Drouin Local History
Drouin is a town located in the West Gippsland region of Victoria, Australia. The town has a rich history that traces back to the early days of European settlement in the region. Drouin was originally inhabited by the Gunai people, who were the traditional owners of the land for thousands of years. The name “Drouin” is believed to have originated from the Gunai word “Taruin”, which means “place of water”.
The first European to explore the area was George Bass, a British naval surgeon, who sailed along the eastern coast of Australia in 1798. However, it was not until the mid-1800s that European settlement began to take place in the area. The first Europeans to settle in Drouin were mainly farmers and graziers, who established properties on the rich fertile land.
The town of Drouin was officially established in 1876 when the railway line from Melbourne reached the area. This made it easier for farmers to transport their goods to the markets in Melbourne. The first railway station in Drouin was built in 1877 and the town began to grow rapidly.
Drouin continued to be a thriving agricultural town throughout the early 1900s. The town had several flour mills, a sawmill, and a butter factory, which were important to the local economy. In the 1920s, Drouin experienced a period of growth with the establishment of several new businesses, including a fruit cannery and a cheese factory.
During World War II, Drouin played a significant role in the war effort. The town was home to two military camps, which were used for training soldiers. Many men from the town enlisted in the Australian Armed Forces and fought in the war.
After the war, Drouin continued to grow as a regional center. The town saw the establishment of new industries, including a plastics factory, a dairy plant, and a tannery. The population of the town also grew, with many new residents moving to the area for work.
Today, Drouin is a thriving town with a population of over 11,000 people. The town has a strong agricultural industry and is home to several major companies, including Woolworths, Coles, and Aldi. Drouin is also known for its vibrant community and is home to several community organizations, including sporting clubs and local volunteer groups.
In conclusion, the history of Drouin is a fascinating story of European settlement, agricultural growth, and regional development. The town has come a long way since its early days and has become a thriving community that is proud of its past and optimistic about its future.