piper were essential for navigating Australia’s challenging landscapes.
The Journey
The expedition began in Sydney in March 1836. Mitchell and his team travelled southwest, crossing the Lachlan and Murrumbidgee Rivers before reaching the Murray River. They encountered diverse terrain throughout their journey, including dense forests, open plains, and numerous river crossings. The expedition faced several challenges, such as harsh weather, problematic river fords, and occasional conflicts with local Aboriginal groups.
Crossing into Victoria
Upon crossing the Murray River into what is now Victoria, Mitchell and his team entered a landscape strikingly different from the arid regions they had previously explored. They encountered rolling plains, abundant watercourses, and lush vegetation—a sharp contrast to the harsher environments of New South Wales and central Australia.
Mitchell was deeply impressed by the fertility and beauty of this region. He described it as “a land flowing with milk and honey,” using a Biblical phrase highlighting its agricultural potential. Convinced of its promise for European settlement, Mitchell named the region “Australia Felix,” which is Latin for “Happy Australia” or “Fortunate Australia.”
Further Exploration
The expedition continued westward, travelling through the Wimmera region until it reached the Grampians mountain range. It then continued past Mt Macedon and crossed the Goulburn River at Tallarook before travelling past Nagambie Lagoon, Wharing, Euroa, and Violet Town before returning to Sydney. Mitchell’s detailed observations and maps highlighted the area’s abundant natural resources, including fertile soils, lush grasslands, and ample water supplies. These features made the region ideal for grazing and farming, perfectly aligning with the ambitions of European settlers.
The team’s journey also provided valuable insights into the local flora and fauna. Mitchell documented numerous species of plants and animals, many of which were unfamiliar to European naturalists at the time.
Encounters with Indigenous Peoples
Throughout the expedition, Mitchell and his team encountered various Aboriginal groups who had lived in these lands for tens of thousands of years. These interactions ranged from friendly exchanges to moments of tension and conflict.
Mitchell’s journal reflects a complex and often contradictory perspective on Indigenous Australians. While he occasionally admired their knowledge of the land and resourcefulness, his expedition inevitably disrupted local communities. In some instances, misunderstandings or perceived threats led to violent confrontations, further exacerbating tensions between Europeans and Indigenous peoples.
One of the most controversial incidents took place near the Murray River, where Mitchell’s party clashed with local Barkindjii Aboriginal groups. This violence resulted in seven Barkindji being killed and four wounded. While Mitchell’s writings framed the event as a defensive action, modern interpretations view it as part of a broader resistance pattern against colonisation.
…….It was difficult to come at such enemies hovering in our rear with lynx-eyed vigilance of savages. I succeeded however… Attacked simultaneously by both parties the whole betook themselves to the river, my men pursuing them and shooting as many as they could, numbers were shot swimming across the Murray, and some ever after they had reached the opposite shore as they descended the bank
Major Mitchell’s report
Mitchell named the site of the attack Mount Dispersion. He faced an inquiry in Sydney afterwards but received only a minor reprimand for his actions. On May 27, 2020, the 184th anniversary of the killings, the New South Wales government officially designated Mount Dispersion as an Aboriginal place, granting it legal recognition and protection as a significant site.
Return and Reports
In November 1836, Mitchell and his team returned to Sydney after completing a nearly eight-month journey. His detailed reports and maps vividly illustrated Australia Felix, highlighting its agricultural potential and natural beauty. Mitchell’s accounts were widely published and quickly captured the imagination of settlers eager to expand into new territories.
The discovery of Australia Felix marked a turning point in the colonisation of southeastern Australia. Within a few years, settlers began to move into the region, establishing sheep stations and farms. The area’s rich pastures proved to be ideal for grazing, contributing to the rapid growth of Australia’s wool industry.
Legacy of the Australia Felix Expedition
The Australia Felix expedition is significant in Australian exploration and settlement history. Major Thomas Mitchell is well-known for his role in mapping and documenting the region, but his legacy invites critical reflection.
From a colonial viewpoint, the expedition symbolises success in discovery and progress. Mitchell’s work facilitated the expansion of European settlement and contributed to Australia’s economic growth and development. The region’s fertile lands remain vital to Victoria’s agricultural industry today.
