Paynesville Local History
Paynesville is a picturesque town located in the Gippsland region of Victoria, Australia, on the shores of Lake Victoria. The town was founded in the 1860s and was named after the first European settler, James Payne.
Before European settlement, the area was inhabited by the Brabuwooloong people, who had been living in the region for thousands of years. The Brabuwooloong people had a sophisticated culture and were skilled hunters, gatherers and fishers.
The first European explorer to visit the region was Angus McMillan in the 1830s. He was followed by settlers such as James McMillan and James Heywood, who established pastoral runs in the area. In 1861, James Payne arrived in the area and established a cattle run on the site of present-day Paynesville.
The town soon grew as a result of the timber industry, as traders and sawmill operators moved into the area. The first sawmill was established in 1866, and by the 1880s, there were several sawmills operating in the town.
One of the major events in the town's history was the construction of the Swing Bridge in 1890, which connected Paynesville with the nearby township of Raymond Island. The bridge was the first of its kind in the southern hemisphere and was a major engineering feat at the time.
During the early part of the 20th century, Paynesville continued to grow as a result of the fishing industry. The town became known for its fresh seafood, including fish, prawns and scallops, which were harvested from Lake Victoria.
During World War II, Paynesville served as a training base for the Australian Army, and many soldiers passed through the town on their way to fight in the Pacific. The town also hosted a large Naval base, which was used to train sailors for deployment overseas.
In the post-war years, Paynesville continued to thrive as a result of the tourism industry. The town became a popular destination for holidaymakers, who were attracted by the town's stunning natural scenery, pristine beaches and relaxed lifestyle.
Today, Paynesville remains a popular tourist destination, with a thriving fishing industry and a growing population. The town's rich history is celebrated each year at the Paynesville Maritime Festival, which attracts visitors from all over the world.
In conclusion, Paynesville is a town with a rich and fascinating history, from its early days as a pastoral run to its growth as a thriving sawmill center and fishing hub. Today, the town continues to evolve, but its proud heritage remains an integral part of its identity.