Port Phillip Bay is a large and beautiful body of water located in southern Victoria, Australia. With a length of over 40 miles and an average width of 20 miles, Port Phillip Bay is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. But the bay is more than just a scenic spot, it also has a rich history dating back thousands of years.
The History of Port Phillip Bay:
The traditional owners of the land surrounding Port Phillip Bay are the Boonwurrung and Woiwurrung people. For thousands of years, these indigenous groups lived in harmony with the land and sea, fishing, hunting, and gathering food from the area.
In 1802, the British explorer Matthew Flinders sailed into the bay and named it Port Phillip in honor of the first Governor of New South Wales, Arthur Phillip. Soon after, a number of European settlers arrived in the area, including John Batman, who established the first European settlement at what is now Melbourne.
Throughout the 19th century, the population of the area grew rapidly, with many people drawn to the fertile land and abundant resources of Port Phillip Bay. In the early years, the bay was used for fishing, whaling, and shipping, with a number of ports and towns established around the bay.
During World War II, Port Phillip Bay played an important role in the defense of Australia, with many military installations set up in the area. After the war, the area continued to grow and develop, with new suburbs and towns being built around the bay.
Today, Port Phillip Bay is a popular destination for tourists and locals, with a rich history and many interesting attractions.
Biggest Towns:
The biggest towns surrounding Port Phillip Bay include Melbourne, Geelong, Frankston, Mornington, and Sorrento. Melbourne is the largest city in the area, with a population of over 5 million people. Geelong is the second-largest city, with a population of over 250,000 people. Frankston is a smaller town with a population of around 40,000 people, while Mornington and Sorrento are picturesque seaside towns with populations of around 25,000 people each.
Key Tourist Attractions:
There are many key tourist attractions to explore around Port Phillip Bay, including:
- The Great Ocean Road – a scenic drive along the coast, passing through charming towns and stunning landscapes.
- The Royal Botanic Gardens – located in Melbourne, the gardens are a beautiful place to explore and relax.
- The Bellarine Railway – take a ride on this historic steam train and enjoy the views of the bay and surrounding countryside.
- The Mornington Peninsula – this beautiful peninsula is home to a number of quaint seaside towns, beaches, wineries, and golf courses.
- The Twelve Apostles – these iconic limestone formations are a must-see attraction along the Great Ocean Road.
- The Melbourne Museum – learn about the history and culture of the area at this fascinating museum.
- The Australian Grand Prix – watch the world’s best drivers compete in this thrilling motorsport event held in Melbourne each year.
- The Geelong Waterfront – a beautiful promenade with stunning views of the bay, great restaurants, and family-friendly attractions.
- The Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs – relax and unwind in these natural hot springs, surrounded by beautiful gardens and stunning views.
- The Sorrento Back Beach – a stunning beach with rugged cliffs and great surf, perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway.
In conclusion, Port Phillip Bay is a beautiful and historically rich area that offers plenty of attractions and activities for tourists and locals alike. Whether you want to explore the bustling city of Melbourne, soak up the sun on a stunning beach, or discover the area’s fascinating history and culture, there is something for everyone.