However, the expedition’s impact on Indigenous peoples reveals a darker aspect of colonisation. The displacement, violence, and cultural loss experienced by Aboriginal communities highlight the human cost of European expansion into Australia’s interior.
Conclusion
The Australia Felix expedition is a pivotal moment in Australian history, embodying both the aspirations and consequences of European colonisation. Major Thomas Mitchell’s journey revealed the potential of southeastern Australia’s fertile lands, opening new frontiers for settlement and economic development. Yet, it also marked the beginning of profound and often devastating changes for the region’s Indigenous inhabitants.
Today, the story of Australia Felix reminds us of the complexities of exploration and colonisation. It invites reflection on the achievements and challenges of Australia’s past, fostering a deeper understanding of the nation’s diverse history and its enduring legacies.
Footnote
In 2023, Birdlife Australia renamed the Major Mitchell Cockatoo to ‘Pink Cockatoo’. The name change was made to:
- Remove the association with Thomas Mitchell, who led a massacre of Aboriginal people in 1836
- Make species names more culturally inclusive
- Avoid associating culturally important organisms with violence and murder
further reading
Nestled in the heart of Victoria, the picturesque town of Nagambie. The town is known for its serene lake, lush surroundings, and vibrant community spirit. However, in recent months, this tranquil town became the centre of a critical environmental struggle to save 51 mature trees from being cut down as part of a proposed development project. Some trees are hundreds of years old and were at risk of being removed to make way for a lifestyle village development near Buckley Park. The story has a happy ending thanks to the community action led by a 51 Trees FB group.
The Importance of the 51 Trees
The 51 trees in question are not just random greenery; they are decades-old grey box giants that play a crucial role in the local ecosystem. Their canopies provide shade; their roots help stabilise the soil. They support biodiversity by offering birds, insects, and other wildlife habitats. From a climate perspective, these trees are vital carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide (CO2) and releasing oxygen. In an era where climate change threatens ecosystems globally, preserving such natural assets is essential. Additionally, these trees enhance the aesthetic charm of Nagambie, attracting tourists and providing a serene backdrop for locals to relax and unwind.
The Threat
Plans for urban development, including new infrastructure and possible residential expansion, threatened these 51 trees. While progress and growth are essential for any town, the community argues that development should not come at the expense of irreplaceable natural heritage. Once the trees are cut down, their ecological benefits will disappear. Crucially, it could take decades for newly planted saplings to provide comparable value.
This conflict is not unique to Nagambie. Communities across Australia and the world face similar dilemmas, often pitting economic interests against environmental preservation. However, the situation in Nagambie highlights a broader question: Can development and nature coexist harmoniously?
The Community’s Fight
Nagambie residents, environmentalists, and supporters from neighbouring towns rallied to protect these trees. Moya Stewart and Deb Dudley founded the 51 Trees FB group to rally community support. They organised peaceful protests, initiated petition drives, and sold aprons, tea towels and wine at markets. They engaged with local authorities to explore alternatives to the proposed plans. The message is clear: cutting down these trees should be the last resort.
Children have created painted signs, seniors have shared stories of playing under the trees during their youth, and local artists have crafted works inspired by these natural wonders. Social media campaigns using hashtags like #SaveNagambieTrees have raised awareness of the issue, capturing attention nationwide. The community’s stance is not against development itself but rather for a more thoughtful approach. Many residents suggest that developers consider alternative designs, allowing the trees to coexist with new infrastructure. Such compromises would demonstrate that Nagambie values both progress and preservation.
The Outcome
The campaign to save Nagambie’s 51 grassy box woodland trees was ultimately successful. After nearly two years of protests and legal actions, the Victorian Planning Minister decided to preserve the trees. This decision highlights the significance of community action and environmental advocacy in shaping urban planning. Rhonda Richards played a significant role in the campaign to save the 51 trees in Nagambie. As an active Save 51 Trees group member and chair of the Longwood Plains Catchment Network, she worked alongside other community members and environmental organisations to oppose the removal of these historic trees.
Richards contributed to the community-driven effort by coordinating actions, raising awareness about the trees’ environmental and cultural value, and advocating for their protection. This included participating in public objections, leveraging her network to gain support from local and regional environmental groups, and engaging in legal action through the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). Ultimately, the campaign succeeded when the Victorian Planning Minister intervened to protect the trees. However, the developer, Hallmarc, can appeal the decision within a specified timeframe.
