This year marks the 170th anniversary of the discovery of gold on Mount Alexander Run in 1851.
To celebrate the historic occasion, the Castlemaine Historical Society Inc will present ‘All That Glitters’ on Saturday September 4 with two special guided walks of the 1850s Gold Commissioners Camp.
Described at one point to be the richest goldfield in the world with stories of gold nuggets being kicked along the ground, the discovery played a significant part in the establishment of Castlemaine and the development of regional Victoria.
The guided walks led by CHSI volunteers will depart from and culminate at the CHSI’s headquarters at the 1852 Former Court House, 7 Goldsmith Crescent, Castlemaine where a special morning and afternoon tea will be served.
The lavish spread will feature Castlemaine ‘Gold Rush’ Tea with edible gold leaf specially crafted by local tea connoisseur Lisa Candy of local business house The Tea Dispensary and will be served with scones, jam and cream and cakes.
As part of the event, the ‘Gold Commissioner’ and friends will invoke the spirit of the 1850s with some fascinating and quirky readings.
There will also be historical displays at the Castlemaine Visitor Information Centre at the historic Castlemaine Market Building and at the CHSI headquarters at the Former Court House to mark the milestone.
There will be two walks and refreshments at 10am and 2pm, with a maximum of 20 people each. The cost will be $20 per person and bookings are essential as places are limited. Be quick to book your ticket for this golden opportunity at the Castlemaine Visitor Information Centre, by emailing visitors@mountalexander.vic.gov.au or calling 1800 171 888.
