Curious about a coastal town with a hidden past? St Leonards, a charming spot on the Bellarine Peninsula near Geelong, holds more than just scenic views. Today, we will uncover the story behind St Leonards.
St Leonards is a coastal township that sits at the eastern end of the Bellarine Peninsula. It is also known for its proximity to Swan Bay. This location is about 33 kilometres east of Geelong.
Let’s step back to 1855. George Ward Cole started developing St Leonards as a firewood source for Melbourne. Cole needed to build a pier for this venture. By 1858, the town had a hotel, a store, and six houses. The first St Leonards Hotel was established that same year. The Post Office in St Leonards then opened in 1860. St Leonards State School No. 866 began in October 1874.
Did you know St Leonards got its name from a pastoral farm? The farm shared its name with a town in Sussex, England.
Now, consider the wildlife around St Leonards. Salt marsh wildlife reserves surround the town. These reserves are habitats for hundreds of bird species. Among them is the critically endangered orange-bellied parrot. There are fewer than 200 of these parrots in the wild. Salt marshes are biologically productive habitats, rivalling tropical rainforests. St Leonards also boasts some of Victoria’s cleanest beaches.
Imagine the calm waters. St Leonards benefits from its location on the Bellarine Peninsula. This protects it from the bay’s typical southwest winds. While large waves might pound other parts of Port Phillip Bay, St Leonards often enjoys calm waters.
Many know that St Leonards gained popularity through the TV series “SeaChange.” The series used many local landscapes and buildings. Crowded House even filmed a music video on the beach.
St Leonards has grown. The 2021 census recorded a population of 3,542. This is a big jump from 2,480 in 2016 and 2,001 in 2011. During summer holidays, the population can double.
Consider the various activities. St Leonards is known for sailing. The Esplanade memorial marks the landfalls of Matthew Flinders in 1802 and John Batman in 1835. Edwards Point Wildlife Reserve offers natural beauty. Bay and pier fishing are also popular.
Before we go, let’s appreciate St Leonards. From its start as a firewood source to its current status as a seaside getaway. St Leonards offers natural beauty and recreational activities. Its history and environment make it a unique destination on the Bellarine Peninsula.