The battle of the Eureka Stockade is heralded by many as the birth of democracy in Australia and has an enduring place in the Australian consciousness. In 1854, gold miners and their supporters protested what they saw as unjust regulations and law enforcement imposed by the colonial government, including the prohibitively expensive gold licence. Unrest built for months across the central Victorian goldfields, but especially in the busy goldrush settlements of Bendigo and Ballarat. They were angry at the restrictive rules around mining, land ownership and the right to vote. Tensions continued to rise as the protesters felt the government was ignoring their demands. Finally, the miners and their allies met and agreed to resist the authorities by building a timber stockade at a strategic position on the Eureka Lead, in the heart of the gold mining area of Ballarat East and with a clear view of the road from Melbourne. Before dawn on 3 December 1854, 276 British soldiers and police marched from the government camp in the centre of Ballarat, to confront the rebels. Only 120 people were at the stockade when the soldiers and police arrived as they were not expecting an attack on a Sunday morning. The battle was swift and deadly – it was over within 20 minutes. Six soldiers were killed, and 22 rebels were registered as casualties. The exact death toll remains a subject of debate but has been estimated as being as high as 60. There was a heavy military presence in the town immediately after the battle and more people may have died during this time. Those who survived either fled and went into hiding or were arrested. Thirteen rebels were tried for treason, twelve were acquitted and charges against one were dropped.

The Farmer's Wife first opened her doors in November 2015 after discovering the beautiful old 1880s building earlier that year. Triple-fronted bay windows on either side of the big old front door proudly standing on the original bluestone porch were all it took for Bec Mason to fall in love. Instantly she knew this Farmer's Wife had a destiny within the walls of this grand old girl. And so the story begins Bec Mason first began her career as an interior designer cultivating her flair for decoration and design with her own sense of style, never one to follow trends, she always strayed from the mainstream crowd with an almost whimsical and romantic look on life. Bec developed her career in various roles as a homewares buyer within the retail industry, satisfying her love of product, window dressing, and merchandising design. Then after a wet and rainy day mushrooming in the pine forests of Creswick with her much-adored Farmer, she discovered the beautiful old store and dreamed about all the wonderful things she could bring to the little town of Creswick and the rest they say is history. The store is a reflection of Bec's style, always seeking simplicity, quality, and the enduring beauty of things from the past. This combination of beautiful quality clothing and homewares with her eclectic mix of preloved treasures provides the unique shopping experience that is The Farmer's Wife.

Snake Valley Handmade is locally owned and operated in Snake Valley, Victoria. We specialise in everything handmade and unique. Our range of products are all individually hand-poured and handmade Our range of products include my cement creations from Tealight Candle Holder's to succulent pots to name a few. We also have an extensive range of hand-poured candles, candle melts, outdoor citronella candles all made with pure soy wax and premium candle fragrances sourced from local Australian suppliers. Our full range of locally made products can be purchased online through our website shop We offer Flat Rate Postage and we post Australia wide Snake Valley Handmade is now doing local markets in the Ballarat region check our Facebook Business Page for updates on markets - you can come along to these markets to meet me in person and purchase all of our range of locally handmade products. We now offer Direct Deposit and GPay (credit card) options for payment through the website. We also offer for customers local to the Ballarat Region a Local Pick Up option.

Timmermans, located in Clunes, offers an exquisite selection of homewares. With a touch of elegance, our range complements your unique style, creating a haven of sophistication in your home. From stunning decor to stylish furniture, our curated collection caters to discerning tastes. Discover timeless classics and contemporary pieces, expertly crafted to elevate your living space. Visit Timmermans today and be inspired to transform your home into a sanctuary of beauty and refinement.

Welcome to Bloomin Fresh, a delightful establishment located in Beaufort. We offer a diverse range of services and products that cater to the needs of our valued customers. Explore our organic produce, browse our plant nursery, and indulge in the artistry of our floristry. Discover local gifts, homeware, and craft supplies for your creative pursuits. Immerse yourself in our collection of gardening, spiritual, and self-care books. Enhance your senses with our carefully curated selection of tarot cards, candles, incense, and handmade soaps. Unwind with our exquisite range of skincare products and embrace the benefits of hemp oil. For the knitting and crochet enthusiasts, we have a delightful selection of wool, beanies, and accessories. At Bloomin Fresh, we pride ourselves on offering an exceptional experience. Join us and embark on a journey of discovery and inspiration.

Discover the exquisite world of Creswick Natural Fibres at our Daylesford store. As an authentic Australian family-owned business in Victoria, Creswick Woollen Mills boasts a rich heritage spanning over 75 illustrious years. Immerse yourself in our diverse range of womenswear, menswear, homewares, accessories, and sumptuous beds crafted from a variety of natural fibre yarns including Alpaca, Possum, Merino Sheep, Linen, Cotton, and Bamboo. Open 7 days a week, our warm and knowledgeable staff are here to assist you in finding that perfect wardrobe addition or the ideal homeware piece to enhance your living or bedroom decor.

Maxim Interiors and Style, located in the charming suburb of Daylesford, is a premier destination for exquisite homewares. With a curated collection that marries sophistication and flair, our store offers a delightful range of unique and tasteful pieces to transform any living space. From elegant furniture to captivating decor, our team of skilled stylists will guide you in creating a home that truly reflects your individuality. Discover the art of stylish living at Maxim Interiors and Style.

Welcome to Leroy Mac Designs, where exceptional craftsmanship meets Australian heritage. Discover our exquisite range of Merino Wool blankets, beanies, scarves, throws, and more, all meticulously crafted using locally grown wool. Our garments offer unrivalled softness, comfort, and quality, thanks to the exclusive use of OUR Merino Wool. As one of the few 100% Australian owned businesses, we take immense pride in producing top-quality wool products right here in country Victoria, sourced from OUR OWN farm. Explore our selection today and embrace the warmth of Australian-made luxury.

Welcome to The Green Store, located in the charming suburb of Trentham. Our sustainable lifestyle and homewares general store offers a delightful range of organic, ethically sourced products for your home, garden, body, and baby. Immerse yourself in our beautifully appointed treatment room, where you can enjoy rejuvenating Infrared Sauna Sessions, Myotherapy, Remedial, and Therapeutic massages. Discover our thoughtfully designed collection of natural body care, cleaning solutions, scarves, socks, bags, garden accoutrements, candles, toys, and more! Indulge in chemical-free living and find the perfect gift for your loved ones.