Beaumaris, Victoria, has a rich and eventful history along its scenic coastline, marked by recreational, industrial, and natural milestones. One of the suburb’s early attractions was the Beaumaris Sea Baths, constructed in 1902 beneath the cliffs east of the Beaumaris Hotel. The idea for fenced and netted baths with changing facilities had been proposed in the 1890s, inspired by similar installations at Sandringham, Brighton, Mentone, and Mordialloc. Local support came from the Beaumaris Hotel proprietor, Mrs. Finlay, and the Shire Secretary John Keys, who envisioned income for the council. After some debate, including an alternative plan to use the hulk Hilaria, the project was awarded to Charles Keefer for £105. Keefer leased and operated the baths, charging annual, monthly, and single-bath fees, while also running a nearby boat hire facility. The baths remained popular for over three decades until they were destroyed by a storm on 30 November 1934 and were never rebuilt. The storm also demolished bathing boxes, captured in paintings by local artist Clarice Beckett.

In 1939, Beaumaris attracted industrial interest when the Dunlop Rubber Company purchased 180 hectares intending to build a large factory and model village in the area bounded by Balcombe Road, Beach Road, Gibbs Street, and Cromer Road. However, these plans were halted within a month due to the outbreak of World War II.

A more tragic chapter in Beaumaris’ history came during the catastrophic bushfires of 14 January 1944. Amid a severe drought and record temperatures of 39.5°C in Melbourne, gusty northerly winds drove flames across the heavily wooded suburb, destroying between 63 and 100 homes, leaving around 200 people homeless, and killing 51 across Victoria. Residents, holidaymakers, volunteers, and soldiers worked tirelessly to combat the fire, with some forced to shelter in the sea or in cliff-top vegetation. While temporary accommodation was provided by the Red Cross and Salvation Army, many sought refuge in the Beaumaris Hotel, one of the few buildings that survived. The damage to buildings alone was estimated at £50,000, prompting Premier Albert Dunstan and local authorities to launch a state-wide relief appeal.

From the seaside leisure of its sea baths to ambitious industrial schemes and the resilience shown during natural disasters, Beaumaris’ history reflects both the challenges and the enduring spirit of its community.