Historic Function Centre & Gallery  c 1861

 The historic former Blyth Brothers Mill, "The Mill" is a
bluestone building with a gable roof, in the heart of Malmsbury.

Built in 1861 on the banks of the Coliban River, The
Mill served the foot, horse and bullock wagon traffic traveling to
and from the Mt Alexander, Castlemaine, Maldon and Bendigo gold
diggings.

After only a year operating as a malt mill, fire swept
 through the building on Good Friday in 1862. In 1895 local
newspapers reported that the Mill's machinery had been sold off,
thereby ending operations. On liquidation, the entire complex was
sold for a mere £45. At this time the site was expansive with one large bluestone
warehouse joined to the Mill’s third level via a bridge. Other smaller
warehouses were situated at the northern end of the complex. These
additional buildings were demolished during the course of the 20th
century.

In time the building became a derelict shell. In the 1960's,
well known photographer Collins took three photos of
the abandoned building, now only a roofless bluestone shell
(below, courtesy State Library of Victoria). 

Restoration of the shell began in the early 1970’s and
over the years it has been painstakingly restored.  It is classified
by the National Trust of Australia. There remains on the grounds
some old machinery. The Mill is one of the few mills in Australia with a
remaining chimney.

 The Mill since restoration has been a famous
landmark in the region in continuous operation
as a restaurant, gallery, studio
and function centre.

     
        before and after