Prom Country

Local History of Prom Country, Victoria, Australia

Prom Country is a region in Victoria, Australia, located in the southeastern part of the state, between the Wilsons Promontory National Park to the east and the Strzelecki Ranges to the west. The region covers an area of about 2,500 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 13,000 people. The main towns in Prom Country are Foster, Fish Creek, Meeniyan, and Yanakie.

The history of Prom Country dates back to the time of the indigenous people, known as the Gunai or Kurnai. The Gunai people lived in this region for thousands of years before European settlement and had a deep connection with the land and sea. They were skilled hunters, fishermen, and gatherers and used the natural resources in a sustainable way.

In 1798, George Bass and Matthew Flinders sailed along the coast of Prom Country, becoming the first Europeans to see the region. However, it was not until the 1830s that European settlers began to arrive in large numbers. They were initially attracted by the availability of good grazing land and established sheep and cattle stations in the area. With the arrival of the settlers came conflict with the indigenous people, and the Gunai were eventually displaced from their traditional lands.

During the gold rush of the 1850s, Prom Country experienced a period of growth and prosperity, as people rushed to the region in search of gold. The town of Foster was established during this time and became a hub for the region's agricultural and commercial activities. However, as the gold rush petered out, many of the miners left the region, and the population declined.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Prom Country experienced a second period of growth, thanks to the timber industry. The forests of the region were rich in valuable hardwoods, such as blackwood, messmate, and stringybark, which were in high demand for construction and furniture making. Sawmills were established in many of the towns of Prom Country, and timber became the main industry of the region.

During the 20th century, Prom Country continued to evolve, with the expansion of the dairy industry and the growth of tourism. The region's natural beauty, including the pristine beaches and forests of Wilsons Promontory National Park, attracted visitors from all over the world. Today, Prom Country is a thriving community, with a diverse economy that includes agriculture, tourism, and small-scale industries. It remains a popular destination for holidaymakers and nature lovers, who come to enjoy the region's stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique culture.