Acknowledgement of Country
This website contains stories of towns established on the land of the Bengalat balug of the Wadawurrung people. We acknowledge them as the Traditional Owners of these lands and pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and Aboriginal Elders of other communities who read these stories.
Several interviews include copies of photographs sourced from either:
• the person being interviewed,
• The Bellarine Historical Society (https://www.bellarinehistory.org)
• Barwon Heads Association. (https://www.barwonheadsassociation.com/new-site/heritage/)
John Wynn
John Wynn came to Ocean Grove in 1944 with his parents who set up the Wynndean Holiday Park which still operates opposite the Main Surf Beach. He outlines the early development of Wynndean including the period when it ran as a migrant hostel, and its impact on Ocean Grove Primary School.
John has had a long involvement in community infrastructure and social support projects, some of which are discussed in this interview. He emphasises the role of local self-help volunteerism in the town’s post-war development.
The stories are told with humour and reveal insights into the early history of Ocean Grove.
Audio ->