Princes Pier — Attraction in Melbourne

Information Boards: Princess Pier Port Melbourne a forest of piles Princess Pier is the second largest timber piled structure in Australia. The adjacent Station Pier is the largest. Together they are evidence of port infrastructure that was central to Australia's development in the 20th century. 5000 piles were used to build the 580 meter long Princess Pier. Harvested in New South Wales the turpentine timber was chosen for its resistance to marine borers. The piles ranged in length from 24 feet at the shore end of the pier to a massive 70 feet (21 m) at the outer end. Before resurfacing the first 196 m of the pier, the piles beneath were assessed, levelled and repaired where necessary. The remaining 380 m of piles mark the original extent of Princess Pier, a significant piece in many Australian journeys. Photo at top: Princess Pier and Station Pier circa 1990 prior to the development of Beacon Cove. Two massive terminal sheds still stood on Princess Pier. Photo diagram: Side elevation of plans for a new railway pier at Port Melbourne. This drawing shows the first section of the pier and between 1912 and 1914 Photos: Preparing to lay a new surface on the intersection of Princess Pier 2010

Pier. Port Melbourne. Australia at war Port Melbourne pier is served as the last link with home for Australian service personnel in the world wars in the 20th century. Within months of the declaration of world War one in 1914 members of the first contingent of the Australian Imperial force sailed from Port Melbourne to join a convoy of Australian and New Zealand troops bound for the Middle East. It was to be the first of many emotional departures from Port Melbourne during the four long years of distant war. At wars end, returning Anzacs found a welcome at Princess Pier. The rituals of departure from Port Melbourne were repeated when World War II began in 1939. Japanese advances in the Pacific brought this war much closer to home. Relieved Australians gathered at the Port Melbourne peers as men of the fifth and seventh brigades returned safely from the Middle East to help defend Australia from the Japanese. As US troops joined with Australians to fight in the Pacific, the Port Melbourne peers played a strategic role in supplying troops, equipment and supplies for the war effort.

Picture: Troopship Orontes is farewelled from Port Melbourne on 18 July 1940. Picture: Men of the 8th Light Horse Brigade about to embark for overseas duty from Port Melbourne on 25February 1915. Two berths at the newly completed Prince Pier were reserved for troop transorts. At War's end, most troops returning to Victoria disembarked at Princes Pier. Picture: Welcome home signs on th eouter sheds at Princes and Station Piers greeted returning servicemen as they returned from victory in Europe and the...

I recently visited this place and I must say, the experience was nothing short of enchanting. The meticulously maintained long walking track that runs alongside the glistening sea beach creates an atmosphere of pure serenity. While the pier itself bustles with the lively energy of skaters, it only adds to the vibrant charm of the place.

Though I had hoped to witness the sun dipping beneath the horizon in a magnificent display of colors, the westward view is somewhat veiled by the apartments and lush bushland. Instead of a direct view, what awaits is a poetic dance of sunset beams upon the water's surface, casting a magical reflection that captivates the soul.

It's worth noting that this breathtaking location is often accompanied by a brisk, invigorating breeze. A wise choice would be to don a sturdy jacket and a cozy beanie.

In summary, Princes Pier is a haven for those seeking a tranquil stroll, a glimpse of nature's artistry, and a connection with the elements. While the elusive sunset view may not unfold as anticipated, the symphony of light and water is an experience in its own right—one that promises to leave you...

The pier was constructed between 1912 and 1915 by the Melbourne Harbour Trust to supplement the adjacent Station Pier (originally the 'Railway Pier'). From completion in 1915 until 1969 it was also a major arrival point for new migrants, particularly during the post-war period. In addition to a pier, there was a gatehouse and barriers, terminal building, amenities rooms, goods lockers, ablution blocks, railway sidings and passenger gangways. From opening the pier was linked by rail to the Port Melbourne railway line, via double lines branching from the Melbourne side of Graham station. Eight railway tracks ran onto the bridge, four along either face.[A passenger rail service was provided to the pier from 30 May 1921 operated by suburban electric trains. Provided when ships were docked at the pier, it was usually operated by a single double ended 'swing door' motor car until ended in November 1930, as it was not financially rewarding to the Victorian Railways. The overhead wiring was removed on 17 August 1953 and the line singled and worked as a siding from...