Step into the past and explore the captivating history of Cape Paterson with our latest video! This journey through time unveils the extraordinary past of this unique region.

Cape Paterson and its surrounding areas boast a rich, layered history that stretches back over one hundred million years. Did you know that the rock platforms of Cape Paterson and the Bunurong Coast are one of only three places in the world where you can find fossils of polar dinosaurs? This coastline and its hinterland also hold the deep-rooted stories of the Boon Wurrung people of the Kulin nation, who have sustainably lived and thrived here for tens of thousands of years.

Victoria’s first discovery of coal was made by William Hovell in 1826 on the rock platforms around Cape Paterson. This discovery led to the establishment of Victoria’s first coal mine near Harmers Haven, well before the famous State Coal Mine at Wonthaggi was founded. The weathered steel tram tracks, once used to transport coal, are still visible today in the sand dunes at Cape Paterson’s First Surf Beach.

In this short film, we’ve endeavored to weave together these unique historical threads. We hope it brings the rich and complex history of Cape Paterson to life for you.

South Gippsland and Bass Coast are now at the forefront of creating a sustainable future. At The Cape, we are committed to adding a new chapter to this story by developing an energy-efficient, carbon-neutral community that is resilient and forward-looking.

We believe that this special part of Bass Coast and South Gippsland deserves recognition and celebration. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to telling this story, including Boon Wurrung custodian Sonia Weston-Hume, local palaeontologist Mike Cleeland, historian Mike McCarthy, and Benita Russell from Bass Coast Shire Council.

Watch our video to embark on a journey through the remarkable history of Cape Paterson.