Woodend
Woodend is aptly named, being situated in a valley surrounded by forest and bushland areas. It has significant views of Mt Macedon and the famous Hanging Rock, both located just 10 minutes drive away.
Location and surrounds
Woodend is located 69km north-west of Melbourne on the Calder freeway.
Tree and bush-lined streets provide grand entrances on either side of the town, including Black Forest Drive to the south and the Avenue of Honour on High Street to the north. Strands of native vegetation can be found throughout the township.
With historic buildings and streetscapes, Woodend has a distinctive rural village character. You can also find cosmopolitan cafes, wineries and walking, all in a peaceful country setting.
History
The town was literally named “wood end” because it is located where the Black Forest ends. At Woodend, prospectors en route to the goldfields in the mid-1800s could finally feel safe from bushrangers who used to hide in ambush in the black woods.
The present day
Today Woodend retains many of its historic buildings and streetscapes and sits in its original attractive setting surrounded by forest, bush and farmland. It is a commuter town, with many residents travelling to Melbourne by train for work.
Shop beneath the wide shady verandahs in boutiques that offer unique home wares, clothing and gifts. Walk along Five Mile Creek through the Children’s Park and take in the surrounding bushlands.
Facilities
Woodend has a primary school, and a railway station on the Melbourne-Bendigo line. Council facilities include:
See and do
visitmacedonranges.com provides information on things to see and do and what’s on in Woodend.
People
For demographic data about Woodend, see Macedon Ranges Community Profile