Stories Past

by Lindsay Braden - Researcher Anglesea & District Historical Society

Anglesea Main Beach Bathing Boxes

Bathing boxes were an important part of the Anglesea beach scene from 1900. By 1915 the Department of Lands and Survey decided to raise some income from these popular shelters. From then, a yearly licence fee of seven shillings and sixpence (75c) was payable to the Receiver of Revenue.

These timber sheds nestled high on the dunes away from the incoming tide. Although Point Roadknight protects the main beach, a problem cool south westerly breeze was easily countered by sunbathing behind these popular shelters.

In 1927 a Journalist from Melbourne noted that Anglesea was one of the prettiest seaside resorts around Melbourne, and that the Hotel was providing improved main beach bathing boxes for it's guests.

By the 1960's Anglesea was no longer a remote seaside venue. The sand dunes were showing bad signs of wear and tear from large beach-going crowds. During 1970 owners were given a period of three months to remove their boxes, and the dunes were later fenced off. So ended an era.

Click on images for a better look.