Old Cheese Factory

Gazing at the Old Cheese Factory, can you sense the echoes of industrious hands and the aroma of freshly pressed cheese? This remarkable site, nestled in Berwick, offers a captivating glimpse into Victoria’s rich agricultural past. The Old Cheese Factory isn’t just a building. It’s a time capsule, preserving the legacy of a bygone era. Originally part of a sprawling 3,000-acre estate known as “The Springs”, the Old Cheese Factory stands as a testament to the vision of William John Turner Clarke, who acquired the land in 1854. The homestead, now serving as charming tea rooms, was constructed in 1865, its hand-made bricks whispering tales of a time before modern machinery. Just a few years later, in 1874, the cheese factory itself rose from the earth, mirroring the homestead’s sturdy brick construction. The Old Cheese Factory witnessed the transformation of “The Springs” into a thriving dairy farm. Imagine the rhythmic clang of machinery and the hiss of steam as Murdoch McDonald, equipped with cutting-edge technology, produced up to 150 wheels of cheese each week. This cheese, a product of local ingenuity and hard work, traveled to Melbourne and beyond, reaching as far as Queensland. The Old Cheese Factory’s innovative design, with its double-brick walls and ventilated roof, ensured the perfect environment for cheesemaking and storage. Though the cheesemaking operations eventually ceased, the building remained. It became a silent observer of the changing landscape, witnessing the property’s subdivision and the arrival of soldier settlers after World War I. Today, the Old Cheese Factory, surrounded by lush gardens, stands on approximately 30 acres. It has embraced a new life as an art and craft gallery, officially opening its doors to the public in 1985. The Old Cheese Factory continues to serve the community, hosting events and providing a welcoming space for visitors. It invites you to step back in time and connect with the spirit of innovation and perseverance that shaped this historic landmark.