Port Campbell History

Port Campbell BayPort Campbell is a small coastal town located in the western region of Victoria, Australia. The town was named after a local sailor, Alexander Campbell, who discovered the area in 1843. Port Campbell has a rich history and is most famous for its stunning coastline and natural wonders.

In the early days of Port Campbell, it was mainly used for shipping and fishing purposes. The area was a popular location for whaling in the mid-1800s. However, by the late 1800s, the whaling industry had declined, and Port Campbell became a hub for timber harvesting and shipping.

During the early 1900s, the town began to grow as more people settled in the area. In 1912, the first hotel was built in Port Campbell, which catered to the growing number of tourists visiting the town.

In the 1930s, the Great Ocean Road was constructed, connecting Port Campbell to nearby towns and cities. This led to an increase in tourism, and the town began to thrive as a popular holiday destination.

While a jetty was first built in Port Campbell in the late 1870s, it was damaged and rebuilt several times due to extreme storms. The re-construction of the pier in the 1960s allowed for larger vessels to enter the harbour, and the fishing industry in the area flourished.

Today, Port Campbell is known for its stunning coastal scenery and is a popular destination for tourists visiting the Great Ocean Road. The town is home to several popular natural attractions, including the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the London Arch. Visitors to Port Campbell can enjoy the good amount of accommodation options thanks to its proximity to these natural wonders of the Great Ocean Road region and the Port Campbell National Park.

Overall, Port Campbell’s history is one of maritime adventure and natural wonder, and the town continues to attract visitors from around the world who come to experience its stunning coastline and explore its fascinating past.