Stratford

The region was first settled by Gippsland explorer Angus McMillan, who named the Avon River after a body of water in his native Scotland. In 1840 he established a pastoral run at Bushy Creek, north-west of the current township. Stratford prospered in the 1860s as a supply centre for diggers at Omeo and Dargo.

Situated at a ford on the Avon River, Stratford’s principal industries are dairying, sheep, cattle and horse breeding. It is also locally known as one of the best towns to stop in if you love antiques, from rustic colonial furniture to exquisite pieces. Stratford is an excellent stopping point for morning or afternoon tea or a bite of lunch.

Quick facts

• Population 1,450
• Location 237 kilometres east of Melbourne
• Shakespeare On The River Festival.

Activities and attractions
 

• Browse the many craft and antique shops
• Picnic in the parks beside the Avon River
• Take a walk in the historic Knob Reserve on the edge of town, one of the few remaining examples of Gippsland's red gum forest
• Celebrate the genius of the Bard at the Shakespeare on the River Festival held annually in late April to early May
• Follow the Bataluk Trail and learn about Koorie history and culture including Dreamtime stories, traditional lifestyles, the Den of Nargun, archaeological sites dating back 10,000 years, aspects of European invasion, colonial settlement and present-day existence.

How to get there

Stratford is located on the Avon River, approximately 237 kilometres east of Melbourne on the Princes Highway.