King River (Victoria) facts for kids
The King River is an important river in the north-east part of Victoria, Australia. It flows into the Ovens River, which then joins the mighty Murray River near Echuca. The King River is a popular spot for kayaking. It has many exciting rapids, from easy to more challenging ones. In 2008, it even hosted the Victorian and Australian Downriver Championships for kayaking. The area around the river is called the King Valley. It's known for its beautiful scenery and for growing special wine grapes in a cool climate.
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History of the King Valley
The King Valley is often called a "little piece of Italy" in the hills of north-east Victoria. It's located south of Wangaratta. This area has a rich history, including stories of bushrangers, and the arrival of people from China and Italy.
Early Settlers and Chinese Farmers
In the mid-1800s, Chinese people came to the King Valley. Many had first worked in the gold fields. They became farmers, growing vegetables and tobacco. Some Chinese merchants also traveled through the valley. They sold their goods from horse-pulled wagons. Today, some roads in the valley are named after important early families, such as Mahlooks, Honey, and Fosangs.
Italian Influence and Wine Growing
Italian families began settling in the King Valley in the 1940s and 1950s. Like the Chinese, they first grew tobacco. However, they soon realized the valley was perfect for growing wine grapes. The King Valley is now famous for its unique wines. These include types like sangiovese, nebbiolo, and barbera. Many vineyards have Italian names, such as Pizzini, Dal Zotto, and Corsini. The King Valley also has some of the highest vineyards in Australia. This high altitude helps grow special grapes.
Towns of the Valley
The main towns in the King Valley are Whitfield and Moyhu. You can find them along the road from Wangaratta or Mansfield. These towns are central to the valley's farming and wine industries.
