by Kevin MCue
Abstract This paper lists 292 felt earthquakes in Victoria between 1837 and 1956 with better-substantiated dates, magnitudes and locations. A significant earthquake and aftershock listed in the previous version of this paper as 1868 actually occurred in 1869. Earthquakes felt throughout Melbourne in 1862 and 1892 and others have been re-discovered; it is surprising how often earthquakes have rattled Melbourne and suburbs since the first one documented on 13 March 1837. This and other new information has been mainly sourced from Australian newspapers using TROVE the Australian National Library’s on-line scans of early newspapers, and other sources. A plot of the historical data shows a similar pattern of earthquakes to the post-1965 data which, by incorporating this data into PSHA studies will lower uncertainties in hazard assessments by improving source zone definitions, activity rates and the magnitude threshold of completeness intervals.
The events described include poorly studied, moderate-sized earthquakes that shook Melbourne in 1885, 1922 and 1952 and Benalla in 1946, and the two destructive Warrnambool earthquakes in 1903, each with one small felt aftershock. A series of earthquakes in the years 1859 – 1887 near Bendigo is described, some possibly rockbursts rather than earthquakes. A miner died but any association with the earthquakes is not clear. More damage was caused by these moderate earthquakes than is generally acknowledged. In Victoria there has been on average one magnitude 4 earthquake every 2 years and on average one of magnitude 5 every 10 years since 1855. The largest since European settlement, magnitude 6.0, occurred on 22 September 2021.
In the 100 years from 1855 to 1954 I was unable to find reports of earthquakes in just 6 of them, in the years 1866, 1879, 1918, 1919, 1928 and 1949.
VICTORIAN SEISMICITY
Various authors wrote about earthquakes in Victoria before Benioff short-period seismographs were introduced by the Bureau of Mineral Resources in 1956 to replace the all-but-useless Milne seismograph in operation at the Astronomical Observatory since 1902. They were Griffiths (1885), Baracchi (numerous newspaper reports), Gregory (1903) and Burke-Gaffney (1951) who provided the first list subsequently upgraded by Underwood (1972) using data compiled by the Government Astronomical Observatory, and Doyle and others (1968). Gibson and others (1980) extracted the larger events in Underwood’s list of pre-1959 earthquakes and assigned them magnitudes (for M≥4) based on their felt areas and maximum intensity. A newspaper account discusses the first earthquake in Victoria (Port Phillip) in European times, on 25 March 1837 (see Appendix 3).
Only one large (M≥ 6) earthquake has occurred (2022) onshore Victoria since European settlement in the early 1800s but geographers such as Hills (1963), Bowler and Harford (1966) and Twidale and Stehbens (1978) identified Recent fault scarps in the State left by large earthquakes in prehistoric times, some of which have subsequently been trenched and dated (McPherson and others, 2012). Several large earthquakes that occurred off northeast Tasmania and southeast South Australia impacted Victoria and contribute to the earthquake hazard in Victoria.
The most destructive Victorian earthquakes to date were the two near Warrnambool in April and July 1903 (McCue, 1978 and 1996). By good fortune no lives were lost nor were there serious injuries, despite the significant damage to many unreinforced masonry buildings. There was spectacular foundation failure (lateral spreading) and liquefaction (sandboils in two localities with disturbance of tombstones in the local cemetery). The two earthquakes were obviously shallow and very close to the city but relatively small at magnitudes 5.0 and 5.3 (McCue, 1978 & 1996). All the same it is lucky no one was killed. These events were a classic doublet with two possible foreshocks in 1900 and just a single small aftershock following each mainshock.
The Melbourne Observatory recorded both earthquakes on the Milne seismograph (installed the
Figure 1a Seismicity of Victoria 1970 to 2023 (SRC’s Adam Pascale provided the map)
Figure 1b Seismicity of Victoria 1855 – 1954, epicentres of earthquakes assigned in this report.
previous year), the July trace amplitude double that of the April earthquake (hence the 0.3 difference in magnitude).
Mr Baracchi’s opinion (Warrnambool Portland Guardian, 20 July 1903) is: that the earthquake originated a short distance south of the Merri River, two or three miles out to sea, at about 38deg. west of the Warrnambool town-hall, and about the same place as the earthquake on April 7.
This present shock was more intense and deeper than the former one, and extended over a larger area. The recent earthquake shock made a crack in the front wall of the Colonial Bank, a free stone building of two stories. The crack extends from the top of the front window of the public office to the roof, and though it is small outside, in the drawing-room, above the banking chamber, the wallpaper has been torn apart. At the residence of the railway station-master a chimney split.
The Warrnambool area is distinctive for its lack of earthquakes in the intervening 108 years; there was just one. The Argus of 11 December 1922 stated that a slight earthquake rattled doors and windows in and around Warrnambool on Saturday 9th December at about 3:20 pm local time. The Warrnambool Standard says it caused the windows to rattle loudly and it was felt by a great number of residents and woke many others. A check showed that it was not an aftershock of the 1897 Beachport SA and that it wasn’t felt elsewhere in Victoria, so the 1903 doublet is not in a completely isolated region. During this study we did learn of two possible foreshocks to the April 1903 earthquake, in March and September 1900 small local earthquakes were reported felt in Warrnambool as detailed below.
The largest observed earthquakes in Victoria were near Wood’s Point on 22 September 2022 ML6.0, Mt Hotham in 1966 magnitude 5.5, Cape Otway 1960 and 1965 magnitude 5.3, and Gippsland in 1969 magnitude 5.3. In May 1885 a magnitude 6.5 earthquake occurred in Bass Strait, south-west of Wilson’s Promontory (Leiba, 1989) and was followed in July 1885 by a magnitude 5.7 earthquake, the latter large enough to be felt from Seymour to Launceston.
It should be noted that a remarkable belt of approximately 500 volcanoes of Quaternary age extends across central Victoria from east of Melbourne to southeastern South Australia. Some of these such as Tower Hill near Warrnambool, or Mt Eccles further west, may have erupted as recently as 25,000 years or 8,000 years ago respectively. These volcanoes and the independent large prehistoric earthquakes are symptomatic of currently active tectonism in the local crust. The Monaro Volcanics near Cooma NSW are an ancient analogue of Victoria’s Newer Volcanics.
Victoria boasts the highest density of seismographs of any state or territory in Australia and the Seismology Research Centre in Melbourne locates about one hundred small earthquakes per year, excluding aftershocks (~200 aftershocks were recorded in 2009 – see Payne and others, 2010).
In Victoria the topics earthquakes and seismic hazard have been studied by Underwood (1972 & 1973), McCue (1978), Gibson and others (1981), Wilkie and others (1993, 1994), Gibson (1995), Brown and Gibson (1998 and 2004).
ISOSEISMAL MAPS AND HAZARD
Isoseismal maps for Australian earthquakes are compiled in three atlases by Everingham and others (1982), Rynn and others (1987), and McCue (1997). Included are maps of 10, 1 and 8 Victorian earthquakes respectively.
Brown and Gibson (2004) and the current hazard map of Victoria (in AS1170.4 – 2007) suggest that the state has moderate levels of seismicity and earthquake hazard, sufficient for earthquake loading, like wind loading, to be taken into account in normal structural design, let alone special structures like the Animal Health Laboratory at Geelong.
This paper was possible because of the recent publishing on-line by the Australian National Library of their scanned collection of early Australian newspapers. The site TROVE allows users to correct the OCR of the scanned images which makes the collection even more valuable as this corrected text can be searched on-line by all. Examples of the scanned newspapers are documented below.
TIME
All events have been assigned UTC but that is not strictly true. The term Universal Coordinated Time (UTC) wasn’t adopted until 1 January 1972, replacing Greenwich Mean Time that was introduced in Australia in February 1895. Before that, local time was measured from noon; when the sun was at its highest. Prior to 1895 reported times were assumed to be GMT + 10 hours, but whether the newspapers used Melbourne time or near-epicentre time is not known.
LIGHTHOUSE KEEPERS’ REPORTS
Victorian lighthouse keepers’ logbooks containing meteorological and other observations such as earthquakes were used with Newspaper reports to draw up the isoseismal maps of the 1903 earthquakes at Warrnambool (McCue, 1978). These important logbooks are kept in Melbourne and researchers must visit Melbourne to view them which limits their usefulness. They should be scanned and made available on-line.
A CHRONOLOGICAL LIST OF EARTHQUAKES
1800 01 Melbourne.
The almanac records an earthquake in January 1800 without details (The Age, Tuesday 27 August 1867, page 1.)
1837 03 13 at 13:05 UTC, Port Philip
Cornwall Chronicle (Launceston, Tas. : 1835 – 1880), Saturday 25 March 1837, page 2
The following is an extract from a Letter from a Correspondent at Port Phillip— dated 13th March, 1837 :—Last night, (13th inst.) at 5 minutes past 11, a very severe shock of an Earthquake was felt here, but no damage done.
Australian (Sydney, NSW : 1824 – 1848), Tuesday 28 March 1837, page 2
PORT PHILIP.
By the arrival of the Revenue Cutter from the above settlement, we are enabled to publish a few interesting facts relating to matters thereaway. The Cutter left on the 17th of March.… There had been an earthquake in the settlement ; the earth heaving so much as to prevent a person from writing — besides breaking the only cup and saucer in the settlement. We hear of no other damage being done.
This was not felt in Launceston, Tasmania so we assume it is a Victorian event.
1838 No date, time or location
An article in the South Australian (Tuesday 1st June 1847) about the 1847 earthquake in Melbourne (listed below), states that this is not the first instance of such an occurrence in this Province, a shock, heavier than the one now recorded, having been felt in 1838.
1841 04 21 at 17:00 UTC, Melbourne
The Sydney Monitor and Commercial Advertiser newspaper (Monday 10 May 1841 p2) selectively extracted stories from Port Phillip papers to 30th April including:
PORT PHILLIP
EARTHQUAKE.– Early in the morning of Wednesday last, a smart shock of an earthquake was felt in Melbourne and its neighbourhood, being the third similar irritation which has been experienced since the formation of the settlement. It is matter of congratulation, that these mysterious phenomena have hitherto been so slight as not to occasion the least danger or alarm to the inhabitants. Considering the evidently igneous formation of the province, it is singular that such convulsions do not more frequently occur.
The Adelaide newspaper The Southern Australian dated 22 June 1841 reports:
EARTHQUAKE.–The shock of an earthquake was generally felt in New Town and various parts of Melbourne, early yesterday morning. This is the second visitation of the same description which has been felt since the settlement of the province.
New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832 – 1900), Friday 28 May 1841 (No.42), page 743
ABSTRACT of the METEOROLOGICAL JOURNAL kept at MELBOURNE, PORT PHILLIP, during the Month of APRIL, 1841 … a slight shock of an earthquake said to have been felt about 3 A. M. on 21st.
The same source on Wednesday 23 June page 2 quoting from Port Phillip papers to 13th June 1841 says with no other details: an earthquake caused a disagreeable sensation in the Church during Divine services.
Bacchus Marsh Express (Vic. : 1866 – 1943), Saturday 13 June 1903, page 3
LETTERS FROM VICTORIAN PIONEERS. In 1853, the then Governor of Victoria, Mr. La Trobe, contemplated writing a history of the colony, and it is a pity he did not do so. He did the next best thing, namely, he wrote to a number of early settlers, asking them for their personal experiences. He received a number of letters, and retained them until 1872, when he handed them over to the Hon. James Graham, M.L.C., a good old pioneer himself, who deposited them in the Melbourne Public Library, where they now remain. The Trustees of the Public Library published them in a book in 1899, and we make the following extracts from a copy of the book lent to us by Councillor Angus M’Naughton:–In the latter end of the year 1836 I returned to Port Phillip for the purpose of forming the different stations, afterwards occupied by the Derwent Co., and pitched my tent at the south side of Geelong, on the north bank of the Barwon River, near where a bridge was afterwards built communicating with the Western District. Here I built the first house in Geelong worthy of the name; it is built of weatherboards of Van Diemen’s Land timber, which house yet stands, and is still rather an ornament to what is now called Barwon Terrace. In this house I had the honour of receiving His Excellency Sir Richard Bourke, who had come hither to spy out the nakedness of the land, and with his suite encamped on the banks of the Barwon next to my house. It is worthy of remark that on the night of Sir Richard Bourke’s arrival the district was visited by an earthquake, the shock of which was felt all over the district. Such a phenomenon has never occurred since that time, but I was informed by a very old native, King Murradock, that such had been felt before, but it was “long, long ago.”
Bacchus Marsh Express (Vic. : 1866 – 1943), Saturday 24 October 1903, page 3
LETTERS FROM VICTORIAN PIONEERS. Mr. JAMES CLOW writes: At the time the Tirhatuan Station was formed, ………. The next settler on the Dandenong was Mr. Thomas Napier, who now resides in the parish of Doutta Galla. His run, which he took up about October 1839, lay along the western side of the creek, and extended from the Tirhatuan bridge to Scott’s bridge. ……….About six miles in a north-easterly direction from Tirhatuan….. is the sheep station of Monbolloc……On the east of Monbolloc is the small station of Will-Will-Rook, originally formed and still possessed by Mr. Varcoe and his family. About the month of January 1850, during one night and a part of the succeeding day, an unusual noise, somewhat resembling that of a bush fire at a distance, was heard at Tirhatuan, and at an out-station about three miles off, situated near the Gap in the ranges behind Narre Narre Warren. At the former place it was heard by Mrs. Clow and others living there. She rose in the night time, and looked out to see if any of the huts was on fire; and during the day she went repeatedly into the verandah in front of the house to listen; and as the noise seemed to come from the rises on the west side of the creek, she sent two persons as far as the bridge with a view to ascertain what it was. On their return they said they could not tell, but that when they were at the bridge the noise seemed to be at the house. The overseer happened to come, and she spoke of it to him, but he said that he had not noticed any unusual sound; neither did he then perceive any. He was in a hurry and went off immediately; but, happening to go to the out-station at the Mountain Gap, he was asked by the two men there, both of whom had resided in the colony only a short time, and were therefore perhaps more liable to be easily alarmed, whether the fire was coming that way. He said he did not know of any fire. They told him that they had not slept during the night, for they had heard a noise as of a great fire at a distance, and were afraid it was coming in that direction, and that they could still discern it. He was thus forcibly reminded of what he had just before heard, and on going a little way to a rise, he listened, and acknowledged that he could distinctly hear a noise similar to that which had been described, but could not tell what occasioned it. As heard by Mrs. Clow, the noise was not always the same, but rose and fell, and after dying away for a little would begin again and gradually increase. To some it seemed to be in the air, but the prevailing impression on her mind at the time, and that to which she is still inclined, is, that it was subterranean. It will perhaps be considered corroborative of this opinion that, on two previous occasions, an earthquake had been distinctly heard and felt there. The first was experienced in February or March 1843. It occurred at midnight, when the moon was full, the sky cloudless, and the wind still. To me and others who heard it at Tirhatuan, the sound was as if a light conveyance, making a sharp rattling noise, had passed rapidly between the house and the kitchen – these buildings being about eight yards apart. The tremor, though distinctly felt, was not great; but at the out-station, near the base of the mountain, both the shock and the noise were very considerable. The two men sleeping in the hut were instantly roused, and ran out to ascertain what was the matter; but neither seeing nor hearing any thing unusual, they conjectured what had happened; and as the shock was experienced in the same manner at Rourke’s station, about five miles off, it would appear that it was severest along the base of the mountain.
Mr. JAMES CLOW writes: (Continued.) The second shock was felt in 1847, at the same season of the year. It occurred at four o’clock in the after noon, and was experienced at the same time in Melbourne and other adjacent places. Those in the house at Tirhatuan, when they felt it moving, ran out in alarm, not doubting for a moment what it was. And a party out riding in the direction of the mountain heard it, and were struck with the noise as an extraordinary one; but, instead of ascribing it to an earthquake, they thought it was caused by horses galloping in the bush. Although the sound which has been described is not likely to have been produced by the action of wind on the forest, as the weather at the time is said to have been calm and settled, and although Mrs. Clow was then, and still is, of opinion that it was subterranean, yet perhaps it is possible that it was occasioned by currents of air in the atmosphere, but so elevated as not to disturb any objects on the face of the country, at least not in that immediate neighbourhood. It had often been observed that the wind blew very partially in that locality. Narrow belts of the forest, scarcely a quarter of a mile broad and several miles long, might be seen on the run, strewed with fallen branches and uprooted trees, showing that a hurricane had swept along that tract, whilst the forest on both sides remained uninjured. And it was no uncommon thing for one to witness the top of trees bending and tossed about in wild commotion–though not broken down–along only a narrow strip, and to hear the sound thereby occasioned, as then, on the surface of the earth and within very circumscribed limits; so, at some elevation above, very partial and very powerful currents of air may sweep along, and, if they sometimes fly with increased, and sometimes with diminished speed, as in a hurricane or typhoon, the swelling and subsiding of the noise which was heard might be thereby occasioned.
1841 06 13 hours of divine service, Geelong
Geelong Advertiser Saturday 19 June 1841, Page 2.
EARTHQUAKE.—On Sunday, during the hours of divine service, a rumbling noise was heard in the earth, supposed to be the forerunner of an earthquake, in the church it was distinctly heard, and in several parts of the town, giving rise to various speculations upon the subject.
1847 04 28 at 06:30 UTC, Melbourne
South Australian Tuesday 1 June 1847, Page 3
All the papers agree in stating that a shock of an earthquake was experienced at Melbourne, of which we extract the following account: At half-past four o’clock, Melbourne was visited with one of those singular and at times dreadful phenomena. The shock was rather stiff and felt all over the town. In many of the streets some of the houses were severely shaken, and the inhabitants became very much alarmed, and ran into the streets. His Honor the resident Judge was presiding in the Supreme Court, in the cause of Boyd v. Wilson, when a noise like the rumbling of a carriage was heard, and the buildings appeared to rock. The proceedings were immediately suspended for a time, when the court was ultimately adjourned. The Flag-staff Hill was shaken to its centre, and also the other eminences in and about the town.
“This is the second or third time that earthquakes have been felt in this town, the last having occurred in April or May, 1841, at 4 a.m. “ according to the Gazette of May 01.
Burnie Advocate Saturday 3rd May 1947, Page 4
ABOUT 4 p.m. on Wednesday, April 28, 1847, the 13,000 citizens of early Melbourne were conducting their ordinary daily business, attending to the wants of up-country pastoralists, loading and unloading the sailing vessels from “home” in the Yarra and at Sandridge, and engaging in the numerous other pursuits of a thriving colonial town. SHORTLY after 4 p.m. the ground began to shake. People stopped in the street; those in buildings looked out of the windows, and then there was a mild panic. Someone shouted, “It’s an earthquake,” and those in the streets made for the buildings, while those inside started for the open air.
Actually it was not an earthquake; it was an earth tremor, of which Melbourne has had many, and of which, one, and perhaps two, had already occurred in the town on the Yarra in the time between its settlement in 1834 and 1847. But this was the most severe up to that time, and possibly there has not been a more severe one since.
Naturally such an event could not be ignored by the papers of the day, and on the following Saturday, May 1, the Port Philip “Gazette” devoted three-quarters of a column to the occurrence.
“On Wednesday, between 4 and 5 p.m.,” the “Gazette” recorded, “Melbourne was visited by an earthquake, which fortunately did no injury to the town. The sensation to those inside was that of a heavy body falling on the upper part of their houses. The panic was considerable in the Supreme Court, where the case of Taylor and M’Pherson versus Sutherland was being tried, and it was at once adjourned.
“The shock was felt most heavily in Elizabeth street, but it was also quite apparent to persons living some miles out of Melbourne.
“This is the second or third time that earthquakes have been felt in this town, the last having occurred in April or May, 1841, at 4 a.m. “
1848 11 24, Warrnambool – earthquake? probably the storm?
Camperdown Chronicle, Thursday 20 July 1916, Page 4.
Old Time Warrnambool. NOTABLE EVENTS FROM 1853 TO 1885.
In September the shock of an earthquake was felt in Melbourne and other parts of Victoria, but it was not noticed in Warrnambool. Alluding to the circumstance, the “Examiner” says that, according to the diary of a lady who was residing in Warrnambool in 1848, an earthquake was felt there in the month of November of that year. The diary describes a fearful storm, which lasted from noon on the 24th November, 1848, until daylight of the 25th. The storm was described as most terrific, the sea trying as if to burst its bounds, and the house in which she lived visibly shook, the articles of crockery were displaced and broken. Those who have witnessed the violent storms sometimes experienced on the Western coast, and have resided there for a number of years, can quite understand the above statement, and yet believe there was no earthquake in reality.
1850 11 20 at 02:30 UTC, Flowerdale
Geelong Advertiser (Vic. : 1847 – 1851), Thursday 19 December 1850, page 2
SHOCK OF AN EARTHQUAKE. The following letter from Mr Armstrong, of Flowerdale, con-tains a detailed account of a shock of an earthquake felt near the Abercrombie River :—”I beg to inform you that between twelve and one o’clock of the 20th ultimo, a smart shock of an earthquake was felt in this neighbourhood. The day was very warm, not a cloud to be seen, nor a breath of wind stirring. The shock was accompanied by a rumbling noise like distant thunder. One of my sons was out walking at the time, and was nearly thrown to the ground; a neighbour was at dinner at the time when his ducks and fowls flew up from the ground, making a sharp noise, which brought the family out to see what had frightened them ; they also heard the rumbling noise but considered it was thunder.
1851 02 06 at ~08:00 UTC, Gipps Land
Melbourne Daily News (Vic. : 1848 – 1851), Tuesday 4 March 1851, page 2
GIPPS LAND.
24th February, 1851.
A slight shock of an earthquake has been felt on the station of Mr McMillan near the sea coast, a few minutes previous to the darkness commencing on the 6th instant.
Note: Angus McMillan (14 August 1810 – 18 May 1865) was a Scottish-born explorer, pioneer pastoralist, and perpetrator of several of the Gippsland massacres of Gunai people.
1854 01 06 at 08:00 UTC, Buckland River
The Argus Saturday 13 January 1855, Page 5.
EARTHQUAKE AT THE BUCKLAND RIVER.
