The History

of Hepburn mineral springs

Gold was discovered at Daylesford in 1852, and alluvial mining extended northwards through Hepburn. The district attracted many Italian-speaking Swiss miners who were skilled at tunnel mining after the easier alluvial gold gave out.

Australian stamp depicting gold prospectors, labeled "Puddling" with a 22 cent denomination.

The Gold Rush

Vintage green hand water pump with wooden handle

Restoration & Rejuvenation

Hepburn has served as a hub of rejuvenation, attracting visitors with promises of restoring youth, vitality, and relief from various ailments.

In 1864, Citizens gathered and petitioned the government to protect the mineral springs from mining – the water was rated above gold.

Gold nugget

Water Rated Above Gold

Road sign reading 'Welcome to Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, The Spa Centre of Australia' next to a rural road.

The Spa Heart of Australia

Today, the village is known as a spa town where visitors can sample the local mineral waters, and has other local amenities.Visitors from far and wide were drawn to the healing waters of Hepburn Springs, seeking hope and rejuvenation.

Manual water pump with handle on concrete base