Smeaton

Smeaton, 31 kilometres north of Ballarat, is a former boom town that offers tantalising hints of its thriving past.

A hive of activity with eight hotels, a four-storey bluestone flour mill, a butter factory and several banks in the 1860s, today Smeaton is a dot on the map surrounded by huge mullock heaps - all that remain of a flourishing mining industry. The town's only remaining hotel, The Cumberland, has been Smeaton's social nucleus since it was established in 1860 and still is today.

Anderson's Mill

In a picture-postcard setting on the banks of Birch's Creek at Smeaton is Anderson's Mill, a magnificent five-storey bluestone building featuring a grand iron water wheel standing today much like it was over 100 years ago. Classified by the National Trust, the lovely old mill is just the place for a picnic with gourmet fare from one of Ballarat's many fine eateries. Anderson's Mill is open on the first Sunday of each month from 12 noon until 4 pm (entry and guide by donation), and a fabulous family festival is held here in April each year. The Mill grounds may be enjoyed at any time.