History and heritage

The City of Port Phillip has a long history and a rich heritage, which starts with the Yaluk-ut Weelam Clan of the Boon Wurrung, who have lived here for over 50,000 years.

First Peoples local history and culture

The Yaluk-ut Weelam clan of the Boon Wurrung are the first people of the Port Phillip area. Find out more about First Peoples local history and culture within the City of Port Phillip.

Ngargee held on Emerald Hill (today the site of the South Melbourne Town Hall) in 1840. A corroboree on Emerald Hill in 1840, 1875, W. F. E. Liardet. Courtesy State Library of Victoria

William Archibald Paterson, Saltwater Lagoon from Sugar Works, 1873, PPCC

Histories of Port Phillip

Explore our many histories and share our diverse local heritage.

Port Phillip Heritage Centre

The Port Phillip Heritage Centre provides access to historic records, collections, public programs and Local History research services.

Emerald Hill Library and Port Phillip Heritage Centre, 195 Banks Street, South Melbourne.

Finals, sand castle competition, 1937, PPCC

Things to do

Art and heritage programs have moved online while the Port Phillip Heritage Centre is temporarily closed to help limit the impact of COVID-19.

We have a range of online resources to explore your family history, local cultural and built heritage and more.

Cultural Heritage Reference Committee

The Cultural Heritage Reference Committee (CHRC) provides advice and feedback about cultural heritage and local history.

Boundary Rovers, Montague Football Club Team 1946