Avoca

Situated on the South Esk river, Avoca has a number of buildings of historic significance. 

The Old Parish Hall, St. Thomas's Church, Marlborough House and The Parsonage are well worth a look in this small, country town. The Old Parish Hall includes a history room. 

St. Thomas's has the highest pulpit in the Southern Hemisphere and is one of several churches designed by the convict architect, James Blackburn.  Although highly respected in his native Essex, extreme financial pressure led him to forgery for which he was transported. Despite his convict status, Blackburn was considered not only one of the most original architects of the time, but also one of the greatest engineers, playing a crucial role in the island's road-building from 1833 to 1839.  Ultimately he was pardoned for his misdemeanour.