Wombat Ranges/Tolmie Tablelands - Tolmie, Victoria, Australia - Australian Historical Markers on Waymarking.com

WOMBAT RANGES / TOLMIE TABLELANDS

"From 1860 to 1880 the Wombat Ranges area was part of
Ewen Tolmie's 40,000 acre Dueran Pastoral Run.

"When three policemen lost their lives at the tragedy of Stringybark Creek
on the 26th October 1878 the Kelly Gang was created. This event along
with the exploits of bushranger Harry Power prompted Government
authorities to open up the Wombat Ranges for selection. In order to deter 
the presence of the outlaw element the selectors were carefully chosen.

"They were promised a railway line 
to get produce from this rich volcanic land to market.
In the 1880's the township of Wombat was established in the heart
of the Wombat Ranges. In September 1889 the township was renamed 
Tolmie in honour of Ewen Tolmie and the Wombat Ranges became
known as the Tolmie Tablelands. Over the years, the township grew into a
thriving centre with a Post Office, hotel, School, Churches and a hall.
Sadly the railway line never eventuated and many of the settler were
forced to leave the district. By 1963 the school had closed and the Tolmie
Post Office had relocated to a store in Mahaikah. In recent years
the Tolmie farmland has been subdivided and taken up by new residents
who have settled back into a small, but close knit community enjoying the
delights of clean air, cool climate and relaxed lifestyle.

"Throughout the years since 1886 the annual sports day has endured.
The events have changed little over the years with footraces, horse riding
events and woodchopping still heading the programme."