History shows that in the early 1850s, during the gold rush, over 1000 miners of Swiss-Italian descent came to the region from Val Brembana in Lombardia and elsewhere in Northern Italy and from the Italian Speaking Canton of Switzerland. Many remained in Australia, settling on small farms or in businesses throughout Spa Country.

Newer residents to the area are often delighted to discover and learn about the Swiss Italian early settlers who helped shape the region, both the landscape and community, particularly as much evidence from this era remains. Stone villas, walls and many fine buildings remind us of past generations and explain the link today. It is important these reminders, physically, socially and culturally are preserved.

This 128 page book features stunning photographs, lists over 800 names, and gives an overview of the amazing goldfield settlement of Italian Speakers around the Daylesford District.