Find & Book a Medical Specialist in Portland

Portland is a beautiful coastal city on Portland Bay, in Victoria, Australia. It is the oldest European settlement in the state of Victoria. The city is part of the Local Government Area (LGA) of the Shire of Glenelg and is also the main urban centre in the LGA. The towns closest to Portland are Port Fairy, Rosebrook, Hamilton, Warrnambool, Mount Gambier, Port Campbell, and Ararat. As of the 2016 census, the population of Portland was 12,185.

Living in Portland Portland is a quaint little city, best known for its natural beauty that attracts tourists all year round. Its economy thrives on the forestry industry, with the sale of pinewood being a major contributor. There are also many primary and secondary schools in the city and two kindergartens, making it an excellent place for families with children. There is a lot for the residents to stay occupied with, such as many fishing spots, whale watching in winter, several public beaches, etc. The community, too, is friendly and welcoming, with a neighbourly spirit. The city is a great residential option for anyone looking for well-equipped housing in a calm, coastal region with many outdoor activities.

History of Portland The area on which the city of Portland was built is said to have been initially inhabited by the Gunditjmara people, an Aboriginal tribe. These people lived here for thousands of years and are renowned for their agricultural techniques to this day. The name “Portland” was chosen in 1800, by British Royal Navy Officer and navigator, in honour of His Grace, the Duke of Portland. By the beginning of the 19th century, the first white settlement had been established in the area, as it provided good shelter and freshwater. In 1834, Edward Henty cultivated the land in this city using a plough he had made. Soon after, his brother Francis arrived and had houses and fences built in Portland. Portland was proclaimed a city on 28 October 1985.