Bright, Victoria
Encyclopedia : B : BR : BRI : Bright, Victoria
Bright (postcode: 3741, ) is a town in Victoria, Australia. It is in the Alpine Shire local government area.
Hamilton Hume and William Hovell explored the area in 1824, naming the Ovens River.
The town was first known as Morse's Creek but in 1861 was renamed in honour of the British orator and politician John Bright.
During the Victorian gold rush there was a rush to the nearby Buckland River. After the first rush Chinese arrived to sift the abandoned claims. A riot in 1857 against the Chinese resulted in 2,000 Chinese fleeing the area or being massacred. The riot was quelled by the Beechworth police under the command of Robert O'Hara Burke from 80 kilometres away.
The main industry of the town at the beginning of the 21st century is tourism, with much focus on the autumnal colours of the European trees planted in the area. A major cultural event is the Bright Autumn Festival.
It is the gateway to majestic Alpine scenery and has a variety of native birds and animals. Morse's Creek and the Ovens River have adjoining tracks which are ideal for short or long walks.
It is also a popular family destination over summer where it enjoys consistently warm, sunny days with comfortable overnight temperatures.
The town is close to the Victorian Alps, and various Alpine national parks including the Mount Buffalo National Park.
External links
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