Benayeo
The Benayeo District's traditional owners are the Marditjali people who lived and hunted among the towering red gums and patches of sandy scrub. At first they were hostile to the European invaders, but as in all other parts of Australia the European push was stronger than they were.
Hugh Lawrence McLeod settled Benayeo Station in August 1845 with 35,000 acre holding, 4,000 sheep, 50 cattle as well as breeding horses and dogs. He was able to build a good relationship with the native people and some worked for him.
Over time circumstances and the Australian climate saw new owners of the Benayeo Station come and go as more and more of the original holding was taken over by new settlers. A community was born.
Two World Wars saw Benayeo Families waving beloved sons and husbands off into the unknown. Some did not return, but Soldier Settlers schemes saw new families come into the area. There had been various schools for Benayeo children as their numbers grew and declined over the districts history but 1944 saw a need for a more permanent building and the current Benayeo Hall was built to be used as a school, church and meeting place for community members.
Benayeo's Fire Brigade also has a long history with the first official records dating back to 1939. The Australian climate has kept Benayeo's Brigade active and resilient up to the present day.
Benayeo still relies on farming to support the local families although sheep and wool production has expanded to cropping and irrigaiton beneath those same towering gums.
Although recent years have seen smaller farms absorbed into bigger holdings to stay viable, Benayeo is still around 30-50 people strong and it retains its sense of community. The refubished Benayeo Hall and fantastic new CFA Fire shed are now the centre point of this close and caring district. Neighbours are friends and meet at the Hall on the first Friday of the month for a community BBQ where all are welcome. An annual Christmas Party and various other social events keep the sense of community strong.
For more information on the Benayeo communtiy contact:
Suzanne Adams, President of the Benayeo Hall Committee (03)55876237
