SAPort & river
Victor Harbor
Shipwrecks at another port helped this one grow.
1863Port Victor laid out · coastal shipping town
WHAT STARTED IT
Port Victor was laid out as a coastal shipping town after the exposed harbour at Port Elliot proved dangerous. Extending the railway from Goolwa to the more sheltered bay created a new outlet for Murray River cargo.
WHAT SUSTAINED IT
The railway and port initially handled Murray River cargo. As river trade declined, seaside holidays became more important, with the beach, Granite Island and horse tram supporting a resort economy.
Read the fuller history
The rail extension opened in 1864 and the Granite Island causeway followed in 1867. As river trade declined, seaside holidays became increasingly important. The horse tram began operating in 1894.
TURNING POINTS
1863Port Victor town laid out.
1864Railway extended from Goolwa.
1894Horse tram begins.
WHAT IT DOES NOW
A Fleurieu Peninsula holiday centre, with beachfront walks, Granite Island and a maritime past beneath its seaside-resort identity.