Lara Local History
Lara is a small town located in the City of Greater Geelong, Victoria, Australia. The town is situated on the Princes Highway and is approximately 18 kilometres north-east of Geelong CBD.
The town was named after a nearby property owned by William Laidlaw Lawrence, who named the property after his wife, Eliza Lara. In 1856, a township was surveyed and a post office opened in 1858. The town started to grow rapidly with the railway line passing through it in the late 1800s. It became an important railway junction and locomotive depot, with a large railway workforce.
During the early to mid-1900s, Lara became a farming area with the rich Werribee Plains providing excellent soils for wheat, barley, and other crops. The town also turned to dairy farming and beef production, with the construction of butter and cheese factories. The demand for milk products was high, which gave the town a boost in economic growth.
However, the railway industry started to decline in the 1960s, with the closure of the railway workshops in Lara in 1973. The farming industry also faced challenges such as drought, leading to a decrease in agricultural production. In recent years, Lara has become a rapidly growing residential area, with a population of over 17,000 people as of 2020.
Lara has several historical attractions, including the Pirra Homestead, which was constructed in 1872 and is now open for public tours. The homestead demonstrates the wealth of the early farming industry in the area. The town also has a railway station, which has been restored to its original condition, showcasing the rich railway history of Lara.
Additionally, Lara has a strong sporting culture with a focus on football and cricket, with several clubs established in the town. The Lara Heritage and Historical Research Group also regularly holds events and exhibitions displaying the town's history.
In conclusion, Lara has a rich history, starting with its founding by William Laidlaw Lawrence and growing as a significant railway junction and farming area. While challenges were faced, the town has continued to grow and thrive with a growing residential area and attraction to tourists. The town's history is celebrated with significant historic attractions and events, allowing visitors to step back in time and appreciate the town's journey.