Lal Lal

Historically spectacular

Lal Lal is home to the spectacular Lal Lal Falls - a name meaning ‘dashing of waters', as determined by the original Wuthaurung community inhabitants. The Falls are also significant as the spiritual resting place of the Kulin People's

The township of Lal Lal was originally part of an extensive sheep run established in 1845 but later formed around the discovery and mining of iron ore, lignite, kaolin (clay) and to a lesser degree, gold. The opening of the Lal Lal railway in 1862 cemented the township as an important mining location and site for transportation of minerals.

The town grew with people mostly associated with the local mining industries and with it came development, hotels and a favourite pastime of the era, horseracing.

Lal Lal became a popular tourist destination because of the Falls and its country racing program. The New Years Day Race Meeting drew crowds from far and wide with over visitors flocking to the event by steam train. A special train line was built to link the railway station with the race course.

The races continued until the Second World War and helds the record for the highest attendance at a country race meeting (32,000 people, 1937).

As the mining diminished so did Lal Lal, gradually returning to its former rural role.

Lal Lal today is still a popular day-trip for visitors. See the Falls, enjoy the walking trails through the park and along the deep river gorges, visit heritage sites such as the original blast furnace and the majestic bluestone railway station, and discover remnants of its mining history.

Visit Lal Lal and flood yourself with history.