The Caroline Chisholm Gold Shelter is expected to be replaced with a new structure as part of the proposed upgrades to the Stan Payne Reserve.
In 2001, the community built the shelter in time for the “Off to the Diggings” re-enactment walk from Melbourne to Wedderburn.
Just like the early days of the gold rush, the walk included overnight stops at Diggers Rest, Gisborne, Woodend and Kyneton.
The shelter was officially named after Caroline Chisholm because of her exceptional welfare work with families who travelled to the gold fields in the 1850’s.
A windbreak made up of interpretive panels was installed at the shelter to coincide with the 2010 Houdini Festival of Flight celebrations.
These panels provide historical and cultural information specific to Diggers Rest and surrounds.
Many visitors to Diggers Rest are often seen using the barbeque at the shelter and reading over the panels.
Despite community feedback looking to replace the shelter, today it stands as part of our living history which was designed and built with local pride and compassion.