To the Editor of the Argus.
Sir,—A slight but distinct shock of an earthquake has been felt here to-day at about 6 p.m, The day has been exceedingly hot, but not close, there having been at intervals a strong breeze from the north. The sky, at the time of the shock, was quite clear. It would be interesting and perhaps scientifically useful, to know over what area the shock extended, in what direction it passed, and the point of its greatest severity; the latter particular may be difficult to ascertain from the reports of such unscientific correspondents as
Your obedient servant,
J.K.J.H.
Buckland River, 6th January, 1855.
1854 09 16 at 16:50 UTC, Melbourne
Gippsland Times (Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Thursday 15 August 1867, page 3.
EARTHQUAKE. (FROM THE AGE).
On Monday the 17th September, 1854, a smart shock of an earthquake was noticed in Melbourne, about 2.50 a.m. The duration of the shock was according to different observers from 1 to 2½ minutes. The horizontal motion was about north and south. There was scarcely any heaving motion, but its intensity was sufficient to awake all sleepers. Every moveable object was visibly shaken, and houses were so rocked that the timber jointings creaked, and the roof shingles or tiles clattered against each other.
1855 09 16 at 16:55 UTC, Melbourne, MM Intensity 4-6
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Tuesday 18 September 1855, page 5
EARTHQUAKE.—At five minutes to three o’clock this morning a severe shock of an earthquake was felt in Melbourne. It lasted about a minute. The rocking motion was very distinct, and caused the slates and windows to shake.
It was discussed in a letter dated Monday 17th September 1855, to the Editor of The Argus by one Ludwig Becker. The earthquake occurred at 2:50 a.m. that morning and reportedly lasted between 1 and 2.5 minutes.
He reported that in the Union Hotel the shaking was sufficiently intense to awaken nearly all sleepers. Strong shaking creakings, clatterings and grindings of objects on the surface of the earth was observed at Collingwood, St Kilda and Windsor. This shaking was preceeded by a subterranean noise (P wave?) with the same pitch or tone as a heavy omnibus or artillery wagon passing rapidly. At Hawthorn, the chimney of a house was split.
The Geelong Advertiser notices the occurrence adverted to, by stating:—A smart shock of an Earthquake was felt in Geelong, on Monday (yesterday) morning. The hour is variously stated at from 2h. 45m. to 3h. 10m. The vibration lasted about ten seconds, and appeared to oscillate from south-west to north-east. It was felt in the majority of homes in Geelong and suburbs, and from the surrounding country, during the whole of yesterday, persons called at our office to make enquiries and to communicate their impressions of the occurrence.
Figure 2 Approximate felt area of the Melbourne earthquake of 16 September 1855 – the first Victorian earthquake which warranted an isoseismal map.
One worthy farmer was under the impression that heavy drays were coming round his paddock, and got up to see if it was so. On the Barrabool Hills, the shock seems to have been more severe than in lower localities, and one professional gentleman hurried out of his bed on the supposed call for medical assistance by the ringing of the night bell. In a large ironmonger’s store in Ryrie-street the storeman was aroused by the rattling of pots, pans, bullock bells, and the multifarious objects usually suspended from the roofs of such establishments.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Saturday 22 September 1855, page 6
THE RECENT EARTHQUAKE.
(To the Editor of the Age.)
SIR, — I have read a letter on this head in your issue of Tuesday last, and a note in which you invite communications from the country. I am a resident of Kilmore, and in common with many others, experienced a smart shock, as described by your correspondent. A family inhabiting a two story stone house, about 20 yards from my residence suffered considerable loss by the breakage of many articles of crockery, which were thrown from a dresser and utterly demolished ; a stout elderly gentleman, who passed the night in Seymour, informed me yesterday that the tenement he occupied actually seemed to sway to and fro, and his bed to perform a similar strange evolution. What I have more particularly noticed is the follow-ing : — Kilmore is a township intersected by the Sydney road, and it is an established fact that the houses and buildings fronting that road were more exposed to, and suffered more, from the midnight visitor, than any built on the high land lying in the rear on either side; in-deed, I am not aware that a single person in the above-named locality was conscious of what astonished us in the valley. Should this statement be of any value, and the letter worth insertion, you are quite at liberty to make use of it.
S. C. ARMSON. Kilmore, Sept. 19th, 1855.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Wednesday 26 September 1855, page 6
THE EARTHQUAKE.
To the Editor of the Argus.
Dear Sir,—I find by yours of the 19th instant inviting all the information touching the late earthquake, the sound came from east and passed off to west, the vibration or shaking was from north to south. My cottage was shook four times, and creaked like a basket: the sound appeared to me to be that of the upper and lower strata lifted or separated, and allowed to come together with a fearful under or hollow sound. The sky was close packed with a dark cloud and not a star to be seen. There did not appear to be any wind. The exact time of the shock by a good two-day chronometer, going at mean time per observatory, Melbourne was 2h. 46′ 35″ a.m. There were four shocks and lasted four seconds.
Yours respectfully,
GEORGE SINCLAIR. Caledonia Cottage,
North of Kew half-a-mile, Boroondara.
Hobart Town Advertiser (Tas. : 1839 – 1861), Tuesday 25 September 1855, page 2
(To the Editor of the Argus.)
Dear Sir,—At 2.52 a.m. of this day I was awoke by a smart shock of an earthquake. The motion was not a heaving one, but simply a tremor or violent shaking, and continued from thirty to forty seconds My cottage is of wood plastered, and in bad repair. The shock has cracked the ceiling in the front rooms in several places; indeed it was so severe that if it had lasted it would have been a sharp test for stone or brick buildings. …..
I remain, dear Sir, Yours very truly,
George Harrison, R.N.
Gisborne, 17th September, 1855.
Kilmore Free Press (Kilmore, Vic. : 1870 – 1954), Thursday 16 April 1914, page 1
September 22nd 1855.— The local news column announced “On Monday the 17th instant, a few minutes after 2 a.m., a sharp shock of an earthquake was felt at Kilmore. The precise direction we have not been able to ascertain. Sydney street, lying nearly north and south, is situated between two hills, and the shock was felt from one end to the other end of it. From the crown of the hills, east and west, we have received no account of it. Many of the houses were violently shaken, and the inmates felt considerably alarmed. The vibration was accompanied by a long rumbling noise, and the shock lasted for several seconds.”
Geelong Advertiser and Intelligencer (Vic. : 1851 – 1856), Wednesday 26 September 1855, page 2
LINTON’S DIGGINGS, WARDY YALLOCK. (From our own Correspondent. September 25th, 1855. I have ascertained that many parties on these diggings felt the shock of an earthquake at the same time as it occurred in Geelong.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Friday 5 October 1855, page 5
METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS.
Results deduced from the Meteorological Register, kept at the Observatory, Surveyor-General’s Office, Melbourne, during the month of September, 1855 :—A slight shock of an earthquake was felt on the morning of the 17th, at 2.52 a.m. The shock was felt over a very extensive area, apparently conforming rudely to the outline of the coast range. It was not accompanied by any remarkable changes in the barometer, which at 9 p.m. on the night of the 10th stood at 29.911 in., and 9 a.m. on the 17th, at 29.783 in., the thermometer at the time of the shock indicating a temperature of 50 °. The weather during the month has been changeable, the evenings generally being calm and cloudy.
R. BROUGH SMYTH. Observatory,
Melbourne, October 3rd, 1855.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Thursday 11 October 1855, page 5
The Earthquake. — We have not heard of any one having felt the earthquake in this locality (Warrnambool), although one of our western contemporaries is evidently trying to get up a feeling in favor of it. About seven years ago, however, a very smart shock of an earthquake was felt in Warrnambool, which naturally created great alarm amongst the few who felt it. The following extract from the diary of a lady resident, who felt the shock, and made a note of it, will give an idea of its violence ; — ” Warrnambool, 25th November. 1848. — A fearful storm occurred here yesterday, accompanied by a violent agitation of the earth. The floor of tho room visibly shook, and the bed appeared to be moving. This commenced about 12 o’clock p.m. on the 24th, and lasted till daylight of the 25 — the sea roaring, and to all appearance, endeavoring to burst its bounds. Shortly after daylight, a hail shower of great violence fell, and rendered the air quite dark — dark as night, for a few minutes.”
—Warrnambool Examiner.
Bendigo Advertiser (Vic. : 1855 – 1918), Saturday 29 September 1855, page 3
BALLARAT. (From the Correspondent of the Geelong Advertiser.)
The shock of the earthquake was felt here on Monday morning, as with yourselves. It would appear that we had it something earlier than you— the same effects were visible in the ironmongery stores and hotels, as with yourselves.
An article on the earthquake in the Bendigo Advertiser of 18 Oct 1855 did not mention that it had been felt there.
The earthquake was not felt in Warrnambool but as newspapers were scanned moved estimates of the location moved from between Geelong and Melbourne, to ESE of Melbourne, and then back. The gold rush had started in 1851 and by 1855 there were thousands of people living at Ballarat and other potential gold fields. The felt area rates a magnitude of 4.9 or 5.0.
1855 10 11 at 03:30 UTC, Mt Blackwood (37.59, 144.39)
Mount Alexander Mail (Vic. : 1854 – 1917), Friday 19 October 1855, page 3
The shock of an earthquake was felt at Mount Blackwood on Thursday. It occurred about half-past one o’clock, and was accompanied by a hollow rumbling noise. The motion was distinctly felt, both by those sitting and standing: even the articles of crystal and crockery were in some cases slightly moved. About Ballan Camp and Simmon’s Reef, we understand, the motion was very distinct, but only lasted a few seconds.
1855 12 20 at ~08:00 UTC, Buckland River, Alberton, Gippsland
(From the Ovens and Murray Advertiser.)
EARTHQUAKE. — A severe shock of an earthquake was felt on the Buckland River at the time of sun-setting, Thursday evening, December 20th. Dishes were rattled upon tables and shelves, and one individual was nearly tossed from the log while crossing the river from Lowden’s to Tanswell’s.
METEOR.— A brilliant meteoric illumination was witnessed and admired on Saturday evening, December 22, by several individuals on the Buckland River. It occurred about ten o’clock. The first appearance seemed to be about ten degrees above the summit of the range on the easterly side of the river, and proceeded westerly at an inclination of about 45 degrees, losing itself to the beholder, amidst the branches of the trees growing upon the range of the westerly side. The meteor appeared to be as large as the moon, and was thirty seconds in passing across the heavens, making the night as light as day.
Bendigo Advertiser (Vic. : 1855 – 1918), Thursday 3 January 1856, page 2
THE OVENS.
BUCKLAND.— A severe shock of an earthquake was felt on the Buckland River, at the time off sunsetting on Thursday evening, 20th December. Dishes were rattled upon tables and shelves, and one individual was nearly tossed from the log while crossing the river from Lowden’s to Tanswell’s.
1855 12 22 at 12:06 UTC, Alberton, Gippsland – a meteor
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Wednesday 9 January 1856, page 6
REMARKABLE METEOR. — A letter addressed to the Surveyor-General, by Lieut. Slade, R.N., gives the following account of a brilliant meteor seen at Alberton, Gipps Land :—
“At 10 p.m., on the 22nd December, a very brilliant and remarkable meteor was observed in this locality. It appeared to arise to the northward, crossed the moon, then at the full, and dispersed a few degrees above the horizon to the southward, with something of the appearance of a congreve rocket. The light thrown out by the meteor, in its course, was so powerful as completely to overcome whatever light might be in a room, and, indeed caused considerable alarm to many timid persons who witnessed it. About six minutes subsequent to the appearance of the meteor, a rumbling noise was distinctly heard, resembling the passage of a heavy vehicle over a bridge, and some people distinctly felt the earth tremble : in fact, it is believed to have been a slight shock of an earthquake. The rumbling sound lasted for two or three minutes. The weather at the time was extremely fine, and the barometer rising.”
1856 06 25 time, Nine Mile Creek (~10km E Wangaratta)
Mount Alexander Mail (Vic. : 1854 – 1917), Friday 27 June 1856, page 6
Earthquake. — We have been told that within the last few days a slight shock of earthquake was felt by persons residing on the Nine Mile Creek. We have not heard any particulars, but as we obtained the information from a gentleman of undoubted credibility we see no reason to question the truth of the statement.
1857 07 19 at 14:05 UTC, Buckland River
Mount Alexander Mail (Vic. : 1854 – 1917), Monday 27 July 1857, page 2
Earthquakes on the Buckland river are of annual occurrence, the months of July and August being the period of the year in which they are perceptible. The last was felt shortly after midnight, between Sunday and Monday, when the vibratory shock was distinctly perceived for about thirty seconds. — Ovens and Murray Advertiser.
1858 08 27 at 15:00 UTC, Between Melbourne and Geelong
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Saturday 28 August 1858, page 5
EARTHQUAKE.—The atmosphere last night was oppressively sultry—very unusually so for this season of the year—and the gathering storm which made itself felt throughout the later part of the evening, came to its climax about midnight, when one of the most vivid flashes of lightning we ever recollect to have seen passed through the air, and was instantaneously followed by an appalling clap of thunder. The rain then slowly descended for a few minutes, in large, heavy drops, and at about 1 o’clock this morning the shock of an earthquake—slight, but unmistakeable to those who remember the morning of the 17th of September, 1855—was felt in the city.
Bendigo Advertiser (Vic. : 1855 – 1918), Wednesday 1 September 1858, page 2
Geelong, 30th August.—It is reported on credible authority that a slight shock of earthquake was felt at the You Yang Hills on Saturday evening.
1859 08 23 at 18:55 UTC, Goornong
Geelong Advertiser (Vic. : 1859 – 1929), Tuesday 30 August 1859, page 2
SANDHURST.
We see that a correspondent of our contemporary has written to call attention to the fact of the shock of an earthquake having been felt here on Wednesday morning, a little before 5 a.m. In the midst of a general election an earthquake is a minor matter, and so it was that we omitted to take notice of it, but the shock was distinctly felt in our office. The walls of the building were shaken, and two doors which were standing open were slammed to with violence, and at the same time the sensation was as if a wave had passed under the floor. There was, however, no second shock. The direction of the earthquake was in the line of the magnetic meridian. According to our estimation the duration of the shock was about four seconds.
Geelong Advertiser (Vic. : 1859 – 1929), Wednesday 31 August 1859, page 3
We (Advertiser) have received farther corroboration of the fact of the occurrence of an earthquake on Wednesday. At Mr Seaward’s Appellas Inn, on the Murray, the shock was so severe as to shiver the panes of glass in some of the windows, and shake some glasses from the shelves in one of the rooms.
Mount Alexander Mail (Vic. : 1854 – 1917), Friday 2 September 1859, page 2
The shock of an earthquake was felt in this district and at Sandhurst Wednesday evening. It was most perceptible at Sandhurst, where, according to the Advertiser, several houses were manifestly shaken. The shock in Castlemaine was less severe, but that it was experienced there is no doubt. A resident on the town reef informs us that he heard the shock, as he describes it. ” running through the reef,” and that it caused a sound as though a gong had been lightly struck. He felt no vibration. In other parts of the town, however, we are assured that a vibration of the earth was distinctly detected.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Friday 2 September 1859, page 5
THE EARTHQUAKE.—A correspondent of the Bendigo Advertiser writes:—”As you have requested information respecting the late shock of earthquake on Wednesday morning last, I beg to inform you, that as I was sitting up with a patient all night, in a large double-storied brick house, at the end of Bridge-street, I can confirm Observer’s’ account as to time, &c. Between half-past 4 and 20 minutes to 5 a.m., Mr. Roberts, of the National Hotel, who was below stairs at the time, heard what he then supposed to be the moving of a heavy bedstead along the floor overhead ; at the same time I distinctly heard the windows at the back of the house shake violently, and immediately after the windows of the room I was in partook of the general tremor. In the front of the house three successive shakings took place, giving the idea of three successive waves of electric fluid following one upon the other. The passage of the current was from north to south, I at once knew that it was an earthquake, from having experienced several shocks in India, as well as a very violent one at Williamstown in 1854, when the wall of the Roman Catholic Church was rent in twain. My patient and the nurse were both much alarmed, but knew not the cause of disturbance. These earthquakes prove that the changes in the geological condition of this district are still in active force, and if, as geologists tell us, the deposit of metals is greatest at the axis of galvanic disturbance, let us hope that this last shock will prove the truth of their doctrine, by our quartz miners finding an increased deposit of that metal which is the cherished object of their search.”
Ed. Since gold was only discovered at Sandhurst in 1851, these events can’t be mining related. Shaking was felt from Castlemain to the Murray, a distance of about 125km.
1860 03 18 at at 10:10, 11: 45 and 14:00 UTC, Mt Alexander
Mount Alexander Mail (Vic. : 1854 – 1917), Friday 23 March 1860, page 3
Earthquake. — On Sunday evening last, several shocks of earthquake occurred in this district. A double shock took place exactly at 10 minutes past 8 o’clock, p.m., and the concussion caused very considerable alarm. A number of those attending service in the Church of England and Wesleyan Chapel, rushed towards the doors, and in the former church the excitement was so great that the services were soon after terminated ; in the latter church, however, the religious services were resumed. Exactly at 9 45 p.m., a more slight shock was felt, and at midnight it again occurred. The earthquake seemed to proceed from south to north. No injury was done to property. On Monday and Tuesday nights a repetition of the shocks was distinctly felt, but not near so violently as on Sunday evening ; (concurrent NSW earthquake) and at Queanbeyan the earthquake was slightly felt at a quarter-past eight o’clock on Sunday evening ; and at Gundagai and Goulburn it occurred at about the same hour. From this, it would appear that the district around Yass received, the shock more violently than elsewhere, and some few seconds earlier than it occurred at the other places named. In Yass, on Sunday evening the earthquake occasioned a report not unlike a double discharge from a large-sized cannon, and the ground seemed to move from under the feet. A stove at Mr Myer’s, Cricketers’ Arms, which weighs about 16 cwt., was removed two inches from where it was fixed ; an upright post supporting the roof of another piece was split from end to end; some of the mortar was forced from between the stonework of the English Church ; and the tinware, earthenware, and glassware, jingled in in most houses. Many persons were in great terror at the unusual visitation, and several females who happened to be on the street at the time ran shrieking towards their homes.— Courier, March 10.
1860 05 06 at ?time, Bendigo (from 1853 – 1891 known as Sandhurst)
Bendigo Advertiser (Vic. : 1855 – 1918), Saturday 19 May 1860, page 2
A MYSTERY.—A correspondent has written to us in reference to the mysterious sounds heard in the various churches on Sunday, the 6th instant, which were mentioned in a letter, signed ‘Wonder.’ published in the Advertiser of the following Saturday. We extract the following explanation in reply:— “To the Editor of the BENDIGO ADVERTISER Sir.—A letter, headed ‘ Mystery’ in your paper of Saturday, recorded the fact that in Sandhurst on the preceding Sabbath evening, in some three or more churches, for several minutes we heard an unearthly noise with no particular shock, but distinguished by a rumbling sound, filling the writer with fear and apprehension, and exciting alarm in the congregation. Since reading the above. I have had the statement contained therein so confirmed and illustrated as to impress me with a conviction that ‘ human agents,’ as suggested by our correspondent, had nought to do with the sounds. Additional hereto, I call to mind that here in Sandhurst, but a few months since, the shock of an earthquake was plainly felt in different parts of this district, and as faithfully recorded in your pages at the time.”
1861 07 03 at 02:15 UTC, Moora
Evening News Thursday 14 July 1881, Page 3.
SHOCK OF AN EARTHQUAKE. —The M’Ivor News of 5th instant says :—About a quarter to twelve a.m., on Wednesday last, the shock of an earthquake was distinctly felt in different parts of this district. It was experienced by every one in the Redcastle Police Court, and most places in the township. It was also felt on the Rushworth-road. A letter has been forwarded to our office from Mr. Tait, of the Halfway House, who states that the shock was very perceptible there. It is strange that, as far as we can discover, nothing of the shock was felt in Heathcote. Just on going to press we received a note from Mr. D. Mattheson, informing us that he felt the shock at his house on the Bendigo Road.—The Sandhurst Bee of same date says: —A gentleman, resident in Barkly-place east, informs us that on Thursday, about a quarter to one o’clock, several members of his family felt a peculiar tremulous movement under their feet, which continued for some time, and the description of the phenomenon was generally that of an earthquake. There was no appearance of thunder about at the time, and it was unlike the effect of a blast of powder.
There is some confusion in the media about the data and time.
Bendigo Advertiser Sunday 6 July 1861, Page 2.
SHOCK OF AN EARTHQUAKE.
(To the Editor of the Bendigo Advertiser.)
Sir,—I beg to inform you, for the information of your readers, that yesterday (Wednesday) we experienced a sharp shock of earthquake, at about 12.30 noon; it lasted for a short period only, and was accompanied with a noise like distant thunder. The effect was visible by the temporary shaking of all the buildings on our premises.
Believe me, dear Sir, yours most truly,
D. M. MATHESON. Matheson’s Hotel, 4th July, 1861.
P.S.—I may mention that I am one of the oldest inhabitants in this part of the country, and I never remember to have experienced anything of the kind before.
The Star Tuesday 9 July 1861, Page 2 reports:
The shock of an earthquake which was felt at Bendigo appears to have extended to some distance. The McIvor News of Friday says:– “About a quarter to twelve a.m. on Wednesday last, the shock of an earthquake was distinctly felt in different parts of this district. It was experienced by every one in the Redcastle Police Court, and most places in the township. It was also felt on the Rushworth road. A letter has been forwarded to our office from Mr Tait, of the Halfway House, who states that the shock was very perceptible there. It is strange that, as far as we can discover, nothing of the shock was felt in Heathcote. [Just on going to press we received a note from Mr D. Mattheson, informing us that he felt the shock at his house on the Bendigo road.]”
Redcastle is midway between Moora and Bendigo, and Rushworth is west of Moora, both of which are consistent with our adopted location and magnitude.
