Eden Coast

Local History of the Region of Eden Coast in New South Wales, Australia

The Eden Coast region is located on the south coast of New South Wales, Australia. The area is known for its beautiful beaches, picturesque landscapes, and rich history. The region was first inhabited by the Yuin people, an Aboriginal Australian group who had lived there for thousands of years prior to the arrival of European settlers. The Yuin people lived a traditional hunter-gatherer lifestyle and were reliant on the natural resources of the land and sea.

The first Europeans to arrive in the area were British explorers George Bass and Matthew Flinders in 1797. They named a local bay after the British politician, George Eden, and the area became known as the Eden Valley. The first settlers arrived in the area in the 1820s, and with them came a period of intense change for the Yuin people and their traditional way of life.

In the mid-19th century, the region became an important center for the timber industry. The dense forests of the area provided a wealth of resources for the construction industry, and timber was a major export to other parts of Australia and the world. The industry led to the development of many small towns and communities throughout the region, including Eden, Bega, and Merimbula.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries were a time of economic growth for the area, spurred on by the discovery of gold and other minerals. The town of Eden became an important hub for the whaling industry, and for many years, it was the largest whaling center in Australia. The discovery of oil in the area also led to increased economic growth, and the town of Bega became the center of the region's dairy industry.

The region played an important role in World War II, with several airfields and military installations being established in the area. The military presence brought many new residents to the area and had a significant impact on the local economy and infrastructure.

Today, the Eden Coast region is a popular tourist destination, known for its natural beauty and rich history. Visitors can learn about the area's Aboriginal heritage at various cultural sites and museums, explore the region's historic towns and buildings, or simply soak up the sun on one of the many beautiful beaches.