Alexandrina Local History
The region of Alexandrina in South Australia is rich in history, with evidence of indigenous habitation dating back thousands of years.
European settlement in the region began in the early 19th century, with the establishment of the Goolwa whaling station in 1837. This station was the first European settlement in the region and was established to take advantage of the abundance of Southern Right whales in the area.
The town of Goolwa, which grew up around the whaling station, quickly became an important trading port. Goods were transported on paddle steamers along the Murray River, which flows through the region, and were then shipped from Goolwa to Adelaide and other parts of Australia.
In the mid-19th century, the town of Port Elliot was established just south of Goolwa. This town was named after the first Anglican Bishop of Adelaide, and was a popular holiday destination for people from Adelaide.
The region also played a significant role in the construction of Australia's railway network. The South Australian Railways reached Goolwa in 1854, and a branch line to Port Elliot was opened in 1856. The railway improved access to the region and helped to stimulate economic growth.
The region was also affected by the 1890s depression, which led to the closure of many businesses and a decline in the population. However, the region began to recover in the early 20th century, with the establishment of the Murray Bridge to Goolwa pipeline in 1915, which brought water to the region and enabled the expansion of agriculture.
The region has also been affected by bushfires, with major fires occurring in 1939 and 1983. These fires caused significant damage to the region's forests and had a lasting impact on the local environment.
Today, the region of Alexandrina is a popular tourist destination, with visitors drawn to its natural beauty, historical sites, and outdoor activities such as fishing and hiking.