History of the swamp

Cora Lynn's Norm Dalziel of Emerald and District Vintage Machinery Group with the Clutterbuck engine from 1925. 325553_01 Pictures: GARY SISSONS

By Shelby Brooks

History buffs have had the chance to step back in time at the annual Harewood Heritage Day in Kooweerup.

Standing for over 150 years, Harewood House (located on the South Gippsland Highway next to Tooradin Airfield) is a privately owned, heritage listed property which was built by the pioneering Lyall family.

The heritage day, held Sunday 2 April by Friends of Harewood, is an annual fundraiser for the Kooweerup Regional Health Service.

Bev Edwards, president of Friends of Harewood, said it was wonderful to see hundreds of people flock to the property to learn more about the history of the swamp.

“It was an absolutely fabulous day,” she said.

“The weather was amazing.”

Demonstrations of antiquated crafts, guided tours of the homestead, historical displays, vintage cars, food trucks and live entertainment were among the features of the day.

A highlight was the Morwell Caledonian Pipe Band and Glenbrae Celtic Dancers, Ms Edwards said.

Some volunteers even dressed in period costumes, choosing real people from local history to represent on the day.