Launching Place Local History
Launching Place is a small rural town located in Victoria, Australia. It is situated about 63.4 km east of Melbourne and about 10 km east of Warburton. The town was originally part of the Yarra Valley, which was inhabited by the Wurundjeri Aboriginal people for thousands of years before the arrival of the Europeans.
The town was founded in the mid-19th century during the gold rush era. The discovery of gold in Victoria brought thousands of people to the area in search of riches. Many of these people settled in the Yarra Valley, including the area that is now known as Launching Place.
The town was named after the launching point used by steamboats that travelled along the Yarra River between Melbourne and Warburton. These steamboats would transport goods and passengers to and from Melbourne, and Launching Place became an important hub for the transport industry in the region.
The early settlers in Launching Place were mainly farmers and timber workers. The town was surrounded by dense forests, which provided an abundance of timber for the local industry. Many sawmills were established in the town, and timber was transported down the Yarra River to Melbourne.
The town continued to grow in the early 20th century, with the establishment of new businesses and industries. The construction of the Yarra Glen Railway in 1901 provided a direct link between Launching Place and Melbourne, making it easier for people and goods to travel to and from the town.
During World War II, Launching Place became an important base for the Australian Military. The town was home to a large military camp, and many soldiers were stationed there during the war. After the war, many of the soldiers remained in Launching Place, and the town continued to grow and develop.
Today, Launching Place is a small, quiet town with a population of around 1,000 people. It is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including the Yarra River and the dense forests of the Yarra Valley. The town has a strong sense of community, with many local businesses and community groups that support and improve the town.
In recent years, Launching Place has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. The town's natural beauty, historical significance, and friendly community make it a great place to visit and explore.
Overall, Launching Place has a rich and fascinating history, from its origins as a transport hub to its role in the gold rush and World War II. Today, the town is an important part of the Yarra Valley region, with a strong sense of community and a bright future ahead.