Swanpool

This page has been written by Barry O’Connor, Swanpool community member. 

Swanpool is located in the heart of the Broken River Valley and provides a very diverse southern gateway to Benalla Rural City. Being in the foothills of the Victorian High Country, the area abounds with natural beauty and there are many naturally beautiful, and spectacular areas to visit. To the south, the imposing Mount Samaria reflects in the waters of Lake Nillahcootie. To the west are the Strathbogie Ranges with numerous recreational driving and walking tracks. Bird watchers will be amazed at the variety of bird life that abounds in the district and the surrounding mountain ranges. All types of recreational boating can be enjoyed on Lake Nillahcootie. Fishing can be enjoyed on the lake, or in the Broken River and surrounding creeks.

The township and the surrounding valleys, enjoy fertile soils, temperate climate and reliable rainfall, all combining to provide an ideal environment for production of an extensive range of fresh farm produce. Vegetables, stone fruit, apples, pears, citrus fruit, olives and wine grapes, are just some of the varieties that produce prolifically in the area.

Swanpool is the home of the famous Swanpool Cinema. This is one of the very few original memorial hall cinema facilities, still operating in Australia. The cinema is run as a community co-operative by volunteers and profits are reinvested in improvements and maintenance of the hall and surrounds. In addition to operating as a cinema, and due to the latest in projection and lighting equipment being available, the hall can host a number of special events such as art shows, book launches, concerts, seminars and conferences.

For full details of accommodation, events, contacts for community groups and facilities for hire, go to the website www.swanpoolanddistrict.com.au

- Barry O’Connor