You can still help
The financial burden on those involved in saving the trees has been substantial, and they are still working to recover funds. You can help by purchasing a beautiful high quality calendar or attending the Eurora Twilight Market, where their products and other items are available for sale.
Calendars are priced at $25 each and will be available at the market. They can also be purchased from Botanic House Nagambie, Avenel Fair Foods and Wildflowers, Rushworth General Store, and Bluetongue Berries in Seymour.
Euroa Twilight Market, Binney Street, Euroa – Friday 13th December
Chinamans Bridge is a large timber bridge that crosses the Goulburn River, 2.7 kilometres west of the Goulburn Valley Highway. It is believed to have been built in 1891 and was initially known as Kerris Bridge. It is one of Victoria’s oldest “surviving” timber bridges. The bridge’s construction was funded through a grant from the joint Public Works and Water Supply Departments. It was designed by the Goulburn Shire Council Engineer and built by the contractor JB Parkinson for £4188 3s 6d. Chinaman’s Bridge was first built as a drawbridge to allow river traffic to pass through. It was the era of river steamboats, and transport preferred the river to bullock teams on unmade roads. When river transport ceased, Chinaman’s drawbridge was no longer needed.
Architectural Features
The Chinamans Bridge had a lift span allowing sawmill and recreation steamers to pass through the Goulburn River. During the 1890s, the Nagambie Sawmill steamer crossed the bridge six times a week. Initially, the bridge carried the Nagambie-Heathcote Road over the river. However, a new bridge was built nearby, and the road was rerouted to cross the river at the new location.
The bridge was named Chinamans Bridge because it was located on Chinamans Road, an area once inhabited by Chinese market gardeners until 1916. Nagambie-Heathcote Road was initially known as Chinamans Road. Constructed of timber girder with hand-hewn squared timber stringers, the bridge features timber corbels and a deck. Of the lift span, only the timber fenders remain. The former drawbridge span was replaced with a steel span around 1940.
Heritage Listed
Chinamans Bridge holds heritage significance for the State of Victoria. It is listed in the Victorian Heritage Register (VHR) as place number 869 and register number H1449.3.
The bridge is historically significant as one of Victoria’s earliest all-timber road bridges. It is notable for using hand-hewn timber in construction and design details. Despite losing much of its original mechanism, the bridge is a rare surviving example of a bridge with a vertical span. From a historical perspective, Chinaman’s Bridge holds a noteworthy connection to the expansion of Victoria’s infrastructure in the 1890s and its role in the development of transport systems.
The bridge is closely linked with the growth of the township of Nagambie. It represents the prosperous sawmilling industry in the district during the 1890s. Chinamans bridge holds historical significance with its link to the steamboat era in Victoria. During this era in the 1890s, rivers were the preferred mode of transportation for recreational and commercial purposes over roads.
Flood Damage
The decaying bridge timbers were further weakened during the 2022 floods, making it extremely fragile and at risk of collapsing at any moment. Due to the immediate danger of collapse, engineers have deemed the bridge beyond repair. An exclusion zone was declared, and boats have been prohibited from passing under it since then.
The Strathbogie Shire Council has since applied to Heritage Victoria to have the heritage listing removed, allowing the bridge to be demolished.
The charming town of Nagambie is just 138 km from Melbourne. Situated on the Goulburn Valley Highway, it’s around halfway between Seymour and Shepparton in the heart of the Nagambie Lakes wine region. It is full of history, horse studs, vineyards and waterways. Nagambie was named in 1872, and in the local aboriginal language means “still waters”. The area is well known for its beautiful lake, attracting fishermen, rowers, and water skiers.
Black Caviar Statue
Black Caviar’s life-sized bronze statue is located at Jacobson’s Outlook in High Street Nagambie. Created by sculptor Mitch Mitchell, the statue was formally opened in October 2013. The statue is based on a photograph of jockey Luke Nolen riding Black Caviar in the Schweppes Stakes at Moonee Valley in October 2011.
Champion racehorse Black Caviar was born on 18 August 2006 at Gilgai Farm, Nagambie, growing up to become the fastest horse globally, winning all 25 of its races and earning $8 million in prize money. In 2013, Black Caviar retired from racing.
