The Portarlington Mill stands before you a testament to time. Its sturdy sandstone walls whisper tales of flour and industry. This magnificent four-story building isn’t just a pretty face. It’s a living piece of Victorian history. Built in 1857 the Portarlington Mill played a vital role in feeding a burgeoning colony.
Imagine the scene in 1856. The Geelong Advertiser carried an announcement. The Portarlington Steam Flour Mill Company was formed. Shares were available for purchase. Local entrepreneur John Henderson chaired the company. Andrew McWilliams a Geelong municipal engineer designed the mill. Local builder T H Widdicombe constructed it. He used stone quarried on site and beams from a now-extinct blue gum stand at Swan Bay. This wasn’t some flimsy structure. It was substantial. It was steam-powered. A short jetty was built to facilitate loading of flour onto small traders. These traders carried the flour to Melbourne and Tasmania. The jetty was later extended for larger bay steamers.
For seventeen years the Portarlington Mill thrived. The Bellarine Peninsula was the colony’s granary. The mill processed grain from nearby farms. It was a booming business thanks to the influx of people during the Gold Rush. But the good times didn’t last. In the 1870s wider lands in the Wimmera opened up for cultivation. The Portarlington Mill closed in 1874. Its machinery was sent to the Wimmera.
The mill didn’t remain idle. Builder Tom Widdicombe used it for his brickworks. Later the Portarlington Mill saw other uses. Seaweed was processed there for upholstery and insulation. Ink was made within its walls. Artificial fertilizer was also produced there. In the 20th century Portarlington became a seaside resort. The mill was converted into residential units. In 1962 a Housing Commission notice threatened demolition. The 105-year-old building was deemed unfit for habitation.
Fortunately the Portarlington Mill was saved. Today it is owned by the National Trust. It stands as a reminder of Portarlington’s industrious past. Its interior houses many interesting artefacts. You can see displays showing how flour was made. There are fascinating photographs of the mill and Portarlington in the 19th century. You can also find memorabilia from the historic steamship Edina. This steamship brought countless day-trippers and holidaymakers to Portarlington before its last voyage in 1938. Take your time exploring this important landmark. The Portarlington Mill offers a unique journey through time. It’s more than just a mill. It’s a window into Victoria’s heritage.