Lakes Entrance

The Local History of Lakes Entrance

Lakes Entrance is a coastal town located on the edge of Ninety Mile Beach in Victoria, Australia. It is situated on the Gippsland Lakes system where the lake meets the ocean. The town has a rich history dating back to the indigenous people who lived in the area for thousands of years before European settlement.

Indigenous History

The area around Lakes Entrance was home to the Gunaikurnai people and their ancestors for thousands of years. The Gunaikurnai people have a deep connection to the land and waterways of the Gippsland region. They have many Dreamtime stories and cultural practices that have been passed down through generations.

The Gunaikurnai people called Lakes Entrance "Kalimna" which means "big water" in their language. They used the area for fishing, hunting and gathering food. The lakes were abundant in fish, and the forests surrounding the area were rich in animals such as kangaroos, wallabies and possums.

European Settlement

European settlers arrived in the Lakes Entrance area in the mid-1800s. They were drawn to the area by the rich natural resources, including the timber from the surrounding forests and the abundance of fish in the lakes.

The first European settlement in the region was at Cunninghame, which is now part of the town of Lakes Entrance. The town grew quickly in the late 1800s due to the timber industry. The forests were logged for their valuable timber, which was used for building and construction in Melbourne and other major cities. The logs were transported down the lakes and out to sea through the entrance to the ocean.

Gippsland Lakes Navigation Company

In 1914, the Gippsland Lakes Navigation Company was established to provide transport services for the growing timber industry. The company operated steamers on the lakes and also provided transport services for passengers and goods. The company was instrumental in the growth of Lakes Entrance, and many of the town's buildings were constructed during this period.

In 1933, a major flood in the area caused significant damage to Lakes Entrance, including the destruction of the town's wooden bridge that connected Cunninghame to the main town. The bridge was replaced with a new concrete bridge that still stands today.

Tourism

In the years following World War II, Lakes Entrance became a popular holiday destination for Melbournians and other Australians. The town's location on the coastline and proximity to the Gippsland Lakes made it an ideal location for fishing, boating, and other water activities.

The town's tourism industry grew rapidly in the 1950s and 1960s with the construction of new motels, caravan parks, and holiday homes. Today, tourism is a major industry for the town, and it attracts visitors from all over Australia and overseas.

The Future

Lakes Entrance has a bright future, with ongoing investment in tourism and infrastructure. The town remains a popular holiday destination for families and retirees, and it continues to attract new visitors looking to experience the natural beauty of the Gippsland region.

The town is also home to a thriving fishing industry, and many locals are involved in commercial fishing operations. The Gippsland Lakes are a significant fishery for the region, and efforts are being made to ensure sustainable management practices.

History of in Lakes Entrance

The history of Lakes Entrance is a fascinating story that has shaped the town into what it is today. From its indigenous roots to its boom as a timber town and its evolution into a popular holiday destination, the town has adapted to changing times while retaining its unique character and charm.