Tullamarine Local History
Tullamarine is a suburban town in Victoria, Australia, located 17 kilometers north-west of Melbourne city center. The town is named after the nearby Tullamarine River.
The area was initially inhabited by the Wurundjeri people, who were the traditional custodians of the land. The Wurundjeri people have a long history of inhabiting the Melbourne area, dating back thousands of years before the arrival of Europeans in Australia.
In the mid-19th century, Europeans began to arrive in the Tullamarine area. The settlement was established in 1846, and a post office was established in 1854.
In 1860, the Tullamarine Primary School was established, which is still in operation today. At the time, the school had only one classroom, and the teacher was also the school's janitor.
Tullamarine's early economy was based on agriculture and grazing. The first large-scale farming enterprise was established by John Pascoe Fawkner, one of Melbourne's founding fathers. Fawkner established the Tullamarine Estate, which encompassed over 1,500 acres of land.
The Tullamarine Estate was primarily used for grazing, and Fawkner's herd of cattle soon became a familiar sight in the area. Fawkner was also responsible for the construction of several buildings on the estate, including a homestead, a dairy, stables, and a cottage.
During World War II, Tullamarine Airport was established in the area. The airport was initially used as a training base for Australian military pilots, but it soon became an important transportation hub for Melbourne.
The airport's growth led to increased development in the Tullamarine area, and the population began to grow rapidly. In the 1960s and 70s, many new housing estates were established in the area, leading to a significant increase in the town's population.
Today, Tullamarine is a thriving suburb with a diverse population. The town is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and other amenities, and it is a popular destination for both residents and visitors.
Tullamarine's rich history is still visible throughout the town, with many historic buildings and landmarks still standing. Some of these include the Tullamarine Estate homestead, which is now a museum, and the Tullamarine Primary School, which has been in continuous operation for over 150 years.
The town's natural beauty is also a major draw for visitors, with the Tullamarine River and its surrounding parklands offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking.
Tullamarine's history is a testament to the resilience and tenacity of the town's residents, who have worked hard to build a thriving community in the face of significant challenges and changes.
Today, Tullamarine is a vibrant and diverse suburb with a rich history and a bright future.

