Upper Goulburn Local History
The Local History of Upper Goulburn, Victoria
The region of Upper Goulburn is located in the northeastern part of Victoria, Australia. It covers an area of approximately 7,800 square kilometers, and its population is around 40,000 people. The region consists of several towns, including Eildon, Alexandra, Marysville, and Yea. The history of Upper Goulburn dates back to the time of the Indigenous Australians, who lived in the area for thousands of years before the arrival of Europeans.
Indigenous Australians
The Taungurung people are the traditional custodians of the land in Upper Goulburn. They lived in the area for tens of thousands of years and had a deep connection to the land and the environment. The Taungurung people were skilled hunters, gatherers, and fishers, and they managed the land with fire to encourage growth and regeneration of plant and animal life. They had a rich cultural heritage that included songs, stories, and traditions that were passed down through generations.
European Settlement
The first Europeans to explore the area of Upper Goulburn were the Hume and Hovell expedition in 1824. They named the Goulburn River after the British Under-Secretary of State for War and the Colonies, Henry Goulburn. However, it was not until the 1830s that European settlers began to arrive in the area. The first squatter to take up land in Upper Goulburn was William Ryrie, who established a sheep station near Yea in 1837. Other squatters followed, and the area was soon transformed into a network of large pastoral stations.
Gold Rush
The discovery of gold in Victoria in 1851 had a significant impact on the development of Upper Goulburn. In 1862, gold was discovered in the nearby town of Woods Point, which led to a surge of prospectors into the area. The town of Marysville was established as a supply center for the gold miners, and by 1865, it had a population of more than 5,000 people. The gold rush brought a boom in mining, forestry, and other industries to the region. However, the gold rush was short-lived, and by the 1870s, most of the gold had been exhausted, and the population of Marysville had dwindled.
Logging and Forestry
After the gold rush, logging and forestry became the main industries in Upper Goulburn. The area was heavily forested with rich timber resources, and logging soon became an important source of income for the local economy. The timber was used for building, furniture, and paper production. However, the logging industry had a significant impact on the environment, and by the early 20th century, the forests had been heavily depleted.
Modern Times
Today, Upper Goulburn is a thriving region with a diverse economy. The main industries include agriculture, tourism, forestry, and manufacturing. The area is home to numerous wineries, breweries, and restaurants that showcase the local produce. The region also has a rich cultural heritage, and there are several museums, galleries, and festivals that celebrate the history and traditions of Upper Goulburn.
History of in Upper Goulburn
The history of Upper Goulburn is a rich and diverse one that spans thousands of years. From the Indigenous Australians who lived in harmony with the land to the European settlers who transformed the area into a network of pastoral stations, the region has undergone significant changes throughout its history. Today, Upper Goulburn is a unique and vibrant region with a rich cultural heritage and a bright future.