In November, 1835 Captain Robson Coltish, master of barque NORVAL sailed from Launceston, then ventured over the waters of Bass Strait with a cargo of 500 sheep and 50 Hereford cattle which had been consigned to these virgin shores by Dr. Alexander Thomas. After reaching the coastline of Port Phillip, Captain Robson chose the area we now know as Port Gellibrand, as a suitable place to unload his cargo. Within weeks of the first consignment, a stream of vessels began making their way across Bass Strait. Many of these new arrivals decided to settle in Williamstown because of the sheltered harbour. Within five years of those first arrivals to Williamstown 100 buildings were built, including two hotels (the Ship Inn and the Woolpack).

During these early times the business heart of Williamstown was centred on Nelson Place. However, by the mid 1850's several shops, business and residences had begun to be established in and around Newton (which is now known as North Williamstown).

The quaint village suburb of Williamstown is just a stone throw away from the city of Melbourne. Just over the Westgate Bridge or by ferry from St Kilda or Southgate. Williamstown has always been considered a town with the greatest hotels and churches and today it is declared a heritage area, preserving the beautiful buildings and the memories.

Along The Strand from Greenwich Reserve enjoy the best views of Melbourne's city skyline. Feed the magnificent black swans and the vast array of other bird life. Catch a fish at the popular fishing spot known as 'The Warmies' or launch a boat at the public boat ramp. While there, visit the HMAS Yarra memorial and pay tribute to the Australian sailors who died in World War II.

Board a ferry at Southgate or St Kilda and cruise in style to Gem Pier in Williamstown. Trains also travel regularly to the heart of Hobsons Bay. Explore the Bay West Trail (route 11), a scenic drive through beautiful Williamstown, Altona, Laverton, Sanctuary Lakes, and Werribee South, winding up around the Victorian Open Range Zoo, The Werribee Mansion, The National equestrian Centre and The Victorian State Rose Garden.

These days Williamstown is now known for the bustling cafes, fine restaurants and coffee bars. There is a unique collection of shops and galleries situated in the maritime precinct of Nelson Place. Be sure to check out the streets of this friendly suburb for a variety of clothing and gift shops, cafes and interesting building. Every third Sunday of each month there is a craft market is held in Commonwealth Reserve (which is located on Nelson Place). Commonwealth Reserve has historic points of interest which include the band rotunda, HMAS Nelson anchor, The Tide Gauge House, the Message Tree used for messages to those disembarking from sailing ships and the Wilkinson Fountain which was donated by Rev. John Wilkinson to discourage alcohol abuse. This is where the city comes to Hobsons Bay to soak up the atmosphere of footpath dining and waterfront views.

You can also visit the Altona Homestead in Queen Street Altona. Listen to the oral history tapes that tell the story of Truganina Explosives Reserve. The area is rich is natural cultural heritage, the reserve was originally inhabited by people of the Kulin Nations before it was used for the storage and handling of commercial explosives from 1901.

Author: Stina Ohlden - Victiora University.

Mechanics Institute
Melway ref 56, C9
Electra St, Williamstown
One of Hobsons Bay's most historic sites, the foundation stone of the present building was laid in 1860. The institute now houses the Williamstown Historic society and a wealth of memorabilia about the local area and it's development through the years.
OPEN Every Sunday 12-4pm

Timeball Tower at Point Gellibrand
Melway ref 56, F10
Nelson place, Williamstown
Built in 1855 by convict labour, this bluestone tower originally operated as a lighthouse and still operates as a timeball. The tower is part of the point Gellibrand Coastal Heritage Park, which is currently being developed by Parks Victoria.

The Old Morgue
The convicts built the old morgue in 1859. It was made from bluestone and it was first morgue building in Victoria. The reason why it was build is because all the dead people were being stored in the local hotels. The morgue was discontinued in 1926 for the reason that it was built on the waterside and the odour and the sights of the bodies. The morgue was moved around three times before it was in its original place, which is in Foster Street.

Gem Pier & Commonwealth Reserve
Melways Ref 56, E9
Nelson Pl
Home of the HMAS Castlemaine, Gem Pier offers Bay cruises and returns trips to Southgate.