A work party at Hanging Rock c. 1893

Hanging Rock, a strange collection of volcanic rocks, has been a popular picnic and recreation place for people from Woodend, Newham and Hesket since the earliest days of white settlement. Strangely, no evidence of Aboriginal occupancy has ever been located there - perhaps its eerie atmosphere was a deterrent. This photograph. probably taken in the early 1890's, shows a work party preparing the grounds for a sports meeting. Picnic Races are still held at 'The Rock' and since the release of the film based on Joan Lindsay's novel "Picnic At Hanging Rock", it continues to attract visitors, many from throughout Australia and overseas.
Photographer unknown. c. 1893. Reproduction rights, W.& D.H.S.