Port Phillip

Local History of Port Phillip in Victoria, Australia

Port Phillip is a region in Victoria, Australia, named after the body of water it surrounds, Port Phillip Bay. The region is rich in history dating back thousands of years and has been shaped by its Indigenous past, European settlement, and growth as a modern city.

Indigenous History

The Indigenous people of the Port Phillip region are the Kulin Nation, consisting of five groups: the Wurundjeri, Boonwurrung, Taungurong, Djadjawurrung and Wathaurung. The Kulin Nation's traditional lands include much of present-day Melbourne and its surrounding areas.

The Kulin people have a long and deep connection to the land, with a complex system of laws and traditions that were passed down through generations. They were skilled in hunting and gathering, using the land's resources to sustain their communities.

European Settlement

European settlement in Port Phillip began in 1803 when Lieutenant Colonel David Collins established a convict settlement at Sullivan Bay, located near the present-day town of Sorrento. However, the settlement was short-lived, and Collins relocated to Tasmania the following year.

It was not until 1835 that European settlement in Port Phillip became permanent, when John Batman and John Pascoe Fawkner established settlements on opposite sides of the Yarra River. Batman's settlement, located on the site of present-day Melbourne, was established without permission from the British government, while Fawkner's settlement was established legally. However, both settlements were soon absorbed into the new colony of Victoria, which was created in 1851.

Victorian Gold Rush

The discovery of gold in Victoria in 1851 had a profound impact on Port Phillip. The gold rush brought a large influx of people to the region, including diggers from all over the world, hoping to strike it rich.

As the population boomed, Melbourne became the financial and administrative center of the goldfields, with banks, government offices, post offices and other businesses sprouting up to meet the needs of the growing community.

Modern Port Phillip

Today, Port Phillip is a vibrant and diverse region that is home to over 100,000 people. It includes the municipalities of Port Phillip, Glen Eira, Stonnington, Bayside, Kingston, and parts of Melbourne and Monash.

The region is known for its beautiful beaches, parks, and gardens, as well as its rich cultural and artistic offerings. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world who come to experience the region's unique history and contemporary lifestyle.

History of in Port Phillip

Port Phillip has a rich and complex history that has been shaped by its Indigenous past, European settlement, and rapid growth during the gold rush. Today, it is a thriving region that has managed to balance its historic roots with its modern, dynamic identity. It is a truly unique part of Australia, and a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the people who have called this region home for thousands of years.