East Gippsland Local History
East Gippsland, located in the eastern region of Victoria, Australia, is a region rich with history. Its vast expanse of rugged coastline, towering forests, and picturesque rivers and lakes have played a vital role in the development of the region, from the traditional lands of the Gunaikurnai people, to the European settlement, the establishment of farming and forestry, and the rise of tourism.
The Gunaikurnai people are the traditional owners of East Gippsland, and their ancestors inhabited the region for tens of thousands of years before the arrival of European settlers. The Gunaikurnai people had a deep connection with the land and used its resources for food, shelter, and medicine. They also had a rich cultural tradition, with intricate dances, ceremonies, and storytelling.
In 1770, Captain James Cook mapped the east coast of Australia, and it wasn't until 1798 that Europeans arrived in East Gippsland. The first Europeans to set foot in the region, the explorers George Bass and Matthew Flinders, named the area after New South Wales Governor John Hunter's friend and advisor, Sir George Gipps.
In the 1830s, European settlement began in earnest, with the arrival of squatters who established large sheep stations in the fertile valleys of the region. The first pastoral lease in East Gippsland was granted in 1839 to Henry Meyrick, who established a sheep station on the lower Snowy River.
During the 1860s, gold was discovered in the region, and this sparked a gold rush. The town of Omeo was established as a centre for gold miners, and other settlements, such as Orbost and Lakes Entrance, grew as supply centres for the miners.
By the 1870s, timber had become a major industry in East Gippsland, with sawmills established near the region's forests. The forests provided a vital source of timber for construction, transport, and fuel. Timber was transported down the region's rivers and exported via the ocean.
In the late 1800s, tourism began to emerge as a significant industry in the region, with many visitors drawn to East Gippsland's natural beauty. The region's rivers, lakes, and coastline provided opportunities for leisure activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming. The development of the railway in the late 1800s allowed easier access for tourists to the region.
During World War II, East Gippsland played a vital role in the war effort, with many of the region's young men and women serving in the armed forces. The region also played a crucial role in training for the war effort, with numerous military camps established in the area.
In the post-war period, the region's primary industries of farming, forestry, and fishing continued to thrive, while tourism also continued to grow. The establishment of the Snowy Mountains Scheme in the 1950s brought new opportunities for the region and provided a significant source of employment.
Today, East Gippsland is a thriving region, with a diverse economy and a rich cultural heritage. The region's natural resources and picturesque landscapes continue to attract visitors, and the region is renowned for its produce, including dairy, beef, and seafood.
The history of East Gippsland is a colourful and unique story, from the traditional lands of the Gunaikurnai people to the arrival of European settlers, the development of farming and forestry, the rise of tourism, and the region's role in the war effort. East Gippsland's rich history is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the region's people and a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage for future generations.