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Attractions
Cressy is situated on the intersection of the Hamilton Highway and the Colac Ballarat Road, the Gateway to the Western Plains. It is an agricultural area with mainly cereal and oil seed crops and sheep farming. A number of significant lakes and wetlands surround the area while the town itself has an interesting history.
Attractions include
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The Frenchman’s Inn Hotel, built in 1839 by Frederick Jean Duverney, licenced 24 April 1841 - the first licence granted in Victoria. The Frenchman’s Inn can lay claim to being the oldest hotel in Victoria, however it does not have the oldest running licence. Story has it, Fred Duverney’s son, the worse for drink, rode on horseback through the streets of Cressy stoning the roof tops of the ‘non-drinkers’ homes. Because of this action, the hotel was de-licenced for one year.
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A number of lakes and wetlands including Ramsar wetlands within a short drive. These waters are significant as a resting place for migratory birds as well as breeding grounds. Plenty to see here for the keen bird watcher. The lakes are also popular during duck season.
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The Woady Yaloak River has its headwaters near Ballarat and flows into Lake Corangamite. A diversion scheme diverts some waters into the Barwon River. The river is a pleasant place to fish.
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A number of old buildings survive. Of particular interest is the lovely bluestone Presbyterian Church. Plans are underway to use this building as a museum at a future date.
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The Cressy Airfield. A training station was set up at Cressy in 1939. The station consisted of a number of buildings for living quarters, kitchens, administration, medical, stores and workshops. A bombing target was set up in Lake Corangamite and this area was used for bombing and air gunnery practice. The station expanded considerably over the war years but was closed on the cessation of hostilities. Remains of the runways, building foundations and an underground tank can still be seen.
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The Cressy Common on the corner of Yarima Road and the Hamilton Highway. This site contains some significant remnant native flora including the Native Orchid. It’s also home to the legless lizard.
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The Cressy Picnic Area. Located in a small garden at the centre of the town, near toilet facilities and the general store. A pleasant place to stop and take a break from your journey.