This site is owned and maintained by a "homesick" Aussie in Canada.
The latest news from South Gippsland and Wonthaggi
Wonthaggi, is a name said to be derived from a local Aboriginal language and means either 'home' or 'to pull along'.
Wonthaggi is located 128 kms south-east of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia - less than two hours drive from Melbourne. Travel along the South Gippsland Highway from Melbourne, turning on to theBass Highway. Then follow the road through Grantville, Bass and Kilcunda before reaching Wonthaggi.
The explorer William Hovell discovered black-coal deposits at nearby Cape Paterson in 1826, but early attempts at mining were unsuccessful. Coal deposits at Wonthaggi were known by the 1850's, but development was delayed until 1909, when a labour strike in Newcastle slowed the production of coal and undeveloped coal fields were opened up. Between 1910 and 1968, black coal was mined from Wonthaggi's network of underground mines.
Parts of the old mine are now reopened for guided tours.The State Coal Mines created a thriving industrial settlement for miners and their families during those years. Since the mines closure, Wonthaggi has developed into a large commercial centre, Places of interest in the town include the former railway station which houses the Wonthaggi Historical Society.
Displayed outside the Wonthaggi Hotel are the giant jaw bones of a 32 metre whale that was washed up on a near by beach back in 1923. Wonthaggi is home to a large variety of shops, eateries, supermarkets and accommodation. For entertainment the local theatre presents latest release movies and a variety of shows throughout the year. The local clubs provide meals, gaming facilities, entertainment, live bands and shows.
Wonthaggi is just 6 kilometers inland from a beautiful coast line. A short 5 minute drive south of Wonthaggi is the seaside town of Cape Paterson, from here you can take a scenic drive along the coast road to another seaside town of Inverloch.
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