Eurobin is a locality in the Ovens Valley, northeastern Victoria, Australia, situated approximately midway between the towns of Myrtleford and Bright. Formerly known as Black Springs until 1870,[2] the name Eurobin is believed to be derived from an Aboriginal word describing a lake at the base of a mountain.[3]
In 1899, the *Ovens and Murray Advertiser* described Eurobin during a period of decline: "After a seemingly endless morning tramp, we entered the little township of Eurobin, which looks lonely and worn, resting on its little bit of rising ground. It seemed as if it had known trouble by its remnants of fences, dilapidated and tired-looking houses, and the battered-in windows of the old schoolhouse."[18] This snapshot reflects a time of hardship and transition.
However, Eurobin experienced periods of renewal, as evidenced by the construction of two churches in 1910: St Clement's Church Eurobin, a Church of England establishment, and the St John's Presbyterian Church. These buildings symbolised a sense of optimism and resilience in the community, showcasing its ability to recover and thrive despite earlier challenges.
While many of the original structures from Eurobin's early days have not survived, St. Clement's Church remains the only surviving community building from that period, holding historical, architectural, and social significance for the area.
Agriculture and economy
Eurobin is one of several agriculturally rich settlements in the Ovens Valley, with farm settlement beginning in the late 1860s. The locality became known primarily for its production of hops, tobacco, and dairy products. In the early 1890s, William Panlook established a successful hop-growing enterprise at Eurobin. Today, the Rostrevor Hop Gardens - now the largest hop farm in the Southern Hemisphere - is located in Eurobin and is owned by Henry Jones IXL (Tasmania) and Carlton & United Breweries.[19][20]
Population
In 1911, Eurobin had a population of 214. By 2021, the population had increased slightly to 239, with a median age of 50.[21]