Explore Woolsthorpe

Woolsthorpe is one of the delightful small villages that are scattered throughout Moyne Shire. Located around 265 km west of Melbourne via the Hamilton Hwy and 25 km north of Port Fairy.

Prior to European settlement there were aboriginal people living in the area. They were the Mopor tribe and their language was called "Kii wuurong". When originally settled in the mid 1840s the town was known as Spring Creek and the creek was the source of fresh water for the early inhabitants. The land was soon taken up by squatters who controlled large pastoral runs initially on lease from the government. It wasn't until around 1856 that they were able to purchase their leasehold land and own it freehold.

Fertile farmland

The land in and around Woolsthorpe is particularly fertile and following settlement much of the land was cleared for grazing. Native animals, plants and birds which once flourished in the area were gradually displaced and sheep and cattle now graze on the fertile pastures along the banks of the creek. The Woolsthorpe area remains one of the most productive in the Shire.

Today there are around 700 residents in the Woolsthorpe area. Most are engaged in the agricultural industry however the close proximity to the City of Warrnambool make it an ideal commuter town for those who choose a laid back rural lifestyle. The community is quite active with a primary school, historical society and several sporting clubs. Services are catered for with a well stocked general store and an historic hotel.