In 1852, following rich alluvial gold finds in its vicinity, Campbells Creek became a focal point for many diggers on the Mount Alexander goldfield. In 1857 its official population was 2,459, but this was probably understated by at least 500 male Chinese. The Mount Alexander Mail, reporting on the diggings, noted that ‘down the creek, there was a sense of great animation, for the work was being done by a large number of Chinese’. Over its first 50 years, the town also became renowned for its orchards and vineyards, especially after the railway opened in 1872.