This document is a personal reflection on life in the small town of Marong. The reasons for living in Marong are described as deeply personal and sometimes hard to define, often tied to a sense of belonging and community.Tess Rule, a long-time resident, expresses genuine affection for Marong and its people, emphasizing the friendliness and strong social ties within the town. The document features a vivid description of Marong's picturesque landscape, including sunsets, Bullock Creek, gum trees, and local wildlife, capturing the town's rural charm. Tess values supporting local businesses and prefers to shop in Marong whenever possible, only traveling to nearby Bendigo for items unavailable locally. Marong is often overlooked by travelers who only see the main highway and intersection, missing the town's true character.Overall, the document conveys a deep appreciation for Marong's community spirit, natural beauty, and the importance of supporting local life. The creek is not permanent, but it is a significant natural feature, especially near the town's sporting grounds. The town is characterized by a strong sense of community and high levels of volunteer involvement, particularly in maintaining sporting grounds and organizing local events. Community members actively participate in fundraising and improvement projects, such as raising money for a new hall and restoring the historic shire hall. The Marong Hotel, built around 1917, is a central landmark and was once one of three hotels in town. The town has a history of gold mining and is located on the edge of the Golden Triangle.The old shire hall is being restored to its original 1908 condition, reflecting pride in local heritage. Marong supports a wide range of sports clubs (footy, tennis, swimming, shooting, riding, trotting, cricket, and more), which are central to community life. The hotel serves as a hub for both locals and travelers, with regulars including sports club members and truck drivers who stop for food. The population is around 580 and growing, as more people move from nearby urban areas. Ongoing development includes new housing and community facilities. The town is a notable stop for interstate truck drivers due to a sharp bend requiring them to slow down, leading to a gathering spot outside the hotel. The presence of palm trees throughout the town is a distinctive feature, with some believed to have spread from the hotel’s original palms.Small Towns With Big Hearts Maiden Gully. Series of photos and information about Marong. Pictures by Peter Hyett. Written by Wayne Gregson. This item contains the following documents newspaper articles and black and white photos: 8091.603a Part of Page 10, the Bendigo Advertiser Wednesday June 30 1993 8091.603b Part of Page 10, the Bendigo Advertiser Wednesday June 30 1993 8091.603c Church in Marong - Contact BHS for details 8091.603d Church in Marong - Contact BHS for details 8091.603e Holy Trinity Church in Marong - Contact BHS for details 8091.603f Former Shire of Marong Hall undergoing renovations - Contact BHS for details 8091.603g Calder Highway sign - Contact the BHS for details 8091.603h Picnic Table and Golf Course - Contact the BHS for details 8091.603i The Marong Hotel - Contact the BHS for details 8091.603j The Marong Hotel and Old Shire Hall from the railway crossing - Contact the BHS for details 8091.603k Rural City of Marong Chief Executive Officer Graeme Elvey inspects the $120,000 Shire of Marong Hall undergoing renovations - Contact BHS for details 8091.603l Rural City of Marong Chief Executive Officer Graeme Elvey inspects the $120,000 Shire of Marong Hall undergoing renovations - Contact BHS for details 8091.603m Truck entering Marong from the Calder Highway - Contact BHS for details 8091.603n The Post Mistress - Contact BHS for details 8091.603o Bar and patrons of the Marong Hotel - Contact BHS for detailsnewspaper, bendigo advertiser, marong