Gem Pier facts for kids
Gem Pier is a really old and important pier located on Port Phillip Bay in Williamstown, Victoria, Australia. A pier is like a long walkway built out over the water. This pier is about 145 meters (or 476 feet) long! Today, it's home to a special museum ship called HMAS Castlemaine and also where Melbourne Seaplanes take off.
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History of Gem Pier
The very first pier in this area was built way back in 1839. It was close to where Gem Pier stands now. At first, people just called it "The Jetty."
Changing Names Over Time
In 1853, its name changed to "Old Pier." This happened after a "New Pier" (which was the Ann Street Pier) was built nearby. For many years, through the 1860s and 1870s, it was known as "Steamboat Pier." This was because many steamboats used it.
How it Became "Gem Pier"
The pier finally got its current name, "Gem Pier," in the 1870s. It was named after a famous paddle steamer called the Gem. A paddle steamer is a boat that uses large wheels with paddles to move through the water. The Gem ran a popular ferry service from Williamstown to Port Melbourne for many years, from 1846 to 1886.
Modern Updates
After many years of use, the pier was rebuilt in 1992. This made sure it was safe and strong for people to keep enjoying it today.
What You Can See and Do at Gem Pier Today
Gem Pier is a fantastic place to visit! You can walk along the pier and enjoy amazing views of Port Phillip Bay and the Melbourne skyline.
HMAS Castlemaine
One of the coolest things to see is the HMAS Castlemaine. This is a real warship that is now a museum! You can often go inside and learn about what life was like on a ship during wartime. It's a great way to explore history up close.
Seaplanes and More
You might also see Melbourne Seaplanes taking off or landing. These are planes that can land on water! It's quite a sight to watch them. The pier is also a popular spot for fishing and just enjoying the fresh air by the bay.
