Ross was named by Governor Lachlan Macquarie on his 1821 visit to Van Diemen’s Land. Drawing on his Scottish heritage, Macquarie chose the name Ross in remembrance of his friend Hector McDonald Buchanan whose seat on the banks of Loch Lomond was called Ross Priory. In his journal, Macquarie noted that the site here, on the banks of the Macquarie river, was ‘very beautiful and command[ed] a noble view‘.
The Buchanans had occupied the Loch Lomond site from the 14th century. The building on the site today dates from the extensive re-modelling carried out in 1812. Sir Walter Scott is said to have written much of Rob Roy (published in 1817) while staying with Hector at Ross.
In 2021, Ross celebrated its Bicentenary, marking 200 years since Governor Macquarie declared the settlement a Town. The townspeople invited locals and visitors alike to participate in a range of events throughout the year, including ‘Set in Stone’ – The Daniel Herbert Sculpture Competition, Open Houses and Gardens and a Gala Day of Cricket. It was a fantastic way to mark the occasion!
Ken Harding, presenting trophy to winning Campbell Town team Captain Sam Lyne - Courtesy S. Robinson
The famous Ross Bridge
Original Ross Bridge steps
Set in Stone Winner 2021 - M. Smith - 'Boreas'
