Explore Glenrowan: The Heart of Ned Kelly Country
Introduction
Tucked away in Victoria’s high country, Glenrowan serves as a living reminder of one of Australia’s most notorious outlaws. This tiny town forever tied to Ned Kelly’s legend, attracts visitors from all over to check out its deep-rooted history and rough-hewn beauty. Kelly and his gang’s tale has left a lasting impression on the Australian mindset, turning Glenrowan into a spot history lovers and curious travelers can’t miss.
Glenrowan takes you back to the days of Ned Kelly and his gang’s last battle. The town has many Kelly-themed spots to visit, from hands-on museums to real-life shows. But there’s more to Glenrowan than its outlaw past. You can also enjoy its beautiful nature and local life, which show off the area’s appeal. If you love history or just want a one-of-a-kind trip, Glenrowan gives you a look into a key part of Australian legend.
Ned Kelly's Last Stand: Reliving the Siege
The Glenrowan Inn Siege
On June 28, 1880, at 3 am, a police train pulled into Glenrowan. It carried Superintendent Hare, seven constables, Sub-Inspector O’Connor with five black trackers, and several civilians [1]. The Kelly Gang wanted to wreck this train, but their plan failed when a local told the approaching police [2]. The officers then surrounded the Glenrowan Inn where the gang held hostages. This led to a fierce gunfight [1].
Kelly Gang's Armor
Capture of Ned Kelly
At dawn, Ned Kelly came out of the inn. He had on his famous armor. He began to shoot at the police [1]. His suit gave him some protection. But bullets hit his arms and legs, which weren’t covered. This caused him to bleed a lot. After a 15-minute gunfight, the police knocked Kelly down. They took away his guns and caught him [1]. The fight didn’t stop there. It went on until the afternoon. Then, the police set fire to the inn. This killed the other gang members who were still inside [1].
Exploring Glenrowan's Kelly-themed Attractions
Ned Kelly Discovery Hub
The Ned Kelly Discovery Hub sits in Lions Park Glenrowan. It gives people a chance to go back in time and see how the Kelly Gang’s final battle unfolded in 1880. This big building has a 20-meter, nine-ton steel roof and a viewing deck. You can climb stairs or take a lift to reach the top. Once there, you’ll see far and wide looking at key spots from the Kelly Gang siege. These include the old Glenrowan Railway Station where Anne Jones’ Inn stood, and the place cops caught Ned Kelly.
Kellyland Glenrowan
Kellyland Glenrowan opened its doors in 1973 making it the first museum in town to focus on the Kelly saga [7]. The centerpiece draws visitors into a 40-minute show recreating Ned Kelly’s final battle using moving figures and special effects to take people back to June 28, 1880. The museum showcases authentic Kelly items, including Ned’s death mask wanted posters, and gear from Victorian police [7]. Guests can buy Kelly-themed keepsakes, like custom-made Kelly armours and helmets.
The Big Ned Statue
A six-meter statue of Ned Kelly towers over the historic town of Glenrowan [5]. You’ll find this big figure at the corner of Gladstone and Kate Streets, in front of the Glenrowan Post Office Newsagency showing Kelly’s lasting impact [5]. The statue shows Kelly as a complex man – seen as a rebel, a bushranger by need, and someone with strong family ties [5].
Beyond Kelly: Natural Wonders and Local Experiences
Warby-Ovens National Park
The Warby-Ovens National Park covers 14,655 hectares and gives visitors a chance to experience nature in many ways. This park has three main types of plant life: the granite hills and woodlands of the Warby Range, the Box-Ironbark forest of Killawarra, and the River Red Gum forest along the Ovens Heritage River, which flows . People who visit can have a picnic, go for a walk, or ride bikes on marked paths. The park also lets people fish, and many catch Murray Cod in the Lower Ovens River.
Glenrowan Wine Region
Glenrowan boasts a long wine-growing past that goes back to 1870 making it one of Victoria’s oldest wine areas. The warm weather and landscape in the region let winemakers create strong full-bodied wines. Shiraz stands out as the main grape known for its earthy taste with hints of berries [8]. The area also shines in making rich fortified wines Muscats and Topayes, which match up to those from nearby Rutherglen [1]. With 13 growers and seven tasting rooms, Glenrowan gives visitors a personal wine-tasting adventure [5].
Seasonal Fruit Picking
Glenrowan and nearby areas offer seasonal fruit picking jobs, which backpackers and travelers love. The fruit picking season starts in December and ends in May. This gives visitors a chance to make money while they experience rural Australia. In close-by regions like the Barossa Valley, people pick grapes from February to April. Other soft fruits need picking all year round. This work can be tough on the body, but it lets people stay longer in Australia through the Working Holiday Visa program. It’s a different way to spend time in the country [7].
Conclusion
Glenrowan mixes history with natural beauty making it a top spot to visit for people who want to explore Australia’s past and present. The town’s strong link to the Ned Kelly story gives visitors a chance to dig deep into a key moment in the country’s history. At the same time, the nearby scenery and local experiences show off the area’s ongoing charm and liveliness.
Glenrowan opens doors to many adventures going beyond its place in history. You can hike in the Warby-Ovens National Park or taste wines made nearby – the area caters to all interests. This blend of culture, history, and nature makes Glenrowan stand out. It’s not just another stop on the Ned Kelly trail. Instead, it shows what rural Victoria is all about and lets visitors make their own lasting memories.
FAQs
Should I consider visiting Glenrowan?
Yes, Glenrowan is worth a visit. It’s an important historical place known for the famous 1880 siege where the Kelly Gang was caught. The town keeps this history alive through various attractions, museums, and a historical walk that showcases the Kelly Gang’s story.
What are some recommended activities in Glenrowan Victoria?
Glenrowan offers several fun things to do:
- Take a hike on the Mt Glenrowan Lookout Walk to see stunning views of the Ovens Valley, the King Valley, and the Victorian Alps.
- Stop by the Ned Kelly Discovery Hub and Visitor Information Center to find out more about the area’s past.
- Check out the huge Big Ned Kelly Statue.
- Head to Kellyland Glenrowan to experience history up close.
- Go on the scenic Chick Hill Walk.
Can you tell me about Glenrowan's history?
Glenrowan got its name from James Hutton Rowan and George Christian Rowan, who owned big farms in the area from 1846 to 1858. The town began when people bought land plots in 1857. In 1862, it became a spot where Cobb and Co’s stagecoaches would switch horses. The Glenrowan Post Office started running on February 22, 1870.
Where is Ned Kelly's armor displayed?
The State Library of Victoria houses Ned Kelly’s armor. Visitors can see his helmet, breastplate, backplate, and shoulder plates, which together show 18 bullet marks. The exhibit also features Kelly’s Snider Enfield rifle and one of his boots giving people a peek into his turbulent life.
References
[1] – https://ausemade.com.au/destinations/victoria-vic-australia/glenrowan/glenrowan-siege/
[2] – https://digital-classroom.nma.gov.au/defining-moments/ned-kellys-last-stand
[3] – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Armour_of_the_Kelly_gang
[4] – https://www.nma.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0019/2557/NMA_Kelly_gang_armour.pdf
[5] – https://www.slv.vic.gov.au/search-discover/explore-collections-theme/australian-history/ned-kelly/ned-kelly-fact-sheet
[6] – https://www.visitwangaratta.com.au/Explore/Glenrowan
[7] – https://nedkellytouringroute.com.au/destinations/glenrowan/
[8] – https://www.nfsa.gov.au/collection/curated/asset/98306-ned-kelly-siege-glenrowan
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