Our Stories – PHILLIP ISLAND AND DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY

PHILLIP ISLAND AND DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY

PHILLIP ISLAND AND DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Holidays and Tourism: Phillip Island's natural beauty, surf beaches, and distinctive wildlife have been drawing visitors since the 19th century. MORE>

Colonial Ideals - J.D. McHaffie: John McHaffie lived on Phillip Island from 1842 until 1885. The McHaffie family legacy lives on in the history of Phillip Island and the contributions they made to the island’s development and community. MORE>

The Speke: On the tumultuous afternoon of February 22, 1906, The Speke, a 3,000-ton sailing vessel, smashed into the rocks on the south side of Phillip Island, forever imprinting its presence on the island. MORE>

Warley Bush Nursing Hospital: The Warley Bush Nursing Hospital played a vital role in the community serving Phillip Island from 1923 until its unfortunate closure in 2008. MORE>

Edward The Koala: At a time when koalas were protected, Edward was the only pet koala in Australia. MORE>

Connections – The First Bridge: During the early days, Phillip Island's isolation posed challenges for the local community, particularly in terms of travel and the transportation of goods to and from the island. MORE>

The Killara: There was a time when Cowes was the front door of Phillip Island. The car ferry Killara carried passengers and motorists for over ten years from 1933 until 1944 and was beloved by locals and visitors alike. MORE>

George Bass - Exploration of Westernport: What prompted 26 year old George Bass to explore the southern part of Australia in an 8.7 metre open boat? MORE>

S.S. Genista: For 45 years the S.S. Genista faithfully served as the ferry from Stony Point to Phillip Island and San Remo, endearing herself to the community. MORE>

Isle of Wight Hotel: For decades, the iconic Isle of Wight Hotel was a popular destination for visitors to Cowes, offering a warm welcome and hospitality in a picturesque setting. MORE>

The First Australian Grand Prix: The first ever Australia Grand Prix was scheduled for Eight Hour Day holiday, Monday, March 26, 1928, on Phillip Island – why was it postponed? MORE>

Unlocking Phillip Island – The First Land Sales: In November 1868, the exclusive use of Phillip Island was wrested from John McHaffie and offered to farmers for cultivation. MORE>

Ventnor School: State School number 3895 opened its doors at Ventnor in 1922 to 17 local children and served the local community for over 40 years. MORE>

Community and Family: The McIlWraith family were one of the earliest settlers after the ballot for subdivision of 1868. They settled in Rhyll and remained on Phillip Island for the rest of their lives with their family. MORE>