Fyansford Paper Mill & Barwon River Walk
Schedule
Sun Jun 14 2026 at 12:30 am to 06:00 am
UTC+10:00Location
Fyansford Paper Mill | Geelong, VI
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Step back in time and uncover a fascinating slice of Victoria’s industrial past.We’ll begin the day with a guided tour of the heritage-listed Fyansford Paper Mill located on the fringes of Geelong. Built between 1876 and 1878 from locally quarried bluestone and brick, this remarkable complex includes the original mill buildings, manager’s house, workers’ cottages, and an intricate bluestone water race complete with impeller, tower and stone weir. It’s a striking example of early industrial architecture, and a place full of stories. As you wander through the site, you’ll follow the journey of paper-making in its earliest days, when rags and cloth were transformed into paper, and hear the rich history that shaped the mill and its community.
After the tour, we’ll pause for lunch at the on-site café before heading out on a scenic 12km walk along the Barwon River loop. Starting from the paper mill, we’ll make our way to Barwon Grange, then cross the John MacIntyre Bridge to return along the opposite bank.
This riverside walk offers ever-changing scenery and abundant native flora. Towering River Red Gums line the water’s edge alongside Blackwood, Silver Wattle and Woolly Tea Tree, while the drier slopes showcase Drooping Sheoke, Golden Wattle and native grasses such as Kangaroo, Wallaby and Tussock. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you go.
On the return journey, there’s also the option to detour to the picturesque Buckley Falls, a perfect way to round out the day.
A quick note: the Barwon River rises in the Otway Ranges, flows through Winchelsea and Geelong (where it meets the Moorabool River), and eventually reaches the sea at Barwon Heads, making it one of the region’s most significant waterways.
Cost for the tour is $15
Please book carefully, as refunds can only be offered if someone on the waitlist is able to take your place. Before booking, please make sure you’re able to commit to attending this walk.
BOOKINS REQUIRED: https://yhabush.org.au/events/fyansford-paper-mills-jun2026/
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Where is it happening?
Fyansford Paper Mill, 100 Lower Paper Mills Road,Geelong, Victoria, AustraliaEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
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