“Did someone say potatoes?” a gruff voice boomed from behind you. You might be surprised to learn that Kinglake West was once a hub for potato farming. This tranquil town, nestled 45 kilometers northeast of Melbourne’s bustling center, has a history as rich as the soil it sits upon. Kinglake West found its name thanks to surveyor Alexander Kinglake, who charted a path through these ranges back in 1878. Before potatoes took root, this area pulsed with the discovery of gold in 1861. Timber mills soon followed, echoing with the industry of a bygone era. Sadly, tragedy struck Kinglake West during the devastating Black Saturday bushfires of 2009. The town remembers the 10 lives lost, a poignant reminder of nature’s power and the resilience of the community. Today, Kinglake West stands as a testament to its history, its spirit unbroken.
Kororoit Creek
Is this where the river meets the sea? This is Kororoit Creek. It flows right here through Melbourne’s western suburbs