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/)
Patrick O'Dowd
Patrick O'Dowd was born and grew up in the Western District near Warrnambool. After a range of occupations, Patrick moved with his wife (a Pharmacist) to Geelong where they ran a very successful pharmacy. They lived and worked there for a long period before moving to Point Lonsdale in 1964. Patrick's interest moved to Real Estate and house construction. He developed a more efficient construction system and became very successful in this area as well, erecting houses in many parts of the Bellarine Peninsula.
The stories are told with humour and reveal insights into the early history of Point Lonsdale.
Audio ->