Kilmore is widely recognised as Victoria's oldest inland settled town, and that history really sets it apart in Australia's story. European settlement began when explorer and overlander Charles Bonney set up a sheep station here in 1837 during his push to open up the Sydney-Melbourne route. Its rich plains, reliable water and position on this early road made Kilmore the key stop for people and livestock moving between Melbourne and the north.
When the Victorian gold rush kicked off in the 1850s, Kilmore grew fast. Its farms supplied food to goldfields in the northeast, and the town became an important hub on the coach routes carrying people and goods.
By the mid-1800s, Kilmore had a booming community life with inns, churches, schools and a hospital. Many impressive and beautiful bluestone buildings from that era still stand today, like the historic courthouse, the Old Kilmore Gaol and the churches that showcase the town's early religious and social roots.
A lovely reserve with a bluestone lookout tower honoring explorers Hume and Hovell. Great for walking, cycling, and spotting wildlife like wallabies, crimson rosellas, and echidnas. Spring is especially stunning, with wildflowers in full bloom.
Stroll Kilmore’s charming main street with rustic cottages, old pubs, and 19th‑century buildings. Pop into local shops for gifts, homewares, candles, and art.
Catch the excitement of regular harness and turf racing at Kilmore, including the popular Kilmore Pacing Cup. With on‑course dining and social events, it’s a great day out for all ages.
Come play 18 scenic holes on our par‑70 course. With beautiful fairways, top-notch greens, and regular club comps, it’s a great day out for golfers of all levels.
Take a gentle stroll along the Kilmore Creek Heritage Art Walk, with artist-designed panels, sculptures, and a student-made garden that share the story of our town from Indigenous culture to today.
Join in on regular local markets like the Trackside Market on the third Saturday of each month and the Kilmore Scouts Market on the last Saturday of the month, plus community events like art shows, festivals and volunteer days throughout the year. Check local listings or community noticeboards to see what’s coming up.
Experience relaxed country living with good connections to Melbourne and a strong local community.
Kilmore East railway station on the V/Line Seymour line has regular trains to Melbourne. Local buses connect Kilmore with nearby towns and the station.
Local primary schools include Kilmore Primary and St Patrick’s, and Assumption College offers secondary day and boarding options. A new international school campus is opening in 2025.
Kilmore and District Hospital provides emergency, acute, and community care. Additional medical centres, pharmacies and allied health services are available locally.
Enjoy charming cafes, country pubs, and eateries in heritage bluestone buildings. Perfect spots for brunch, coffee, or classic pub meals.
Surrounded by picturesque countryside, spring-fed creeks, and open spaces. Highlights include Monument Hill Reserve, walking and cycling paths, and established gardens around town.
Friendly locals, regular markets, festivals like the Celtic Festival, sporting clubs, historical groups, and year-round community events keep Kilmore buzzing.
Kilmore sits near the Kilmore Gap in the Great Dividing Range, providing easy access to both Melbourne and the surrounding countryside.
Quick access to Australia's cultural capital
Of the Taungurung people, part of the Kulin nation
Gateway to regional attractions and wine country