Portland’s world War II Memorial Lookout is of considerable historic and general interest to visitors and locals alike. In the mid 1990’s what was an unwanted, obsolete North Portland Water Tower has been transformed into one of the landmark attractions of Portland to both visitors with an interest in history or those who climb to the top for the 360 degree views of Portland.
The structure which has played an important part in the life of Victoria’s birthplace was transformed by the Australia Remembers Program, commemorating the conclusion of the Second World War.The outcome of this venture is a spectacular and functional landmark which houses a vast array of Military and social history.
At the same time the structure serves as an observation point for viewing Portland, its southern seas and inland landmarks.
Water Towers Rich Past
The building has a rich past being part of Portland’s industrial architectual heritage with a history extending back to the 1930’s. Its construction came about as a consequence of a growing demand in Portland some 90 years ago for a reliable and adequate source of drinking water. Such an essential service was not available in this settlement prior to the 1930’s/
Before then Portland obtained its water supplies from a range of sources. In the earliest days of European settlement drinking water was obtained from rain water and springs. or was hand drawn from the body of water we now know as Fawthrop Lagoon.
In time pumps wer established over the springs on the Western side of the settlement- at the end of Tyres Street. Know as the town wells. These pumps were the primary source of Portlands drinking water until the early 1930’s
IBy the 1920’s pressure had grown for the town authorities to develope a more ereliable and plentiful for both drinking and general domestic use. There was even talk of pumping water from the Bridgewater Lakes or from the Surry or Fitzroy Rivers! Ultimately the final decision was made to drill and pump water from bores to be sited at the Wyatt Street.
As the first drilling at Wyatt Street commenced the construction of storage ( Water Towers / Standpipes) was commenced. The first to be constructed was in North Portland. overlooking the sea in Wade Street. This water tower was used until both itself and the second tower in South Portland were shut down in the 1970’s and 1980’s.
In 1994 the North Portland Tower was set to be demolished as had the South Portland Tower. Thanks to the imagination of the community and the support of Local and Commonwealth Governments, The Australia Remembers Fund and community funds the tower was saved and brought back to life.
The Lookout
The Lookout was officially opened in April 1996. The tower is 25 metres high and access to the tower lookout is through the foyer which features murals hiding maps of Australia.
The gently rising staircase provides multiple landings to stop and rest on with museum exhibits. At the top on a clear day local wonders such as Lawrence Rocks, Cape Bridgewater and Cape Nelson can be seen. Inland views of Mt. Richmond, Mt. Napier, Mt. Eccles and Tower Hill can be seen.
If you do not wish to go to the top there is much to be seen on the first floor with an array of local military history.All displays focus on the local involvement in the conflict. Feel free to ask our friendly volunteers about the stories attached to some of these items.
The Portland World War 11 Memorial Lookout is a striking visual and historical experience. It is operated on a community based committee of management and staffed by volunteers. The committee is planning further displays and features for the future and of special note are the wonderful murals hand painted by Kieth McMillan.
Opening Hours
Every day except Christmas and Good Friday 10 am – 4 pm.