Summary

The original inhabitants were the Dja Dja Wurrung people. European settlement began with squatters raising sheep and cattle. Gold was discovered in 1858 and the town became a service centre to miners

Description

Commencing your walk from Malmsbury Town Hall near the Botanic Gardens, you will have time to explore them later. Walk up the street through the shop precinct, Here you will see a number of shops that serviced the community. If you are in need of a coffee the Malmsbury Bakery has the most scrumptious of pastries. Continue walking up the main street you will see a number of points of interest before reaching the derelict Racecourse Hotel. Make a U-turn and walk on the opposite side of the street, on reaching Brodie Street turn right and then left at Cameron Street. On the corner is the impressive St John Church of England. Continue along Cameron Street, passing Malmsbury Primary School until you reach Barker Street, turn right. Walking up hill cross Raleigh Street and you will see a former Police Station build in local bluestone. Return to Raleigh Street and turn right. At Ellesmere Place you will see the Malmsbury Cricket Ground affectionately called the MCG. turn left. On reaching Mollison Street turn left and note a number of the buildings. Beware of the local Geese, they wouldn't mind some tid bits. On reaching the Police Station return down the Calder Hwy to the Botanic gardens. Go through the War Memorial gates and down the Poplar Avenue. These gardens were set aside in 1863. Enjoy some time in the gardens which are perfect for a picnic. There are tables on the other side with toilet facilities. During the walk around take time to awe the Railway Viaduct. Exit the gardens, turn left and walk up Calder Hwy. You will pass The Birthday Villa and reaching Daylesford Road, turn left. There are two old former Hotels and The Malmsbury Railway Station along this route. On exiting the Railway Station, turn left until you reach the intersection of Patterson and Evans Streets. The opposite residence was built in the 1860's and commenced its life as a general store, today it is a private property. Return to The Calder Hwy and turn right. On the corner of Campbell Street and the Calder Hwy is the Malmsbury Mill. One of the early mills in Malmsbury. From this point return to the Town Hall where you will started and will end your walk.

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Points of Interest

1. Town Hall

Built in 1867and opened the following year. It has been used as Council Chambers and Local Court as well as entertainment and fundraising events.

2. Malmsbury Hotel

Built in 1930's after the former two story wooden Hotel was demolished. The second story, motel, bottle shop and function centre were added in the 1980's.

3. Malmsbury Bakery

The Bakery is an amalgamation of several small shops. Over time they housed a Stationer, Grocer, Draper and a General Store. The Bakery dates back to the 1980's.

4. The Providore

Built in 1882 as two seperate shops. Originally they were used by a Stationer and Saddler. They have also housed a Bookmaker, Bakery and a Grocery Store.

5. Mechanic's Institute

This site was part of the original Caroline Chisholm Shelter Shed. The front of the current building was erected in 1876 and the Federal Hall was added in 1895.

6. Our Lady Help Of Christians Catholic Church

Built in 1921 from Bluestone recycled from the Tuckers Corn Store. Even then they were into recycling. Now it is a Private residence.

7. Dr Edward Davy's Residence & Dispensary

66 Mollison Street, Malmsbury. Built by Dr Edward Davy in the 1850s this was a chemist shop, surgery and home. Dr Davy was recognised as the inventor of the electric telegraph.

8. Boy & Dog - Sculpture 2018

Depicting a young boy and his best friend, when life was simpler for children and they would spend much of their youth outside.

9. Albert Hall/Wesleyan Church

Built circa 1860's

10. Racecourse Hotel

Built in 1860 Today these ruins are that stand. Run by James Thornton and thrived on the trade coming from the once nearby racecourse, now the Youth Detention Centre. The Hotel was closed in 1893.

11. 56 Mollison Street. Hopewell

Having remained in the same family for nearly half a century, this much-loved, 1890s home is framed by heritage listed, 100-year-old oak trees and iconic Victoria palms.

12. St. John's Church of England

The foundation stone was laid in 1861. The Church was officially opened in 1866 and completed in 1873

13. Malmsbury Primary School

Constructed in 1873, improvements were made in 1912 - 1913 and again in 2009 - 2010

14. Old Police Station

Now a private residence. Built in 1860

15. Presbyterian Church

Erected in 1872 The church closed its door in the 1990's and now is a private residence.

16. Cottage

1860's

17. Bank Of New South Wales

Part of the building dates about 1859 and the rest 1872. However the two story building at the front was possibly added in 1884. Private residence.

18. Malmsbury Botanic Gardens

The Gardens were set aside in 1863 Known for its beautiful European Trees. There are no flower beds in these gardens.

19. Malmsbury Viaduct

Built from local bluestone in 1859-1860 The majestic bridge is one of the famous landmarks of the town. 149m long, it has a span of 18m and rise 22m above the river.

20. Malmsbury Mill

Built in 1861, for Blyth Brothers built their steam powered mill. In 1862 a boiler explosion killed two men, following the tragedy the mill was rebuilt. The Mill ceased in the 1890's.

21. Bluestone Barn

A Warehouse Built in 1870 for storing hay and corn

22. Malmsbury Railway Station

Built in 1862 after the railway line was completed. The goods shed was added later and extended in 1863.

23. McGrane's Commercial Hotel

Established in 1866. McGrane previously owned the Racecourse Hotel. Closed in 1936

24. The Junction Hotel

Built in 1872 and delicenced in 1914. It later became know as The Mansions and was used as the headquarters accomodation for the Anglicans.

25. Birthday Villa

This house was erected in 1884 by JH Boundy from the very successful Queen's Birthday mine in Drummond. From this point return to where you commenced your walk.

Features

Playground

Picnic spot

Drinking water available

Seating available

Public toilets

Historical interest

Park / Garden