Surprising Anzac History Near
Foothills Accommodation Centre Yarra Valley
We know the area surrounding Foothills Accommodation Centre Yarra Valley has a rich history of producing excellent wine, gourmet food, talented artists and pretty
contented people. But, around this time of the year, it’s also timely to remember how the Lilydale area played an early part in helping the allies win world war one.
One of Foothills’ Accommodation Centre Yarra Valley closest and most loved neighbouring attractions is the reserve - Lilydale Lake.
We like to think of the area as being a delightful meeting place for families. The Reserve’s Europeanlike atmosphere combines attractions for every member of the family,
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picturesque flour mill ruins
meandering bike and walking tracks
reed surrounded bridges
fresh water fishing
tranquil bird watching areas
and one of the biggest, most amazing playgrounds in Victoria
Sometimes, if you’re lucky, you might even witness the meter high, model yachts, racing to the finish
line with their sails gently pushing them along – just like the ones that can be seen cruising on Parisian
Lakes. Lilydale Lake is certainly an area where visitors to our Accommodation Centre Yarra Valley love
sitting on the grass and simply taking in the peaceful atmosphere.
It’s difficult to imagine that the reserve was once a highly concentrated ‘camp of instruction’ for 3000 of our Aussie militia
months before the start of world war one. Soldiers set up their tents and gear, and then took part in company and battalion
drills, musketry practice and a mock battle at Mount Mary near Coldstream. One of the leaders of the camp, Colonel John
Monash (later Major-General Sir John Monash) of the 13th Infantry Brigade, was soon to become one of Australia’s greatest
war heroes due to his exceptional leadership and strategy skills. Sadly many of the young soldiers who camped at Lilydale
Lake were later to fight in the disastrous battles of Gallipoli and the Somme Valley. We like to think that the time spent
honing their skills increased their chances of survival.
When you visit Foothills Accommodation Centre Yarra Valley, make sure you also visit the, now peaceful Lilydale Lake
Reserve. After you’ve participated in all the peaceful entertainment of the Lake - take a wander up the only steepish hill (or
simply drive through the back entrance) and visit the ANZAC Memorial and information board. Look out over the surrounding
area, and imagine what it must have looked like with the daily hustle and bustle of young soldier’s activities. And
remember, that many of the men attending the camp would have lost their lives fighting in the following few years.
We like to think of the area surrounding our Accommodation Centre Yarra Valley as being one of the richest in the whole of
the Yarra Valley. The area is a gentle mix of history, arts and food and wine cultures. Come and visit Foothills Conference
Centre soon, you will be glad you did.
For more information concerning all the many facilities Foothills, or to make an overnight booking for our budget-friendly
luxurious Accommodation Centre Yarra Valley, simply call 1300 341 630, email, fill in our contact form or chat live on our
website http://foothillsconferencecentre.com.au/contact-us/