History of Walhalla
Walhalla is hidden in a picturesque steep valley in Gippsland, Victoria, Australia. It was once a rich gold mining town with over 3,500 people calling it home.
Ned Stringer first discovered gold in December 26th 1863 and the town quickly grew from that day on. Ten hotels, 3 breweries, 7 churches and over 30 shops stood along the main street.
The railway finally arrived in 1910 after many years of lobbying, however it was too late as the main mines closed just a few years later. Thus the railway was used more to remove buildings from
Walhalla, than to add to it. Some home owners burned their home and claim insurance but this was quickly stopped.
Today many buildings have been meticulously recreated, the Mechanics Institute and various other buildings throughout the town.
You have to experience it for yourself to leisurely stroll up the main street and see the old stone retaining wall and the fire station that straddles Stringers creek, as the sun goes down behind the tall mountains, or see the spectacular views of the township from the tramway walking track.
For more, see walhalla.org.au.
Activities in/around Walhalla
When you’re in town be sure to pick up a brochure outlining the historic buildings, sites and activities in Walhalla.
Listed below are some of the highlights.
Walhalla Goldfields Railway
This unique narrow gauge train offers a spectacular journey as it winds its way down Stringer’s Creek Gorge from Walhalla, over the historic Thomson River Bridge and into Thomson Station. Â A group of enthusiastic volunteers have rebuilt the railway line from the Thomson River to Walhalla with further plans to extend it all the way to Erica.
The Train operates on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays, public and school holidays, leaving Walhalla at 11am, 1pm and 3pm. Return fares are approx $20 per adult and $15 for kids.
www.walhallarail.com
Long Tunnel Extended Mine Tour
This was once one of the worlds richest gold mines and over 13 tonnes was removed from this mine making it one of the most successful in Australia. Today you can venture deep inside the hillside on a 45 minute guided tour.
Family (2 adults and up to 4 children): $50.00.
Adults: $20.00
Concession: $15.00
Mine tours are conducted at 1.30pm everyday (except Christmas Day) and on weekends, school and public holidays at midday, 1.30 and 3 o’clock.
Gold Prospecting
Bring along your gold pan and try your luck in Stringer’s Creek which runs through the town. They’re still mining for gold in Walhalla and there must be loads more gold still around, so why not give it a go.
Bushwalking/Bike Riding
There are plenty of good walks to do in and around Walhalla. First and foremost is the Australian Alpine Walking Track which starts right here in Walhalla and goes all the way to Canberra! (650 km to ACT). You can do a shorter section of this on a 40km, 2 day 3 night fully guided and catered walk from Mt Baw Baw to Walhalla. Check for details in the publication by John and Lyn Daly – “Take a Walk in Kosciuszko National Park”.
greatwalhallaalpinetrail.com
australianalps.environment.gov.au
Shorter and easier walks are numerous around the area, but one not to miss is along the old tram track halfway up the hill which gives you breathtaking views of the town. You can walk this all the way to Thomson Station (approximately 6 ks) and catch the train back.
If you are still keen another well known trek is up to the Cricket Ground. It begins opposite Spetts Cottage and is 45 minute walk up a steep hill, but worth it to see the ground which was carved out of the top of the hill when flat land was at a premium.
Wander along Stringer’s Creek, or take the more energetic track to old Maidentown and hunt for relics from last century. Take the train to Thomson Station and do the 5 kilometre return walk which ends up skirting the town on the old tramway line. A little further afield is the beautiful walk to Mushroom Rocks, a fascinating geological formation.
Get out your bikes and ride the Rail Trail from Thomson Station to Erica, or try some of the many bush paths and 4WD tracks. There’s plenty of wildlife to see such as wallabies, kookaburras, lyrebirds and black cockatoos, not to mention snakes so do take care. Enjoy the fresh mountain air and beautiful vegetation including tree ferns, mountain ash and native orchids.
Skiing
In Winter, the snow fields of Mt St Gwinear are just half an hour away with excellent snow for sightseeing, tobogganning, cross country skiing or snow shoeing. The slopes are not at all crowded so it is a great place for beginners or small children to get their first taste of the Victorian snowfields. Slopes are patrolled and there is a heated shelter for day trippers. Equipment is available for hire from Erica just 20 minutes away.
Alternatively, for downhill skiing the South Face Road gives easy access to the Mt Baw Baw Alpine Resort. Be on the ski slopes in just one hour. There is a kids’ toboggan run with toboggans for hire, and a range of ski slopes to suit all levels of skier. Food, drink and souvenirs are available at the Resort. Ski gear is also available for hire at Mt Baw Baw or Erica. Always carry snow chains or you may be refused entry. These are also available for hire from Erica Ski Hire.
Fishing
There is great fishing to be done in the upper reaches of the nearby Thomson River, while enjoying the region’s beauty and solitude. Fly fishing for trout will challenge the most ardent angler.
Museum
The Walhalla Heritage and Development League is a group of like minded members who share a love of Walhalla and look after it. The Corner Store and Museum has many and varied souvenirs to remind you of your time in Walhalla and is well worth a look through. The Museum has recently been updated. Call them for information on day tours and activities in and around Walhalla on (03)51656250. (You can join the Walhalla Heritage and Development League and receive their great newsletters to keep in touch with the goings on in Walhalla even if you live far away).
Gold Era shops and Dining
If you have a sweet tooth don’t miss the Simply Walhalla Lolly Shop. It’s a must for the kids. (open Wednesdays and weekends). Try the great coffee at Walhalla Coffee, an original gold-era store, open early for breakfast and lunch. The Grey Horse Cafe is another great place to sit in the sun and enjoy cake and coffee.
4WD Tours
Ron Camier runs award winning 4WD tours or Tag Along Tours around the spectacular countryside of Walhalla so be sure to get out and about with Ron for a truly memorable experience. Visit the old copper mine and hear about the history of the surrounding area.
There are also plenty of 4WD tracks to explore on your own. If you don’t own a 4WD there are still many other trips to take. The Lake Thomson dam is just a short drive on sealed roads and really shows you the effects of the drought first hand.
www.mountaintopexperience.com (03)51346876
Coopers Creek and the Thomson River
The Copper Mine Hotel at Coopers Creek is another fine example of an historic building having been recreated. It is not currently operating. This is also a great area for swimming with good waterholes and mini rapids for the kids. Don’t forget your lilo! There is also great fly fishing to be done in the upper reaches of the Thomson River.