Campaspe Mill has long captivated people with its grandeur, history and intrigue. Now, for the first time, the general public has the chance to step inside the bluestone walls and see it for themselves.
This circa 1856 beauty began life as a flour mill, and after decades as a private residence, has once again returned to public life.
Custodians Bill and Helen Coleby have transformed the building into a gin distillery with bistro, gardens, tasting rooms and museum for all to enjoy.
“It’s such an iconic place,” Bill said.
“Helen and I pinch ourselves to think that we were lucky enough to be able to purchase it, to live in it as a family home and raise our family here.
“The greatest thrill of all for us now is watching people coming in, that are equally amazed and equally taken aback by how incredible the building is.”
Campaspe Mill was sold to the Ward family in 1870 and remained in their family through several generations. The Colebys purchased the building in 1996 when it came up for auction, making them its third owners.
Bill said the purchase was a “completely emotional” one, very much influenced by a love of history and early memories of the building.
“To say we’re passionate about it is an understatement,” he said.
“I can’t imagine other people being more passionate, and then more doggedly determined to look after it and turn it into something incredible.”
At the time he and Helen also owned another iconic building: the Antique Centre of Victoria at Lancefield.
“We had to decide which one to put our heart and soul into,” he said.
The couple has restored several historic buildings over the years and for Bill, an interest in history developed at a young age.
At just 12 years old he and some friends opened a public museum at Toolern Vale. It was filled with all kinds of interesting pieces they had collected, but it only operated for about two weeks before the local council shut it down.
“It was a noble effort,” Bill laughed.
“I absolutely have always been interested in antiques, collecting, history, archaeology and all manner of things.”
The idea of hosting a museum lives on. Campaspe Mill now houses its own museum filled with pieces of interest including items documenting the mill’s past.
Eventually every part of the building will be utilised with plans for other interesting features including a future a 30-seat degustation restaurant and gallery space.
Bill and Helen have a strong focus on supporting local and Australian business through their own, and aim to grow and produce on site.
Three years ago they planted their own juniper trees and are now ready to double that planting, along with new botanicals and bee hives.
A soft launch in November last year has already seen many people through the doors to sample their local seasonal menu and gin range.
Ruby Gin is a proven favourite and is made using ruby grapefruit sourced from Harcourt. Their Navy Gin is also highly ranked, followed by their Dry Gin.
Campaspe Mill Distillery will be participating in the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival and is open for all to enjoy.
