Neerim &  District

Neerim South and Surrounds

 

Known as one of Victoria's most picturesque towns, Neerim South is a region of outstanding natural beauty combining rolling green farmland and surrounding hills covered with dense forest.

 

Set in the hills at the base of Mt Baw Baw, Neerim South is located about one hour, or 19 kms from Melbourne and 19 kms north of Warragul, within thr shire of Baw Baw. At the 2006 census, Neerim South and surrounds has population of 1,602. 

 

As one of the highest rainfall areas of southern Australia and one of its most fertile, the Neerim District is one of Australia's unsung gems.

 

​This small but stunning area includes the localities of Ada, Gentle Annie, Loch Valley, Nayook, Neerim, Neerim East, Neerim Junction, Neerim North, Neerim South, Noojee and Piedmont.

 

History

 

Settlement of the area dates from the mid 1860s, with land used mainly for farming and logging. Some growth took place during the 1870s and 1880s. The Post Office opened on 25 August 1877 and closed in 1967. The township of Noojee developed from the early 1900s, spurred by the opening of the railway line in 1919. The population increased gradually from the mid 1990s as new dwellings were added to the area.

 

Major features of the area include part of Bunyip State Park, Sweetwater Creek Nature Conservation Reserve, Ada Tall Trees Reserve (including the Ada Tree), Glen Nayook Reserve, McCay Arboretum, Neerim South Recreation Reserve, Noojee Streamside Reserve, Noojee Trestle Bridge, Loch Valley Tramway Walk, Serigraph Gallery, Ada River Vineyard, Piedmont Winery, Neerim South Outdoor Pool, Forest Edge Camp and several schools.