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A brief history of the Millewa Pioneer Park

Established in 1986, the Millewa Pioneer Park was established to recognise the efforts of early settlers creating a livelihood from humble beginnings, which is run by a voluntary committee, committed to creating a visual hands-on-display of early Millewa district history and lifestyle. The emphasis of the displays is to preserve the heritage, environment and the history of the wider Millewa community.

Originally, the Millewa area was an experiment in close settlement dryland farming in the Mallee region, previously sparsely occupied by Latje Latje Aboriginal peoples. It nearly failed due to the limited earthen channels for domestic and stock water supply. At its peak, the settlement comprised 700 farms in 1928, declining to 200 in 1945. After reallocation in 1948 farms became larger and decreased in numbers again and this trend has continued until present through natural economic pressures.

The Millewa is now a very successful grain growing area, producing some of the country's highest quality hard grain.

Take a stroll to discover the 500 memorial trees have been planted, each with a plaque documenting family histories of community and pioneering families.

The Millewa Pioneer Park belongs to the community. It is open daily, with guides and light catering available by appointment. Come and learn about our history and share our enjoyment of this wonderful region.