Yea

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The township of Yea is situated in a beautiful valley at the intersection of the Yea and Goulburn rivers. Yea is the centre of a grazing, dairying and wool-growing district. Getting here is a treat, because the Melba Highway takes you not only past Yarra Glens Sunday market and the restored tourist railway, but it passes some of the Yarra Valleys award-winning wineries and restaurants.

Hume and Hovell's expedition of 1824-5 revealed the rich potential of what is now Victoria, in particular opening the way for settlement of the Goulburn Valley and the district of Yea. They were the first Europeans to set eyes upon the rich lands around the confluence of the Goulburn and Yea Rivers

The growing town was first treated to the name of Muddy Creek until 1855, when this was changed to honour Lacy Walter Yea, Officer in Charge of the Regiment. Colonel Yea was killed in action during the Crimean War, but his portrait still hangs in the Tower of London collection.

In autumn, Yea is resplendent with red, yellow and burnt orange leaves-the magnificent Claret Ash plantation on the lawns in Yea's main street. In March, Yea holds the annual Autumn Festival, a day of art, craft, food, drink, market stalls, entertainment and vintage and classic vehicles from across Victoria.

Most prominent amongst the early architecture on High Street is the impressive Shire Hall, built in 1894. If you intend upon a walking tour, recharge the batteries with lunch at a fine old pub, a caf, or the revamped and popular Purcells General Store, built in 1887.

A range of accommodation includes; hotels, motels, camping and caravan park and out of town some beautiful bed and breakfast retreats. This is as varied as your taste could require. A feature of the town is the use of fine historical buildings as the site for fine restaurants often combining the function of art galleries.