Centred
in the heart of the Lakes and Craters Country, Camperdown is central to
one of Australia's agricultural rich farming districts. This pleasant rural
town services a wide area of Dairy, Sheep and Beef farming communities.
Camperdown's history has been forged by the early pioneers and their families
who settled in this district after finding rich green pastures on which
to build a good lifestyle and strong community. Abundant with local heritage
this community has a range of unique landforms, Heritage buildings and
Historical homesteads.
Situated as THE GATEWAY to the best tourist areas in Western Victoria, Camperdown is within easy reach of the Ballarat gold fields, National Parks in the Otways and Grampians, the Twelve Apostles and Great Ocean Road, Warrnambool Whale Nursery , The Shipwreck Coast and some of the best wineries and vineyards in the world, all of which can be reached by car in around 2 to 3 hours drive.Camperdown is therefore the ideal central setting for holiday makers to stay.
The
Court House which was erected in 1886-87
is of state significance and is classified by the National Trust
and listed on the Historic Buildings Register. The building
has been described as one of the most distinctive courthouses in Australia.
The
Historic Museum, a former IOOF hall
built in 1896, houses a collection of local historical photographs, maps,
clothing, household and farm implements. A display of Aboriginal artifacts
is also featured..
The
Clock Tower extends 30 metres above
the street in the centre of Finlay Avenue. This unique Gothic Style Tower
was built in 1896-97 in the memory of district pioneer Thomas Manifold
who was killed in a hunting accident at the age of 30. Designed by local
architect Michael McCabe, the plans were approved by Hampden Shire Council
and Mr Manifold's executors in 1896. During the construction, the bricks
and mortar were raised to work levels through the use of a hod which was
raised by a block and tackle using a pony as power. The 103 foot high tower
was formally handed over to the council on March 16, 1897. The total cost
of the tower was 930 pounds. The clock mechanism is a fine example of a
flat-bed turret clock movement which was made in England at a cost of about
450 pounds.
.
.
Commercial
Hotel Site of Camperdown's
first dwelling built in 1853
.
Leura
Hotel, Site of Camperdown's
first public house
.
The
Camperdown Post Office was
built in 1863 to service the town as well as the surrounding farming community.
News of the famous Loch-Ard shipwreck was telegraphed from this site on
June 2, 1878. Sport & recreation plays
an intregal part in many societies, Camperdown being no exception
having produced some outstanding champions in many fields, in State, National
and International Competition - cycling, football, golf, wood chopping,
racing and equestrian sports.
.
Between
lakes, Bullen Merri and Gnotuk, a vast recreation park has
been established in picturesque surroundings for golf, tennis,
cricket,
hockey,
lawn
bowls and equestrian events.
.
Within
the township itself there are numerous other amenities such as basketball
and squash centres,
football oval, swimming pool and
show
grounds.
.
For
those who prefer aquatic sports such as water-skiing, speedboat
racing, windsurfing, sailing and snorkeling the
South
Beach recreation on Lake Bullen Merri may be of some interest.
Over looking the lake is a well shaded Camping Ground with powered
and non powered sites, three new cedar cabins, onsite vans, kiosk, full
laundry facilities and adventure playground gives quality accommodation
for groups, clubs and families.
.
.
For
the fishing enthusiast, Lake
Purrumbete offers some of the best fishing for Trout and
Chinook
Salmon in Australia, with a well established Caravan Park providing
powered and unpowered sites, park cabins, boat ramp, playground,
laundry, barbecue area and camp lounge some
great fishing
is on offer.
.
.
.
..
.
At
Kurweeton air strip, Kurweeton Road, Derrinallum just north of Camperdown,
is the home the Corangamite Soaring Club. Trial and instructional
flights are carried out on most weekends during the season, with prior
arrangement. Groups can be accommodated. Instruction is given through the
club at no charge...
.