The central Victorian region is bursting with rich history, quirky tales and fascinating connections to global events. From a pioneering aviator to a punk rock legend, our area is full of surprises. Here are 5 intriguing facts about the Macedon Ranges, Hepburn Shire and Mt Alexander Shire that might just make you see the region in a whole new light.
- The First Australian Flight Happened in Mia Mia (Not Diggers Rest)
Many people know about Harry Houdini’s famous flight at Diggers Rest on March 18, 1910, often heralded as one of the first powered flights in Australia. While this milestone gained international attention due to Houdini’s fame as an illusionist, the full story of Australian aviation began a little earlier in Mia Mia, just a few months later.
On July 16, 1910, John Duigan made history with the first powered flight of an Australian-designed and built aircraft. With no global fame to boost his achievement, Duigan’s feat is often overlooked—but it was a true pioneering moment. His locally crafted biplane, powered by a small engine, managed to stay aloft for 7 metres.
While Houdini’s contributions to Australian aviation are celebrated, Duigan’s work represents the innovative and determined spirit of regional Victoria.
Source: https://www.melbourneplaygrounds.com.au/mia-mia-duigan-memorial
- Franklinford: A Town Designed as a Union Jack
Franklinford is a small settlement with an extraordinary layout: its streets were designed in the shape of a Union Jack. Surveyed during the colonial era, this unique design reflects the British influence of the time and makes Franklinford one of the most distinctively planned towns in the country.
Source: https://mapshare.vic.gov.au/mapsharevic
- From Kyneton High to Global Fame: The Cosmic Psychos
Ross Knight, lead singer and bassist of the Cosmic Psychos, grew up in Spring Plains, Victoria and attended Kyneton High School. The Cosmic Psychos, formed in 1982, are pioneers of Aussie punk rock and have had a global influence, inspiring the Seattle grunge movement of the 1990s.
Butch Vig, producer of Nirvana’s Nevermind, credited the band with influencing Nirvana and shaping the sound of grunge. Their journey from small-town Victoria to international fame is chronicled in the documentary Cosmic Psychos: Blokes You Can Trust, which features interviews with music legends like Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam.
Fun fact: Ross Knight’s signature fuzz-laden sound was born out of a Shin-ei Companion fuzz wah pedal he bought from a local Kyneton op shop in 1978.
- Homes That Moved: The Lauriston Reservoir Project
When the Lauriston Reservoir was built, several homes in the area had to be relocated to avoid being submerged. These houses were dismantled and carefully moved to Kyneton and towns around regional Victoria. This incredible feat of engineering is a testament to the resourcefulness of the time.
- Two Historic Listings Linked by a Love Story
Our region is also home to two extraordinary historic properties connected by the remarkable story of Joan Falkiner. In 1939, Joan, a brave and spirited local woman, fell in love with an Indian prince. Despite societal pressures, she sailed alone to India, converted to Islam, and married in the stunning Zora Mahal Palace in Palanpur.
Joan’s family owned Abbeyville, a stately bluestone homestead, and 28 Piper Street, a property that once served as an auction house. These two properties are steeped in history and reflect the era’s elegance and charm.
Abbeyville – 140 Fiddlers Green Road, Kyneton
Abbeyville – 140 Fiddlers Green Road, Kyneton
This grand bluestone home enchants with its expansive gardens, elegant conservatory, and timeless character. A true slice of history, Abbeyville whispers stories of its fascinating past while offering modern comforts.
28 Piper Street, Kyneton
This historic property exudes charm and innovation. Featuring Tom’s Cottage, a refurbished space built with sustainable hempcrete and passive solar design, 28 Piper Street blends eco-friendly living with its rich heritage.
From aviation milestones and musical legends to historic properties and resourceful engineering projects, the central Victorian region is full of captivating stories. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these fascinating facts remind us of the history and culture that make our community so unique.
