Rosebud Coast Local History
The region of Rosebud Coast in Victoria, Australia has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was initially inhabited by the Boonwurrung people, who were a group of Indigenous Australians. They were known to have settled in the region around 40,000 years ago and had a rich culture that revolved around hunting, fishing and gathering.
When European explorers arrived in the region in the mid-1800s, they found a thriving Indigenous population. The Europeans, who were primarily British, began to settle in the region and establish homes. One of the first notable settlements was established in the area by William Balcombe, who was the superintendent of the naval dockyard in Sydney. He established a homestead on a 500-acre property called Tootgarook in the year 1846.
The name “Rosebud” was derived from the wild roses that grew along the beach in the region. In 1855, the area was surveyed, and in 1856, the township of Rosebud was officially established. By the 1870s, the area had become a popular destination for holidaymakers, and several guesthouses were established to accommodate the influx of visitors.
In 1910, the Mornington railway line was extended to Rosebud, making it easier for people to travel to the area. This led to an increase in tourism, and many more businesses were established. By the 1930s, a number of amusement parks had been built in the area, including Luna Park and Wonderland City.
During the 1940s, the area saw significant growth as a result of the influx of soldiers returning from World War II. Many of these soldiers settled in the area, and a number of housing estates were established to accommodate them.
The 1960s saw a decline in the popularity of the area as a tourist destination, and many of the guesthouses and amusement parks were closed down. However, the region experienced a resurgence in the 1980s and 1990s, with a number of new attractions and facilities being established to cater to a new generation of visitors.
Today, the Rosebud Coast region is a popular holiday destination for people from all over the world. Its beautiful beaches, stunning scenery and rich history continue to attract visitors who are looking for an authentic Australian experience.