History & Culture | City of Holdfast Bay

Local History

The City of Holdfast Bay was formed in 1997 through the amalgamation of the City Councils of Brighton and Glenelg. Both townships were established on Indigenous Kaurna land with the first European settlers arriving in 1836 in Glenelg. The Proclamation document was read on 28 December 1836.

Old Gum Tree

Glenelg is recognised as the oldest European settlement on mainland South Australia. Each year on 28 December, the Proclamation document is read at the site of the Old Gum Tree.

Glenelg Air-Raid Shelter

The Glenelg Air-Raid Shelter was built in 1942 as part of a WWII communications network. It now houses exhibitions and memorabilia which tell the stories of Holdfast Bay and its residents during the various wars including WWII.

History Centre

The Holdfast Bay History Centre aims to promote an awareness of our City’s history and heritage.