Davidson Whaling Station Historic Site Plan of Management

Shore based whaling at Twofold Bay began in 1828 and was undertaken by numerous whaling groups; the most important being the Imlay brothers, Benjamin Boyd and later, the Davidson family. Old open boat techniques were in continuous use at Twofold Bay during the whaling period, the only concession to modern technology being the purchase of a motor launch by George Davidson in 1906. Remains of tryworks used for boiling down whale blubber are located on the site.

Historic buildings remaining at Davidson Whaling Station include the cottage "Loch Garra" built by George Davidson and the detached kitchen/dining room which may have predated the cottage. Later additions include a garden shed, an additional room and a shower shed built by the subsequent owners, the Boyd family. The buildings provide evidence of everyday life of the whalers as well as information on nineteenth century and early twentieth century bush carpentry.

Davidson Whaling Station is a small historic site which derives its significance not only from its historical associations and archaeological potential but also its aesthetic qualities. It is important that visitor facilities do not damage the site or compromise its historic atmosphere.

Photo: Davidson Whaling Station Historic Site. Credit: J Yurasek/OEH.