Established in 1858 at Beechworth and extended to Yackandandah, Chiltern, Wahgunyah and Rutherglen soon after, marked the beginning of the modern Telecommunications era.
Gold was found in 1857 starting a rush, bringing thousands from around the world. They came to get rich. 14,000 golden ounces were transported to Melbourne each fortnight.
A year later, Beechworth was a town with an instant population. Commercial shops and 60 hotels turning into Australia's wild west. Outlaws, claim jumpers, water rights disputes, racial altercations - a town with little law.
Afternoon tea supplied. Gold Coin donation appreciated. Please contact the organiser for bookings.