1861 11 16 at 21:15 UTC, Ballarat
Bendigo Advertiser (Vic. : 1855 – 1918), Wednesday 20 November 1861, page 3
EARTHQUAKE AT BALLARAT.—We (Ballarat Star) are informed that about a quarter past seven o’clock on Sunday morning the shock of an earthquake was felt on the Golden Point Range. It is said to have been preceded by a heavy rumbling noise, and the vibration lasted about seven seconds, shook some of the houses in the locality, and caused no small consternation amongst the population there. On inquiry we learn that the shock was experienced by several persons on the White Horse Ranges also, but the influence of the disturbing cause must have been very limited, as we have heard no mention made of any shock being felt by persons resident in the centre of the town.
Star (Ballarat, Vic. : 1855 – 1864), Thursday 21 November 1861, page 2
It appears that Ballarat is not to enjoy a monopoly of the recent reported shock of an earthquake. The Geelong Advertiser of Wednesday says:—“Yesterday, a gentleman called at our office and informed us that the shock was felt at his residence at the Anakies. In-doors the sensation was that the house was shaken at its foundations; while a noise like the low rumbling of distant thunder was audible.
1862 07 03 at 06:43 UTC, Melbourne
It is worth noting that Emerald Hill is now known as South Melbourne. Port Melbourne was known as Sandridge, and Hotham was the name for North Melbourne. Phillipstown was an early name for part of Brunswick. And Sandhurst was the name for Bendigo.
Geelong Advertiser Saturday 5 July 1862, Page 2.
The shock of earthquake noticed in yesterday’s issue, as having been felt at the Little River, was slightly felt in Geelong. The exact time is variously stated, but a quarter to five is about the mean. In some of the cases where the shock was distinctly felt, and mentioned at the time, the fact of its being an earthquake was not suspected, the noise and vibration being attributed to more ordinary causes. It was felt also in Melbourne. The Age says the shock occurred in Melbourne and the suburbs, about twenty minutes to five o’clock.
We have received information of the shock having been felt at St. Kilda, Prahran, Emerald Hill (South Melbourne), and Richmond, but it appears to have been most distinctly experienced on the south side of Emerald Hill, where it lasted, for about thirty seconds. The vibration was very palpable, and was of sufficient force to cause articles of crockery placed on the shelves in some of the houses, to rattle against each other, alarming the inmates and causing them to run into the street. Upon instituting inquiries at the Observatory, we were informed by a gentleman there—Professor Neumeyer being absent—that he had felt the shock himself, and that at the time specified, the magnets were greatly disturbed, but that there were only very slight traces of electricity.
The Argus Saturday 5 July 1862, Page 3.
The shock of an earthquake was distinctly felt and heard in Melbourne yesterday afternoon, between four and five o’clock. We have heard from several independent sources that in many widely separated parts of the city the sound was heard, and the shock felt, as if a heavy carriage had been rumbling by. A letter from Sandridge shows that there also the motion of the shock was felt.
Figure 3 The revised felt area of the earthquake of 3 July 1862, felt from Taradale to Queenscliff, throughout the Melbourne metropolitan area and at the Astronomical Observatory. Additional data were in or near the original ellipse denoting the felt area.
The Age Saturday 5 July 1862, Page 5.
THE EARTHQUAKE.
We have been favored by Professor Neumayer with the following account of the earthquake which occurred on Thursday : — ” The earthquake, which was reported as having occurred on Thursday, was also observed at the Flagstaff Observatory. A slight tremulous motion, apparently from a northerly towards a southerly direction, was felt at 4 hours 43 minutes. The vibrations were slight, but quite distinct, and lasted about (2) two seconds. The magnetic instruments, acting in such cases also as seismometers, oscillated rapidly; and it would rather appear, by a superficial examination of the observations, that one or two of the piers were slightly displaced by the effect of the shock, than that a striking change took place in the value of the magnetic elements. No noise was heard beyond that fully accounted for by the vibration. The weather immediately before the occurrence was dull and threatening, and a smart breeze blew the N.N.E., which by 7 hours shifted towards N., bringing heavy rain for the rest of the day…….. At Queenscliff, Taradale, Creswick, and the vicinity of Melbourne the shocks were distinctly noticed. From the remainder of the stations within the colony of Victoria, intelligence was received that nothing was felt.”
THE EARTHQUAKE.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE AGE.
Sir, — Last evening, on my return from Melbourne, the assistant astronomer reported to me that a peculiar tremor of the ground had been experienced at the Observatory, and that there was great reason to fear disturbance of the adjustments of our instruments in consequence. As unfortunately we are too liable to somewhat similar shocks, from our proximity to the railway and defence works, it did not at the time attract that attention which it would have done in any other locality. The assistant astronomer describes the shock as being of the nature of a terrestrial wave, travelling from north to south, extending over a period of two seconds. One of the workmen at the Observatory states that he experienced a very distinct vibratory movement about two minutes subsequent to the first shock, and in various parts of Williamstown the wave of the first shock was noticed. This, in conjunction with the fact that the shock was perceived simultaneously in Melbourne and in the suburbs, proves beyond a doubt that it was an earthquake. The adjustments of our instruments have been tested since, but no permanent disturbance appears to have taken place. — Your obedient servant,
ROBERT J. ELLERY, Government Astronomer. Observatory, Williamstown, 4th July, 1862.
The Age reports that it was strongly felt at Toorak, rattling the corrugated roof of the verandah while the Adelaide Observer says it was felt at St Kilda, slightly.
Letters to the newspapers indicate it was felt in Hawthorn and Footscray, Beckworth near Clunes, Sandridge, St Kilda, Warringal, Windsor, Richmond, East Collingwood, Emerald Hill, Caulfield, Dandenong, St Leonards-on-the-Bay, Toorak (severe), Prahran,
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Monday 14 July 1862, page 7
THE EARTHQUAKE.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE ARGUS.
Sir,—On Thursday last, at a quarter to five o’clock, I felt the shock of the earthquake at Emerald Hill. I was reading at the moment when the noise began. A loosely-hung window sash vibrated in an unusual manner. A glance showed me that the sky was overcast ; and no wind or traffic caused the noise and shaking of the building. Some coral, which I had piled up loosely a few days before, slightly grated upon the points which were in contact, after the window-sash had shaken, and while I was consulting my watch. I name this grating of the coral, as it may furnish evidence of the direction in which the upheaving force travelled, which would be from the south-east, or a few degrees east of that point, to the north-west, a few degrees west. It seemed to travel, judging by the sound, from the direction of the infirmary of the General Orphan Asylum to a point between the Gasworks and the junction of the Saltwater River, about Hamburg Reach. I am sorry that the absence of a barometer or compass causes me to be so loose in my statement. The duration of the shock, or subterranean rumbling noise, I timed at four seconds. The vibration of the window-sash and other articles occupied three seconds more,
I am, Sir, your obedient servant.
JAMES WARD.
Emerald Hill, July 8.
To the editor of the Argus.
Sir,—The shock of the earthquake was very distinctly felt at my residence at Caulfield, four miles south-east of the Junction at St. Kilda.
My wife, servants, and children were all startled by it, as it shook the iron covering of the verandah and the upper portion of an iron bed-stead.
Yours obediently,
7 Swanston-street, July 8. J. S. C.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE ARGUS.
Sir,—As you seem anxious to obtain information on this subject, I beg to acquaint you that, on Thursday evening last, shortly before five o’clock, the shock of an earthquake was felt by several persons here. It was accompanied by a hollow, rumbling sound, and at two of the hotels it was though the chimneys had taken fire, and, on examination, such was found not to be the case. The shock and sound appeared to come from the north-west, and lasted from six to eight seconds.
Believe me, yours faithfully,
J. DOBSON, Postmaster, &c. Dandenong, July 8.
TO THE EDITOR OÏ THE ARGUS,
Sir,—Seeing a notice in your paper requesting particulars respecting the late earthquake, I beg to inform you that I, in company with a few others in my house, at twelve minutes to five o’clock on last Thursday felt two distinct shocks. They appeared to come from the southward and proceed in a northerly direction, accompanied with a noise similar to a heavily-laden waggon passing swiftly. It has been felt by a great many in this district, at exactly the same time. I think it lasted about four seconds.
I am, Sir, yours, &c,
ROBERT SMILEY. St. Leonards-on-the Bay, July 7.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE ARGUS.
Sir,—As I have seen no communication from Richmond, I address you.
On Thursday last, at half-past four o’clock p.m., when almost in a horizontal position, I felt a slow decidedly subterranean shock, causing, as I thought, the house to move, and certainly my bedroom window to rattle. The course of the wave seemed S. to N., and its duration at least five seconds. So impressed was I that the shock was that of an earthquake, that I at once mentioned this to my wife ; who replied, “I heard the noise, but thought it was a heavy vehicle passing, and looked, but could see none.'”
In aid of science, I direct attention to the fact of my being in nearly a flat posture, and there-fore more susceptible of the nature of motion ; and that the noise and movement in question caused an internal disagreeable feeling. I may further add, as there seems a difference of statement as to the course of the phenomenon, that my wife and myself are clear that such was in this locality from S. to N., and the noise lasted at least five seconds.
I am, &c,
W. G. Highett-street, Richmond, July 9.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Wednesday 9 July 1862, page 5
THE EARTHQUAKE.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE ARGUS.
Sir,—On Thursday last, at about five o’clock in the afternoon, the earthquake, which appears to have been noticed more particularly in the St. Kilda and Brighton district, was distinctly felt here by several persons. At the time it occurred there was a great stillness in the atmosphere, when for about two or three seconds a sensation was perceptible similar to that caused by the passing of a heavily-laden vehicle; doors and windows rattling—drawing from several expressions of surprise at an occurrence for which no perceptible cause existed.
Yours faithfully,
WILLIAM ISAAC.
The Colonial Bank of Australasia,
Kyneton, July 7.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE ARGUS.
Sir,—In obedience to a wish expressed in your paper of to-day, that information as full as possible should be sent you as to the shock of an earthquake the other day, I have to state that at twenty minutes to five p.m. on the day in question I was sitting in a back room of my house (a wooden one), looking due west, when a noise, as of distant and deep-toned thunder, seemed to be rolling towards me on my left or south-west side, and then instantly followed such a vibration of the building (subsiding, as it seemed to me, at the north-east corner) that I ran into the yard in affright. Although at the time I did not think of earthquakes, still the dread that oppressed me at the moment was that of being in the presence of a phenomenon, gigantic and irresistible.
I am, Sir, yours truly,
ELIZABETH HOOK. Regent-street, Abbotsford, July 8.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE ARGUS.
Sir,—About a quarter to five o’clock on last Thursday afternoon I felt the shock of the earthquake at Emerald Hill. I happened to be standing in a room at the time, and was jostled in a south-westerly direction, which leads me to think it was travelling towards that point. It lasted about three seconds, and the noise resembled that of a cart running on a newly-macadamised road. Others in the room experienced it in like manner.
Yours, &c,
J. H. LANE. Park-street, Emerald Hill, July 8.
Bendigo Advertiser (Vic. : 1855 – 1918), Monday 7 July 1862, page 3
The Earthquake, which was reported as having occurred on Thursday afternoon, was also observed at the Flagstaff Observatory…….. By means of the electric telegraph, information was received that three distinct shocks were felt at Kensington, near Adelaide, and that at ten minutes to six p.m. a thunderstorm passed over that locality. The earthquake seems not to have been observed at any other telegraph station in South Australia; the same applies to Sydney and the stations in New South Wales; while at Queenscliff, Taradale, Creswick, and in the vicinity of Melbourne the shocks were distinctly noticed. From the remainder of the stations within the colony of Victoria intelligence was received that nothing was felt. The shock was severely felt in a house at Toorak, situated on the top of the hill in the Boundary-road. The house shook, and the corrugated roof of the verandah rattled from the effect. At the same time a noise, like a heavy carriage crossing a bridge, was heard, and the inmates, much frightened, left the house and went outside, to see what was the matter. The house, a brick one is substantially built.—Argus, 6th July.—The Geelong Advertiser says, “that the shock of an earthquake was felt at the Little River on Thursday afternoon, at about six minutes to five. It was preceded by a rumbling noise, like distant thunder. The slates of the Catholic school-house rattled as if the whole roof had been shaken. The oscillation was very perceptible, and appeared to come from the north-west. It lasted about a second and a half. The station master describes the shock as bearing a very great resemblance to the reverberation produced by a very heavily-laden train at a rapid rate. All the earthenware and glasses in the house were violently shaken. Mr. M’Williams, the constable in charge, who was at the time engaged in attending to his horse, describes it as if the animal had taken a shivering fit.” A similar shock was reported by a Melbourne contemporary as having been felt here about the same time. But it was so slight as not to have attracted general attention.—Herald.
1862 09 03 at 10:30 UTC, Talbot
Empire Friday 12 September 1862, Page 2.
We have Melbourne papers to the 8th September. The following is from the Age:—
Another earthquake appears to have taken place in the colony. The Talbot Leader, of Friday last, says, “the shock of an earthquake was experienced in Talbot, on Wednesday evening, about half past eight o’clock. No underground noise was perceptible, but the windows of several shops and private houses were violently shaken, producing no small alarm among the occupants. The shock lasted for about ten seconds, and was followed by a terrible flash of lightning, accompanied by a deep roll of thunder. The direction of the quake was N.W. There was a light rainfall, but no wind, at the time.”
1862 10 21 at 14:00 UTC, Talbot
The Star Saturday 25 October 1862, Page 2.
ANOTHER EARTHQUAKE AT TALBOT.—The shock of an earthquake was experienced in Talbot on Monday night about 12 o’clock. Our informant, Mr Culley, of Scandinavian Crescent, says—” He was in bed and awake at the time, and that the bed was considerably shaken. This is the second shock of the kind we have had in this district during the last two months.—Leader 24th October.
1863 10 02 at Time?, Strathdownie
Border Watch (Mount Gambier, SA : 1861 – 1954), Friday 9 October 1863, page 2
EARTHQUAKE.—The shock of an earthquake was felt on Saturday morning last throughout Strathdownie and the Border Stations. It was accompanied by a rumbling noise.
1864 02 15 at 16:00 UTC, Melbourne
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Wednesday 17 February 1864, page 2
SHOCK OF AN EARTHQUAKE.
Mr Ellery writes to us : — ” Sir, — About two o’clock this (Tuesday) morning the shock of an earthquake was experienced in the neighbourhood of the Observatory, and generally in Melbourne and its vicinity. The assistant astronomer reports that, while up, and in the open air, about four minutes to two o’clock, he experienced a sharp shock, almost like an explosion, which appeared to come from a southerly direction, and which lasted apparently no more than a second. The sky was clear, and the weather fine and calm at the time, the wind being scarcely sensible. He describes the first sound to be similar to that produced by the sudden escape of high-pressure steam, followed instantly by a sharp concussion of the earth, very dissimilar to his experience of the earthquake wave. He also noticed that the dogs in the neighbourhood commenced to howl immediately after the shock. He considers the whole to have lasted only a second. ” The shock was also felt by the second assistant, but not so distinctly, as he was within doors at the time. Others living in Melbourne, Richmond, Emerald Hill, St, Kilda, etc, felt the shock most distinctly. All concur in the time and character of the occurrence, but one or two describe the concussion as followed by a rumbling sound, like the dying away of a distant clap of thunder. All who have spoken of the subject to me noticed the howling of dogs in their neighbourhood. To several observers the shock appeared like the slamming of a door, and many likened it to a rather distant gun, or to some extensive explosion of gunpowder. ” I will be glad to receive any information concerning this earthquake, when I may, perhaps, be enabled to determine its track and extent. “I remain, yours obediently,
” Robt. L. J. Ellery.
Government Astronomer, Etc.” ” Observatory, 16th February, 1864.
To the Editor of The Herald.
Sir, — At about 1.54 a.m., I distinctly felt the shock of an earthquake moving— if a shock can be said to move — in a direction from S.W. to N.E. The impression conveyed to my somewhat sleepy apprehension was as if two heavy bodies had suddenly been forced into collision, and had then as suddenly entered into an amicable arrangement to roll away together in a north easterly direction. Those to whom I have mentioned the circumstance, suggest that I may have partaken of ” salmon” for supper. Such, however, was not the case, and I am absolutely clear as to the cause of the alarming sensation to which I have briefly
referred.
— Yours obediently, H.
Brunswick street, 16th Feb., 1864.
It was not felt in Geelong.
1865 10 02 at 03:30 UTC, Harrow
Australasian (Melbourne, Vic. : 1864 – 1946), Saturday 21 October 1865, page 11
It is stated that on the afternoon of the 2nd instant a shock of earthquake was felt near Harrow, in the Western district.
Ballarat Star (Vic. : 1865 – 1924), Tuesday 17 October 1865, page 2
A correspondent of the Hamilton Spectator, in the Harrow district, writes:—” A distinct shock of an earthquake was felt here on Monday, the 2nd. It occurred at 1.30 p.m., and shook houses so as to be easily felt by everybody. It was also felt at Pine hills, seven miles from here. The oscillation was from south to north, or nearly so, and lasted about, as far as I can judge, six seconds. A loud rumbling noise accompanied the tremulous motion.”
1867 02 20 at 02:30 UTC, Geelong
Australasian (Melbourne, Vic. : 1864 – 1946), Saturday 2 March 1867, page 22
A curious low rumbling noise was heard at Geelong on Tuesday, apparently proceeding from the ground. At Chilwell (Newtown) the same noise was noticed, and was described as resembling the rumbling of a heavily-laden waggon ” underneath the earth.” It was believed that it originated from a slight earthquake, although it does not appear that any motion of the earth was perceptible.
Ballarat Star (Vic. : 1865 – 1924), Thursday 28 February 1867, page 2
The following is from the Geelong Register of Wednesday:— “Yesterday, between twelve and one o’clock, a curious, low, rumbling noise was heard during the high wind and shower of rain prevailing at that time. The sound proceeded neither from the wind nor thunder, and more resembled the low tremulous sound preceding an earthquake. Our reporter, who was standing near the Catholic Orphanage at the time, noticed the peculiar sound, and at the interval of scarcely a minute it was repeated. Proceeding towards Newtown Hill, he found that the noise had been as distinctly heard there, as also in Chilwell, where it was described as being some thing like the rumbling of a heavily laden waggon ‘ underneath the earth.’ There is little doubt but this was a slight shock of earthquake, although there was scarcely any motion of the earth perceptible.”
1867 08 09 at 19:31 UTC, W of Melbourne
Illustrated Australian News for Home Readers Tuesday 27 August 1867. Page 7.
The shock of an earthquake was experienced in and around Melbourne at half-past five a.m. on the 10th instant. So far as our inquiries extend, it was very generally felt in the city and suburbs. Information has reached us from Heidelberg, Boorondara, Hawthorn, Kew, South Yarra, Williamstown, and Queenscliff, which indicates that the vibration was more or less intensely experienced in those localities. All reports singularly agree as to the point of time at which the shock took place. The chronometer of Mr. Crisp, jeweller, Queen-street, stopped at 5.30½ a.m., and a clock on the premises of Mr. Katzenstein, similarly recorded the exact period of the shock. A resident on the Balaclava-road writes :— ” A violent shock of an earthquake was felt, this morning, at half-past five. It commenced with a low rumbling noise, which gradually increased in violence. The house in which I was shook and trembled, the windows rattling, and the ornaments on the mantelpiece also shook. I was awake at the time, and having felt the last earthquake, knew the present one immediately, and therefore took particular notice. The shock lasted eight seconds, and seemed to come from a S.W. direction.” At East Melbourne, a correspondent says the shock was so severe as to almost eject him from his bed, and its duration was nearly a minute. At Hawthorn, two distinct shocks are said to have been felt, accompanied by a muffled subterranean roll. Other persons residing at Kew testify to only one shock, the rattling of doors and windows, and giving the impression to those suddenly startled out of sleep that burglars were at work. The noise underground seems to have been generally heard. Some persons fancied that a report preceded it, but it would seem, from the testimony given, to have resembled the sound of distant thunder, not increasing in loudness with its continuance, but becoming fainter from its commencement. At Geelong, the course of the shock was said to be from east to west. At both Ballarat and Smythesdale, the motion of the earth was experienced. Mr. Ellery, the Government Astronomer, favors us with the following notice of the phenomenon: — “A smart shock of earthquake was felt here this morning, and according to the notices I have received, it appears to have been general over the colony; but it seems to have been most severe at the coast stations. I was awake, at the time, and felt the shock, at 5 h. 31 min. 30 sec.; it was accompanied by a rumbling noise, like that of a passing carriage, and the direction of wave from about W.S.W. to E.N.E. As our magnetic instruments are now dismounted, pending the reconstruction of the magnetic house, I am not able to ascertain whether they were affected at the time. The shock was felt by Mr Wilhelmi, of the Botanical Museum, at his house, in South Yarra, who carefully noted the time, and having compared his watch with the Observatory clock this morning, he finds the times to be the same as that given above.” From Queenscliff, the master of the telegraph station reports as follows: —”‘Earthquake occurred here at 5.30 a.m., lasting from five to seven seconds; vibration distinctly felt, and moveable articles seen to vibrate; noise like the rolling of heavy carriages. Spoke to Geelong station a few moments afterwards, and Geelong reports having felt the same sensation at 5.30. Direction appeared about east to west.” Mr. Foy, the keeper of the lighthouse, says that he felt the shock at 5.30. Both towers of the lighthouses vibrated considerably, but more especially the lower one.
The Melbourne Argus, 12 August 1867 (from the Empire of Thursday August 15, 1867, p5) reported that an earthquake was experienced in Melbourne at 5:30a.m. on Saturday 10th August 1867 EST. It lasted about 6 seconds in Melbourne and shaking extended from Queenscliffe to Gisborne.
Figure 4a Original map of the felt area of the earthquake of 10 August 1867 west of Melbourne. Shaking was strong throughout the city area but there are no reports from the epicentral region. Compare with Figure 3. The blue boat icon is the barque India (see text) moored in Corio Bay.
According to the article, the shaking was stronger in Melbourne than earlier ones including that of September 1855, mentioned above, perhaps because it was closer.
At South Geelong, the ceiling of one house is reported to have fallen down. At Corio Bay, the shock was felt aboard the barque India, awakening the Captain who thought another boat had run into them. Windows rattled in Hawthorn and St Kilda whilst at Keilor everyone was awakened.
