The Incredible & Historical Murtoa Stick Shed

A Testament to Australia’s Agricultural History

The Stick Shed at Murtoa, Victoria is a one-of-a-kind historic building that has become a famous landmark and part of Australia’s National Heritage List. The Shed was built in the late 1930s as a temporary solution to store the surplus wheat produced during a period of rapid growth in wheat production.

Traditional grain storage facilities like granaries and silos could not handle the volume of wheat being produced, so the farmers in Murtoa came up with the innovative idea of using tall wooden poles placed closely together and covered with corrugated iron sheets to create a large, open-sided structure. The result was the Stick Shed, which allowed for easy access to the stored grain and ample ventilation to prevent spoilage and maintain the quality of the crops.

The Stick Shed marked a significant moment in Australia’s agricultural history as it became a symbol of the country’s ability to adapt and innovate in response to the challenges posed by its growing agricultural industry. Over the years, the Shed became an important part of the local community, serving as a gathering place for farmers to exchange ideas, host community events, and social gatherings.

During its heyday, the Stick Shed was a hub of community activity where locals would come together for dances, concerts, and charity events. The Murtoa Stick Shed Ball, an annual event held at the Shed, was the highlight of the local social calendar, attracting people from all over the area. The ball featured live music, fine attire, and good food and drinks, creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Today, the Stick Shed is a popular tourist attraction that showcases the ingenuity and resourcefulness of Australia’s rural communities. The building has been carefully preserved, and its unique design and history have made it a sought-after location for film and television productions.

The Stick Shed at Murtoa is a true testament to Australia’s rich agricultural history and represents a time in the country’s past when farmers had to work together to overcome adversity. It serves as a reminder of the important role that agriculture has played in shaping the nation’s economy and cultural identity.

In conclusion, the Stick Shed at Murtoa is a unique and historic building that holds an important place in Australia’s agricultural history. Its design, resilience, and rich history continue to captivate visitors and showcase the ingenuity and resourcefulness of Australia’s rural communities. If you’re interested in learning more about Australia’s agricultural history, the Stick Shed is definitely worth a visit.

How to visit the Stick Shed.

The Stick Shed is located in the rural town of Murtoa in the state of Victoria, Australia. Murtoa is situated about 300 kilometers northwest of Melbourne and about 20 kilometers south of Horsham.

To get to the Stick Shed, you can travel by car or by train. If you’re driving from Melbourne, take the Western Freeway to Ballarat, then take the Western Highway to Horsham. From Horsham, take the Wimmera Highway towards Murtoa. The Stick Shed is located on the eastern edge of town, just off the main road.

If you prefer to travel by train, you can take the V/Line from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station to Murtoa. The train journey takes approximately 4 hours, and the Stick Shed is just a short walk from the train station.

Once you arrive in Murtoa, the Stick Shed is easy to find. It is located on the corner of Jones Street and Lake Street, just off the main road. There is a large parking area available for visitors, and the building is clearly visible from the street.