Steavenson Falls: A Majestic Cascade in Marysville

Steavenson Falls, located a short drive from the town of Marysville, is a natural spectacle and one of Victoria's most impressive waterfalls. The falls have multiple tiers, with a cumulative drop of 84 meters, although some sources state the total descent as 122 meters. The last cascade has a clear drop of more than 21 meters. The Steavenson River, which feeds the falls, originates in the Great Dividing Range and flows reliably year-round, sustaining the lush forest environment. The falls and the river were named after John Steavenson, the Victorian Assistant Commissioner of Roads and Bridges, who first visited the area in 1862. A track to the falls was cut in 1866, and since then, it has been a popular destination for tourists. In 1959, the Steavenson Falls Scenic Reserve was established to protect the falls and their surroundings. Visitors can enjoy several well-maintained walking trails that offer different perspectives of the falls. The easy, level path from the car park leads to a viewing platform at the base of the falls, which is accessible to wheelchairs. For those seeking a more challenging experience, a steeper track climbs to the top of the falls, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of the Steavenson River Valley. The area has a history of bushfires, including the devastating Black Saturday fires in 2009, which caused extensive damage to the forest and infrastructure. However, the natural environment has shown remarkable resilience, with the forest regenerating and the visitor facilities being restored. A hydro-electric turbine, powered by the falls, generates electricity to floodlight the falls from dusk until 11 pm, creating a magical experience for evening visitors.