The earthquake was felt very distinctly in Ballarat. A correspondent reports to The Ballarat Star on Tuesday 13 August 1867;—” Early on Saturday morning I was awakened by an extraordinary trembling of the house and bed on which I lay. The vibrations were very rapid—from twenty to thirty in a second — but were rather spasmodic than continuous and uniform. The movement, so far as I can judge, was from west to east, and the sensation experienced was that of shivering without feeling cold. It is difficult to state the exact time which the shock lasted, but I should estimate it at about twenty-five seconds—certainly not more.” The earthquake was also distinctly felt in Daylesford.
The Ovens and Murray Valley Advertiser of Saturday 24 August 1867 reproduced the article on page 4 without mentioning local effects so we can suppose it was not felt in Beechworth.
The Portland Guardian and Normanby Advertiser of Thursday 22 August 1867, page 6 add:
Up the valley of the Barwon and on towards Murgheboluc, the shock was very severely felt. Some wiseacres assert that this is but a premonitory warning, and one that always takes place prior to some great convulsion of nature, and point to many recorded instances in proof of their assertions. It is to be fervently hoped that these prophecy mongers will be out in their reckoning, and we may be spared a second introduction of this terrible visitant. Among the minor incidents it may be mentioned that at Mr. Cowie’s residence, Murchiston-hall, which is a large mansion near the Botanical Garden, the bells were all set ringing……. A chimney was thrown down in New Town, and some dilapidated houses in Chilwell were levelled to the ground —Ed. Geelong suburbs).
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Tuesday 13 August 1867, p. 5
THE EARTHQUAKE.
[Ballarat Star, August 12.]
On Saturday morning a shock of an earthquake was felt over a very large portion of the colony, but chiefly, it appears, in the Western district. The shock appears to have been very slight in Ballarat, as only a few persons seem to have noticed it ; but it was distinctly felt at Warrnambool, Queenscliff, and Geelong, and other places. About half-past five o’clock on Saturday morning, the effect of an earthquake, somewhat violent, though of short du-ration (writes our local correspondent), was experienced in various parts of the Smythesdale district. At Linton, Mr Montgomery, who had been up administering medicine to some of his children, had just lain down again, when the building was so shaken for two or three seconds as to cause the furniture in the bedroom to quiver. He describes the vibration in the cottage to have been such as might be occasioned through a heavy weight falling from the roof on a weakly-joisted floor. The first part of the shock was the heaviest, the succeeding vibrations gradually becoming lighter.
Figure 4b Revised Isoseismal map using newspaper scans by TROVE as of May 2024. The Warrnambool and Castlemaine observations made a big difference to the new magnitude ML 5.3, and a location nearer Geelong where damage was observed.
At Piggoreet, too, a large number of persons were sensibly affected by the shock. The young man in Mr Henry Dyson’s drapery establishment was awakened from sleep by feeling his bed shaking under him, and at first attributed the result to a convulsion of nature caused by some mighty underground current of water, such as is now supposed to be flooding the main lead. On the Springdallah Creek, at a short distance from the claim of the late Cleft in the Rock Company, the effect of the concussion was, perhaps, felt more powerfully than in any other part of the district. The habitation of a cottager residing there was so shaken that the inmates were afraid that it would fall, and the children commenced to cry. At Smythesdale the shock was also somewhat severe. Mr Mitchell, who was lying awake at the time, on hearing the sound, as of distant thunder, and feeling the house shaking, knew the cause, and called to his wife, who woke in time to hear the jug rocking in the basin in the washstand. Another resident of Smythesdale, who was sleeping soundly at the time, was awakened by the vibration of his cottage; and calling out, ‘ What shaking’s that?’ he fell asleep again; and it was only when the earthquake began to be talked about, that the circumstance was brought to his mind.
[DAYLESFORD MERCURY, AUG. 12.] A severe shock of earthquake was felt here at half -past five o’clock on Saturday morning. A gentleman in Jamison’s Hotel, who communicated the circumstance at breakfast, and was at first laughed at by some of the others, states that lying in bed north and south he felt a severe shake, and thought the bed was going out below him, the motion being from west to east. He could only liken the sensation to what one might feel if a house was falling from under him. His toilet-table had a marble top, and he distinctly heard the crystal rattle on it.
[GEELONG ADVERTISER, AUGUST 12.] At about 31 minutes past 5 o’clock on Saturday morning, sleepers were awakened, and those whose avocations called them to be up and doing at that early hour, frightened, by a dull rumbling sound, which appeared to be travelling from W.S.W. to E.N.E. ; as it approached the town the noise increased, and when the earthquake was passing under it, it appeared as if an express train was travelling in a tunnel a few yards underground, or that nine or ten heavy wagons were passing close by the door. In many places the houses rocked to and fro, doors were violently closed, windows rattled, brooms flew about, crockery was smashed — in fact, everything appeared to be turning topsy-turvy. It was felt to our own knowledge at Queenscliff, Germantown, Belmont, Batesford, Murgheboluc, Smythesdale, Melbourne and Ballarat ; but at none of these places, so far as we can learn, has it done any serious amount of injury. It appears that it was felt as much, if not more, on the water than it was on the land. For instance, Captain Sansom, of the barque India, now in Corio Bay, says that he was suddenly awakened by a noise as if another vessel had run into his ; there were three distinct bumps, and then it appeared that the vessel was sheering off. Alarmed by the noise, he immediately got up, and was pleased to find that no such serious accident had occurred as he apprehended. By a letter which appears in another column, our readers will be able to judge what the sensation was like at Belmont, the house of the gentleman alluded to being situated on a hill — we say on a hill, because nearly every one we have met with agrees that the shock was more violent on low lands. At Germantown it was very severe. Dr. Forster Shaw’s little boy was lying in a bed placed north and south, when he was turned right over. One of our runners fell down in the office, and another who was delivering papers in Kildare suddenly measured his length on the ground. Frightened, he got up and ran into the house of a Mrs Fanning, who also met with a fall. It is stated that, at Batesford, a gentleman had a loaded gun suspended in his room. This was shaken down, and, striking the hammer, the piece exploded, luckily, without inflicting injury on any person. The people residing in the National Hotel were dreadfully frightened, more so than, they would have been under ordinary circumstances, the foundations of the hotel having recently been altered to allow of the building of Mr Hudson’s new premises adjoining, they very naturally thought the whole structure was coming down. In conclusion we might relate a ludicrous incident. A well-known Boniface residing not a hundred miles from West Geelong, was awakened by his wife telling him that somebody had broken into the house. He heard a noise, he says, ‘ just as if the thief was falling down stairs.’ ‘ Wait a bit,’ he said to his better half, ‘ and listen,’ doubtless wishing to give the rogue a chance of escape, and so save himself from shame. He then armed with a blunderbuss, (i.e. Brown Bess) and bayonet, went on a reconnaissance, and doubtless was relieved on finding the coast clear. The shock was very severe at the Indented Heads, and Barwon Heads, on both sides of the river.
Ballarat Star (Vic. : 1865 – 1924), Monday 12 August 1867, page 2
Geelong, 10th August.
A severe shock of earth was felt here at about a quarter to six this morning. The shock was accompanied by a loud rumbling noise.
Queenscliff, 10th August.
A shock of an earthquake was experienced here this morning a little before six o’clock.
Warrnambool, 10th August.
Early this morning the shock of an earthquake passed under the town. It was distinctly felt.
Geelong Advertiser (Vic. : 1859 – 1929), Wednesday 14 August 1867, page 3
MELBOURNE.
Tuesday, August 13.
The shock of the recent earthquake appears to have been general throughout the whole of the southern part of the colony, although we have not yet heard of its being felt in Gipps Land. In the north it does not seem to have been experienced, as there are no reports of it farther north than Castlemaine.
Mount Alexander Mail (Vic. : 1854 – 1917), Monday 12 August 1867, page 3
Saturday, August 10.
One of the severest shocks of earthquake ever experienced in this colony occurred this morning at about one minute after half-past 5. It was felt in Melbourne and all the surrounding districts, and the reports from the telegraph stations at the Heads, Cape Schank, Cape Otway, etc., show that it was felt over a very wide district. It commenced with a rather heavy rumbling sound, which quickly increased in intensity until some buildings, especially the taller houses built of brick, fairly staggered under its effects, according to the accounts given by many of the occupants. After the maximum of intensity was reached, it subsided rather quickly into a faint rumble as if passing away in the distance. The duration of the shock has been variously estimated at from ten seconds to half a minute. I have heard nearly a minute mentioned, but in a visitation of that sort nothing is more deceptive than the calculation of seconds. I noted the phenomenon from the commencement and marked the time immediately afterwards. The direction of the wave or current appeared to come from the west or north-west and to trend eastward. It is unfortunate that no observations were being prosecuted at the Observatory, and no one was there to make notes of the occurrence. Our astronomer is, I regret to say, confined to his house by illness, and could not, therefore, make observations. Those who remember the shock of about twelve years ago appear to think that this morning’s visitation quite equalled it in intensity.
Geelong Advertiser (Vic. : 1859 – 1929), Tuesday 13 August 1867, page 2
DAYLESFORD, Aug. 12. The earthquake which took place on Saturday morning was distinctly felt by several gentlemen who were staying in Jamieson’s Hotel. They said that they thought the house was about to fall, and they heard articles in the house rattle with the shock.
GISBORNE, Aug. 12. The shock of an earthquake was felt here on Saturday morning, accompanied by a rumbling sound.
KEILOR, Aug. 12. A strong shock as of an earthquake, preceded by a rushing sound, was experienced at an early hour on Saturday morning.
Mount Alexander Mail (Vic. : 1854 – 1917), Tuesday 13 August 1867, page 2
We may mention that a gentleman connected with this office distinctly experienced the shock of earthquake on Saturday morning, being startled from a wakeful slumber by the rattling of the window, which shook as from the vibration of an explosion of gunpowder in the neighbourhood. The shock we observe was also felt at Daylesford. A gentleman in Jamison’s Hotel, who communicated the circumstance at break fast, and was at first laughed at by some of the others, states that lying in bed north and south he felt a severe shake and thought the bed was going out below him, the motion being from west to east. He could only liken the sensation to what one might feel if a house was falling from under him. His toilet-table had a marble top, and he distinctly heard the crystal rattle on it. He did not know what o’clock it was, but did not fall asleep again, and in about half an hour heard the Castlemaine coach, which starts at six o’clock, leave the yard.
Bacchus Marsh Express (Vic. : 1866 – 1943), Saturday 17 August 1867, page 2
The shock of an earthquake was sharply felt at Bacchus Marsh, Parwan, and the Limekilns, on the morning of Saturday last. The same unusual phenomenon was also experienced very generally throughout the colony, and caused considerable excitement in Melbourne. All accounts agree in describing the shock to have been a severe one, and to have resembled the noise made by a heavy vehicle travelling at a rapid rate, followed by a severe jerking motion of the earth, causing the impression to be made that burglars were effecting an entrance, or that the particular building in which the party happened to be was about to fall to the ground. We have not heard of any damage being done, even to the extent of a serious fright, but it is reported that a loaded gun was caused to explode (fortunately without harming anyone) owing to being knocked down by the shock.
Shaking was not felt in Gippsland to the east or Beechworth to the north of Melbourne. The location and felt area delineated in Figure 4 are very similar to those of the July 1862 earthquake in Figure 3. The original magnitude estimate of about 4.3, noting at the time that this was surely a minimal value, has been upgraded here to 5.3. The description in the Geelong Advertiser of 12 August supports an epicentre closer to Geelong: At about 31 minutes past 5 o’clock on Saturday morning, sleepers were awakened, and those whose avocations called them to be up and doing at that early hour, frightened, by a dull rumbling sound, which appeared to be travelling from W.S.W. to E.N.E. ; as it approached the town the noise increased, and when the earthquake was passing under it, it appeared as if an express train was travelling in a tunnel a few yards underground, or that nine or ten heavy wagons were passing close by the door. In many places the houses rocked to and fro, doors were violently closed, windows rattled, brooms flew about, crockery was smashed — in fact, everything appeared to be turning topsy-turvy.
1868 02 27 at 22:05 UTC, Beechworth
The Argus Wednesday 4 March 1868, Page 5.
The shock of an earthquake was felt at Wangaratta, Oxley, Beechworth, Chiltern, Yackandandah, and the surrounding country, at about five minutes past eight on the morning of Thursday last, 27th ult. A writer at Beechworth says:—”For the first time within the memory of the oldest inhabitant, the shock of an earthquake has been felt in Beechworth. At a quarter to nine in the morning there was a dull, rushing, rumbling sound below the surface of the earth, and then for about three quarters of a minute the houses rocked. Several things were thrown to the ground from tables and broken.”
The times are not consistent but we assume they refer to the same shock and have opted to accept the first time given.
Ovens and Murray Advertiser (Beechworth, Vic. : 1855 – 1955), Saturday 29 February 1868, p 4
MYRTLEFORD. 27th February.
The usual quiet condition of the township was a little enlivened this morning by the number of holiday-makers bound for Beechworth Races; and further by the very distinct shock of an earthquake, which occurred about eight o’clock a.m.
EARTHQUAKE.
To the Editor of the Ovens and Murray Advertiser.
Sir — As it is desirable that the fullest information should be obtained with regard to the above phenomenon, I send you the following approximations — not necessarily for publication, but which you are at liberty to make what use you like of — with regard to the one which occurred here on the 27th instant (Thursday) at about 9 a.m., when I distinctly felt a tremulous motion of the earth, and I should calculate the number of oscillations at from twenty to thirty in a space of time somewhere between five and ten seconds, the course of the disturbance being from west to east. It was immediately preceded by and accompanied with a heavy rumbling sound, something resembling that made by a laden dray passing over pavement. Hoping others will favor you with more correct and detailed information, I respectfully subscribe myself, Yours, &c.,
JOHN HAMBLETON.
Hurdle Flat, Feb. 28, 1868.
P.S. — I have just been informed by a party that it made a decided ripple on the water in Lake Kerferd (Ed. Hurdle Flat and Lake Kerferd are about 5km SE Beechworth).
Figure 5 Felt area of the earthquake south of Beechworth on 27 February 1868. The magnitude based on the revised felt area shown is about 3.9.
Ovens and Murray Advertiser (Beechworth, Vic. : 1855 – 1955), Tuesday 3 March 1868, page 3
BRIGHT.
Monday, 2nd March.
The shock of an earthquake was felt here distinctly on Thursday morning.
1868 08 20 at 11:27, Woods Point Meteor
Illawarra Mercury Tuesday 8 September 1868, Page 2.
Singular Phenomenon. — A correspondent at Wood’s Point writes to the Argus, under date the 26th August, as follows, mainly for the purpose of bringing the facts he mentions under the notice of scientific men : — ” On the night of the 20th instant, at about twenty-seven minutes past nine, I noticed a splendid meteor fall, although it was raining heavily at the time. The light from it was most brilliant (of the hue of the lime light), and I saw it as it fell from behind a raincloud. Its course was from N.E. to S.W. It seemed to be formed of a chain of large stars or balls of fire, connected by various rods of light. I may add that a shock of earthquake and a tumbling noise were felt and heard about a minute afterwards at the hospital by all the patients, and also by two or three persons here; and on going to Jamieson I ascertained that it was felt and heard there also.”
A small earthquake in August 1868 at Mt Hotham was reported by Underwood (1972), and mentioned by Gibson and others (1981) and was then confounded (McCue,1995), with another earthquake in 1869, on almost the same date.
1868 08 27 at 11:05 UTC, Mt Hotham
Mount Alexander Mail (Vic. : 1854 – 1917), Saturday 29 August 1868, page 2
Statements come separately from Wood’s Point and Jamieson to the effect that on last Thursday evening, at about nine o’clock, a rumbling noise, supposed to be due to an earthquake, was heard at those places.
1868 11 01 at 15:00 UTC, Emerald Hill (now the suburb of South Melbourne) and Castlemain
The Sydney Morning Herald Saturday 7 November 1868, Page 8.
On Monday morning, at about 1 o’clock, something like the shock of an earthquake was experienced on the east side of Emerald-hill. A shock was felt as if the earth was rolling from one side to the other, and as if the house walls were falling. It only lasted for a moment, but was sufficiently marked to induce some of the Hillites to leave their beds in alarm.
It was also reported felt slightly at Castlemaine and Ballarat. The magnitude would have been about 4 even if the epicentre was equidistant from these towns. The following interesting memory 60 years later might be relevant to this event.3
Kilmore Free Press Thursday 17 June 1837, Page 2.
Contribution by Mr. James Ochiltree, of Romsey. In my long life at Romsey I only heard one earth tremor. It was on a still night over sixty years ago that my father called out to me from his bedroom, “Did you hear that?” I heard it all right. The best description I can give of it is that it was like thousands of loads of large stones tumbling down a deep shaft, or like loud thunder near at hand. It is not known to the people of Romsey that they are living within two miles of an extinct crater which threw out the great red soil beds which make Romsey A1 as a great, potato, growing district. There must have been most terrific heat in the eruptions on the Rocky Range, as the blue stone there is as hard as any in the world. The lesser hardness of the red stone which is also there is due probably to not getting as much heat as the bluestone. A Hungarian visitor to my farm told me that if the bluestone were in Hungary it would be worth a fortune for use of running shafting instead of brass. In talking to an old Englishman about Melbourne skyscraper-buildings he said, “Yes, they are magnificent structures, all right, and earthquake feeders.”
This is a relevant comment for any suggestion earthquakes don’t happen in the midst of the Newer Volcanics.
1869 03 28 at 16:00 UTC, Daylesford
The Australasian Saturday 3 April 1869, Page 22.
DAYLESFORD.
About two o’clock on Monday morning, a shock, supposed to be of an earthquake, was experienced in Daylesford. It alarmed the printers of the local paper so much that they were on the point of running downstairs, to escape from the possible wreck of the building in which they were at work, when the case of their alarm subsided. It is reported that in Ballarat a similar shock was felt about the hour and on the day named.
1869 03 ??, Moorwatha near Albury, earth fissure
Albury Banner and Wodonga Express (NSW : 1860 – 1938), Saturday 10 April 1869, page 2
MOORWATHA.
MARKS OF AN EARTHQUAKE.—Reports of the occurrence of slight shocks of earthquake have not of late been uncommon in some of the Victorian papers, but we do not remember that any permanent traces have been noticed as resulting from the disturbances referred to. In this district, however, we find that a very decided fissure in the earth has been left in the neighbourhood of Moorwatha by a slight shock of earthquake that was felt at that place on the day of the great storm, about five weeks ago. Residents in the neighbourhood inform us that during the height of the storm a low and prolonged subterranean rumbling (quite unlike the sound of thunder) was heard, unaccompanied, however, by any noticeable movement of the ground. The day after the storm, the earth was found to be split open in pretty nearly a straight line for a distance of more than two miles, in a north-easterly and south-westerly direction. We saw the fissure a few days ago, and noticed that it varies in size from a narrow slit, an inch or two wide and one to three feet deep, up to large rents of several feet in width and depth. Large enough, in fact, for a man and horse to fall into—an accident of this kind having actually happened a week or two since.
Surely not!? Was it a shallow landslide?
1869 08 29 at 18:50 UTC, Eastern Highlands
An earthquake in the Woods Point area and dated 20 August 1868 in (Underwood, 1972), was probably the meteor mentioned above but in the following year almost to the day an earthquake was widely felt in the same area which confused the date in later publications eg McCue (1996). The local times by three different watches were 4:55am, 4:53am and 4:47am. Reports of jerky ground motion and walls cracked diagonally from top to bottom, are evidence of quite strong shaking.
Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 – 1954), Saturday 11 September 1869, page 11
THE LATE EARTHQUAKE.
The Ovens Spectator gives the following additional particulars of the late earthquake in that district. ” The earthquake was plainly felt at the Buckland, but this is not quite so extraordinary, as the Buckland is really in an earthquake country. In the years 1854, 1855, and 1856, there was a shock felt each year, and in the last-named year we remember that one occurred immediately after the men knocked off work, and that some of the claims caved in. At one place on the right hand branch, where they had been sluicing from the downwards, and where there was a bank nearly forty feet high, thousands of tons of earth came down bodily, where half an hour before a dozen of men would have been buried. The direction of the earthquake wave is very uncertain, as it is said to have come from almost every point of the compass.
On the top of the Buffalo there are evident marks at this moment of very great and recent perturbations. There is one rock on the Porepunka side, resting upon what was evidently another large rock, broken into fragments, between which a boy could walk without stooping, the fragments being still perfectly angular, and un-waterworn. There is no higher point there from which it could have rolled, and from all appearances it had been suddenly upheaved, and falling upon a softer block of granite, broke it into pieces. The perpendicular sides of the Buffalo, both towards Porepunka and southerly, over the Murmungee station, are sufficient evidence of a very sudden and violent upheaval, and the forces which caused it to have not yet died out.” Speaking on the same subject, the Albury Banner says : — “We have learned from various sources, and from parties who felt the vibration, that a shock of earthquake took place in this town about 5 o’clock on Monday morning. In three different dwellings the windows rattled, and the furniture was shaken to such an extent that sleepers were awakened from their sleep. It is said that it lasted about thirty seconds, and ran north and south. ‘We hear that the same was felt in Beechworth the same morning, and also at Bright.”
The Argus, Thursday 2 September 1869, Page 5.
THE EARTHQUAKE ON MONDAY LAST.
BEECHWORTH.—A smart shock of earthquake was felt in Beechworth between four and five o’clock on Monday morning. The wave appeared to pass from the south-west towards the north-east, and was accompanied by a dull rumbling noise, not unlike the sound of a train in motion. In several houses the occupants were awakened by the jingling of the glass and crockery on the shelves, whilst others were aroused from their slumbers by the shaking of the beds, and an unpleasant swaying motion given to the buildings. The shock, which is variously described to have lasted from three to fifteen seconds, seems to have been felt over a large extent of the hill country, but not, so far as we have heard, on the plains. A telegram from Bright informs us that a smart vibration was felt in that locality at a quarter to five o’clock, much about the same time it was experienced in Beechworth—Ovens and Murray Advertiser.
