Raymond Island Local History
Raymond Island is a small island located in the Gippsland Lakes in Victoria, Australia. It measures approximately 6km in length and 2km in width, and is home to approximately 600 people who either live on the island permanently or have holiday homes there. However, the history of Raymond Island dates back thousands of years, long before European settlers arrived in Australia.
The Gunaikurnai people were the traditional owners of Raymond Island, and their connection with the land can be traced back thousands of years. The island was an important location for the Gunaikurnai, who used it as a place for hunting and fishing. They lived in the surrounding areas, including Bairnsdale and Paynesville, and would travel to Raymond Island for important ceremonies and gatherings.
European settlement began in the area in the mid-1800s, with many settlers using the Gippsland Lakes as a transport route. By the early 1900s, Raymond Island was home to several small farms, with many settlers choosing to grow tobacco and fruit on the island.
However, the island's most significant historic landmark is the Raymond Island Lighthouse. The lighthouse was built in 1862 and was in operation until the 1920s when it was decommissioned. The lighthouse was a vital component in ensuring safe passage through the Gippsland Lakes and remains as a testament to the rich history of the island.
Today, Raymond Island is a popular tourist destination with many visitors attracted to the island's abundant wildlife, including its population of koalas. The island has a dedicated koala trail, with many visitors taking the opportunity to walk the trail, spotting these iconic animals as they go. Other popular activities for visitors include fishing, swimming and boating.
Over the years, the island has undergone significant changes, including the construction of the Raymond Island Ferry in the 1940s, which remains the only way to reach the island today. The ferry is a vital link for locals and visitors, with a regular service connecting the island to Paynesville on the mainland.
Despite the many changes, however, the island remains a treasured piece of Victorian history, with its deep connection to the Gunaikurnai people and its importance as a historic landmark. Today, the island is a thriving community, with locals working to ensure that the island's rich history is preserved for generations to come.