This is a unique one off opportunity to purchase a piece of history with worldwide interest. Re-live the excitement by residing in the historic former Kingower State School and residence, only metres from where, in 1980, the largest gold nugget in the last 80 years was found.

Almost all of Victoria’s major nuggets were found in or near Kingower. The area is of historic significance and has the Kooyoora State Park and spectacular Melville Caves nearby.

A monument just behind this property, on the edge of Kingower State Forest, marks the spot where an amateur gold prospector, Kevin Hillier, found Australia’s third largest nugget, weighing 27.2 kilograms. It’s now on display at the Gold Nugget Casino in Las Vegas.

Kingower State School was opened in 1882 and replaced an earlier school built in 1858 during the gold rush times. The school is one of the first to be numbered in the State, and still boasts 351 on the front portico.

At the front of the property is also the site of the Cobb and Co Stables.

The school building and residence remain largely untouched. Character statements in the charming weatherboard include high timber lined ceiling, timber walls and floorboards, three open fireplaces and colonial style windows.

Front and rear verandas provide sunny spots to relax and take in the natural bush and rural views.

A classic central hallway leads to spacious and comfortable accommodation which includes four bedrooms, new bathroom and ensuite facilities. Kitchen appointments are the slow combustion stove, gas hot plates and electric oven. There is also gas heating and a high efficiency gas hot water system.

A small passage heralds the way to the 11m x 5.5m school room, now resplendent with an open plan living area with open fireplace, blackboard, student desk and coat hooks. Large windows front and rear, added in 1914, give exceptional light.

This very versatile family area has room for the table tennis and billiard tables, a piano and numerous comfortable couches which can be arranged close to the fireplace.

Outdoors there is a double carport and a single lock up garage/workshop. The covered veranda is ideal for outdoor meals and throwing a steak on the barbeque.

Other attributes are sundry shedding, a 40,000 litre concrete tank and two smaller water tanks. The school dam at the rear of the property dates from 1913. There is room for a pony or two, and the adjoining forest is ideal for bush walks, bike riding and adventures.

The property, which would make an ideal camp, will also appeal to the gold fossicker, the buyer who prefers a peaceful rural environment, or to the city dweller requiring a weekend retreat.

This unique property, steeped in history, is approximately 5 minutes from Inglewood, 10 minutes from Bridgewater and 35 minutes from the goldmining city of Bendigo.

Directions from Bendigo: Follow Marong Road (Calder Hwy) through Maiden Gully, Marong and Bridgewater. In Inglewood, turn left into Verdon St (becomes Inglewood-Rheola Rd). Travel for approx. 11.5km to property entrance on left.