Figure 6a (top) Felt area of the August 1869 earthquake in Gippsland causing building damage and broken windows. The red dots are where the shaking was reported felt with an intensity, the blue dot at Port Albert where, on enquiry, it wasn’t. The equivalent magnitude is 5.4. 6b (bottom) The earlier map in the GA Isoseismal Atlas, same author of both maps.
GIPPS LAND.—A smart shock of earthquake was felt with more or less effect throughout North Gipps Land at an early hour on Monday morning. From the number of accounts sent in to this office, and from inquiries instituted by ourselves in Sale and the vicinity, we glean the following particulars:—Time of occurrence, about 4.45 a.m.; direction of the wave, from east to west; time of duration, about twenty seconds. The vibrations were rapid, continuous, and distinctly marked, resembling the quick pace of heavy wagons over an uneven road.
The air at the time was only moderately cool, the whole of the previous period of the night having been unusually close and sultry, as was the greater part of the day preceding. A stiff north-westerly breeze had set in about half-past four o’clock in the afternoon, which gradually died away by sundown, after which time the night closed in hot and oppressive. Throughout the night and towards morning the atmosphere became almost painfully still, not a cloud being in motion. The first shock was that of a sudden and very distinct jerk, immediately followed by a low rumbling, apparently increasing in sound and effect as it came nearer. In this neighbourhood, the party walls of the most substantial building in the town were cracked diagonally from top to bottom. Windows were violently and visibly shaken, and the glass in some instances cracked, and a few small articles of furniture disturbed. A resident of Sale reports that the latch of his door was raised, and the door flung violently back on its hinges, and so severe was the shaking that he thought the house—a two-storied brick building—was coming to the ground. The effect on walls and windows generally is described as if very heavy ordnance had been discharged at about a half mile distance. The shocks were felt distinctly enough at the Heart, Clydebank, Nuntin, Maffra, Heyfield, the 42nd, Stratford, and Bairnsdale. At the latter place, our own correspondent reports the direction to have been north to south south-west; time, five a.m. Mr. Ferris, of Port Albert, says the disturbance was not felt in his neighbourhood, and we have not been able to discover that the occurrence was known at all fifteen miles south of the Hill-top. At that locality, in the neighbourhood of Glencoe station, the shock appears to have been very gentle, and not immediately recognisable as that of an earthquake.—Gipps Land Times.
The Ballarat Star Thursday 9 September 1869, Page 2.
THE EARTHQUAKE OF 30th AUGUST.
Wednesday’s Argus contains two letters to the editor—one from Upper Dargo, and the other from East Collingwood—relating experiences of an earthquake, evidently identical with that reported in the Star of 3rd September as having occurred in Gipps Land and Beechworth on 30th August. It will be seen that in the case of the experience at Upper Dargo, the shock appears to have been more violent, and felt at ten minutes past five o’clock a.m., while those before reported and that at Collingwood all occurred at ten minutes before five o’clock. Mr Heckscher, however, may be mistaken as to the precise time—indeed, he implies that he is not certain. The following are the letters referred to:—
” Sir.—A tremendous shock from an earthquake was distinctly felt on the Upper Dargo on 30th August, at as near as possible ten minutes past five a.m. So severe was the shock that I thought the house was coming down. It lasted about ten or twelve seconds; in fact, it caused quite a consternation in this quiet hamlet. It was not only felt by the residents in Louisville, but, having occasion to go some eight miles from Louisville, made enquiries concerning the shock, and was told that it actually woke the children from nature’s soft nurse. There was also a second shock, but not so violent as the first, which happened about twenty minutes past eight p.m. on the same day, which was also distinctly felt by the residents here, which lasted about three or four seconds, being the first shock to my knowledge that I have felt. I can only compare it to the noise caused by a heavy train of carriages passing under a bridge. If there had been any quartz reefs working close by I should have put it down to the explosion of powder caused by working reefs, but there are none working within some miles away from Louisville. On the following day I also had to go in another direction on business, and also made enquiries, but only found one person out of seven or eight that felt the same shock; but, of course, we are not all somnambulists.
“Philip Heckscher.
” Upper Dargo, Louisville, 1st September.”
“Sir,—On Monday morning, 30th August, I was lying on my bed awake, when I became aware of a shaking motion, as if suspended in a cot, swinging either way six inches. The motion seemed to be from north to south, and lasted about six seconds. I got up immediately, and opening my bedroom door, was met by my son, who asked, ‘Was that not an earthquake!’ At the same time a third person opened his bedroom door, and said that he and his wife had both felt the same movement, and that ‘the jug and basin on their washstand had been shaken.’ The time by two watches was fifty-five minutes past four and fifty-three minutes past four, my own being forty-seven minutes past four. We all slept on the first story of a heavy stone building, viz., the Studley Arms hotel. Having experienced similar shocks in Collingwood on previous occasions—one about two years since, and another about twelve or fourteen years ago—I am thoroughly aware that what I now speak of was an earthquake. I have waited, day after day, expecting the fact would have been noticed in your columns, and mentioned it to several persons before your announcement of the Bairnsdale earthquake. You will see that the time in both cases, allowing for variation of watches, is exactly the same. Hoping some of your numerous readers who may have felt the shock will note the circumstances,
I remain, sir, yours respectfully,
” P. J. Petherick.
” East Collingwood, 7th September.”
Gippsland Times Saturday 4 September 1869, Page 3.
THE EARTHQUAKE. We have received the following additional particulars about the shock of earthquake felt in North Gippsland on Monday, the 30th ultimo. Our Boggy Creek correspondent writes: ” Monday, 30th August, 1869, 4.30 a.m. “An earthwave came from about N.E., giving a very decided oscillation, and slightly preceded by a sound wave, which came with a rushing noise, gradually becoming more and more rumbling until it died away like distant thunder. Duration of motion, about 30 seconds. The times are only approximate, but I think there cannot be much mistake about the direction, as my point of observation was about one and a half miles (horizontal) E.N.E. from the summit of Mount Halford, and the last reverberations of the sound wave certainly came from the south side of that mountain. “7.50 p.m. “An earthwave passed in the same direction as the former, accompanied by a sound wave not nearly so loud as in the morning. This one produced a decided vibration but the motion was not nearly so violent as the first. Duration about 10 seconds. I have met no one who noticed the sound wave as at all proceeding the earth wave in this case. Boggy Creek, 1st September, 1869.” A gentleman at Omeo says: “Smart shock of earthquake at five minutes to five yesterday morning, local time. Apparent direction, south west to north east. Faint rumbling at 8 a.m. in the same direction. Slight shock at 8 20 p.m. Change of wind during the night, from north to south, with heavy snow storm. Omeo, 31st August, 1869.” Our Bendock correspondent writes: ” 30th August, 1869. ” A few minutes before daylight this morning my wife and I were startled out of a sound sleep by an extraordinary rumbling sound, like the clanging, wavy sound of a heavy bell. My first sensation was thunder, but from four to five upheavals of the bed convinced me it was an earthquake, the wave of which passed from west to east. The peculiar sound lasted for about 20 seconds. The sky was clear and frosty. My next door neighbour heard it, and was equally startled.” A correspondent at Merrijig, writing to a Bairnsdale firm says – “1st September, 1869. “I suppose you had the shock of the earthquake at Bairnsdale; it was very bad here. I thought my store would have been shaken down, and all the huts on the creek. I assure you it was very bad here, and I did not know what to think of it: I thought it was all up with us all. I hope nothing has happened to any of the building or to your store: had it shook like my store it must have come down, as it is brick. I hope we shall not hear the like again. I was sick all the day after it, and every man on the creek, I think. Let me know whether it was bad at Bairnsdale or not, and whether any damage was done.” Referring to the shock of earthquake reported in our last a friend sent us the following extract received from the Crooked River on Thursday. The writer says: “Judging from the state of affairs at Grant the world must be coming to an end. On Saturday the 29th of August it was as near summer in regard to climate as one could wish. On Sunday it snowed; on Monday morning at about five o’clock we had a shock of earthquake that nearly shook the house to pieces. On the same day at eight o’clock we had a hot wind, and this (Tuesday) morning the ground is covered with eighteen inches of snow and yet, as I write it is snowing hard.” Our Bairnsdale correspondent writes :—A severe shock of an earthquake was felt at Bairnsdale about five a.m. on Monday, it was followed by one at eight a.m. and one at eight p.m., both being slight with a low rumbling sound resembling distant thunder. From reports I have heard it was felt very severely at Bruthen, Boggy Creek and towards Omeo. There are different opinions as to the course it took, several that I have spoken to on the subject are inclined to believe that it went to the westward. I felt the shock that occurred some fourteen years ago, and I can safely say this felt here was very severe in comparison. The swaying of the house to and fro for about thirty seconds caused such a sensation I never felt before. The night was oppressively hot and calm with a curious appearance in the sky; as far as I am aware there has been no damage done.
Sydney Mail (NSW : 1860 – 1871), Saturday 4 September 1869, page 13
BOMBALA. Tuesday.
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt here yesterday morning at 5.10, followed by a rumbling sound proceeding in a westerly direction. The shock was sufficiently violent to awaken several persons in bed.
The earthquake was also felt in Albury and Bombala NSW. In Albury the motion was described as distinct but gentle and regular, with about 7 or 8 oscillations. More reports have been unearthed using Trove to search newspapers than found by a manual search of newspapers so the felt area and magnitude are larger than in the previous estimate, 5.4 vs. 5.0.
At The Royal Society Meeting on the 4th October, the President, Mr Ron L.J Ellery spoke about this earthquake: THE LATE EARTHQUAKE IN GIPPS LAND from Australasian (Melbourne, Vic. : 1864 – 1946), Saturday 9 October 1869, page 20.
The chair having been taken by Professor Halford, one of the vice-presidents, The President proceeded to read some notes he had taken on the Gipps Land earthquake of August 30 last. Seldom, he said, were the Australian colonies visited with earthquakes of any severity, but the Rev. W. B. Clarke, of Sydney, had lately read to the Royal Society of New South Wales a catalogue of 160 earthquakes noted in Australia between A.D. 1773 and A.D. 1868, adding that though these were not to be compared with the convulsions of nature which had often overthrown cities, yet Australians had no right to presume that their country could never be so visited. As to this particular earthquake, Mr. Ellery proceeded to say that he had received several accounts of it. Mr.Saxe, telegraph manager at Bairnsdale, described the earthquake as occurring at ten minutes to 5 am. in two “severe” shocks, 30 seconds apart, accompanied with rumbling. It seemed to travel from west to east. Many persons ran out of their houses, fearing that they would fall. Mr. J. Oliver, of Deptford, Gipps Land, who seemed, to have noticed the phenomenon carefully, described it as occurring at 4.48 am., and a second shock at 5 am. ; while it lasted a dull deep sound was heard, the earth trembled, and everything indoors shook. Mr. Oliver felt another shock at 8.30 p.m. the same day, the weather being drizzly and thundery on both occasions. His opinion was that the earthquake travelled from west to east Mr. Turton, geodetic surveyor, who was camped at little Ram Head, 22 miles west of Cape Howe, stated that it had been reported that Mr. Newton being at the Snowy River on the day in question, at 5 a.m., noticed phenomena similar to those above described, and like statements came from Beechworth (per Ovens and Murray Advertiser), where the shocks seem to travel from the S. W. from Albury, where the direction was stated to be from “ north to south,” which, perhaps, meant from S. to N., and from the Buckland. Mr. Ellery assumed, from the various accounts, that the direction was nearly S. and W., probably S.S.W. to N.N.W., the line of principal intensity extending from the coast line somewhat W. of the lakes entrance, northwards through Buckland and Bright, between the Buffalo and the Bagong ranges to Yackandandah, Beechworth, and Albury. No sign of the shock was experienced at Port Albert. The various magnetic and meteorological records at the time of the earthquake discovered no trace of disturbance of terrestrial magnetism, although a very marked and considerable disturbance was noticed for some 12 or 14 hours prior to the first shock. The barometer was not low, as is frequent in such cases. It was 29.80, which was only very slightly below the average height. Mr. Ellery concluded by saying that he had heard of no notable disturbance of the sea, nor any unusual wave. If there had been one it could not have escaped notice, either at the mouth of the Snowy River or at the Lakes entrance. A short conversation ensued upon the reading of the paper, but nothing of importance transpired.
1869 08 30 at 10:20 UTC, Gippsland aftershock
There was also a second shock, but not so violent as the first, which happened about twenty minutes past eight p.m. on the same day, which was also distinctly felt by the residents here, which lasted about three or four seconds, being the first shock to my knowledge that I have felt.
This report was from Upper Dargo, Crooked river and other places. It is possible there was an earlier aftershock at 8 am but it was reported by only one observer.
1869 11 29 at 02:00 UTC, SE Melbourne
The Argus Friday 3 December 1869, Page 5.
The earthquake of Monday noon, writes the Government astronomer, appears to have been very distinctly felt in the locality of Berwick. A gentleman residing at Hillsley, near that place, furnishes the following information to the Observatory :—” At about a quarter past 12 p.m., the weather being very calm and quiet, a loud rumbling noise, like the roar of an approaching storm or whirlwind, was heard, and lasted from 15 to 20 seconds, which was followed in a few seconds by a gentle vibration, accompanied with a sound like the galloping of horses, that quite deadened the rumbling noise first heard.” The shock was felt at the Balaclava-road, and a gentleman residing there reports having distinctly felt the shock, which he likened to ” a heavy explosion, which caused the windows to shake.” A slight vibration was felt at the Observatory about the same time, but it was so slight as scarcely to attract attention at the time, or to leave the slightest trace on the records of the self-registering magnetic instruments. The shock was also distinctly felt in the lower part of Collingwood.
1870 01 15 early morning, Bairnsdale
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Thursday 24 February 1870, page 3
Extensive bush fires have been raging in the neighbourhood of Bairnsdale for some days past, and the Times states that a slight shock of earthquake was felt at an early hour on the morning of the 16th.
1870 01 20 at 10:45 UTC, near Wickliffe
The Empire of Monday 7 February 1870 page 2 has the following:
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE IN VICTORIA.—Quite a severe shock of an earthquake, writes a correspondent of the Argus, was felt at Bin Bin and Glenronald stations, near Wickliffe, at about a quarter to 9 o’clock on Thursday night, the 20th ultimo. So severe was the shock at Glenronald that it caused the things in the kitchen to rattle, in the walls of the house (which is a stone one) there are several cracks, and the ceilings of the rooms are quite destroyed. At Bin Bin the men in the hut were playing cards at the time. They immediately dropped them, and looked at one another with astonishment: and the overseer, who was reading the newspaper in his house, not knowing at the time exactly what was the matter, ran down to the hut to know if the men had felt anything, and found them in a considerable state of consternation at the strange event that had just happened.
Hamilton Spectator (Vic. : 1870 – 1918), Wednesday 9 February 1870, page 2
WICKLlFFE has been enjoying an earthquake all to itself, and it is only reasonable to suppose that the inhabitants of that peaceful and somniferous locality have undergone the sensation of experiencing a thorough waking up.
This might be the first earthquake damage reported in Victoria.
1871 02 28 at 11:44 UTC, Melbourne
Advocate (Melbourne, Vic. : 1868 – 1954), Saturday 4 March 1871, page 7
THE LATEST EARTHQUAKE.—A shock of earthquake appears to have been felt by many persons in and around Melbourne a little before ten o’clock on Tuesday night. Mr. Ellery, the Government astronomer, writes on the subject as follows :—”A rather sharp shock of an earthquake took place on Tuesday night, at sixteen minutes to ten o’clock, its direction being evidently from west to east. The shock, which was preceded and followed by a vibration like to that produced by a waggon passing over a rugged road, had the character of a concussion, producing a remarkable sharp, twisting motion, at my house. The shock was experienced both at Emerald Hill and at South Yarra by officers of the Observatory. A correspondent, writing to a contemporary from Emerald Hill, says that he was in bed reading when he was suddenly startled by the shaking of the bed in which he was reposing. At the same time he heard a low, rambling noise, which increased in intensity and then died away ; the articles upon the washstand shook and make a clattering noise, whilst the gasalier over his head waved to and fro.
Figure 7 This small earthquake on 28 February 1871 was centred near Altona on the Bay and was felt throughout Melbourne, at the Observatory, and by some at Geelong.
The motion and noise lasted from ten to twelve seconds, and the shock appeared to travel from south-west to north-east. “J. W.” writes to another ‘journal from Kew:—” I also felt the earthquake on Tuesday night, at seventeen minutes to ten o’clock, being upstairs sitting towards the north-west, and felt the chair rapidly vibrate sideways, as if the wave were from south-west to north-east, accompanied with more like a tolerably sharp rattle rather than a rumble, dying off like distant thunder, lasting, as I supposed, about two seconds. There appeared to be no wind stirring at the time, with clear sky and bright moon. The sensation was anything but pleasant; I was, consequently, curious to know if my experience would be confirmed by my family sitting below, which accordingly was so confirmed, they accosting me before I spoke, asking me if I felt anything, and, by their description, 1 think they must have felt it slightly stronger than I did, shaking the doors. I find also it was felt in Collingwood.”
Leader (Melbourne, Vic. : 1862 – 1918, 1935), Saturday 4 March 1871, page 11
A very fruitful topic of conversation on Wednesday in Collins street, was the earthquake which occurred on Tuesday. Several gentlemen who felt the vibration at Williamstown, St. Kilda and Brighton, describe it as similar to the passage of several empty artillery wagons on the road or railway. Mr. Ellery, the Government Astronomer, thus reports of the occurrence :— A rather sharp shock of an earthquake took place on Tuesday, at sixteen minutes to 10 o’clock. Its direction was evidently from west to east. The shock,, which was preceded and followed by a vibration like to that produced by a waggon passing over a rugged road, had the character of a concussion producing a remarkable sharp twisting motion at my house. The shock, was experienced both at Emerald-hill and at South Yarra by officers of the Observatory, and no doubt has been felt over a considerable area.
Geelong Advertiser (Vic. : 1859 – 1929), Saturday 4 March 1871, page 2
We learn that the earthquake on Wednesday night, experienced in the suburbs of Melbourne, was also noticed here by Mr Inspector Bookey and his servant. The time, as recorded by Mr Ellery, of the Melbourne University, was about sixteen minutes to ten o’clock. The shock appeared to pass from south-west to north-east.
Other reports indicate it was felt in Collingwood, South Melbourne (Emerald Hill), the city, to Campbellfield but no further.
1871 06 13 at 18:00 UTC, Beaufort
Ballarat Courier (Vic. : 1869 – 1886; 1914 – 1918), Tuesday 20 June 1871, page 3
THE BEAUFORT EARTHQUAKE.
A very distinct earthquake shock was felt by residents in every part of the Beaufort district, about four o’clock on the morning of Wednesday, 14th instant. In the township, a number of families were awakened from their slumbers by a rumbling sound, and an unmistakable vibration of the earth, which was sufficient in several places to cause a rattling amongst the kitchen crockery, and a perceptible trembling of bedsteads. The shock lasted from twenty-five to thirty seconds, and its direction is generally described as from west to east. Numbers of people were so much alarmed by this unwelcome addition to their colonial experiences that they summarily dressed and waited for daylight with considerable anxiety. At Waterloo, most of the inhabitants felt the shock and heard the peculiar noise, some of them describing the sound as resembling that of a heavily-laden waggon, with muffled wheels, being drawn sharply over a metalled road. Mr John Ball, farmer, near Raglan, writes as follows concerning this occurrence:— ” 14th June — This morning, about four or half-past four o’clock, I was suddenly awakened by a heavy, dull sound striking apparently against the north-west corner of the house. My wife and one of my sons were also awakened, and they waited anxiously, expecting a strong rush of wind from Mount Cole, or a clap of thunder; instead of which, it was followed by a whirring subterranean noise similar to that which preceded it. ” One described the sound as like the low, deep bellow of a bull. Mr Tucker, the schoolmaster at Raglan, was alarmed by it; and Mr John Millar, shoemaker, says it struck his house violently at the south-west corner, with the same underground sound. Each of those gentlemen procured a light, and says the time was half-past four. The vibration shook our house very much more than the most violent gust of wind we have known. Raglan is distant about a mile and a half from us, I suppose about north east.” In other directions, at Eurambeen station, the shock was noticed by Mr George Beggs; at Trawalla, by Mr Douglas, at Lillerie station; and by various residents at Lake Goldsmith and Bald Hill. In short, for miles round Beaufort the shock was distinctly felt, though, from the fact that none of our contemporaries have any notice of the occurrence having extended to their localities, we presume the area of concussion was limited to this district.
Bendigo Advertiser (Vic. : 1855 – 1918), Thursday 22 June 1871, page 2
Earthquake Shock. — A very distinct earthquake shock was felt by residents in every part of the Beaufort district, about 4 o’clock on the morning of Wednesday, the 14th inst. In the township (says the Chronicle) a number of families were awakened from their slumbers by a rambling sound, and an unmistakable vibration of the earth, which was sufficient in several places to cause a rattling amongst the kitchen crockery and a perceptible trembling of bedsteads. The shock lasted from twenty-five to thirty seconds, and its direction is generally described as from west to east. Numbers of people were so much alarmed by this unwelcome addition to their colonial experiences that they summarily dressed and waited for daylight with considerable anxiety. At Waterloo, most of the inhabitants felt the shock and heard the peculiar noise, some of them describing the sound as resembling thut of a heavily-laden waggon, with muffled wheels, being drawn sharply over a metalled road. Mr. John Ball, farmer, near Raglan, writes as follows concerning the unwanted occurrence:— “June 14. This morning about 4 or half past 4 o’clock, I was suddenly awakened by a heavy dull sound striking apparently against the south-west corner of the house.
My wife and one of my sons were also awakened, and they waited anxiously, expecting a strong rush of wind from Mount Colo, or a clap of thunder, instead of which it was followed by a whirring subterranean noise similar to that which preceded it. One described the sound as like the low deep bellow of a bull. Mr. Tucker, the school-master at Raglan, was alarmed by it, and Mr. John Miller, shoemaker, says it struck his house violently at the south-west corner, with the same underground sound. Each of these gentlemen procured a light, and says the time was half-past four. The vibration shook our house very much more than the most violent gust of wind we have known. Raglan is distant about a mile and a half from us, I suppose about north-east.'”
