History of Point Cook
As the first real estate agency in Point Cook, we have seen the area develop and grow. But, over 100 years before, Point Cook was already named and occupied. This article will talk about the rich history of our beloved suburb, and how we continue to help it thrive.
Point Cook Established
Captain William Hobson charted part of the Port Philip Bay in 1836. On his ship, H.M.S. Rattlesnake, was a ship’s mate called John M. Cooke. In 1853, the area was named officially Point Cooke. The last letter ‘e’ however, was not in common use. So when pioneer grazier and horse-breeder Thomas Chirnside took over farmlands and began to build his homestead, it became known as Point cook.
Historic landmarks
There are many landmarks today, that originated in the 19th century.
Point Cook Homestead
The Point Cook Homestead is a large, bluestone house built for Thomas Chirnside. It is an important early homestead in Victoria. Particularly by virtue of its setting on the edge of Port Philip Bay. Each section was built in different years, which showcases the stylistic evolution over time. The house is architecturally important for its early date, having a conservative and classic style and detailing. The Chirnside family, who later built the Werribee Mansion, occupied it in 1857.
The Point Cook Homestead has now been restored as a museum, where ghost tours are available! The story goes that Thomas and his brother Andrew made their fortune in the Wyndham area. Thomas then requested Andrew to return to England to bring back his betrothed, Mary. Which he did, but Andrew married Mary himself instead. The happy couple moved to the Werribee Mansion, while Thomas stayed by himself. It is said, that his spirit remains at the homestead and makes women feel unwelcome in his bedroom. You can book the ghost tour and learn more about the Point Cook homestead and this historic landmark itself.
RAAF base
The oldest continuously operating military airbase in the world, is right here in Point Cook. Our suburb is an essential part of the story of the RAAF and the development of aviation in Australia. In 1913, the Australian Government situated the nation’s first military flying school there. During the first World War, the Australian Flying Corps (AFC) was established at Point Cook as a new element of the army. With many of its pilots being sent overseas. The RAAF formed on the 31st of March in 1921. Just three years later than the British Royal Air Force. At the start of World War II, RAAF base Point Cook became the focus of air force training in Australia. It maintained this role until 1992.
Cheetham Wetlands
The Cheetham Wetlands were a natural salt march with grassy woodlands. In 1996, the land became protected. The deliberate creation of shallow waters makes the area now an attractive environment for various fauna and flora. The Wetlands have been home to over two hundred species of birds. Many of them migrating north during the winter months. This important habitat is not open to the public, but you can view the area from the observation tower. Just a 1.5km walk away from the main gate entrance. In the early days, this area was used as a saltworks as well.
Cheetham Salt Works
The former Cheetham Salt Works produced salt on a large scale and supplied Melbourne for nearly 100 years. The industrial facility was closed in the 1980’s, but the Cheetham Company. They left the site significantly altered from its natural state, making redevelopment options limited. Thomas Chirnside, who is basically a historic celebrity now, owned the area for about 60 years. He passed it on to A.J. Cunningham. He named part of the area the Cheetham Wetlands and another part became the Santuary Lakes Resort that we know today. The development of the resort started in 1995. We established ourselves as the first real estate agency in 1997 and are proud to have been part of the growth ever since.
Point Cook Coastal Park
Point Cook Coastal Park is part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape in the traditional Country of the Bunurong People. The park was established in 1978 and opened to the public in 1982. Since 2001, the park is managed by Parks Victoria. The wetlands of the coastal park form a part of the Cheetham and Altona important bird area. Nowadays, the park is the perfect place for a family picnic. There are public toilets and barbecues, kid’s play areas, and a beach to enjoy. It is a great place for a leisurely stroll while watching birds and vintage planes fly overhead.
First Real Estate Agency
Our real estate team commenced the marketing and selling of the Sanctuary Lakes resort in 1997. Back then, the area mostly consisted of farmlands. As the resort developed, so did our team. Our business grew in line with the growth and population across Point Cook and the Wyndham area. We invested a lot in the development of our locality. Soho Village, Tribeca Village, and Wyndham Harbour are examples of our real estate contribution. We also sponsor various sport clubs, schools, and community events to help the suburb become more attractive.
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We know the area like no other. If you are looking to sell, buy, rent or invest, then you are at the right address. Chat to one of our established agents today to discuss your property needs.