Traditional Owners

The original inhabitants of the Borough of Queenscliffe were the Wathaurong Aboriginal people.

Settlement history

European settlement dates from the late 1830s. Growth took place in the 1840s, with the township of Queenscliff established in 1853. Early land use was mainly governmental, with lighthouse and signal services, a sea pilot's service and military and defence establishments. The area was a strategic defence post, aimed to protect Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay during the mid to late 1800s. Fishing and boat industries were also established. Growth took place in the 1880s and 1890s, aided by the construction of the railway from Melbourne and the popularity of the area as a tourist resort. Growth continued in the early 1900s, especially in Point Lonsdale. Significant development occurred from the post-war years, particularly during the 1960s. Gradual growth took place during the 1970s and 1980s. The population generally declined slightly from the 1990s.

Land use

The Borough of Queenscliffe is predominantly a residential and resort area, with townships at Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff. The Borough encompasses a total land area of 9 square kilometres.

Transport

The Borough of Queenscliffe is served by the Bellarine Highway and the Queenscliff-Sorrento Ferry.

Major features

• Major features of the Borough of Queenscliffe include Fort Queenscliff,
• Queenscliff Harbour,
• Marine and Freshwater Discovery Centre,
• The Bellarine Railway,
• Queenscliff-Sorrento Ferry,
• Swan Bay,
• The Rip,
• Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park and numerous beaches.

Included areas