Torquay Local History
Located on the Great Ocean Road, Torquay is a coastal town that is renowned for its beautiful beaches and surfing culture. The Torquay region has a fascinating history that dates back to the pre-European era and is tied to the local aboriginal Wadawurrung people.
Pre-European History
The Wadawurrung people had been living in the Torquay area for thousands of years before the arrival of Europeans. The word 'Torquay' is derived from a local aboriginal word, 'torke', which means 'to throw'. The name is believed to have been coined by the Wadawurrung people, who used to throw their fishing spears on the nearby beaches.
Their culture was mainly based on hunting and gathering, and the Wadawurrung people were skilled at making tools from stone and animal bones. They also developed a deep understanding of the local flora and fauna, which they used for medicinal purposes and as a source of food.
European Settlement
The first European to explore the Torquay area was Captain Matthew Flinders, who arrived in 1802. However, it was not until the 1830s that Europeans began to settle in the area. The arrival of Europeans had a significant impact on the Wadawurrung people, who were progressively displaced from their traditional lands.
The first permanent European settler in the Torquay area was James Austin, who established a sheep station in the area in 1837. The station was known as 'Spring Creek' and covered an area of 30,000 acres.
Development of Torquay
The Torquay region remained a sparsely populated rural area until the early 20th century when the first holiday homes were built on the beachfront. The development of the Great Ocean Road in the 1920s opened up the area to tourism, and Torquay quickly became a popular holiday destination for Melbourne residents.
During World War II, Torquay played an important role in the defense of Australia, with the construction of the Torquay Radar Station. The station was used to detect and track enemy aircraft and was manned by servicemen and women.
The Surfing Culture
In the 1960s, the Torquay region became known for its surfing culture, and the area attracted surfers from all over the world. The Bells Beach Surf Classic, which is held annually over the Easter long weekend, is one of the world's most prestigious surfing events and has put Torquay on the global map.
The surfing industry has had a significant impact on the local economy, with many surfwear companies, including Quiksilver and Rip Curl, having their headquarters in the area.
History of in Torquay
The history of Torquay is a rich and varied one that spans thousands of years. From the traditional lands of the Wadawurrung people to its status as a popular tourist destination, the Torquay region has been shaped by a range of different factors. Today, Torquay remains a thriving community that is proud of its history and culture.