History

The house was built in 1916 and from historical records the front shop was a grocer and grain store.

Lorenzo “Mac” Reilly McKenzie a pioneer in Victorian tourism purchased the house after he returned from the War as a country home for his wife Mary and daughter Nancy, and booking office to McKenzies Tourist Services Pty Ltd which he started in 1927. Before this the main office was in Kew, during this time there was a boom for road passenger and related services.

Mac turned his attentions to his fleet of buses, keen to work with Engineer Les Horn on new and inventive improvements. Being the first men to elongate the chassis, starting with 11- seaters then replacing them with side-loaders built on a Ford chassis with a door opening on to each row of seats. Soon after new designs he had a fleet of 40 seat carriers.

As much as the buses were bigger, better and bolder in both design and looks, they were also happily filled with passengers. There were approximately 95 registered guest houses in Healesville and Marysville, the mood was buoyant and Mac was looking to the opportunities once again. Transporting people for country holidays from the city to Healesville and Marysville was a busy time.

In 1951 construction of the Eildon Dam commenced and a ‘captive town’ was built to accommodate those employed on the project which was completed in 1956. Transporting workers to and from Melbourne and other destinations meant good business for McKenzies Tourist Services.

The house finally became Nancy and Nelson’s home and to their three daughters. It was a house full of fun and laughter, with weddings and grandchildren through the years. It has remained in the family since the end of the Second World War.  Mac McKenzie’s youngest granddaughter and her husband have recently renovated the house to become the accommodation house it is today.

There is a book in the house for Guests to read and enjoy the history of The Story of McKenzies Tourist Services Pty Ltd.