Charlton, "The Friendly River Town", is a small agricultural community straddling the Avoca River located at the junction of the Calder Highway (A79) and Borung Highway (C234). Charlton is approximately 105kms from Bendigo and approximately 245kms northwest of Melbourne.

History

The original inhabitants of the region are believed to be the Jaara Aborigines. Settlement by Europeans occurred in 1848 by Robert Cay and William Kaye, naming the region after a town in Greenwich, England. Unlike many other towns in the region, Charlton was not established as a result of gold mining, but for pastoral purposes and the proximity to a permanent water supply (the Avoca River). The original town was named East Charlton due to it's location on the eastern banks of the Avoca River, and the fact that another town in the State of Victoria was named Charlton (later renamed Chute). The first bridge to cross the river was erected in 1867, allowing for expansion on both sides of the river.

Demographics

Charlton is the second largest town in the Buloke Shire with a population of approximately 1,100. Government department downsizing, in addition to economic decline led to population decline in Charlton, with an estimated 18% loss in population from the mid 1980's to the mid 1990's (Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics). Recent agricultural developments, in addition to economic recovery, have resulted in a shift towards stabilisation and increase in population.

Economy

The economic backbone to Charlton exists almost entirely in agriculture. Massive silos dominate the skyline, evidence of the town's rich history in various grains including wheat, oats and barley. Sheep and cattle farming is also prolific with the largest beef feedlot in the state, situated in Yeungroon just south of the town. Recent additions to the region, including an olive farm and winery have diversified the town's agricultural applications. Other employers in the town are generally government and service related.

Climate

Charlton enjoys a mediterranean style climate, with long hot summers and mild wet winters. However, the region has been suffering from drought conditions for considerable time, causing the Avoca River to shrink in size, and surrounding lakes to dry up. Charlton's January average max/min temperatures are 30.4C/13.8C and July average max/min temperatures are 13.4C/3.4C. Annual precipitation is 430.8mm. (Source: Bureau of Meteorology)

Facilities

Charlton's central location to the North Central region has resulted in the town being the beneficiary of considerable services not typically associated with such small localities.

• The Traveller's Rest is an iconic 'toilet block', held very proudly by the locals, situated in the heart of the town within easy walking of shops and restaurants. Containing picnic facilities, a wishing well, gazebo, and views of the river (in addition to the recent completion of a footbridge across the river), the facility is a regular stop for tourists, the V/Line bus service and tour groups.
• Sporting facilities are of a high standard, catering to a diversity of sports participated in by locals and visitors. Football (Australian Rules Football), cricket, basketball and tennis dominate the Charlton sporting caledar. Also, the harness racing track is a central feature of the town, holding regular meets.
• The town exhibits a cluster centre that is now part of the P-12 Charlton College, which provides additional education services for students in addition to adult education.
• A comprehensive "driver-training" facility is located within the town, assisting young drivers in learning the rules of the road.

Recreation/Tourism

• Charlton's focus is the Avoca River. The picturesque river winds through the town with shadey trees and parks lining the banks. Along the river is a 2km walking track connecting High Street to Charlton Park, where various sporting facilities exist.
• 2km west of town is the Charlton golf course. Built in a clover leaf format, containing three arms containing six holes each, the golf course is set amongst picturesque scenery in the nearby hills. Kangaroos are a regular occurence on the course.
• 5km southeast of the town, excellent views of the region are to be had from Barrakee Hill, or to the locals: "Quarry Hill".
• 14km west of the town is Wooroonook Lakes, providing excellent facilities for water sports enthusiasts, picnickers and campers alike. Unfortunately, due to recent drought conditions the lake is presently dry.
• 25km east of the town is Wychetella Forest, containing many native animals, including the rare Mallee Fowl.
• Tourist and Information radio is located at 88.0MHz.

Events

• Art Show - Held every October
• Charlton Show - Agricultural show, held every October
• Charlton Fishing Competition - Held every November

Miscellaneous

• Charlton's official sister town is Guymon, Oklahoma, however, the local community has a more direct relationship with Scio, New York through an active exchange program between Lions Clubs
• Former Prime Minister John Curtin lived in the town for a short period of time during his youth. A bust is located at the Traveller's Rest facilities.