Gippsland Mercury (Sale, Vic. : 1871 – 1894; 1914 – 1918), Monday 19 June 1871, page 3
A heavy shock of an earthquake was felt at Fiery Creek last Wednesday morning.
1871 06 15 at 04:00 UTC, Felt Victoria, Tumut NSW
This earthquake was felt strongly in Victoria, (Spennemann, 1998) and is most probably the source of the 1871 event in the report about the Kerang earthquake of March 1897.
The Mercury Friday 16 June 1871, Page 3.
VICTORIA.
BEECHWORTH, Thursday.
An earthquake was felt most severely in the centre of the town this afternoon about 2 o’clock. It created some alarm amongst the residents…… There were three distinct shocks……
WODONGA, Thursday.
A severe shock of earthquake, lasting several seconds, was experienced here this afternoon at 10 minutes past 2 o’clock.
WAHGUNYAH, Thursday.
A sharp shock of earthquake was felt here about 2 p.m. to-day……
NEW SOUTH WALES.
Friday.
A shock of earthquake was felt yesterday at Goulburn, Yass, and Grenfell. At the former place it lasted about a minute. A shock of earthquake was felt yesterday in the Southern and Western districts.
ALBURY, Thursday.
A shock of earthquake was felt here at two minutes past 2 o’clock, local time.
WAGGA WAGGA, Thursday.
A violent shock of earthquake was felt about 2 o’clock to-day. It lasted 10 seconds, and caused great alarm.
1871 11 10 at 16:00 UTC, Fwlt Victoria, Tarcutta NSW
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Saturday 18 November 1871, page 2
It appears that the recent earthquake made itself felt beyond the Murray also, as we learn from the Wagga Wagga Express that ” On Sunday morning last, at about 2 o’clock another smart shock of earthquake, accompanied with the usual rumbling noise, was felt at Tarcutta, Adelong-crossing, Gundagai, Coolah, and neighbouring districts. Crockery and other light articles on shelves and tables were a good deal shaken and rattled, but no damage appears to have been anywhere sustained. This makes the seventh or eighth shock of earthquake that has been felt in these districts within the last few months.”
1872 01 03 at 13:12 UTC, Felt Victoria, Tumut NSW
Adelaide Observer Saturday 6 January 1872, Page 3.
VICTORIA.
Melbourne, December 30. A severe shock of earthquake was felt at Beechworth last night. It lasted over 30 seconds.
Compare that story in an Adelaide paper with the following – simple case of wrong date?
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Thursday 4 January 1872, page 3
Beechworth, This Day.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here last night. The rumbling lasted over thirty seconds.
The Cornwall Chronicle Monday 8 January 1872, Page 4.
TELEGRAPHIC DESPATCHES. (Australian Associated Press Telegrams.)
Beechworth, Jan. 4. A shock of earthquake, very severe for Australia, was felt here last night at 12 minutes past 11 o’clock, from west of north. The vibrations lasted fully 12 seconds, and the rumbling noise was heard distinctly for more than 30 seconds over a large tract of the surrounding country.
Wodonga, Jan. 4. A smart shock of an earthquake was felt here at 10 minutes past 11 o’clock last night, followed by another severe shock a minute afterwards. It was preceded by a rumbling noise, lasting about 15 seconds. The shocks were very strong, and distinctly felt.
WANGARATTA, Jan. 4. A smart shock of earthquake was felt here about midnight yesterday.
This was another of the Tumut NSW earthquake series, felt strongly in north central Victoria, including Chiltern according to The Age of Wednesday 10 January 1872, Page 5, and Corowa.
1872 08 07 at 19:10 UTC, Maldon
Thursday A distinct shock of earthquake was felt here at 10 minutes past 5 this morning (The Argus, Friday 9th August 1872, P5).
Portland Guardian and Normanby General Advertiser Thursday 15 August 1872, Page3.
EARTHQUAKE On Thursday, at 5 a.m., two distinct shocks of earthquake, following each other in lightning-like succession were felt in Maldon and at Baringhup by those whose avocations caused them to be early astir. Mr Crossly, the baker, and Mr A. M’Arthur in the same line of business, both thought at the time that the old Beehive mine had caved in. The patients at the hospital and several machine employees also many others, report having been startled by the subterranean disturbance, and Mr Hayes, junior, at Baringhup, who was in the act of feeding his horse, preparatory to riding to catch the first train to Melbourne, thought that the stable was coming about his ears. The concurrent testimony agrees that the motion was felt from the north, and that the rumbling echo died off to the south-west. All the old yarns as to Mount Tarrangower being still a slumbering volcano have been revived in a cheering mood with the wish expressed that the old mount may be riven sufficiently to disclose its presumed golden treasures.
1872 12 12 at 10:30 UTC, Oxley Plains
Ovens and Murray Advertiser (Beechworth, Vic. : 1855 – 1955), Monday 16 December 1872, p2
Shock of an Earthquake. — A correspondent, writing from Oxley Plains, informs us of a slight earthquake shock, which he and others noticed on Thursday evening last at half-past eight o’clock. The sensation was unmistakable, though not quite strong ; the cups and other small articles being set in vibration.
1873 05 22 at 06:30 UTC, Berwick
Launceston Examiner Tuesday 6 May 1873, Page 1S.
VICTORIA. A slight shock of earthquake was felt in several localities not far distant from Melbourne on Tuesday afternoon, April 22nd. According to accounts that have been received at the Melbourne Observatory, the shock appears to have been most severely felt about 28 miles south-east of Melbourne. A gentleman residing near Berwick reports its occurrence at half-past 4 in the afternoon; it lasted about 20 seconds, its direction appearing to be from N.W. or N.W. by W. It was accompanied by a loud rumbling noise. The shock itself caused glasses and crockery to rock about, but not sufficient to capsize them.
This was obviously a small earthquake in the vicinity of Berwick, we assign it magnitude 3.0.
1873 09 16 at 09:27 UTC, Berwick
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Monday 22 September 1873, page 4
The Government astronomer reports: —A shock of an earthquake is reported to have been felt at Berwick at 7.27 p.m on Tuesday, the 16th, a low rumbling or humming sound was at first heard, lasting about eight or 10 seconds , it then almost ceased for about two seconds, when a light trembling sensation of the earth was felt accompanied by a lower rumbling sound than was at first experienced, and lasting about six or eight seconds. It appeared to come from a south-westerly direction.
1874 06 28 at 05:30 and 11:10 UTC, Stockyard Creek
Avoca Mail (Vic. : 1863 – 1900; 1915 – 1918), Friday 3 July 1874, page 2
According to the Walhalla Chronicle a slight shock of earthquake was felt at Stockyard Creek on Sunday week, at half-past 3 p.m., and a severe shock was experienced at 10 minutes past 9 p.m. It appeared to proceed from south to north. The vibration was like that of a heavy goods train passing.
Gippsland Times (Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Tuesday 14 July 1874, page 3
ROSEDALE. July 11. During Thursday’s storm of rain three or four heavy peals of thunder were heard to the south-west; so heavy, indeed, were they that several of the houses in the township were severely shaken, in one case a valuable lamp being broken. About a week since some residents declared that an earthquake took place during the night. As the weather was stormy at the time, the rumbling sound and tremor may have been produced as on Thursday, by thunder. The supposition is at any rate worth accepting, thunder, generally speaking, being preferable to earthquakes.
1874 07 05 at 15:00 UTC, Camperdown
Hampden Guardian and Western Province Advertiser (Camperdown, Vic. : 1871 – 1872 ; 1874 – 1877), Tuesday 7 July 1874, page 2
What is described as being a slight shock of an earthquake was felt by several residents in and around Camperdown on Sunday night last, or rather early on Monday morning. The sensation experienced by two or three residents in Camperdown was that of a tremulous motion, accompanied by a noise as though, a quantity of stones were being thrown violently on the road. The same noise was heard by a gentleman resident some three miles from the township, and a slight vibration was also felt in the same locality.
1874 08 13 at 16:45 UTC, Rochester
The Argus Tuesday 18 August 1874, Page 5.
An earthquake is reported by the Rochester Express :—” On Friday morning about a quarter to 3 o’clock several persons in Rochester were alarmed by what must have been a rather smart shock of earthquake. We have been unable to obtain any particulars as to the direction in which it appeared to travel, but have been supplied by a gentleman who felt the shock with the following description :—’ I was getting into bed yesterday morning, about 3 o’clock, and was alarmed by feeling the whole house tremble in such a manner as to make every article in it shake. The plates on a rack were shaken violently, and the whole was accompanied by a rumbling sound, like the report of a distant gun. The nearest approach to the sensation I can imagine would be caused by a heavy hammer striking the whole building at once, if such a thing were possible. I may say that my wife also felt the shock, and was so terrified that she could not go to sleep afterwards.’ Two other gentlemen have told us that they felt the shock, and noticed much the same effects as those related above.”
1874 08 30 at 09:02 UTC, Port Phillip Melbourne
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Thursday 3 September 1874, page 2
The Government Astronomer reports that ” a slight shock of an earthquake occurred on Sunday evening last, about one or two minutes past seven, accompanied by the usual noise, like the roll of a heavy vehicle on a metalled road. It was felt in several places about Melbourne and Richmond, at Brighton and in the Harkaway ranges near Berwick.”
Geelong Advertiser (Vic. : 1859 – 1929), Friday 4 September 1874, page 3
THE EARTHQUAKE.
TO THE EDITOR.
Sir,—I notice in to-day’s issue of the Daily Telegraph the Government astronomer announces the occurrence of a slight shock of earthquake having been felt in the neighborhood of Melbourne and suburbs on Sunday evening about seven o’clock. I distinctly felt the same about the time mentioned, the noise resembling a prolonged clap of thunder or the rumbling of a very heavy vehicle, and was surprised at seeing no report of it in your paper of Monday. It would be interesting to ascertain whether the circumstance was general.
I am, &c,
Kilgour Street.
Geelong. 3rd September.
Figure 8 Small earthquake felt in Melbourne on Sunday 30 August 1874 a little after 7pm, confirmed by the Astronomer.
The Argus Monday 7 September 1874, p 1S.
A slight shock of an earthquake occurred on Sunday evening, August 30, about one or two minutes past 7, accompanied by a noise like the roll of a heavy vehicle on a metalled road. It was felt in several places about Melbourne and Richmond, at St. Kilda, Brighton, and in the Harkaway Ranges, near Berwick.
Ovens and Murray Advertiser (Beechworth, Vic. : 1855 – 1955), Saturday 5 September 1874, p4
The Recent Earthquake.— Relative to our telegram stating that an earthquake had been felt in Melbourne about seven o’clock on Sunday evening, we find that a shock was felt simultaneously in one portion, at least, of this district. A correspondent favors us with the following communication : — ” Newtown, Beechworth, 3rd Septr., 1874. — Dear Sir, — On Sunday evening last, a few minutes after 7 p.m. (I cannot be very precise to time, as I had been away from Beechworth for several weeks, with no opportunity to adjust my watch) I felt most distinctly two slight shocks of what I considered an earthquake ; there was no mistaking the peculiar sensation, which I frequently felt in New Zealand, years ago. The day had been very stormy, with an unusually low barometer. At the time it occurred, I was engaged in strapping up the door of my tent. I purposely refrained from speaking about it, feeling sure that some paragraphs would appear in the newspapers to confirm my experience, and I see by your telegrams this morning I was correct in my conclusions. I was forgetting to say that I was at the time camped on Mull’s farm, in the parish of Carraragarmungee, about four miles beyond El Dorado, towards Wangaratta. — Yours faithfully, &c.”
If this report is credible then the earthquake was much bigger, being felt more than 250km away, but there is no supporting evidence for that. It is more likely that this camper’s estimate of date/time was incorrect and that he may have felt the earlier Rochester earthquake.
1874 09 02 at 13:00 UTC, Ararat
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Tuesday 8 September 1874, page 7
Another earthquake is reported. A gentleman informs the Ararat Advertiser that on Wednesday night, at 11 o’clock, while at a place situated about eight miles from Ararat, he distinctly felt the shock of an earthquake. On referring to it the following morning, the members of the family expressed their opinion that it was a thunder-shock ; but our informant, who has had much experience of earthquake in South Africa, states that the shock was certainly not caused by thunder, and was a veritable earthquake. The Pleasant Creek News also notices the phenomenon.
1874 11 29 at 15:08 UTC, Stockyard Creek (Foster from 1879) rock bursts in the mine
The Mercury Saturday 5 December 1874, Page 3.
Stockyard Creek, Monday.
Several shocks of earthquake, with a loud rumbling noise, were felt here this morning at eight minutes past 1. Three of them were unusually severe, lasting fully thirty seconds each. Many things in the stores were shaken down and broken. The timber in underground workings was displaced, and steam machinery stopped. Four slighter shocks were afterwards felt. The shocks were also felt at Wilson’s Promontory, Yanakie station, and Turton’s Creek, causing great alarm, being the fourth shock in about six months, viz., 14th and 21st June, 11th November, and this morning. The shock travelled seemingly from S.W. to N.E.
The weather was calm and dull.
With reference to the above, Mr. Ellery of the Government Observatory, forwarded the following:—”The following telegrams have been received at the Observatory, reporting shocks of an earthquake experienced early this morning in the Gippsland district. — Memo, from Mr. J. G. Brent; manager electric telegraph, Wilson’s Promontory : Sharp shock of an earthquake distinctly felt here this morning at eight minutes past 1 o’clock ; lasted about twelve seconds.— Memo, from Mr. S. Hodder, manager electric telegraph, Stockyard Creek: Several shocks of earthquake felt here this morning between 1 and half-past 3 o’clock. These were unusually severe ; many things shaken from shelves in stores ; timber in underground workings displaced ; steam machinery stopped ; seemed to come from S.W., going N.E. ; weather calm, fine, dry and overcast.”
This sounds like mine induced seismicity near Foster. Tasmania did not report events at the time.
1875 02 28 at 20:40 UTC, Maryborough
The Mercury Wednesday 5 March 1875 Page 3 and 10 March 1875, Page 3.
INTERCOLONIAL.
VICTORIA.
Maryborough, Monday.
A smart shock of an earthquake was felt here at Chinaman’s, Timor, Majorca, Natte Yallock, Norwood, Rathscare, Mariner’s Reef, and Adelaide Lead, this morning at about 20 minutes to 7 o’clock. The direction of the wave was from northwest to south-east. The shook was felt distinctly in the upper story of Mr M’Cullough’s new building, High-street. Mr. M’Cullough himself at the time was at Natte Yallock, 15 miles distant. He was at breakfast, when a considerable tremor was felt, accompanied by a noise like the rumbling of a heavy waggon on a stone pitched street. The timbers began to creak, and Mr. M’Cullough and the members of the family jumped up and ran outside. The sky was perfectly cloudless, and the air calm at the time. At Rathscare, 11 miles from Maryborough, the shock was equally severe, and several persons were considerably frightened. In Maryborough, the shock was not so severe. Mr. William Fraser, M.LA., felt his house tremble, and heard a noise which he describes as like the noise of a chimney on fire, raging fiercely. There also the weather was quite calm, and the sky cloudless. The shock was generally felt in High-street, but not severely. The noise, however, was loud and was heard by numbers of people. At Mariner’s Reef the shock was rather more severe. At Timor many supposed the noise to be thunder, and went out to look at the sky, which was cloudless there also. The iron on some of the roofs here and at Chinaman’s shook greatly. At Alma the shock was distinctly felt.
Figure 9 The felt area of the 28th February 1875 earthquake between Avoca and Maryborough. It was felt in the large towns Castlemain and Ballarat but not apparently in Bendigo. This is the minimum felt area, the magnitude at least 4.2.
St. Arnaud, Monday.
A shock of earthquake was felt here this morning at about half-past 6. At Bell and Stewarts’ store the crockeryware was thrown from the shelves and broken.
Avoca, Monday.
A little before 7 o’clock this morning, most of the inhabitants were awoke with the shock of an earthquake, which lasted about one minute. The noise was like a very strong gust of wind coming from the Pyrenees, and directly following it the houses trembled and the windows rattled, frightening the occupants that were up, and causing them to run into the street.
THE EARTHQUAKE IN VICTORIA.
The Maryborough Standard writes :— ” At 48 minutes past 6 o’clock on Monday morning a smart shock of earthquake was felt in Maryborough. The direction of the shock is not very clearly known, but it appears to have been from south to north. It was heard and felt over the whole of Maryborough, the noise and shaking being noticed from opposite points of the town east and west, vis., the vicinity of the gaol and the railway station. Some persons describe the noise as similar to that of the rumble of thunder, and others refer to it as such a noise as would be caused by heavy ordnance drawn along the road. Scores of persons, on having the matter mentioned to them, stated they had heard a noise of the kind in the morning, some awakening from sleep at the time but they attached no particular importance to it. Windows rattled, and articles were disturbed in houses in the township. The earthquake was felt at Chinaman’s Flat, five miles away, and Mariner’s Reef, a mile and a half in a different direction. Probably, also, it was felt in other localities from which we have had no tidings. We are informed that the shock was also felt at Talbot, and our correspondent at Dunolly states it was also felt there. Father Delaney, who was sleeping at Lexton described the Phenomenon as severe in that quarter. The rev. gentleman was shaken in his bed, and inhabitants of the township who were outside of their dwellings ran in alarm at the unusual occurrence. At Avoca it was pretty severe, and also at Natte Yallock.”
The Dunolly Express says.–” Early yesterday morning many of the residents were aroused from their sleep by the passing of a loud rumbling noise as of distant thunder. Those fully expected a speedy downpour of rain, but on reaching the open air not a cloud was to be seen. Others, who were already astir, not only observed the noise, but articles in their houses were visibly shaken and in one instance we have heard of the doors banged to and fro, and the windows rattled in a terrible manner. The shock of earthquake, for such it was, appears to have passed from north to south throughout this district, as we learn it was felt at Jones’s Creek, the reservoir, Burnt Creek, Bet Bet, Moliagul, Goldsbrough, Eddington, and Mount Hooghly, the duration in most instances being estimated at from ten to fifteen seconds, and between half-past six and a quarter to seven o’clock. At Eddington and Bet Bet, sometime after midnight, a noise such as described was heard, but it was thought to proceed from a night train on the railway, and no further notice was taken of it until the shock as above was distinctly felt, and led the mind to revert to the former noise.”
The Ballarat Star states that the shock was distinctly felt in Ballarat, at about 20 minutes to 7 o’clock a.m. The shock is described as being sufficient to shake a solidly built brick house, and to have lasted somewhere about two seconds. The direction of the wave here is stated to have been from north to south. The shock was sufficient to awaken a light sleeper, and caused more than one person to jump out of bed.
A correspondent of the Castlemaine Representative states that he felt the shock in that town, and that there was a noise as if a stone had struck the house, which trembled, and the windows rattled. This morning, adds the Representative of last night, between 4 and 5, a similar disturbance occurred here, but in a slighter degree.
The felt area corresponds to a magnitude 4.0.
1875 08 05 at 11:00 UTC, Naval guns – not earthquakes in Melbourne
The Argus Friday 6 August 1875, Page 5 and 7 August Page 7.
EARTHQUAKE IN MELBOURNE.
An earthquake, which seems to have been chiefly felt south of the Yarra, was experienced last night. Mr. White, the acting Government astronomer, writes:
” One of the severest earthquakes ever recorded in Melbourne was experienced this evening. The first shock occurred at the Observatory about a minute before 9h. 7m. 55s., when the second shock was observed; about a minute after this a third shock was noticed; at about 9h. 10m. 5s. a fourth shock happened, and the fifth shock was felt at 9h. 11m. The second shock appeared to be the strongest, the first and third were somewhat weaker, and the fourth and fifth were much weaker than the others.
THE SUPPOSED EARTHQUAKE.
The shocks referred to in yesterday’s paper as those of an earthquake have proved to be due to the reverberation of sound from the guns of the Cerberus at Point Nepean. Four guns were fired at about the hour of the supposed earthquake viz., 9 o’clock on Thursday night and that those caused the supposed earthquake shocks is rendered certain by a correspondent who writes that while walking on the St Kilda Esplanade at that time he saw four distinct flashes like those from ordnance in the direction of Point Nepean followed immediately by as many muffled reports and shocks.
These extracts are included in case others stumble upon the first story.
1875 12 01 at 19:13 and 19:26 UTC, Wilson’s Promontory
Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 – 1954), Saturday 4 December 1875, page 5
EARTHQUAKE AT WILSON’S PROMONTORY AND STOCKYARD CREEK.
What appear to be two distinct shocks of earthquake are reported to have taken place on Thursday morning, the particulars of which have been communicated to the acting Government astronomer, who forwarded us the following report:—”An earthquake was felt on the morning of the 2nd December in the south of the colony, as appears from the following telegrams received by the acting-Government astronomer. The first report is from Wilson’s Promontory, and is as follows : — “Two distinct shocks of earthquake were felt here yesterday morning at 5h. 13m. and 5h. 18m., each one lasting eight or ten seconds, and was preceded by a heavy rumbling noise.” The second report is from Mr. Barry, the postmaster at Stockyard Creek, and states that this morning, between twenty minutes and half-past 6 o’clock three earthquake shocks took place there ; first shock slight, second very severe, rocking the whole place, third kind of rumbling. Most of the townspeople felt the shocks, and agree as to the time. The severe shock took place at 5h. 26m. by the post-office clock.
Gippsland Mercury (Sale, Vic. : 1871 – 1894; 1914 – 1918), Saturday 4 December 1875, page 3
FOSTER, DEC. 2.
This morning, between twenty minutes and half-past five, three earthquake shocks took place here ; the first was slight, the second very severe, rocking the whole place, and the third a kind of rumbling noise. Most of the townspeople were awoke in their beds by the shocks; the heaviest occurred at twenty-six minutes past five. Three shocks were also felt at the Promontory.
Coincidentally (?) these two earthquakes are almost a year-to-the-day of the last event reported from these same places.
1876 01 30 at 01:30 UTC, Foster
Gippsland Mercury (Sale, Vic. : 1871 – 1872; 1874 – 1886; 1888 -1894; 1914 – 1918), Tuesday 1 February 1876, page 3
ANOTHER EARTHQUAKE. FOSTER, January 31.
