Warburton

Warburton Vic 3799 (Pop 3 000)

Pic: by Mick Stanic

Warburton is a charming old goldmining town 95 km east of Melbourne in the Upper Yarra Valley.  Original inhabitants were the Woiworung Aborigines and gold was discovered here in 1863. The railway (1901) and proximity to the capital, ensured Warburton’s future as a tourist destination for Melburnians. The Seventh Day Adventists moved here (1904) and set up a number of industries which remain to this day. Timber milling is also an important part of Warburton's economy.  Upper Yarra Draughthourse Festival (Jan), Film Festival (June),Winterfest (July), Strawberry Festival (Nov).

Tourist Attractions & Info:
Visitor Information, Warburton Hwy interesting historical display of the area’s goldmining and timber industries with an old-style waterwheel. Upper Yarra Arts and Entertainment Centre, Warburton Hwy hosts a variety of live shows, art exhibitions and film screenings. Yarra River Walk pretty 9 km (return) beginning at SignsBridge.

Nearby:
Mount Donna Buang Scenic Reserve (within Yarra Ranges NP) (17 km n-w) Melbourne’s closest snowfield and a popular day trip with tobogganing and sightseeing. The Rainforest Gallery has a treetop viewing platform and boardwalk 30 m high with night tours. Excellent views over the Dandenongs, Cathedral Ranges, Mt Buller and Melbourne. Acheron Way (within Yarra Ranges NP) (1 km east) picturesque 36 km drive leading through dense forests to Marysville with beautiful views along the way. The Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail 38 km of disused former railway tracks (built 1901/closed 1964) now used for walking, bike riding and horseriding. La-La Falls (Old Warburton Rd) 3.2 km return leads through scenic forests and fern glades. Yarra Junction Historical Museum (10 km west) interesting local history displays and memorabilia. Upper Yarra Reservoir Park (within Yarra Ranges NP) (23 km n-e) has an excellent lookout, walking trails, camping/picnic facilities. No boating. Scenic Walks - Ada Tree Circuit, Upper Yarra Walking Track, Ben Cairn, Mt Victoria. Warburton Forest Drive (begins at Information Centre) scenic 47 km and sales.

Accommodation:
Warburton has two motels, 1 hotel, 3 B&Bs and a caravan park. Visitor Information Centre: Warburton Hwy. Tel (03) 5966 5966.