Bank on Ridgway, 1907
History
Built using locally-milled timber as the Colonial Bank of Australasia, the impressive facade of Bank on Ridgway stands proudly in the heart of Mirboo North, a charming historic country town in Victoria’s lush South Gippsland region. In 1918, the Colonial Bank amalgamated with the National Bank of Australia, and it served as a community bank until 1989.
From then, the building became retail premises as an antique shop - until in February 2023, current owners and hosts Mark and Denise Holden took the keys. The old bank was run down and in need of significant repair, and over the past several months, Mark and Denise have taken great care in restoring it back to its former glory.
Rich in period detail, history surrounds you in every room, with soaring pressed metal ceilings and ornate architraves, tall original windows, stately marble fireplace, and heavy reinforced entry doors. The original bank vault with safe door is also still in working order, weighing over one ton.
Accommodation
A unique accommodation offering, Bank on Ridgway has been transformed into a luxurious and private sanctuary for couples or solo travellers. A beautifully furnished bedroom, with deep ink blue walls, original artwork, and king size bed awaits. Start the day slowly, curled up in sumptuous linens with breakfast in bed. The ensuite bathroom has been created with a spa-like feel, featuring a rainwater shower, sea green tiling, underfloor heating, plush towels, and complimentary Appelles hair and body products.
Relax in the spacious lounge room in front of the original marble fireplace, fitted with a cosy gas log fire. Pour yourself a glass of wine, make a cheese platter and catch up on Netflix, or select from the range of books and board games. With WiFi throughout, Bank on Ridgway is also perfect for those who work from home and need a change of scenery.
A hidden delight for guests, open the safe door to find the original bank vault, with rustic exposed brick walls and soft lighting, exclusively private for you to share a quiet drink together.
Fresh milk, along with Nespresso coffee and tea are provided. And during your stay, for a small extra cost, why not arrange for cooked breakfasts by the cafe next door to enjoy in your accommodation.
Special Features
WiFi
Fireplace
Romantic
Historic Town
Things To Do
Mirboo North, less than two hours from Melbourne, has a long and rich Indigenous and colonial history. The first steam train arrived into the town in 1885, which led to the growth of the area, including a butter factory in 1896 that’s now home to Grand Ridge Brewery.
Perched on a ridge in the middle of the Strzelecki Ranges, Mirboo North sits atop the rolling green hills of South Gippsland. Follow The Grand Ridge Rail Trail on foot or by bike, located directly opposite Bank on Ridgway. The trail winds through 13 picturesque kilometres between Mirboo North and Boolarra. Visit local wineries, including Bellvale Wines and Red Door Estate, and plan a day on Mirboo North’s 18 hole golf course.