A violent shock earthquake took place on Sunday morning at half-past eleven o’clock. The trembling lasted about twelve seconds. The rocking of the buildings was most terrifying.
1876 03 19 at 09:00 UTC, Tanjil
Gippsland Mercury (Sale, Vic. : 1871 – 1872; 1874 – 1886; 1888 -1894; 1914 – 1918), Saturday 25 March 1876, page 3
On Sunday night last, about 7 o’clock, a very severe shock of earthquake was felt at the Tanjil turn off. A man who was lying outside Irvine’s hotel went into the house in fear and trembling, and remarked what a heavy shock of earthquake had happened. A little boy about six years old who was in bed, cried out, and wanted to know who it was pushing the house down. The shock was also heard and felt at the Tanjil but we have not been informed if it reached Shady Creek.
1876 04 21 at 14:00 UTC, Stockyard Creek
NEWS OF THE DAY. Earthquake in Victoria.
The Government astronomer of Victoria received the following telegram from Mr. W. Barry, postmaster at Stockyard Creek, dated April 22: — ” A very severe shock of earthquake, lasting about 15 seconds, occurred here last night, at 12 o’clock. It shook the whole place very much.”
For want of information, this event is assigned the same location as the previous one.
1876 05 29 at 11:30 15:30 and 19:00 UTC, Maryborough
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Tuesday 30 May 1876, page 3
EARTHQUAKE AT MARYBOROUGH.
MARYBOROUGH. This Day.
Three distinct shocks of earthquake were experienced here, the first at 9.30, last night, and the second at 1.30 this morning, and the third at five o’clock. The direction was N.W., and each shock lasted about thirty seconds, the reverberation was not great, and resembled the discharge of ordnance. It was not until the second shock that the nature of the phenomena was understood, for no earthquake has occurred here within the memory of white people.
Bendigo Advertiser (Vic. : 1855 – 1918), Thursday 1 June 1876, p 2
Maryborough, 31st May. The statements regarding the earthquake shocks are altogether false.
1876 06 16 at 17:00 UTC, Grant
Gippsland Mercury (Sale, Vic. : 1871 – 1872; 1874 – 1886; 1888 -1894; 1914 – 1918), Thursday 22 June 1876, page 3
Grant June 20. To wind up the week; on Saturday morning, about 3 a.m., many of us were awakened from our slumbers by a strong earthquake shock, that set houses shaking and glasses jingling in a very alarming manner. To ” your own,” who happened to be some half dozen miles from Grant, the vibrations seemed to last about thirty seconds and to travel from south to north. The papers record an earthquake as having occurred in New Zealand on the 22nd alt., being the same day the inhabitants of the Lower Jungle felt three distinct shocks.
Bendigo Advertiser (Vic. : 1855 – 1918), Saturday 24 June 1876, page 2
CONCENTRATION OF SOUNDS.—The guns of the Cerberus, which led the savant of Melbourne into the humiliating error of supposing that our shores had been visited by an earthquake, appear to have been heard at Dargo Flat in North Gippsland, a place about 140 miles distant, so that the shock was not the only singular feature of that remarkable shooting. The statement that these guns were actually heard so far away may (the Evening Post remarks) be doubted, but it is not impossible.
1876 08 13 at evening, Greenvale Station
Bendigo Advertiser (Vic. : 1855 – 1918), Friday 25 August 1876, p 3
The shock of an earthquake is said to have been felt at Ararat on Wednesday evening last. The Advertiser says:—The disturbance in some places was very marked, some of the houses being considerably shaken, and in one or two instances the crockery was ” jingled” on the shelves.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Thursday 31 August 1876, page 6
THE Ararat Advertiser of August 29 says:—“A very unusual circumstance occurred at the Greenvale station, belonging to Messrs. Austin, Maidment, and Millear, on the evening of Wednesday, the 13th inst., when the disturbances noticed in Ararat were regarded by many observers as those indicating earthquake.
1877 01 21 at 12:20 UTC, Newstead
Australasian (Melbourne, Vic. : 1864 – 1946), Saturday 27 January 1877, page 2
AN EARTHQUAKE.
A correspondent furnishes us with the following account of a shock of earthquake at Maldon:— ” On Sunday evening, at about 20 minutes past 10 o’clock, my wife and I were sitting at the dining-table (a heavy one), each reading a book by the light of a massive kerosene table-lamp, when we were surprised by a very severe shock of what we presume must have been an earthquake, producing a violent trembling motion, and causing the table at which we were sitting, and the lamp to shake sufficiently to make the book I was reading, and which was standing on end against the pillar of the lamp, to fall down. The shock was succeeded by a long rumbling noise, similar to thunder at a distance, but the noise of the shock was of an entirely different character, and apparently came from the earth. The trembling motion of the table I distinctly felt, as at the moment I had both elbows resting on it while reading. We both rose from the table and went into the street, to see if any apparent change was taking place in the weather (it having been a beautifully cool day, with a south wind blowing), but found it clear starlight in every direction, with the exception of a few dark clouds in the south-eastern horizon. In a few minutes, at nearly every house were to be heard voices of people at the doors describing to each other the sensations experienced, some of which were very amusing. The time occupied by the shock and rumbling, sounds was about four seconds, and the direction appeared to be from the south-east to the north-west. It has caused quite a commotion throughout the district, having been distinctly heard and felt in every direction.”
The Castlemaine Representative of Monday says:—”Last night the inhabitants of Castlemaine experienced a new sensation, since a smart shock of earthquake passed over the district. About 20 minutes past 10 a prolonged rumbling sound like a roll of passing-away thunder was heard, and it was accompanied by a vibratory movement of the earth, apparently passing from the south to the north. The night was still and clear, the stars shining brightly, and the temperature lower than it has been for some time. At first most people thought it was thunder, but the state of the weather and the peculiar vibratory motion of the earth speedily proved that the phenomenon was of another character. At the railway station it was thought a special train was coming down, the motion of the earth-wave was so distinctly felt. At Campbell’s Creek it seems to have been felt very strongly, the crockery shaking on the shelves.
Figure 10 Distinct earthquake near Newstead in the Maldon/Castlemaine area on 21 January 1877.
At Guildford the motion was stronger, though the sound was fainter. The doors and windows rattled, and the glasses and bottles shook on the bar shelves of Webb’s publichouse—while the sound is described as like a heavy waggon going over the wooden bridge that spans the Loddon. At Yandoit it was alarmingly strong, but we hear it was not perceived at all at Daylesford.
1877 06 24 at 17:25, 17:37 and 18:08 UTC, SE Melbourne and aftershocks
The Argus Tuesday 26 June 1877, Page 6.
THE EARTHQUAKE.
One of the severest shocks of earthquake which has occurred for a long number of years past in Victoria was experienced yesterday morning in Melbourne and the suburbs, as well as in localities more distant. At the Observatory the shock was very decidedly felt at 25 minutes past 3 a.m., and is described as sufficient to rattle windows and shake crockery. It lasted for about 10 seconds, but the direction of the wave could not be observed, the disturbance appearing to act vertically. At 22 minutes and a half to 4 a.m. a second but much gentler shock was felt, and again a similar shock at eight minutes past 4 a.m. The earthquake-shock was distinctly felt in most of the suburbs, and nearly all those who experienced it agree as to the time the shock took place. By residents of East St. Kilda it is described as being particularly heavy, one gentleman stating that it shook his bed quite visibly, and that afterwards there was the sound such as made by the rumbling of distant thunder. All the glass and crockery in the house, our informant states, rattled, and even heavy pieces of furniture seemed to share in the general disturbance. At Emerald-hill also the earthquake shock was very heavily felt, some of the frailer tenements shaking quite perceptibly. From nearly all the other suburbs accounts have reached us of the shock; but there is no reliable evidence as to the direction of the wave. By some it is stated as travelling from east to west, whilst others are of opinion that it went from south to north. No public alarm was occasioned by the unusual occurrence, although it formed the subject of general conversation yesterday, Happily, earthquakes are of rare occurrence on this continent, and as yet none of the shocks experienced have been attended with damage either to life or property.
Mr. Henry Westley, writing from Burnsfield, St. Kilda, says :—”This morning, at 25 minutes past 3, Mrs. W. and myself were both awoke by a shock of an earthquake, which seemed to last some 15 to 20 seconds. The noise resembled that of a full or heavy train pulling up—a continuous rolling noise (I fancied from south to north, but this I am not clear on). On looking out, the morning was bright and clear, and the water of the bay looked perfectly smooth. After a lapse of some 10 minutes there was a second shock, but the noise was not so loud or as long as the first.”
Mr. E. Howitt states that he felt the earthquake very severely at East St. Kilda. The shock awoke him, and the house shook for some seconds. The shaking was almost severe enough to cause alarm. The lines of disturbance seemed at East St. Kilda nearly north and south, and the waves of oscillation E.N.E. by W.S.W.
“W. B.” writes from Hawthorn:—”A lady lying awake during the night suddenly felt a sharp shake and quiver of the bedstead, and simultaneously heard a low rumble like distant thunder, comparable to a train passing over a railway bridge in the distance. The time was 21 minutes past 3 am. Everything was perfectly still before and after.”
Figure 11 Melbourne and suburbs where the earthquake was reported felt (solid red dots) on 24 June 1877 at 17:25 UTC.
Our Eltham correspondent writes:—”A slight shock of an earthquake was felt at Eltham at about half-past 3 on Monday morning. It lasted for only a few seconds, but caused during that period considerable alarm to those who were suddenly aroused out of their sleep by the occurrence. It was accompanied by a low rumbling, as of distant thunder, which was repeated after an interval of about 10 minutes.”
Several correspondents attach their names to the following communication from Lillydale:—” At 27 minutes past 3 this morning a severe shock of an earthquake was felt at the Black Springs Hotel, Lillydale. It resembled a very heavy peal of thunder, and shook the whole building, which vibrated for at least half a minute. The bedroom door shook, as though some person was shaking the handle, then it wound up with a severe crash, like the bursting of a bomb. One lodger in the house had his bed moved away from the wall. At four minutes to 5 o’clock a second shock took place, and at two minutes to 5 o’clock a third, but neither of the two last were as severe as the first. The direction of the shock appeared to be from south-west to north-east.”
The Bendigo Advertiser of Tuesday 26 June 1877, Page 2
Altogether the earthquake of this morning appeared to have been by far the most severe hitherto recorded in the annals of this part of the colony.
| Location | Mainshock | 1st aftershock | 2nd aftershock |
| Observatory | 03:25 | 03:37 | 04:08 |
| St Kilda | 03:25 | 03:35 | – |
| Hawthorn | 03:21 | 03:31 | – |
| Eltham | 03:30 | 03:40 | – |
| Lilydale | 03:27 | 03:56 | 03:58 |
Table 1 Local times (a.m.) at different locations for the mainshock and two aftershocks
The Observatory mention that the shock appeared to be vertical is interesting, indicating near epicentre or a focal depth of about 15km. Observers agree there were at least two aftershocks though the time estimates vary – we have adopted the Observatory times. The time variation (surprisingly small) is a measure of the uncertainty in the reported times in this paper.
The Argus Friday 29 June 1877, Page 7.
The shock of the earthquake experienced in Melbourne was also felt in Buninyong at the time alluded to, more particularly by Mr. Charles Seal, and those residents near the Mount. The Ballarat Star states that the vibration aroused several persons, who could not account for the phenomena until they read the accounts recorded in the public press.
This report would make a significant difference to both the magnitude and location, provided it refers to this earthquake, but without the date and time specifically mentioned nor other reports west of the city, and contradictory evidence from Pakenham, I have not included it.
The Government Astronomer, Mr Ellery, discussed the earthquake at the July monthly meeting of the Royal Society and mentioned personal correspondence from other population centres. This included an observation from Pakenham that five events were felt between 3:30 and 5a.m., the first and fifth being the most severe.
1877 07 07 at 07:44 UTC, Rosedale
Evening News Monday 16 July 1877, Page 2.
A shock of earthquake appears also to have been experienced in Gippsland on Saturday last. The Rosedale correspondent of the GIPPSLAND TIMES writes:— ” To be exact as to time, it was 5.44 p.m., when a sudden tremulous motion of the earth occurred, accompanied with a sound as of wind rushing past in a compressed compass. The direction of the shock was from south-west to north-east, and the duration, as near as can be judged, about two seconds. Although not strong enough to shake any loose articles in the houses, its passage was distinctly felt. Some thought from the rumbling, swaying sound and sudden stoppage that an accident had happened to some heavy vehicle; while one storekeeper was under the impression that a number of packing cases stowed under a neighbour’s verandah had come down by the run. The strength of the shock appeared to pass under the Post Office.
1877 07 10 at 12:40 UTC, Inglewood
Evening News Monday 16 July 1877, Page 2.
Earthquake Shocks in Victoria.
The Inglewood correspondent of the BENDIGO ADVERTISER writes on Wednesday:— Last evening, shortly before 11 o’clock, we were treated to an unmistakable and what may perhaps be termed a rather heavy shock of earthquake, which shook houses and rattled windows in a perceptible manner. So far as can be judged the precise time of the visitation was somewhere between 25 minutes to 11 and a quarter to 11. The first notice received of anything unusual occurring was the hearing in the still night air of a heavy rumbling noise, coming rapidly from a southerly direction. When it reached the town houses trembled and shook in a violent manner, while in some instances crockery jingled about to such an extent as to make people believe they were about to fall on the floors. Wooden and iron houses were most affected, every board and sheet of iron rattling. One-story brick houses did not feel the shock so much, but those of two stories rocked considerably. At a house in Brooke-street several children were so frightened as to leave their beds, while a gentleman residing in Grant-street was awakened from a sound sleep, the shock coming on his house, he says, with a crash; and another says he was afraid his lamp would have been thrown off a chest of drawers upon which it was standing. Some persons describe the noise as resembling that caused by a heavy underground explosion, while others liken it to the sound of a train in motion, or a heavily loaded waggon jarring against a kerbing. The shock lasted about fifteen seconds; the air was perfectly still at the time, and the sky cloudless. At Dusty Town the residents were alarmed, and at five miles north of Inglewood the shock was distinctly felt, as also at Bulabul Creek, two miles to the south. Some curiosity was felt as to whether the earthquake was general through the colony, consequently, on arrival by mid-day train to-day, Sandhurst and Melbourne papers were eagerly scanned, and some surprise evinced at there being no mention of such a visitation. This is the second shock of earthquake felt in this town, the first occurring about two years and a half ago, it being, however, so slight as to be noticed only by two or three people, and lasting about five seconds. The Advertiser adds: The earthquake was felt with considerable severity at Wedderburn, the symptoms being similar to those here, but more violent. At a point on the Loddon, eight miles from Inglewood, the shock was heavy; but at Berlin, twelve miles south-west of Inglewood, and the direction from which the shock seemed to travel, it was most severe, several parties in a house there rushing out in great alarm, thinking a great explosion of some kind had taken place.
1878 03 23 at 07:30 UTC, Avoca Lead
Avoca Mail (Vic. : 1863 – 1900; 1915 – 1918), Tuesday 26 March 1878, page 2
AVOCA, TUESDAY.
Several residents of Homebush have informed us that an earthquake was experienced at the place named on Saturday evening between five and six o’clock. The disturbance was also noticed at the Avoca Lead, and at both places, it is said, a loud noise like rolling thunder was heard at the time.
Avoca Mail (Vic. : 1863 – 1900; 1915 – 1918), Friday 29 March 1878, page 2
In reference to the earthquake which we mentioned in our last issue as having occurred at Homebush and the Avoca Lead, we have since heard that it was also felt by several persons in Avoca and at Number One Creek. A child taking a music lesson with Mr Cranz was quite startled by the shaking of the floor and the unusual sound it produced in the piano. Some persons on the other side of the river heard the noise and felt the disturbance, and some boys who were on the grand stand in the race-course hurried down, in the belief that the structure was about to fall to pieces.
1878 11 19 at 07:00 UTC, Terrick Terrick near Pyramid Hill
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Tuesday 26 November 1878, page 9
The Terrick Terrick correspondent of the Riverine Herald, writing under date of the 22nd inst, says —” A slight shock of earthquake was felt in this locality on Tuesday last, about 5 o clock in the evening. I was in the house at the time, and I felt the shock most distinctly. It appeared to travel in a south easterly direction, and was accompanied by a low rumbling sound, lasting for several seconds. The whole house trembled, and the windows rattled in their frames. The shock was felt by several people in the neighbourhood.
1879 09 05 at ?, Mount Zero
Avoca Mail (Vic. : 1863 – 1900; 1915 – 1918), Friday 12 September 1879, page 2
A correspondent of the Pleasant Creek News, residing at Dooen, on the Horsham and Stawell line of railway, states that a shock of earthquake was experienced on Friday evening by the farmers and others residing in the northern end of the Grampians; in the vicinity of Mount Zero. The earth was observed to tremble violently, and the doors and windows of the houses were shaken in a remarkable manner, during a period of time extending over five minutes. In Stawell a similar phenomenon was observable, and doors that were ajar and windows that were slightly loose were observed to rattle in a ominous manner. The occurrence was remarked by several people residing in the town, and although not much attention was paid to the trembling of the earth, now that the fact has been corroborated at places so far removed from Stawell as Dooen, there can be no doubt whatever that the shaking was attributable to some agitation underneath the crust of the earth. The phenomenal rocks known as ‘ The Sisters, ‘ which are about two miles from Stawell, on the Ararat loop line, exhibit symptoms of the internal convulsion which has taken place, several large boulders having become detached from the upper surface and dashed violently to the ground. The atmosphere was at the time rather close but there were few if any clouds in the sky, and as there was no wind the noise, which sounded like the drawing of heavy wagons across a well metalled road, can only be ascribed to the cause stated, more especially as Dooen is situated over forty miles from Stawell.
1880 03 05 time?, Warragul
Gippsland Mercury (Sale, Vic. : 1871 – 1894; 1914 – 1918), Saturday 6 March 1880, page 3
WARRAGUL, Friday. A slight shock of an earthquake was felt here this morning. It shook the bottles, glasses and doors at the railway station refreshment rooms.
1880 11 09 at 18:30 UTC, Omeo
The Argus Monday 15 November 1880, Page 7.
NOTES FROM THE OBSERVATORY.
It has been reported that the shock of an earthquake was experienced at Omeo on Wednesday morning last, at about half-past 4. It lasted about three seconds, and appeared to proceed from a S.E. to a N.W. direction.
Gippsland Mercury (Sale, Vic. : 1871 – 1894; 1914 – 1918), Tuesday 16 November 1880, page 2
The Bairnsdale Advertiser says:—A heavy shock of an earthquake was felt at Ensay on Wednesday morning, at a quarter to five. At first it was like a very heavy body striking the house, then the house trembled while you could have counted twenty; awaking every person in the house. The rumbling was heard for about half an hour afterwards. It appeared to be travelling from south-east to north-west.
1881 05 06 at 07:45 UTC, Wood’s Point
The Argus Monday 9 May 1881, Page 6.
NOTES FROM THE OBSERVATORY.
An earthquake occurred in the neighbourhood of Wood’s Point on Friday evening at about a quarter to 6. Mr. Johnson, the telegraph manager reported:—” Smart shock of an earthquake felt here at a quarter to 6 p.m. Wave appeared to pass from N.W. to S.E. Shock lasted about 15 seconds, causing crockery, &c, to rattle in houses.” Although this was only a slight earthquake and entirely local, on examination of the curves of the magnetograph at this time a slight undulation in the curve is apparent, of such a character as to suggest that there was a simultaneous disturbance of the earth’s magnetism, rather than any mechanical disturbance of the suspended magnets.
1881 06 08 at 02:55 UTC, Merino
The Argus Monday 13 June 1881, Page 6.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE ARGUS. THE EARTHQUAKE AT MERINO.
Sir,—A distinct shock of earthquake was felt here at five minutes to 1 p.m to-day. It appeared to come from the N.E. and travelled to the S.W. with a lateral rocking and upheaving motion which lasted for about three seconds. It was accompanied by a loud rumbling noise resembling thunder. The sky at the time was tolerably clear, with light fleecy clouds. The weather during the past two days had been exceptionally stormy and wet, with considerable barometrical variableness but no thunder, though it was quite fine at the time of the shock.—Yours, &c.,
Merino, June 8.
1881 07 08 at 23:07 UTC, Moora
The Riverine Grazier Wednesday 20 July 1881, Page 4.
EARTHQUAKE IN VICTORIA.
The shock of earthquake, (says the Bendigo Independent) reported in last Monday’s issue as having been felt on Saturday morning about nine o’clock at Muskerry, and corroborated by our Colbinabbin correspondent in the same issue, had a rather extensive range. Its direction was due east and west, it having been felt at Muskerry, Colbinabbin, Moora, Rushworth at Murchison, on the Goulburn, and doubtless further east and west of Muskerry and Murchison, though the absence of telegraphic communication prevented reports coming to hand. Writing yesterday, our Toolleen correspondent gives a graphic description of the incident. — ‘ Saturday last will long be remembered by the inhabitants of Toolleen and surrounding district, in consequence of an earthquake shock of a very severe nature being felt. Rain fell in the early morning, the sky was cloudy, and subsequently an unusually thick mist overhung the ground. Just as the latter was clearing away, the shock was felt, causing the houses and fences to literally rock to and fro, while the earth reeled under the feet. The vibration commenced about five minutes past nine o’clock (as near as could be ascertained) and continued twelve seconds. The sound accompanying the shock was such as to convey the impression that a dray-load of stones had been tipped against the side of a weather board house.
Several persons ran out of their houses, believing such was the case, while others went out expecting to find their large iron water tank upset, while the very cattle grazing in the paddocks stood trembling for a considerable time after the vibrations of the earth had ceased. A few casualties, but not of a serious nature, occurred. At the Mount Pleasant homestead, the residence of Messrs M’Roberts, the pictures were all violently thrown down from the walls, and also a great deal of plastering. At the house of a Mr Purves, of Colbinabbin, the door at the time was wide open, but the shock caused it to slam with the greatest force. Several of the largest logs composing fences rolled out of their places to the ground. In many houses the damage done to crockery, &c., was considerable.
