Seymour, among the six oldest towns of Victoria and with a history going back to the beginning of Victorian settlement, is a name familiar to interstate travellers and to thousands of ex-servicemen of two world wars. Situated in central Victoria, it is a gateway to both the fertile Goulburn Valley and north-eastern Victoria and is itself the centre of a picturesque district mirroring in its past many phases of the state’s history. ‘New crossing place’ is the story of Seymour and its shire, and while of especial interest to past and present residents, it is designed to appeal to all general readers interested in their country’s history. Identifying the district pioneers and describing the life of former days, it also offers a study of how a particular country district had developed, conditioned by environment and location, and by the general trends of the last 120 years. Primary and secondary industry, commerce, and local government are dealt with and all important aspects of a community’s life such as religious, educational, cultural, professional and sporting activities are outlined. Here one reads not only of well-known spots – Tallarook and Puckapunyal – but of localities with music in their names – Avenel, Habbies Howe and Hilldene – and places that could only be found in Australia – Ghin Ghin, Bungleboorie and Kulaba. Here, too, are recorded odd incidents from the past which may perhaps be added to that body of lore – the Australian legend.

Contains references to the following places:
Districts: Kobyboyn, Mangalore, Northwood, Puckapunyal, Tarcomb, Trawool, Whitehead’s Creek, Worrough.