History

Warrnambool is home to many shipwrecks, a historic boathouse, a recreated maritime village and was Victoria’s most active port in the 1880s...

A mysterious shipwreck buried deep beneath the sand dunes on Warrnambool’s outskirts is just one of the intriguing tales that contribute to the city’s unique history.

A Portuguese vessel, fondly known by locals as “The Mahogany Ship” reportedly ran aground off Warrnambool in the 1500s. This local legend is supported by the discovery of old Portuguese charts that depict Australia’s southern coastline as far as Armstrong’s Bay. It is believed these charts were drawn in the 1520s.

If ever found or proven the Mahogany Ship and those Portuguese charts could rewrite the history of both Warrnambool and Australia.
The 22km Mahogany Trail walking track extends from Warrnambool to Port Fairy passing the possible site. Take a walk and see if you can unravel the mystery. A high standard of fitness/experience is required to complete the whole walk.
 
Breakwater
In the 1880s, the Port of Warrnambool handled more cargo than the Port of Melbourne and was a thriving deep sea port. In 1876, planning commenced to protect the harbour utilising huge concrete blocks weighing 32 tons each. The blocks were transported to the breakwater site by a specially built railway line, and construction was not completed until 1890.   The Warrnambool Yacht Club was built nearby in 1959.
 
Wollaston Bridge
Pastoralist Walter Manifold operated a punt across the Merri River from 1880, purchasing the Wollaston property in 1884. In 1890 Manifold built the Wollaston suspension bridge, using cables from the Melbourne to Hawthorn tram service.  The suspension bridge replaced  an earlier wooden bridge which had been washed away in a heavy flood.
LOCATION: Wollaston Road
 
Granny’s Grave
This monument was erected in 1904 in recognition of the first white woman to be buried in Warrnambool. It marks the final resting place of Mrs. James Raddleston who died in 1848, when the Warrnambool settlement was less than a year old.
LOCATION: The Promenade, off Hickford Parade overlooking Lady Bay
 
Historic Shipwreck Trail
Extending for 110 kilometres along the Great Ocean Road from Moonlight Head (near Princetown) to Port Fairy, the trail incorporates 25 shipwrecks marked by road signs and information plaques and provides a fascinating insight into the region’s shipwreck history. While the wrecks cannot be seen from the shore, it is easy to imagine the ships foundering in rough seas. Note that a high standard of fitness/experience is required to complete the entire walk.
 
Proudfoot’s Boathouse
Built over 100 years ago, the Hopkins River Boat House reflects the early days of fishing and boating on the Hopkins River. The building has been converted into a tavern bar, restaurant and tea rooms and features  many historical photos and other items of interest. Classified by the National Trust as an early Australian recreational facility.
LOCATION: 2 Simpson Street (on Hopkins River)
 
War Memorial
This monument was erected in 1925 to recognise those who served in World War 1 and 2, and to the services of Korean and Vietnam Veterans.
This impressive monument is made from red granite and the angel is carved from Italian marble.
LOCATION: Liebig Street

Warrnambool and the National Song

Waltzing Matilda - The Story Begins at Warrnambool Races

Christina Macpherson was at Warrnambool's Annual Steeplechase Race Meeting in April 1894 when she heard the Warrnambool Town Band play the traditional Scottish tune, Thou Bonnie Wood of Craigie-Lea.

Christina memorised the tune and played it to Andrew B. (Banjo) Paterson at Dagworth Station in Queensland in 1895. Banjo Paterson, inspired by a local event, wrote some words to match the tune and our national song, Waltzing Matilda, was born. Christina's original 1895 manuscript of the music is held in National Archives Canberra.