Heaton’s Monument marks the location of the original cemetery established at the Quarantine Station at Portsea in Victoria which has since been relocated further inland c 1854. Upon the arrival of the tragic Clipper ship ‘Ticonderoga’ on the 22nd December 1852, a quarantine station was hastily erected at this site. Sadly, a cemetery was also immediately required as of the 170 people that died due to the Typhus Fever that engulfed the ship, 70 people were to perish upon their arrival to Port Phillip.
This striking 3.6 m (12 ft in the old measurements) high structure sits directly on the shore of Port Phillip Bay behind a white picket fence. There are no inscriptions on the monument, just the neat, clean lines that emphasize its form and structure. It greatly resembles the shape of an obelisk with a flat top. White, imposing and beautifully constructed, it has defied and survived the ravages of time, sun, sea, salt and wind . . .
Described as Neo Egyptian in style, it is claimed to be constructed of sandstone – displaying perfect symmetry in its elegance, yet simplicity – a fitting memorial to the tragedy of those who endured the lengthy passage from the United Kingdom to Australia in cramped, overcrowded conditions, often without sanitary facilities, fresh water and barely enough food – and these were the transport ships of migrants – not convicts !!!
The name ‘Heaton’ is derived from the gentleman who built the monument. George Heaton was engaged as the supervisor responsible for building much of the Quarantine Station (often referred to as the Sanitary Station back then). It is believed that he built the monument at great expense to himself, in memory of the migrants – men, women and children – who died so tragically on en route and upon arrival to ‘the new land of hope’ – Australia . . .
Helpful Hints:
– Located approximately 2.5 km West of the Portsea Town Centre – obtain Directions here
– Walking Trail access via ‘Coles Track‘
– Located within Point Nepean National Park
– A Car Park is available to service the Quarantine Station
– Other Historical POI’s Nearby
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- Off Street Parking
- Shuttle Service
- Sealed Road