In a celebration of community and creativity, Prof Milburn prepares to launch his book, capturing the heart and history of Wycheproof.

After many years of diligently researching the history of Wycheproof and the district, Allan ‘Prof’ Milburn thought it was time to share all the stories from his journey.

From indigenous stories, through to highlighting squatters and selectors, and the inspiring business individuals who shaped the community as we know it today.

The book highlights a timeline of robust rural community spirit from settlement in 1874, when Mr James O’Connor first arrived in the area (then called Mount Wycheproof) to build the Mt. Wycheproof Hotel, through to the present day – the year 2024, when the community of Wycheproof proudly acknowledges its 150-year anniversary.

Prof delves into various mentors, their personalities and how they helped shape the early years across Wycheproof, from famous names such as James and also Thomas Boase, alongside the Denney family and many more.

This evolution is accompanied by fascinating photography sourced via the Wycheproof Historical Society archives, of which Prof has been an active member since circa. 1992.

The book is a deeply personal account of Prof’s love for the history of Wycheproof, and how this community has triumphed over the past 150 years.

It will appeal to many as the ideal gift (especially for Christmas), a very good read, a treasured family keepsake, coffee table reading, something for all those who have a passionate affiliation and love for Wycheproof.

All are invited and encouraged to attend the official (and highly anticipated) book launch on Sunday, November 3, on the serene lawns of the Mt. Wycheproof Museum – if weather inclement, proceedings shall be relocated indoors.

This article appeared in The Buloke Times, 22 October 2024.