Warburton - VIC

Gold mining commenced in the Upper Yarra at Britannia Creek at about the same time as gold was discovered at nearby Emerald for which a Discovery Award was paid in 1858. Yankee Jim's Creek goldfield opened in 1859 and was renamed Warburton in 1863 after the Gold Warden for the district, Charles Warburton Carr.

Warburton is set on the Yarra River within the scenic Yarra Ranges which feature dense forests of Mountain Ash. It is a starting point for the many mountain bike, hiking and touring routes in the area. One of the most popular is the Warburton Rail Trail, a 30km cycleway built on the disused Lilydale to Warburton railway.

Nearby Mt Donna Buang (1250m) may offer family snowplay in winter, as well as many popular walks from the summit all year round. The elusive lyre bird is common in the ranges.

The town and surrounding area is worth exploring for its many wineries, restaurants and art and craft galleries.