Historical information

The vineyards exhibition was mounted by the Sunbury & District Heritage Association in the former George Evans Museum from August 1996 to January 1997. It featured the establishment of the vineyards and the wine industry in Sunbury from the 1860s to the present day. From the early days of European settlement in Sunbury, it was found that the soils and climate suited the growing of grapes, especially the east facing slopes along Vineyard Road. A number of people of German origin established vineyards along there. By the end of the nineteenth century and limited spending power as a result of the 1890s depression, the demand for wine declined in Victoria with beer being the preferred beverage.While Phylloxera destroyed the vines in many areas of Victoria, Sunbury's grapevines were not affected. As the demand for wine increased in the 1960s - 70s, some vineyards in the Sunbury area were replanted.

Significance

The vineyards established in Sunbury in the 1860s were one of the earliest agricultural pursuits taken up by European settlers in the area and remained an important industry for 40 years.

Physical description

A non-digital coloured photograph of a display board advertising an exhibition of vineyards in the Sunbury area.