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RICH IN GEOLOGICAL HISTORY JUST WAITING TO BE UNCOVERED.
Begin at the former Temperance Hall and step back into the mid 1850s when Mortlake was growing apace to serve the needs of hungry gold-diggers and a flourishing pastoral community. Uncover the secrets and fascinating trivia of the time while taking in 20 historic buildings, including a close-knit cluster of bluestone beauties in the Shaw Street Bluestone Precinct.
Tea Tree Lake
A picture-perfect, nostalgic relaxation spot, complete with historic rotunda and summerhouse. Idyllic parkland centres on Tea Tree Lake, which is well-stocked with fish and yabbies. Dangle a line from the pier, go spotting for wildlife including more than 100 bird species, or laze away an afternoon soaking up the peaceful, natural vibe.
If gem stones are of interest the Mortlake Quarry allows fossicking for Olivine. Olivine is an olive-green, grey-green, or brown mineral occurring widely in basalt, peridotite, and other basic igneous rocks. It is a silicate containing varying proportions of magnesium, iron, and other elements. The large ejected rocks are called volcanic bombs. These bombs can contain olivine, a green crystal also known as peridot.
Mount Shadwell is located adjacent to Mortlake and was formed 25,000 years ago. It is believed that it last erupted about 5,000 years ago. You will need to complete an indemnity form (available at Moyne Shire Offices or Mortlake Info. Centre) before starting
EAT LIKE A LOCAL
Mortlake is home to the renowned Clarke's Pies - A favourite for south Western Victorians.
Stop into Clarke's Bakery to try one for yourself and pitch yourself in the pretty Market Square in the town centre to enjoy the country ambience.
Fertile volcanic plains surrounding Mortlake have long lured farmers and specialists producers. Wholesome local produce and boutique artisans abound.
Feast your eyes on the expansive cold cabinet smallgoods showcase at award-winning Brendan Bouchier’s butcher shop. Can’t choose? Try the flagship smokey hams, crafted from Prime Otway Pork in two German-built smoking ovens.
Traditional dairy farming is evolving. Mortlake Organic Dairy is a new venture bringing together L’Artisan Cheese, Symons Organic Dairy Co and a wealth of dairy industry know-how to craft artisan and organic soft cheeses, washed rind cheeses, haloumi and parmesan using milk from two local organic dairy farmers.
Mortlake Cup!
Giddy-up to a country race meeting steeped in history, colour and excitement. Established in 1869 and with iconic Mount Shadwell as backdrop, the Mortlake Racing Club continues to thrive.
Thousands of people throng to the track for the annual Mortlake Cup meeting held on Derby Day. The family-friendly meet that’s loved by punters, socialites and locals is an ideal way to squeeze a taste of the spring racing action into your itinerary.
Take a walk down the main street to immerse yourself in the period bluestone buildings and shopfronts. Check out the Art Deco public swimming pool entrance (in summer take a dip) or hunt for antiques and collectables to take home with you.
Dive in!
Mortlake Swimming Pool has its origins in baths built in 1926. In summer the pool is a big part of community life – a natural gathering place for young and old. The 50m rectangular outdoor pool is solar-heated and open through the summer season. A shaded toddler pool, vast lawn areas and canteen make for hours of splashing family fun and ice-creams all round.
Where to Stay in Mortlake
Mac's Hotel Accommodation
Traditional comfort in the heart of Mortlake. Comfortable accommodation is always waiting for you at Mac’s Hotel.
Mortlake Caravan Park
Mortlake Caravan Park is ideally situated within the beautiful Tea Tree Lake reserve and gardens, providing ample open space for leisurely strolls or for the kids to play.
What to See and Do in Mortlake
Steptoe and Mrs Mortlake Second Hand Shop
Steptoe and Mrs Mortlake Second Hand Shop is a quality retail store where you can both buy and sell all household goods.
Mount Shadwell Quarry Olivine Fossicking
The Mortlake Information Centre organises volunteers to oversee fossickers in search of olivine (peridot) at Moyne Shire’s Mt Shadwell Quarry.
Mortlake Newsagency
Mortlake Newsagency is your locally owned one-stop-shop for newspapers, magazines, lotto and stationery. They have a wide range of magazines catering to a vast variety of interests.
Mortlake Caremore Pharmacy
Set in a small country town lays a pharmacy filled with gifts, healthcare, and great friendly advice. Only too happy to help discuss your medication or health concerns.
Mortlake Post Plus
Come down to Mortlake Post Plus for all of your postal and office needs. Located in the main street of Mortlake.
Mortlake Library
The Mortlake Library is a branch of the Corangamite Regional Library Corporation located in the Mortlake Community Centre.
Eat and Drink in Mortlake
Brendan Bouchier's Mortlake Butcher
Brendan Bouchier’s value tradition, simplicity and quality. They source 100 per cent of their meat from Australian farmers and pride ourselves on producing high quality small-goods.
Deli Fresh Cafe and Foodstore
The team at Deli Fresh Cafe and Foodstore believe that the memory of good food they have eaten provides the memories that bring people back.
Clarkes Cafe
Home of the original Clarke's Pies. Clarke's Cafe offers a large variety of pies, pasties, bread, cakes, slices, biscuits, creamed cakes, hot meals, fresh salad bar, hamburgers, chips, and hot...
Mac's Hotel
Mortlake is a quaint and friendly central point for exploring this beautiful region, and Mac’s Hotel sits right on the main street.
Mortlake Roadhouse
Mortlake Roadhouse is a general convenience store, take-away or dine-in. Hamburgers, steak sandwiches, country fried chicken, potato cakes, general/ your basic fish n chip lines, pizzas, a private truckie room...
