Stawell

With magnificent views of the Grampians, and a unique gold heritage, Stawell is the perfect backdrop.  The town's main street features some fine examples of historic buildings including the Town Hall, with its animated clock and Westminster Chimes. On the top end of Main Street, beautiful untouched multi-story buildings are a feature of the streetscapes which must been seen to be believed. Also of note is the old court house with stunning architecture and features.

History

Gold found by a shepherd in May 1853 saw the foundation of the town.  By 1857 the fabulously rich deep alluvial leads of Commercial St and Deep Lead had been discovered and rushes of gold seekers brought 20,000 people to the fields.  Surveyed and proclaimed as Stawell in 1858, the 1870's saw reef mining take over.  Mining of quartz reefs in the Big Hill area yielded 58,000 tonnes of gold during 60 years. 

The Stawell Athletic Club ran the first Stawell Gift in April 1878, which is still run today.

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