Discover Kingower

Kingower presents two distinct sides of a destination: the history of the goldfields and a surrounding landscape to explore for its natural attractions. The colonial origins of Kingower Township date back to the gold rush of the 1850s. Historic buildings, old sites and gold discoveries give the town a historical focus; the surrounding box-ironbark forest and nearby Kooyoora State Park add a natural dimension.

Gold Rush and Historic Traces

The gold rush history can be traced through two especially well-known discoveries. Discovered in 1857, the Blanche Barkly weighed around 49.5 kg and was one of the most famous finds in the Kingower goldfields. The Hand of Faith was unearthed in Kingower in 1980; it is considered the largest gold nugget ever found with a metal detector. The two names highlight different things: Blanche Barkly is known for its year of discovery, weight and historical fame, while the Hand of Faith is notable for the record-setting way it was found. Together, they bring the Kingower goldfields to life in different ways.

The town’s history is reflected in more than the names of nuggets. Several historic buildings in Kingower have been preserved in excellent condition; there are also numerous old sites, ruins and relics. St Marys in Kingower was one of the churches commissioned by Reverend William Hall and is considered magnificent. The present-day cemetery has been in use since the 1860s; there are three official cemetery sites in Kingower. You can encounter various kinds of historic traces here: preserved buildings, old sites and a cemetery that is still in use.

St Marys is also relevant as an event venue: several events are held there every year. The building is privately owned and leased by the community for this purpose. If you are travelling for an event, check the specific date in advance.

Forest and Nature in the Surroundings

Kingower is completely surrounded by box-ironbark forest. This forest is home to a wide variety of plants, birds and animals, giving the landscape a distinctive natural dimension alongside its historic traces. Nearby, Kooyoora State Park offers opportunities for picnicking, taking in the views, climbing, orienteering and nature study. The park protects significant natural features in north-central Victoria and is also home to a wide variety of plants and wildlife. You can think of the forest as part of Kingower’s immediate surroundings and the activities in the nearby park as distinct natural aspects of your trip.

There is a specific time estimate for the Melville Caves Walking Track nearby: the circuit is 1 km long and takes one hour. For planning, you can allow about an hour for this particular walk; the distance gives its length, while the time indicates how long to allow for the circuit.

Another Side of the Town

In the centre of Kingower is Old Kingower Vineyard, a small family vineyard. It continues to produce sought-after classic vintages. In contrast with the gold discoveries and historic buildings, the vineyard represents another, contemporary aspect of Kingower: winemaking. If you find this contrast interesting, it is one of the reasons to consider Kingower as a travel destination.

Discover more destinations: Talbot, Mount Cole, Barongarook, Warracknabeal, East Warburton, Arthurs Creek, Daylesford, Hawkesdale.

For the broader travel overview: Victoria.