Unveiled in 1941 the Port Philip Monument stands before us. It commemorates the European discovery of Port Phillip Bay the Yarra and Maribyrnong Rivers. This sandstone monument marks a significant location. It’s near the original meeting point of the Yarra and Maribyrnong Rivers. Charles Grimes explored these waterways in 1803. He travelled from Sydney. While John Batman’s name is often linked to Melbourne Grimes declared this area an ideal spot for a village. Thirty-two years before Batman’s arrival.
The Port Philip Monument’s unveiling was quite an event. The Harbour Trust Commissioners chairman Mr A D Mackenzie unveiled it. The public sang Rule Britannia. Mr Mackenzie highlighted the importance of Port Phillip’s early development. Captain George Ward Cole built one of the first wharves. Mr Isaac Selby played a key role in establishing the monument. He initially wanted it near the rivers’ confluence. Port authorities however chose this site. They envisioned the port’s future growth. They hoped the monument would stay here forever.
The monument was a gift from Mr Allan Tye. Mr Selby suggested naming the surrounding area Rebecca Park after Batman’s boat. The inscription on the Port Philip Monument details several discoveries. John Murray discovered Port Phillip in February 1802 aboard the Lady Nelson. The monument also recognizes Charles Edward Grimes’s discovery of the Yarra and Maribyrnong Rivers in February 1803. It mentions John Batman’s rediscovery in June 1835. Other early historical facts are included. Speakers at the unveiling included members of the Victorian Historical Society and the Australian Aborigines League. The Port Philip Monument thus stands as a testament to early exploration. It also reflects the diverse perspectives on Melbourne’s history. A truly remarkable piece of Melbourne’s heritage.