The Avoca railway line is to be reopened (as of 2017) as standard gauge and upgraded to 21-tonne axle loads, with insertion of over 100,000 new concrete sleepers.

The second reopening of this cross country line is primarily to allow for the carriage of mineral sands from Manangatang to a processing plant at Hamilton.

In January 1919, the local police station was set up with mounted Constable E E Dunkley in charge.

The local area consists mainly of farming, primarily wheat and sheep but also cows and birds such as squab.

[9] The town possesses Victoria's smallest public hospital and nursing home.

Manangatang has an Annual Reunion on the second Saturday of February at approx 10.30 am in the Fitzroy Gardens, Melbourne.