Woods Point's rich history is highly valued by it's community. The town began as a general store built by Henry Wood in the mid 1800's, to service the gold diggings around the recently discovered Morning Star Reef. The area would become the heart of one of Australia’s most prolific historic goldmining regions - the Walhalla to Woods Point field (with historic production of over 6 million oz).

 

Wood's Point Post Office opened on 1 December 1862 and by 1864, only three years after the discovery of the gold reef, the area had become a thriving town with 36 hotels. various, stores, banks and churches. The town was subdivided into numerous suburbs, such as Waverly, Piccadilly, Killarney, Richmond, and Morning Star Hill. Communication was established via a telegraph line to Jamieson, and two local papers were in circulation.

 

From the 1870s to 1890s, mining activity declined, and the population dropped to between 100 and 200. The mining industry was revived in the 1890s, and the population grew once again, with four hotels servicing the town. In 1939, tragedy struck with devastating bushfires  and much of the town had to be rebuilt – a testament to the strength of character and determination of the Woods Point community.

 

One of the key historical production hubs during these years was the famous ‘Morning Star’ mine, which is situated adjacent to the Woods Point township. The Morning Star mine produced almost one million ounces at 27 grams per tonne and during the 1940's was recognised as Australia's largest gold mine; third behind Bendigo and Ballarat as Victoria’s biggest hardrock gold production centre.

 

The Morning Star Mine continued operations until its closure in 1963. The Mine was eventually reopened and commenced production once again in 2010. The mine has been refurbished with a modern gold treatment plant and continues to be of significance with future development plans. Underground development is also currently being undertaken at the A1 Mine site nearby - historically the second largest gold producer in the Mansfield, Woods Point area.

 

The population of Woods Point and Matlock now stands at approximately 35 permanent residents with plenty of holiday properties and visiting tourists. A key asset of the town is the community operated Woods Point Museum that proudly catalogues antiques, treasures and relics from the eras past. A meander through the township or adventure by bike or 4WD will reveal the poignant ghostly reminders of the days when Woods Point boasted rivers of gold...