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STEAMERS
The first steam boat on Lake Wendouree was in 1865. It was named the 'Victoria' and was built by Messrs. Bishop and Co. of the Soho Works, Ballarat, and soon there were many 'elegantly appointed' steamers plying across the Lake. The owners were Mr. Thomas Gill and Mr. James Ivey, of the Garden City Steam Boat Company, which had a sign on their wharf near the View Point to say their fleet was able to carry '690 souls'.
By 1887 Thomas Gill had a fleet of 5 paddle steamers, named 'Ballarat', 'Prince Consort', 'Golden City', 'Queen', and 'Princess'. Other steamers on the Lake included 'The Wendouree', 'Lord Roberts', and 'The Gem'.
Owing to the incessant whistling of the steamers on the Lake, the residents approached the Ballaarat West City Council with complaints of interrupted rest and frayed nerves. When rivalry among the captains led to dangerous racing and with collisions occurring, the Council passed nautical by-laws.
PICTURE: STEAMER ON LAKE WENDOUREE C. 1911
Moonlight concerts on the lake in the summer months were a great source of enjoyment. There was a flotilla of 6 or 7 steamers, with brass bands on board, and many yachts, rowing boats and motor launches.
The Lake and Gardens became the centre of family and community life. Parties from towns in the district arrived regularly by train, but swimming was not allowed.
To cater for the crowds, a brick pavilion with a shop and a dining room was built in 1890 (Lake Lodge), and View Point had Gill's Lake View Hotel. |
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