Lake Nagambie
Behind the Black Caviar statue lies beautiful Lake Nagambie. It is man-made and the largest body of water in the area covering 170 hectares. Before the construction of the Goulburn Weir, the “lake” was a swampy lagoon. Since its creation, however, it has become an increasingly popular destination. Fishing is a hugely popular pastime on the lake. The annual Go Fish Nagambie takes place each February and sees fishermen vying to catch the biggest Murray Cod for an $80k prize. In addition, rowing and yachting regattas, including the ‘Head of the River’, occur on the lake. Lake Nagambie recently also hosted the International Rowing Championships.
The lake’s eastern shore follows the tree-lined High Street with a wide centre median boasting a grassy picnic area with tables and public toilets.
Jacobson’s Outlook
A Methodist church originally stood on the site where Black Caviar now stands. The church was built in 1855 by the townspeople and stood for 118 years. However, in June 2003, a semi-trailer veered off the highway, colliding with the church. The semi-trailer came to rest inside the church, which resulted in the collapse of the building.
Goulburn Weir
The historic Goulburn Weir was built between 1887 to 1891 to regulate water flow for irrigation in Victoria. It is the first significant diversion structure building for irrigation in Australia. The dam wall is 209 metres long and 16 metres high. The Goulburn Wier diverts water via the Stuart Murray Canal and Cattanach Canal for later irrigation of nearby farming crops. The design of the Goulburn Weir was considered very advanced. It was so unique that the back of half sovereigns and ten shilling notes featured the design from 1913 to 1933.
The weir also contained one of the first two hydroelectric turbines in the southern hemisphere. In 1983 and 1988, stabilising and refurbishment works were undertaken. However, two original gates and gear have been preserved to recognise their place in Victoria’s history. The lush park around the weir includes a playground, picnic tables, electric BBQs and public toilets.
Kirwin’s Bridge
The heritage-listed Kirwin’s Bridge is a short 6km north of the lake. Kirwin’s bridge is a single-lane timber bridge, 310 metres long. The bridge opened in 1890 and is still used today for motor traffic. It features a unique design with a mid-river bend and two passing bays for vehicles. Kirwins Bridge is one of Victoria’s oldest timber bridges still in operation.
Chinamans Bridge
The heritage-listed Chinamans Bridge opened in 1891 and is another of Victoria’s oldest surviving timber road bridges. The bridge was one of several “strutted-stringer” river bridges built in Victoria. However, its timber lift span made it unique, which was constructed to allow riverboat traffic to pass under. The bridge takes its name from the Chinese market gardeners who farmed the rich soils of the Goulburn River.
Royal Mail Hotel
The Royal Mail Hotel is known by locals as the ‘The Top Pub’ and sits on the top end of High Street. Built in 1871, it was originally a stopover for mail delivery for Cobb & Co. and passenger accommodation.
Tahbilk Winery
The handmade brick and mudstone winery was built alongside the Goulburn River in the 1860s. Tahbilk celebrated its 160th birthday in 2020 and has been in the Purbrick family for five generations. As a result, Tahbilk is recognised as the oldest winery in Victoria and gained heritage status in 2004. The area Tabilk-Tabilk, meaning “place of many waterholes”, by the local Daung-wurrung clans. The cellar door is open daily, and the original underground cellar is still available for visitors to wander through.
Cellar Door Hours
Weekdays 9 am to 5pm Weekends and Public Holidays 10 am to 5pm
Tahbilk Eco-Trail and Wetlands Walk
Behind the Tahbilk Wetlands View Restaurant lies a hidden oasis of wetlands and a walking trail. The 6.3km trail follows the Goulburn River as it meanders through billabongs, river flats, bridges, bird hides and past lily ponds. Visitors must register at the restaurant before beginning the walk. Dogs are not permitted on the trails. In addition, on days of a total fire ban, the walk is closed.
Mitchelton Winery
Famous Architect Robin Boyd CBE (1919-1971) drew up the plans for the winery, cellar door and tower, and renowned architect Ted Ashton completed them. The first crop of vines were planted in 1969. The winery was named after historic explorer Major Thomas Mitchell.
