Some things to see in Avenel

Some things to see in Avenel

The Bridge

The first Overland Mail from Melbourne to Sydney was established in 1839. The route it traversed was known as the Old Sydney Road which was also used by drovers and bullock wagons. It crossed Hughes Creek at a shallow, sandy ford which became a camping place for teamsters and, in 1849, the village of Avenel.

In 1859 a six-arch stone bridge was built by Hugh Dalrymple for the Victorian Board of Land and Works. This major upgrade was largely the result of the goldrushes and, in its early years, would have been used extensively by Cobb & Co. It was retired in 1969 when a new bridge was built but its historical value was recognised and it has been preserved with a plaque to denote its significance.

Royal Mail Hotel

Dating from the 1850s this small brick and rubblestone house was a coach house for the changing of Cobb & Co. horses for some decades after its original construction. It then reverted to a domestic dwelling. It is located near the stone bridge across Hughes Creek.

Plunkett Fowles Cellar Door

The Plunkett Fowles cellar door is home to fine Strathbogie Ranges wine and fresh produce.  Surrounded by vines and overlooking granite strewn Mount Bernard, the cellar door offers the perfect ambience for enjoying carefully selected wine and food pairings. The Mediterranean courtyard offers secluded alfresco dining and a safe children’s playground and is the perfect summer location for live music and long lazy afternoons..  Located at the corner of the Hume Freeway and Lambing Gully Rd Plunkett Fowles are particularly known for producing outstanding Riesling and Shiraz. Open seven days from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. tel: (03) 5796 2150

WB Gadd

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the historic W. B. Gadd store. You'll never know what you might find as you browse through their eclectic selection of the finest antiques. They also offer you fine merino wool and possum merino knitwear and accessories from Australia and New Zealand and a great cup of coffee.  Website: www.wbgadd.com