Stratford

Overview

The origin of the town's name is unclear, with some people claiming it to be a variation on ‘straight ford’ while many others believe it derives from Stratford-on-Avon from England, William Shakespeare's home town. Locals have embraced the connection with Shakespeare and a Shakespeare on the River Festival has been a successful annual event since 1989.

The River Avon has a local reputation as a source for river polished gemstones, particularly agate, and for rapidly rising during increased rainfall upstream.
 
Three kilometres south-east of Stratford is a 56-hectare park called Knob Reserve (formerly known as the 'Forest of Arden'), part of the Gunai/Kurnai Bataluk Cultural Trail, which winds its way through East Gippsland, highlighting the places of cultural significance to the first inhabitants.

History

The region was first settled by Gippsland explorer Angus McMillan, who named the Avon River after a body of water in his native Scotland. In 1840 he established a pastoral run at Bushy Creek, north-west of the current township. Stratford prospered in the 1860s as a supply centre for diggers at Omeo and Dargo.  Today it is known as one of the best towns to stop in if you love antiques, from rustic colonial furniture to exquisite pieces.

Places of interest

Avon River
Knob Reserve - red gums, views and indigenous heritage
Shakespeare Festival (May annually)
Medieval playground (castles, dungeons etc)
Sword in the stone sculpture
Unique shops

Accommodation

Accommodation options in Stratford include a motel, Caravan Park, cottages and B&Bs. For further information please visit:

Tourism Wellington
http://www.tourismwellington.com.au/accommodation.asp

Wellington Visitor Information Centre
8 Foster Street (Princes Highway), Sale
Open: 7 days a week 9.00am-5.00pm
Telephone: 03 5144 1108
Email: admin@tourismwellington.com.au

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