History of Melbourne

Melbourne history can be traced back to the time when the first aboriginal settlements and tribes came to live in the city. They arrived in Melbourne about 30 to 50 thousands years ago. Over the passage of time, Melbourne has transformed itself and it has emerged as a favorite tourist destination in Australia.

History of Melbourne also records the emergence of Europeans to this part of Australia. Captain Collins was the first European to settle in Melbourne. He came to Melbourne in 1803. Charles Grimes, the then surveyor of New South Wales, was on the charge of the Yarra River at the same time. In the later years, people from Tasmania came to settle in Melbourne. Among the entrepreneurs of Tasmania, names of John Batman and John Pascoe Fawkner should be mentioned. Their efforts are remembered in Melbourne history. However, the government denied to recognize the treaties that were undertaken between the aboriginals and Batman.

The old Melbourne town lacked many of the amenities enjoyed in a proper township. Plans were taken up to modify the settlement and to lessen the hard conditions of living. The muddy streets were developed to proper wide streets in the city. At that time, the government decisions regarding the development of the city of Melbourne were taken by the people of Sydney. Certain organizations and individuals came forward as social workers to set up several institutes of education, art and health.

Initially, the present Melbourne was named as Glenelg. However, it was renamed as Melbourne by the Governor Sir Richard Bourke. It was so named to honor the Prime Minister of Great Britain.