Coleraine Vic 3315 (Pop 1 100)

Coleraine is a small Grampians rural service town 353 km west of Melbourne. European squatter settlement began in 1840s with the railway following in 1882. The economy of this picturesque area is based on the beef and wool industries. Autumn Festival (Apr), Art Show (Aug), Coleraine Cup (Sept).

Tourist Attractions & Info:
The Eucalypt Discovery Centre, Whyte St focuses on the natural history and economic uses of eucalpyts with interesting displays. Open daily. Old Blacksmith's Shop, Whyte St dating from 1888 still with original equipment, corrugated roof and earthen floor. Open by appointment. Tel (03) 5575 0233. Coleraine Museum, Whyte St housed within the old Courthouse. Open by appointment. Tel (03) 5575 2160. Coleraine Churches include Holy Trinity Church of England (1865), St Joseph's Catholic Church (1888), St Andrew's Presbyterian Church (1892). Adam Lindsay Gordon Monument (east) commemorates the 19th century poet who wrote about this area.

Nearby:
Konongwootong Reservoir (10 km north) popular trout fishing & recreation area. Peter Francis Points Arboretum (2 km south) covers 37 ha and is home to over 2 000 native plants including 500 eucalypt species with excellent district views from the lookout. There are also several interesting walking trails here including the Aboriginal Plant Uses Walk (1 km). Wannon Falls (15 km east) with a koala reserve, kangaroos, viewing platforms and good recreational areas. Balmoral (49 km north) historic township of interest with a homestead and gardens, wildlife sanctuary, the Rocklands Reservoir and Black Range State Park all nearby.

Accommodation:
Coleraine has two hotels. Visitor Information Centre: Old Railway Station, Pilleau St. Tel (03) 5575 2733.