Churchill Island

Overview

Phillip Island’s main historic attraction is Churchill Island – a tiny island of 57 hectares with an historic working farm that dates back to 1872. Featuring the original homesteads and gracious old gardens and walking tracks Churchill Island is steeped in history.

History

Victoria's first European settlement, Churchill Island was discovered, along with Phillip Island, by George Bass and Matthew Flinders in 1798. Three years later Lieutenant James Grant constructed a simple cottage on Churchill Island and planted corn and wheat with seeds supplied by his friend John Churchill, after whom he named the Island. This was the first European settlement in Victoria.

In 1866 John Rogers took up residence on the island and built two small cottages. Six years later the island was purchased by Samuell Amess, who built a weatherboard homestead. These buildings are still standing and are the principle historic attractions on the island along with the fragrant herb and flower gardens and demonstrations of traditional farming techniques and machinery.

Places of interest

Historic Buildings
Mangroves
Single lane bridge connecting Phillip Island
Board walks
Working farm and animals
Traditional cottage gardens

Accommodation

There is no accommodation on the Island itself though hotels, motels B&B’s and caravan parks are available at nearby Newhaven and San Remo.  The Phillip Island Information Centre is adjacent to the main access to Churchill Island. For accommodation and other information go to www.visitbasscoast.com or phone 1300 366422.

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