Discover the rich history of Lakes Entrance, from its origins to present day. Explore the town's heritage and learn about its development over time.
Lakes Entrance, located in Victoria, Australia, has a rich history. The traditional owners of the land are the Gunaikurnai people, who have inhabited the area for thousands of years. European exploration of the area began in 1770 when Captain James Cook sailed past. In the early 1800s, sealers and whalers started visiting the region.
Lakes Entrance itself was officially established as a town in 1870. Initially, it served as a port for the timber industry, with logs transported from the nearby forests. The establishment of a Post Office in 1875 and a school in 1885 further bolstered the growth of the town.
In the early 1900s, the establishment of a rail link to nearby Orbost helped stimulate tourism and agriculture in the region. Lakes Entrance became a popular holiday destination, attracting visitors to its beautiful beaches, lakes, and fishing opportunities. The construction of the scenic coastal road, the Princes Highway, further increased accessibility to the town.
During World War II, Lakes Entrance played a significant role as a staging area and training ground for Australian and American troops. The area also became home to a US naval base.
In more recent years, Lakes Entrance has continued to grow and develop as a tourist destination. The town's economy relies heavily on tourism, fishing, and agriculture. Today, it offers a range of services, amenities, and recreational activities for both residents and visitors to enjoy.