Surrounded by a pine plantation, Creswick's broad, elegantly curved main street is studded with buildings that give strong visual clues to their heritage. While not as elaborate as the ornate architecture of its southerly neighbour Ballarat, the town's historic dwellings, churches and fine public buildings owe their existence to the region's common benefactor - gold.
The New Australasian No 2 Mine, just north of Creswick, is the site of the country's worst goldmine disaster. In 1882, 27 men were trapped when the mine flooded. The rescue party worked frantically for three days pumping water at the rate of 227,000 litres per hour before a rescue team could enter. Only five men were saved.
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This stunning region offers pristine beaches, charming coastal towns as well as majestic hinterlands and national parks. Read more ...