Gisborne

Local History of Gisborne, Victoria

Gisborne is a small town located in the Macedon Ranges of Victoria, Australia. It is approximately 55 kilometers north-west of Melbourne and has a population of around 6,000 people.

The area now known as Gisborne was originally inhabited by the Wurundjeri people, who were part of the Kulin nation. The Wurundjeri people had lived in the area for thousands of years before the arrival of Europeans.

The first European to explore the area was Major Thomas Mitchell in 1836. He named the nearby Mount Macedon after the ancient Macedonian king Alexander the Great.

The town of Gisborne was officially established in 1851 during the Victorian gold rush. The discovery of gold in the nearby Black Forest and Macedon Ranges led to a rapid influx of people and the establishment of many new towns and settlements in the area.

Gisborne became an important stopping point for travelers between Melbourne and the goldfields, as it was situated on the main road between the two. Many businesses and services were established to cater to the needs of travelers, including hotels, blacksmiths, and general stores.

With the decline of the gold rush, Gisborne became a quieter town, with agriculture becoming the main industry. The rich soil and favorable climate of the Macedon Ranges made it ideal for farming, particularly for growing fruits and vegetables.

During World War II, the area around Gisborne was used as a training ground for Australian soldiers. Many houses and buildings in Gisborne were used to house soldiers and their families during this time. After the war, many soldiers chose to settle in the area, contributing to the growth of the town.

Today, Gisborne is a thriving community that values its history and heritage. The town has many historical buildings and landmarks, including the old bluestone courthouse, the railway station, and the old church.

The town also hosts many events throughout the year, including the Gisborne Agricultural Show, the Gisborne Vintage Machinery Rally, and the Gisborne Olde Time Market.

Overall, the local history of Gisborne is a fascinating tale of a small town that has adapted and changed throughout the years, while still retaining its unique charm and character.