BUNINYONG
Buninyong, one of Victoria’s oldest inland settlements, is rich in history and cultural heritage. The area, traditionally known as "Bun-a-yong" by the Wathaurung people, meaning "place of the smoke" or "man lying down with bent knees," was inhabited long before European settlers arrived. The Indigenous people revered Mount Buninyong, an extinct volcano, as a spiritually significant landmark and used the surrounding area for hunting and gathering.
In the early 1830s, European settlers were drawn to Buninyong by its fertile land, ample water, and natural resources. The first Europeans to explore the region were the squatting party of Thomas Learmonth in 1837, which led to an influx of settlers. The town of Buninyong was formally established in 1845, with its early economy based on farming and grazing.
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The discovery of gold near Buninyong in the 1850s brought about a dramatic transformation. As news spread, prospectors flocked to the area, and Buninyong became a bustling service town, providing supplies and accommodations to miners on their way to nearby Ballarat, which soon became the center of the Victorian gold rush. Although Ballarat overtook Buninyong as the primary hub of gold mining, Buninyong retained its importance as a prosperous township.
Buninyong’s growth during the gold rush era led to the development of historical buildings, many of which remain standing today, adding a unique charm to the town. The Buninyong Highland Society, founded in the 1850s, was among the early social and cultural organizations, reflecting the Scottish heritage of many settlers.
Today, Buninyong is celebrated for its well-preserved heritage buildings, thriving community spirit, and commitment to sustainability. The town hosts annual events like the Smart Living Expo and the Buninyong Community Garden, embracing its historic roots while paving the way for a sustainable future in regional Victoria.