Blackwood

VIC 3458 • Victoria

387
Population (2021)
N/A
Median Income
65.39 km²
Area
N/A
Median Rent
HistoricBushlandRuralQuietHeritage

About Blackwood

Blackwood is a small historic township on the Lerderderg River, approximately 70 kilometres north-west of Melbourne within the Shire of Moorabool. Nestled at an elevation of around 560 metres on the fringes of the Wombat State Forest, it sits roughly 25 kilometres north-west of Bacchus Marsh and 40 kilometres south-east of Ballarat. Established in 1855, Blackwood had a population of 387 at the 2021 Census, and a modest median postcode income of around $41,000 that reflects its alternative-lifestyle, artist, and retiree demographic.

Blackwood is best known for its proximity to the Lerderderg State Park, offering spectacular gorge walks, swimming holes in the Lerderderg River, and abundant wildlife — a magnet for bushwalkers and nature-lovers from Melbourne and beyond. The township itself retains a charming village character, anchored by the historic Blackwood Hotel, a small general store, and a community hall. Artists, weekenders, and those seeking a quiet forested retreat are drawn to Blackwood's heritage character, cool climate, and scenic surrounds. Winter temperatures can drop well below zero and occasional snowfall occurs, giving the township a distinct seasonal appeal.

Blackwood falls under postcode 3458 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Macedon (Northern Victoria) electorate.

📍 Location

State
Postcode
3458
Urban Area
N/A
LGA / Council
N/A
Federal Electorate
State Electorate
Type
Locality
Timezone
Melbourne (UTC+10)
Coordinates
-37.42°, 144.33°
Statistical Area
N/A
Area
65.39 km²
Elevation
0m

🚌 Transport & Commute

Nearest Train Stations

Bacchus Marsh
25 km
N/A (drive only)

Bus Services

  • No scheduled bus services — N/A N/A

Commute to Melbourne CBD

Distance
70 km
By Train
No direct service; drive to Bacchus Marsh station (25 km) then V/Line train to Southern Cross (~1 hr)
By Car (Peak)
75–95 min via Western Ring Road/Western Freeway
By Car (Off-Peak)
60–75 min

🛣️ Access via Bacchus Marsh Road; no direct public transport; Bacchus Marsh V/Line station is the most practical rail option

Walkability Almost All Errands Require a Car

A car is essential for all daily errands; the pub and general store are within walking distance in the village, but all services beyond basics require driving to Bacchus Marsh or beyond

🛒 Supermarkets Nearby

No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.

🎓 Schools

👥 Demographics

Census 2016
0
Census 2021
387
0% growth

Population Growth

Gender Distribution (Census 2021)

Income 2016
N/A
Income 2021
N/A
0% increase

Income Comparison

📊 Population: ABS Census 2021
💰 Income: ABS Census 2021

Nearby Suburbs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Blackwood known for? +

Blackwood is known for its proximity to the Lerderderg State Park, offering famous gorge walks and swimming holes, as well as its historic township character, the Blackwood Hotel, and a cool, forested atmosphere that has long attracted artists, bushwalkers, and weekenders from Melbourne.

How far is Blackwood from Melbourne CBD? +

Blackwood is approximately 70 kilometres north-west of Melbourne's CBD, typically around a 60–75 minute drive off-peak via Bacchus Marsh Road or the Western Freeway.

Does Blackwood have public transport? +

Blackwood has no direct public transport. The nearest V/Line train station is at Bacchus Marsh (approximately 25 km away) on the Ballarat Line, with services to Southern Cross Station. A private car is essential for getting around.

What is the population of Blackwood? +

Blackwood had a population of 387 at the 2021 Census, within the Shire of Moorabool. It is a small community known for its alternative-lifestyle residents, artists, and retirees who value the forested, off-grid character of the area.

Is Blackwood a good place to live? +

Blackwood is ideal for those seeking a quiet, forested lifestyle in a heritage township close to nature. It suits retirees, artists, and lifestyle-seekers, though the distance from services and the need for a car should be factored in. Winter can be cold with occasional frost or snow.

What is the postcode for Blackwood? +

The postcode for Blackwood is 3458.