Benalla Rural City Local History
Benalla Rural City is located in the north-east of Victoria, Australia. It was originally inhabited by the Indigenous people of the Waveroo tribe, who made use of the area's natural resources for food, shelter and tools.
The first European settlers arrived in the 1830s, with sheep grazing becoming the main industry in the area. The town of Benalla was officially established in 1853, named after Sir Benjamin Bloomfield, the private secretary to Queen Victoria.
During the mid-19th century, Benalla grew rapidly as a transportation hub and agricultural center. It was a major stop on the route between Melbourne and Sydney, and the construction of the railway line in 1873 opened up new opportunities for trade and development.
Throughout the late 1800s, the population of Benalla continued to grow, with many new businesses and industries emerging. The town became known for its wool and wheat production, and a variety of new factories and mills were established, including a butter factory, a tannery and a flour mill.
During World War II, Benalla played an important role in the defense of Australia. The Royal Australian Air Force established a training base near the town, which trained thousands of aircraft mechanics and pilots who went on to serve in the war effort.
After the war, Benalla continued to diversify its economy, with the development of new industries such as textile manufacturing and tourism. The town's picturesque location, surrounded by mountains and river valleys, attracted many visitors, and today, Benalla remains a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.
Despite its relatively small size, Benalla has a rich cultural heritage, with many historic buildings and sites of interest. The Benalla Art Gallery, established in 1975, is home to a large collection of Australian and European art, including works by Australian greats like Sidney Nolan, Albert Tucker and John Olsen.
Other historic sites in Benalla include the former police station and court house, dating back to 1863, and the 1884 Post Office building, which now serves as a cultural center and community hub. The locally-owned Benalla and District Memorial Hospital, established in 1856, is one of the oldest hospitals in Australia still in operation.
Today, Benalla Rural City continues to evolve and grow, with a range of new businesses and industries being established in the area. Despite the changes, however, the town remains proud of its rich history and cultural heritage, and is a testament to the resilience and determination of its people.