Aberfeldy Introduction
Nestled in the Baw Baw Shire, Aberfeldy was established during the Victorian gold rush of the 1870s and once boasted a bustling community of miners, hoteliers, and families. Today, it is a serene ghost town where the echoes of the past remain visible in the historic Aberfeldy Cemetery and various interpretive trail markers. The high elevation provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Great Dividing Range, making it one of the most scenic and highest settlements of its era.
The area is most famous for the Aberfeldy 4WD Track, a rugged circuit that takes travelers through dense forests, steep ridges, and river crossings. This track links various historical sites, including old mine workings and former town sites like Toombon and Jericho, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience for off-roaders. It is a haven for outdoor adventurers who appreciate technical driving and the deep solitude of the Victorian bush, far removed from the sprawl of urban life.
Despite its minimal permanent population, Aberfeldy remains a significant point of interest for its ecological and historical value. The surrounding landscape is characterized by towering eucalyptus trees and diverse native flora, which transform beautifully with the changing seasons. Visitors are drawn here not for modern amenities, but for the raw, untamed beauty of the Gippsland highlands and the rare opportunity to walk through a living museum of Victorian history.
