Leongatha

Originally settled on cleared forests of the western Strzeleckis, Leongatha and the surrounding countryside were dotted with rich dairy farms from the 1870s onwards. The opening of the South Gippsland Railway in 1892 boosted development as more forests were cleared to make way for cattle grazing. Today it is still a prime dairy district and home to the largest co-operative dairy in the Southern Hemisphere.

Leongatha is now a major cultural centre with a wide range of events and festivals throughout the year. Leongatha also boasts numerous shops, galleries and museums devoted to the local arts and crafts of the region. Around Leongatha, discover numerous tracks and trails that offer relaxing walks through its undulating and captivating scenery.

Quick facts

• Population approximately 4,500
• 130 kilometres south-east of Melbourne
• Local produce and agriculture
• Major service centre for the region.

Activities and attractions

• Browse local galleries and craft shops such as the Leongatha Arts and Crafts Gallery
• Walk, cycle or horse ride the Great Southern Rail Trail
• Visit the nearby Koonwarra village a township renowned for being a popular food and wine destination and the first Waste Wise village in Australia
• Taste superb cool climate wines at one of the many wineries surrounding Leongatha

Major events

• Daffodil Festival – September
• Leongatha Garden and Lifestyle Show – November

How to get there

Leongatha is approximately 90 minutes from Melbourne on the South Gippsland Highway.