Wandong
Overview
Wandong-Heathcote Junction is a small township located on the Hume Freeway less than one hour from Melbourne, situated on the Great Dividing Range and adjacent to the Mount Disappointment State Forest. Formally the township was part of one of Victoria's oldest inland shires, the Shire of Kilmore. The township is now located in the Shire of Mitchell. It offers a village type environment, strong rural characteristics, historical values among undulating landscapes eager to be shown through film.
History
The great days of Wandong lasted from 1885 until 1902 when the Australian Seasoned Timber Co ran a large timber seasoning and joinery works near the station. Timber was drawn from the hills to the east via a lengthy tramway.
Wandong once hosted the biggest country music festival in Australia. That was almost 30 years ago. Started in 1972, the Wandong Music Festival ran out of steam in the mid 1980's but in 2001 it was revived by the local fire brigade and is growing strongly each year.
Construction of the Hume Freeway bypass from Wallan - Broadford began in 1969. Completed in 1976, it was opened by the then Premier of Victoria, Rupert J. Hamer. The Freeway and the North East Railway line has provided easy access to the city of Melbourne.
Places of interest
Mount Disappointment
Old Wandong Hall
Accommodation
Email: visitorinfo@mitchellshire.vic.gov.au
Town statistics
| Population | 1,500 |
|---|---|
| Distance from Melbourne | 57 kilometres, 35 miles and 47 minutes driving time |
| Road access | Hume Highway |