By KATH GANNAWAY
GOLD mining in the Upper Yarra is the forgotten legacy according to Russell Falkenberg.
Russell worked in the mining industry around Reefton and Hoddles Creek and his diorama of a working goldmine was a popular attraction at Crank Up last year.
It will be back again this year when the upper Yarra Valley Historical Society runs the event on the weekend of 28 and 29 March at the Upper Yarra Museum at Yarra Junction.
He is a goldmine of information about the industry he says was a major driver of the economy in its heyday.
“There were 2,200 men and women at Reefton when the mines were going in the 1860s,” he says.
Gold came well before the timber industry according to Russell, who says there is still plenty of gold in them thar hills, and he has some wonderful stories to tell of that golden era.
Crank Up is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the history and folklore of the Upper Yarra region.
The museum is in itself a goldmine of information about the people, places and activities over the decades.
In addition to pioneer crafts such as the blacksmith shop, working draught horses and steam rollers, the event will this year feature a display of hot rods.
The old-style playground is a great place for the kids, and there will be stalls, food and drink, and more.
Crank-Up is on from 10am to 4pm both days. Visit upperyarramuseum.org.au for more information.
