Woodend was first surveyed in 1836 by Major Thomas Mitchell, who opened it up for settlement. When gold was discovered in the area (towards Bendigo and Ballarat), Woodend became the main thoroughfare through the Black Forest, and accommodated many gold-diggers and their families. It is commonly believed that this is where the origin of the name Wood - End came from.

The Woodend & District Heritage Society is a long established volunteer group of locals. The society started 45 years ago and meets each Wednesday at the Forest Street Courthouse.

The society can help you to discover the past history of Woodend and welcomes members of the community to contact them for help researching family, buildings and general history of the region.