Whittlesea Historical Society, WHS, held its first major event of the year on Sunday, with a bus tour of the Yan Yean area titled ‘Sites of Significance.’
Twenty-four members and guests filled two buses, leaving Whittlesea to explore the significant sites of Yan Yean.
After leaving Whittlesea, the two buses turned from Plenty Road into Cade’s Lane, stopping to hear the history of the hotel that used to stand on the corner.
WHS member and tour guide Ross Mugavin related some stories about local characters who used to live in the house in the 1960s and 1970s, providing live commentary for attendees who wanted to know more about the sites of Yan Yean.
Further stops were made at locations along Cade’s Lane, looking in particular at points of interest in regard to the Tourrourong aqueduct and the Yan Yean Reservoir.
The work of tradesmen of the 1800s was a major focus for the group, with the bluestone channel and aqueduct infrastructure involved in Mr Mugavin’s commentary.
Members of the group were pleased to hear about the preservation of the landscape in low-lying areas around the Plenty River, originally called Ryder’s Swamp, where the enormous red gum trees were much appreciated.
Tour participants were also impressed by the way that the owners have preserved the historic value of the home and farm.
Several members of the family which lived in this homestead in the 1930s and 1940s were also on the tour and were able to view the home of their ancestors in close-up.
The tour stopped for lunch at the Caretaker’s Cottage at the Yan Yean Reservoir, where Mr Mugavin explained the history of the water system which was crucial to the early residents of Melbourne.
Whittlesea Historical Society considered the day to be a successful one, with guests appreciating the personal experience and commentary on the day.
