Destinations > Gateway to the High Country

The area around Flaggy Creek has a long history of mining dating back to 1939, when tungsten-bearing ore was mined and used for reinforcing steel during the Second World War. Alluvial tin mining continued around Flaggy and Koetong Creeks until the early 1980s. Abandoned mine shafts still exist in some areas of the park so take care if you're venturing anywhere off track. The state park was declared in 1987 to preserve the unique ecosystem and also protect the history of the area.

We drove back to camp via Tallangatta and called in at the lookout over the Mitta Mitta River. This beautiful, peaceful rural countryside is picture perfect, especially in the late afternoon. The first European settlers arrived around this district in the 1860s and used the area mainly for grazing but also for small-scale logging. The timber they collected was mainly used to make fence posts and firewood.
The aboriginals of the Yiatmathong tribe had used the rocky outcrops overlooking the Murray River for thousands of years before the coming of the white settlers. Evidence of their occupation can be found throughout the area in rock shelters and cave paintings. Each summer groups of aboriginals gathered together in the alpine areas to feast on the nutritious bogong moths. There was no shortage of food, water or shelter and this was the perfect place to hold important ceremonies.

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We couldn't resist stopping for a cold beer at the historic Koetong pub on the way home. This charming old pub is steeped in history and the publican is not short of a yarn to tell. There are always the stories about the fishing in this part of the country - apparently the trout just jump onto your line as soon as the bait hits the water, and special little places that only the locals know where you're always assured of bagging out. Nearby Nariel Creek is said to have some of the finest fly-fishing in Australia. Then there are the romantic tales of wild brumbies as they gallop through the winter snow and the magnificent spring display of wild orchids in the high country. The pub also offers accommodation, meals and of course that welcome coldie.

The first thing we did when we got back to our cabin was book in for another night so we could explore the nearby Burrowa Pine Mountain National Park the following day. There's something about this magnificent mountain country that keeps calling you back and urging you to explore and experience that special feeling of `The Great Southern Outback'.

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Parks Victoria Mt Lawson State Park Visitors Guide: Free


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