A seaside town with a rich history! That’s Queenscliff. It’s more than just a holiday location. This town has attracted tourists because of its unique story.
Before Europeans arrived, the Wathaurong people of the Kulin Nation lived here. William Buckley, an escaped convict, was the first European resident. From 1802 to 1835 he lived with local Aboriginals. He even resided in a cave near Point Lonsdale Lighthouse.
European explorers first came in 1802. Lieutenant John Murray arrived first. Captain Matthew Flinders followed a few months later. Permanent settlement began in 1836. Squatters arrived at Whale Head which is now Shortland’s Bluff.
The sale of land began in 1853. That year, the town was named Queenscliff. Lieutenant Charles La Trobe honored Queen Victoria with the name. Originally a fishing village, Queenscliff became a vital cargo port. Steamships trading in Port Philip docked here.
Queenscliff’s transformation into a key trading location involved several factors. The High and Low Lights lighthouses guided ships safely. A lifeboat service and pier met traders’ needs. A pilot service guided boats through the treacherous Rip.
Around 1860, a tramway was installed. The pier was extended to accommodate larger vessels. The gold rush brought a huge influx of immigrants. By 1879, a railway line from South Geelong serviced Fort Queenscliff. In 1976, the Victorian Railways closed the Queenscliff branch.
In 1979 and 1980, the Geelong Steam Preservation Society regauged the Drysdale to Queenscliff section. This created the Bellarine Railway. Today, it is a major tourist attraction.
Queenscliff played a crucial role in war. A battery at Shortland’s Bluff defended Port Philip. Today, Fort Queenscliff is a key attraction. Its museum details the town’s history.
Walking is the best way to see Queenscliff. The Queenscliff Hotel dates back to 1888. The old Lathamstowe Hotel dates to 1883. The Black Lighthouse is another point of interest. It was made from stones cut and numbered in Scotland in 1863.
Legend says Pirate Benito Benita hid treasure in a cave on the cliffs of Swan Bay. He sealed it with gunpowder. Queenscliff’s history is rich and its heritage even richer. This town offers unique and exotic experiences. It is a perfect holiday destination for those seeking excitement.
Queenscliff is known for its Victorian era heritage. It is also the endpoint of the Searoad ferry to Sorrento. In 2021, the population was 3,276.
Queenscliff has several heritage-listed sites. These include the Fisherman’s Shed, Lathamstowe, and the Ozone Hotel. Other sites are the Pilots Cottages, Queenscliff Hotel, and Queenscliff Pier. The Railway Station, Rosenfeld, and Roseville Cottage are also listed. St George the Martyr Church, Warringah, and the Wreck Bell are important too.