Treat the family to a coffee and snacks at an inspirational woman’s home and business this Mother’s Day.

Parks Victoria is opening the historic Day’s Mill complex outside Murchison for a special event on 12 May to celebrate the legacy of pioneering businesswoman Ann Day.

The event is part of the National Trust Australian Heritage Festival, a month-long celebration of the diverse stories and heritage of Australia.

On the day, coffee and food will be on offer for a Mother's Day treat. Parks Victoria staff and volunteers will be there to tell the fascinating story of the mill over the years.

The heritage-listed flour mill, homestead and farm was established by William and Ann Day in the late 1850s. True entrepreneurs, William and Ann also operated a bush sawmill and a punt over the Goulburn River, and Ann ran a local store.

William died after a tragic accident in 1872, leaving Ann to support seven children, aged 5 to 19. A determined and astute woman, Ann's family prospered as she navigated the male-dominated Victorian business world. Her enterprise helped Murchison and the surrounding district develop and thrive.

The mill closed in the 1880s, as Ann realised railways and new technology put the operation at a disadvantage. But she kept the farm and other businesses thriving. Her descendants owned the property until the 1980s.

The complex today offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past and the people that lived and worked there for four generations.

The mill is usually open by appointment only. More information about the site, including a virtual tour, is available on the Parks Victoria website.

Quotes attributable to Parks Victoria Senior Heritage Advisor Dr Kim Wilson
 
“Ann Day was a remarkable woman and a true pioneer. We’re really delighted to give everyone the chance to learn about her story and the history of the mill on May 12.”

“Parks Victoria looks after a huge range of different heritage sites across the state and we love giving Victorians the chance to experience them and learn their unique stories.”\