The district’s First Nation history is through the people of the Gunaikurnai, Duduroa and Jaithmathang nations who have connection to country and cultural interests in the Omeo District area. Pathways used for inter-group travel have shaped modern routes like the Omeo Highway and Great Alpine Road.
European exploration began in 1834 when naturalist John Lhotsky reported seeing a vast plain called ‘Omeo’ - a name meaning “mountains” in indigenous language. The district is home to some of East Gippsland’s earliest European settlements, with a proud pastoral and gold-mining history reflected in landmarks such as the Oriental Claims, Cassilis Cemetery, and the historic Omeo Magistrates Courthouse.
Today, the Omeo District is a hub for outdoor adventure. Visitors enjoy white water rafting, 4WD touring, fishing, camping, bushwalking, and mountain biking at the Omeo Mountain Bike Park. Its proximity to the High Country makes it a popular route for those travelling the Great Alpine Road and Omeo Highway to destinations like Mt Hotham, Falls Creek, and the Alpine National Park.
Omeo District comprises of the following localities:
Anglers Rest, Benambra, Bindi, Bingo Munjie, Brookville, Bundara, Cassilis, Cobberas, Cobungra, Dartmouth, Doctors Flat, Ensay, Ensay North, Glen Valley, Hinnomunjie, Livingstone Valley, Marthavale, Nariel Valley, Nelse, Nunniong, Omeo, Omeo Valley, Reedy Flat, Shannonvale, Stirling, Swifts Creek, Tambo Crossing, The Sisters and The Brothers, Tom Groggin, Tongio, Uplands, and Wentworth.
Omeo District Place Plan:
A Place Plan is an easy-to-read guide that brings together community vision and practical ideas with the work of Council and partners into one coordinated plan.
Omeo District Place Plan is currently in development, with the draft out for consultation currently.
More information on the Omeo District Place Plan and timeline, visit https://yoursay.eastgippsland.vic.gov.au/omeo-district-place-plan
Key documents:
See below for more information and resources on your locality.
The friendly staff at the Omeo Service Centre are ready to assist you.
Monday to Friday, 9.00 am - 5.00 pm
179 Day Avenue, Omeo
Phone: (03) 5153 9500
Place Facilitator – North
Place Facilitators are our officers who help support partnerships across community and us.
Emma Halafihi - Northern Districts Place Facilitator
Anglers Rest is a remote locality in the high country, known for its proximity to rivers and national parks. It is popular with visitors seeking great fishing and camping experiences.
Benambrais a rural locality known for its agricultural landscape and proximity to Lake Omeo. It has historical significance as one of the earliest settled areas in Victoria’s high country and provides access to nearby national parks.
Council-led Improvement Projects
Community assets and facilities
Cobungrais a high country locality surrounded by natural bushland. It provides access to outdoor recreation and is located near the Alpine National Park.
Ensay is a small community located along the Tambo River. It is known for its farming heritage and quiet rural setting. The area is serviced by facilities supporting the community.
Community assets and facilities
Omeo is an alpine town located along the Great Alpine Road and where the Omeo Highway begins. It has a rich history linked to the gold rush era and offers access to outdoor activities and heritage sites. The town serves as a regional centre for surrounding communities.
Council-led Improvement Projects
Community assets and facilities
Swifts Creek is situated in the Tambo Valley and has a background in forestry and agriculture. It features community facilities, a local gallery, and serves as a service centre for residents and visitors travelling through the region.
Swifts Creek Locality Snapshot
Council-led Improvement Projects
Community assets and facilities
Tambo Crossing is a historic locality positioned on the Tambo River. It played a role in early transport routes to the goldfields and now offers a quiet setting with opportunities for camping and fishing.
Community assets and facilities