The iconic building opened in 1974 and boasts a world-class restaurant surrounded by lush lawns, making it a popular destination for outdoor concerts in the ‘on the green’ setting. Gerry Ryan OAM purchased Michelton in 2011. A $16m luxury boutique hotel and day spa were added in 2016. The ‘Airstream Hotel’ opened in 2020 with seven full-sized, sparkling silver RVs for guests. The winery has vineyards in Nagambie and Heathcote and purchases grapes from growers across Victoria.
Cellar Door HOURS
Open 7 Days Mon-Thurs 10:00 am – 4:00 pm and Fri-Sun 10.00 am – 6.00 pm for Wine Tastings, Education and Wine Sales.
I love sunrises and grain silos. With Covid-19 restrictions slowly lifting across Victoria, we were finally able to head up the highway for a weekend in the country and chase both loves.
Nagambie
Our destination was Nagambie, a pretty little town on Nagambie Lake just an hour from Melbourne. The lake was created in 1891 with the damming of the Goulburn River and is a popular spot for fishing, sailing, canoeing, water skiing, and swimming. Unfortunately, we missed most of the autumn colour as the trees were almost bare by mid-June. Some colour clung tenaciously to the branches, but they were the exception to the primarily bare limbed trees.
The weather did play nice for our time there, with cold nights, misty, crisp mornings, and sunshine during the day. However, while the sun was out, it was still winter clothing weather with not much warmth in the sun.
Sunrise on the Lakes
We were blessed with a beautiful sunrise on our second morning with thick fog on the way to our chosen spot, and as the sun rose, the mist cleared but hung low over the lakes. We stayed around shooting till the sun was up, and driven by cold, numb hands, we headed back to the warmth of the car and then breakfasted back at our cottage.
Colbinabbin Silo’s
We were due back home today, so after loading the car, we struck out towards the new silos at Colbinabbin painted by Tim Bowtell. There are six silos in a row at Colbinabbin – painted over eight weeks in March-April 2020 by Tim Bowtell.
The grain silos at Colbinabbin depict five scenes from the early 1900s to the 1980s and the railway that connected Rushworth to Colbinabbin. The railway was built in 1913 to enable the transportation of livestock and produce to Melbourne. The German settlers also depicted on the silos established farms to the west of Colbinabbin and built a post office, school, and community hall to serve their families.
Tim Bowtell
As well as the Colbinabbin silos, Tims work can be seen on numerous walls around Benalla and the silo’s at St James, the Fish Trees at Winton Wetlands and the Winton rest stop.
With a gorgeous day forecast for Sunday, we took a drive up to Tahbilk Winery at Nagambie before going to the Pink Cliffs at Heathcote. Along the way, we found and stopped for Canola fields bordered by Wattle shrubs and Gum trees.
Established in 1860 Tahbilk is the most beautiful and historic family owned winery in Australia, located in one of the nation’s premium viticultural areas. The property itself comprises some 1,214 hectares of rich river flats with a frontage of 11 kms to the Goulburn River and 8 kms of permanent backwaters and creeks.
Tahbilk Winery
The Winery
Tahbilk is a lovely old winery, established in 1860 and bordered on two sides by the Tahbilk Lagoon and Goulburn river. The cellar door is open seven days a week, and the very popular cafe is definitely one you need to book for. Its been in the Purbrick family since 1925, with five generations of the family at the helm.
We tried the Sauvignon Blanc and Verdelho.. and liberated a bottle of the Verdelho to bring home with us.
Downstairs from the cellar is the old, old cellars still in use. They’ve been there since 1867. The floor is worn in front of the barrels. You wonder how many people have worked there over the last 151 years
Leaving Tahbilk winery, we drove to Mitchelton winery. However, they had a large wedding with people and cars everywhere, so we moved on and stopped at Nagambie lakes for lunch before heading to Heathcote and the Pink Cliffs.
Pink Cliffs
I found the cliffs VERY underwhelming. They are a series of small, sandy white and reddish rocks and mounds, with a few boulders and lots of gravel and sand. I did do one HDR, which turned out ok. But overall, they are not a place I would bother returning to, and ‘pink’ is drawing a very longbow.
Update
It turned out we were in the wrong place. We were only on the outer, smaller edge of the pink cliffs. I found the area everyone was raving about – and it was fabulous.