At Muskerry also the shock was felt to be of a terrible character. One farmer, who was ploughing in that locality, states that the earth completely reeled to and fro, and that the fence of the paddock continued rocking for some seconds. By making inquiries I have ascertained that the oldest inhabitants remember two shocks having occurred in this district like the one on Saturday last. The first was on 12th July, 1861 (twenty years ago), and the other about ten years ago. Each of these, however, was insignificant compared with that of Saturday last. The Goornong correspondent of the Bendigo Advertiser thus describes it: — ” A smart shock of an earthquake was felt on Saturday, causing a general rattle and clatter among the dishes and iron roofs. One gentleman in this township was near being thrown out of his chair, and in Elmore the earthquake was felt still sharper. The centre of the shock would appear to have been at or along the Mounts Campbell and Pleasant range. Mr Wendel, my informant, a well known resident of the locality, says that he, in company with Mrs Wendel and Mr Wedner, was, at about twenty minutes past nine in the morning, standing on the range, when their attention was attracted to a low rumbling sound steadily approaching from the southward, and that when it reached them be felt three distinct upheavals, or, as he expressed it, it was just as though he were standing on a spring-board, and some one had caused it to spring upwards. The lift appeared to him to be about three inches; the sound continued on towards the north. Immediately afterwards there was a second sound running parallel with the first, but distant about half a mile down the valley; the continuance of the upheaval was about three seconds.”
Figure 12 Felt area of the Moora earthquake 8 July 1881. The equivalent magnitude is 3.7.
The McIvor Times and Rodney AdvertiserThursday 14 July 1881, Page 2.
EARTHQUAKE—We have received accounts of a shock of an earthquake felt at Weston and Mount Pleasant and Wild Duck on Saturday morning last. We notice by the “Argus” that the shock was also felt in the Murchison and Rushworth districts. It appears, however, to have been most severe at Mount Pleasant. A correspondent writing from there states that on Saturday last at 9.45 a.m., a shock of an earthquake or violent electric current passed over the Mount Pleasant district, apparently travelling from north by west to south-east, accompanied by a noise resembling a heavy railway train passing over an iron bridge, and quite as loud, and also by a sound like a rush of air which generally precedes a thunder storm, though at the same time not a leaf or twig moved. The atmosphere was close and sultry. The sounds lasted about five seconds. The shock caused the ground to shake under one’s feet, and gave a similar sensation to that experienced by contact with a powerful galvanic battery, and leaving a rather unpleasant feeling. At the Messrs, M’Robert’s Mount Pleasant Station—the shingles and sheet iron clattered on the roof of the homestead, some plaster was displaced and shattered, and several pictures were knocked down from the walls.
The named places Weston and Mt Pleasant are near Toolleen. The felt reports belie the small magnitude for this event though there is no mention in the newspapers that it was felt in Bendigo.
1881 07 27 at 03:10 UTC, Leongatha
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Thursday 4 August 1881, page 7
Shock of Earthquake.
A shock of an earthquake was reported by Mr. Barry, the postmaster at Foster, Corner Inlet, as having been felt there on the 27th ult, at 10 minutes past 1 in the afternoon. It was not severe, but was accompanied by a rumbling noise, heard by nearly everyone in the place.
Geelong Advertiser Saturday 30 July 1881, Page 2.
A slight shock of an earthquake was felt at Drouin on Thursday (Ed. – Wednesday). It extended from the Bunyip to Drouin, and at the old Bunyip Hotel it was so severe that the windows in the house vibrated considerably. Its duration was nearly two minutes.
Figure 13 Felt reports from the 27 July 1881 earthquake near Leongatha.
Ballarat Courier (Vic. : 1869 – 1886; 1914 – 1918), Saturday 30 July 1881, page 2
ANOTHER EARTHQUAKE.
A slight shock of earthquake was felt at Drouin on Wednesday. It extended from the Bunyip to Drouin, and at the old Bunyip hotel it was so severe that the windows in the house vibrated considerably. Its duration was nearly two minutes.— Argus.
Australasian (Melbourne, Vic. : 1864 – 1946), Saturday 13 August 1881, page 25
POOWONG AND JEETHO.
A slight shock of earthquake was experienced here on the 27th ult., passing from west to east; it was chiefly noticeable in-doors, where it caused the crockery and other loose articles to ” dance” about in a rather alarming manner.
Avoca Mail (Vic. : 1863 – 1900; 1915 – 1918), Tuesday 2 August 1881, page 2
A slight shock of earthquake was felt at Grantville on Wednesday, at about one p.m. It was also felt eight miles east at Jeetho, and at Lang Lang.
It is very improbable that this was the same event felt on Deal Island lighthouse in 1881 but without dates for the Deal Island event it is not possible to be certain.
1881 08 10 at 20:00 UTC, Sandhurst/Bendigo
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Tuesday 16 August 1881, page 10.
The Bendigo Advertiser reports that an unmistakable shock of earthquake was experienced in Sandhurst on Thursday morning shortly before daylight. The shock was most severely felt at Quarry-hill, but the reverberation of the earth was also noticed by residents in other parts of the town. At Quarry-hill a number of persons were awakened from their slumbers. In one instance a gentleman hurried out of bed convinced that somebody was forcing the bedroom window open. He opened the window, but no one was to be seen, and the rattling of the window in the sash continued for several minutes after he had closed it.
1882 01 23 at 06:40 UTC, Omeo
Geelong Advertiser Wednesday 25 January 1882, Page 2.
A slight shock of earthquake was felt at Bairnsdale on Monday at seventeen minutes to five p.m. A severe shock of an earthquake was felt at Omeo, Gippsland, at 20 minutes to 5 p.m. on Monday. Its duration was upwards of 12 seconds. The whole town trembled violently. The occurrence caused much consternation amongst the inhabitants. The direction of the earthquake appeared to be from east to west.
Figure 14 The Gippsland earthquake of 23 January 1882, felt Omeo to Alexandra.
The Maitland Mercury and Hunter River General Advertiser Saturday 4 February 1882, Page 7S.
A shock of earthquake was experienced at Jamieson at 18 minutes to 5 p.m., on Monday. The Court House and Post Office—both brick buildings—shook considerably, the occupants of each place feeling even the floor shake. The iron roof and windows of the buildings in the town rattled perceptibly, several of the residents going into the street to ascertain the cause. The shock was felt at Wood’s Point and Alexandra, a distance of 35 miles. The vibration of the earth, which lasted some 3 seconds, was accompanied by a rumbling noise.
1882 05 21 at 01:27 UTC, Bright
Geelong Advertiser Wednesday 24 May 1882, Page 3.
EARTHQUAKE AT BRIGHT.
A telegram to last night’s Herald states : —On Sunday morning, at twenty-seven minutes past eleven, a distinct shock of earthquake was experienced at Bright. A loud and distinct noise, resembling that of distant thunder, lasting for fully three quarters of a minute, was heard, the earth itself shaking tremendously and vibrating twice. Credence has been given to the above by all who felt the shock, and the day being exceedingly fine, not a cloud being visible in the clear blue sky, seems to make it less doubtful that the shock felt was none other than the shock of an earthquake.
Ovens and Murray Advertiser (Beechworth, Vic. : 1855 – 1955), Thursday 25 May 1882, page 4
Earthquake. — A correspondent writing from Snowy Creek states: — ” A shock of earthquake was suddenly, but distinctly, felt throughout this locality about 11.20 o’clock on Sunday morning last. The vibration lasted about 20 seconds, causing the walls of several houses to quiver visibly, and the occupants to rush out of doors, and gaze intently on the surrounding horizon. The firmament at the time was beautifully blue and cloudless. The strange, peculiar sound seemed to pass in an easterly and westerly-direction. Nothing approaching this shock has been noticed here before.” A correspondent from Bright also states that on Sunday morning at twenty-seven minutes past eleven a distinct shook of earthquake was experienced at Bright. A loud and distinct noise, resembling that of distant thunder, lasting for fully three-quarters of a minute was heard, the earth itself shaking tremendously and vibrating twice. Credence has been given to the above by all who felt the shock, and the day being exceedingly fine, not a cloud being visible in the clear blue sky, seems to make it less doubtful that the shock felt was none other than that of a shock of an earthquake.
1882 11 16 at 12:08 UTC, Near Jamieson
Australasian (Melbourne, Vic. : 1864 – 1946), Saturday 16 December 1882, page 9
THE METEOROLOGIST, THE BAINFALL AND THE AURORA
On the 16th a severe earthquake was reported from Wood’s Point….
Geelong Advertiser Saturday 18 November 1882, Page 4.
THE EARTHQUAKE. It is now some three or four month since one of those incidental disturbances of the earth’s crust, which are, if not periodic, at least rather often recurrent, in the various parts of the Gippsland District, North and South, occurred, but the movement was a very slight one. Last night, however, a very severe shock of earthquake was felt throughout the eastern portion of this colony, concentrating its force on the distinctly volcanic locality of Woods Point and Gaffney’s Creek.
The activity of the geodetic wave was felt to a very marked degree at Mansfield and Jamieson, and in the adjacent districts of Matlock, and Jericho, and the populated centres along the valley of the Thompson were also disturbed to a corresponding extent. It appears, indeed, that this is the most violent earthquake that has been experienced for a number of years in any part of Australia, and as a portent of what might prove to be the revivification of a line of extinct volcanoes, or of a single crater, the visitation may not be looked upon as a welcome one. From intelligence received from other parts of the interior it seems that the earthquake extended over a very wide area. It is not, of course, ascertained in which precise locality the disturbance took its rise, but, judging from its force, and the direction taken, it is probable that parts of the eastern portion of the sister colony of New South Wales felt the agitation. The extremest limits of its action have not been ascertained, but that it was very wide-spreading is attested by the fact that it was noticed—though to a slight degree only, in the city of Melbourne, and some of the suburbs.
The disturbance occurred at 10 o’clock, its motions being registered a little after that hour. In St. Kilda and Richmond an uplifting and undulating movement was felt distinctly, and many were for some moments at a loss to account for the phenomenon. In the city the undulation, though gentle, was also felt. Mr R. L. J, Ellery, the Government Astronomer, relates that he, in company with other scientists, was engaged in discussion at the Royal Society’s Hall, and that at the time named he distinctly noticed an uprising of the floor. He did not at the time feel confident of it being the consequent of an earthquake, but after taking incidental probabilities into account he came to the conclusion that it was so. He states that slight shocks have been felt in various parts of the colony at recent dates, but this is perhaps the severest that has been recorded as having extended over so wide a superficies. The only telegram received up till noon, however, at the Observatory was the following:—Cape Schanck.—A shock of earthquake felt at 10.5 last night, lasting few seconds only, accompanied by rumbling; direction of wave cannot be stated.”
Figure 15 Felt area of the 16 November 1882 earthquake felt throughout Melbourne and widely in east-central Victoria.
A correspondent writes:—With reference to the shock of earthquake reported in this morning’s papers, I may state that shortly after retiring to bed at the Lord Clyde Hotel, Flinders-street, last evening, about nine o’clock, I felt a sensation of trembling. My first thought was that some one was under my bed. Finding no person in that interesting spot, I next sounded the partition near my bed, thinking that parties in the next room were jumping on their bed. I then thought that, as music was going on downstairs, there must be some vibration caused thereby. – Friday’s Herald.
The Argus Monday 20 November 1882, Page 10.
NOTES FROM THE OBSERVATORY.
THE EARTHQUAKE
The earthquake which occurred about eight minutes past 10 on Thursday evening appears to have had its centre somewhere between Mansfield, Jamieson, and Alexandra, and its line of action in a S.W. direction from that locality, for it was most marked at places along that line, especially at Berwick and Cape Schanck. It was plainly, though faintly, felt all over the neighbourhood of Melbourne. Near Jamieson it appears to have been quite a strong shock, and more violent than usually experienced in this part of Australia.
Leader (Melbourne, Vic. : 1862 – 1918, 1935), Saturday 18 November 1882, page 32
Wood’s Point, 16th November.
A severe shock of earthquake passed over Wood’s Point at about 10 o’clock this evening, travelling S.S.E. It was by far the heaviest shock that has ever been felt in this district, dislodging articles from their places, though fortunately no serious damage was done.
Mansfield, 10th November. A very severe shock of earthquake was felt here at ten o’clock to-night, travelling S.S.E. The shock was the heaviest ever experienced in this district. Many of the inhabitants were seriously alarmed.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Saturday 18 November 1882, page 16
TO THE EDITOR OF THE ARGUS.
Sir,—A distinct shock of an earthquake was felt here last night about half-past 9 o’clock. A strange rumbling sound was heard as if proceeding from a north-easterly direction, which was immediately followed by the shock, causing the house to vibrate as if struck by some heavy body, and making the crockery on the shelves rattle together.—I am, &c.,
W. GOODALL. Coranderrk, Nov. 17.
Mount Alexander Mail (Vic. : 1854 – 1917), Saturday 18 November 1882, page 2
A severe shock of earthquake was felt in Jamieson at a quarter past ten on Thursday evening, which shook every house in the town. Persons standing in the road were nearly thrown to the ground. The mailman from Wood’s Point to Jamieson was thrown on to the horse’s neck. The shock, which appeared to be travelling from north-east to south-west, caused quite a consternation in the town, many persons rising from their beds to know the cause. The shock was also felt at Woods’ Point and Mansfield.
Ovens and Murray Advertiser (Beechworth, Vic. : 1855 – 1955), Thursday 23 November 1882, page 4
Earthquake. — With respect to the shock of earthquake recently recorded as having been felt in various parts of the colony, we are informed by Mr Wighton, of the Bank of Australasia, Beechworth, that the servant-girl in his employ states that she distinctly noticed it.
Note: Coranderrk was the site of an Aboriginal Settlement at the intersection of the Yarra R and Badger Ck.
The shock was felt distinctly at Hawthorn, but a report from Maryborough in several of the newspapers is of a different earthquake.
1882 12 13 at 01:40 UTC, Walhalla
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Thursday 14 December 1882, page 5
EARTHQUAKE AT WALHALLA, WEDNESDAY.
A rather severe shock of earthquake of several seconds duration, and passing in a south-westerly direction, was felt here at 20 minutes to 12 to-day. The vibration shook the Oddfellows’-hall, Crook’s Hotel, the police station, and all buildings in the direction it was following, and was also distinctly felt in the Long Tunnel mine. The shock was accompanied by a rumbling noise resembling distant thunder. The weather was sultry at the time.
Could this and other local earthquakes actually be rockbursts in the mine, that was eventually more than 1km deep.
1883 11 17 at 13:30 UTC, West Dromana
Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 – 1954), Saturday 24 November 1883, page 7
Supposed Earthquake at Dromana.
Mr. S. S. Crispe, of Nasce’s farm, Mount Rosebud, West Dromana, writes under date 19th November : — “On Saturday night last, about half-past 11 o’clock. I felt what I believe to have been an earthquake ; the motion was from N.E. to S.W., and it was accompanied by a low, rumbling sound. I fancy the motion was along the hills known as Mount Eliza, Martha, and Arthur’s Seat, which are all of a volcanic nature.”
I am assuming this was a local event and not one of the Tasmanian sequence, an earthquake occurring nearly every day at Gould’s Country and St Mary’s this month, the strongest on the 10th.
1883 12 06 at 20:45 UTC, Bairnsdale
Bendigo Advertiser (Vic. : 1855 – 1918), Thursday 13 December 1883, page 3
A slight shock of earthquake was felt at Bairnsdale last Friday.
Gippsland Times (Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Monday 10 December 1883, page 3
On Friday morning last a slight shock of earthquake was felt in Bairnsdale at 6.45 a.m. The weather was very close at the time. It will be remembered (says the Advertiser) that just two years ago a rather sharp shock was felt.
1884 05 31 at 19:20 UTC and 1884 06 01 at 12:25 UTC, Aftershocks East of Flinders Island Tasmania
Bairnsdale Advertiser and Tambo and Omeo Chronicle Thursday 4 June 1885, Page 2.
Shocks of earthquake have been reported as having occurred at Wilson’s Promontory and Gabo Island on Monday morning. The keeper on watch at the Wilson’s Promontory lighthouse states that a rather severe shock was experienced at 5.20 a.m., lasting about ten seconds; and at Gabo two sharp shocks were felt, the duration of each being about thirty seconds, and the direction from south to north. A third shock was felt at Gabo at 10.25 p.m. on Monday of nearly a minute’s duration, and in the same direction as before.
Launceston Examiner (Tas. : 1842 – 1899), Monday 23 June 1884, page 3
In answer to a circular addressed by Captain Shortt to the superintendents of the various Straits lighthouses, asking for a report of the recent earth tremors that have occurred on the islands, the Superintendent at Swan Island states, under date 8th instant, that the tremors there have been so very slight although frequent, that little notice has been taken ; in future, however, a record will be kept, and Mr. Shortt be duly advised.
Despite this promise, not a word could be found in the newspapers about the following earthquake’s impact on the islands.
1884 07 13 at 03:43 UTC, Tasmanian earthquake felt south-eastern Victoria
A shock of earthquake, corresponding as to time and description with the earth tremors reported from Tasmania, occurred on the Victorian side of Bass’s Straits on Sunday afternoon. The earthquake was felt at Wilson’s Promontory, Port Albert, Bairnsdale, and Omeo. At Port Albert, where the shock startled the residents, the earth tremour was accompanied by tidal disturbances. Earthquake shocks were also noticed at Eden, Pambula, and Carden on the New South Wales coast. Wm. Martin, keeper of the lighthouse at Wilson’s Promontory, telegraphed as follows to the Minister of Trade and Customs:-“Wilson’s Promontory, Sunday, July 13, 1884 – Felt clearly-defined shock of an earthquake at 1.43 p.m. to-day, with severe rocking motion, continuing about 12 seconds. No damage is reported.”
Ovens and Murray Advertiser (Beechworth, Vic. : 1855 – 1955), Tuesday 15 July 1884, page 2
Earthquake in Beechworth. — A slight shock of earthquake was distinctly felt in Beechworth at ten minutes to two o’clock last Sunday afternoon. A gentleman residing in Kara-street states that the crockery in his kitchen rattled violently, and his wife, who was lying on the sofa at the time, felt a strange undulatory motion. A resident in Finch-street also states that in his house the crockery was similarly shaken, and that the earth trembled ; leaving no room to doubt that it was an earthquake. We notice by the Melbourne papers, that in Tasmania the same afternoon a severe earthquake shock was felt shortly before two o’clock. It would therefore appear that the ” wave” passed over that colony and Victoria.
1884 08 29 at 01:25 UTC, Tasman Sea
Mercury (Hobart, Tas. : 1860 – 1954), Wednesday 1 October 1884, page 2
The Meteorological Observer has received from Captain A. Hawkes the following account of the earthquake shock felt on board the brigantine Helena. The position of the vessel, 95 miles E. by S. of Cape Barren Island :—” On the 29th of August, at 11.25 a.m., in lat. 40deg. 42min. S., long. 150deg. 32min. E., experienced a severe earthquake shock, with a loud rumbling noise, which shook the vessel fore and aft ; the sea being at the time in a very disturbed state, boiling and eddying all round the ship. We like-wise noticed the long S.E. swell that had been running previous to the shock was at once smoothed. The wind was N.W. at the time, fresh ; but for four days previous a very heavy gale had been blowing from W.N.W.; heavy lightning had been playing the night before, both in N.W. and S.E.”
1884 09 19 at 10:38 UTC, Tasman Sea east of Flinders Island, Tasmania
There was a fourth large (M≥6) earthquakes off northeastern Tasmanian in the decade-long sequence from 1883 to 1892 and this, the second of them, acknowledged as such by Underwood (1972) but not mentioned by Michael-Leiba (1989) who focussed on the July 1884 earthquake. The September earthquake was felt at least 350 km from the indicated epicentre off the east coast of Flinders Island (just where Shortt and Ellery suggested – Hobart Mercury July 20). The supposed epicentral region is far enough from the mainland and Tasmania that no damage would be expected but no reports have yet been unearthed from the Bass Strait islands, the closest populated area.
Illustrated Australian News (Melbourne, Vic. : 1876 – 1889), Wednesday 1 October 1884, page 155
EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS.
On the night of Friday, 19th September, a rather severe shock of earthquake was felt at Cunninghame, about half-past eight o’clock. The first intimation was a dull noise like distant thunder. About six seconds afterwards there was a vibration under foot that shook the buildings in the neighborhood. The shock was also felt at Port Albert, Bairnesdale, Sale, Dennison, Clydebank, Wadelock and at the Snowy River.
It seems to have been more severe at Port Albert, where the tremors are stated to have lasted fifty seconds. The weather had been sultry all day, with strong northerly winds. From Tasmania we learn that the earthquake was felt throughout nearly the whole of the colony. At Hobart some alarm was felt at the severe shook, but very little damage resulted from it. The Launceston Examiner writes:—’ So far as we have heard, the most serious disturbance occurred at Gould’s Country, our correspondent alleging the duration to have been nearly two minutes. Additional particulars are to hand showing that in Launceston the shock was felt severely by passengers in the streets. Mr. Acres, standing in front of his residence, was thrown to the ground, causing an abrasion. Mr. Waldron, solicitor, who was in the street, felt no motion, but he heard a noise like a number of cars or carriages coming in opposite directions, and saw the shutters of shops moving, and heard windows rattling. Another resident was thrown out of his chair. At the Roman Catholic Church a large piece of plaster fell from the ceiling. In nearly all the poultry yards the fowls left their roosting places, while sparrows and swallows flew out of their nests. A shock of earthquake was also felt at Bega, N.S.W., at nine o’clock on Saturday night, accompanied by a low rumbling noise. A second but lighter shock followed about 15 seconds later.
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Saturday 20 September 1884, page 2
EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS.
BAIRNSDALE, This Day.
Two distinct shocks of an earthquake occurred last night about half-past eight o’clock following immediately upon one another. The ground appeared to tremble for 15 seconds. There was a peculiar rumble resembling distant thunder which seemed to come from a southerly direction. The weather was very warm and sultry at the time.
Daily Telegraph (Launceston, Tas. : 1883 – 1928), Saturday 27 September 1884, page 3
THE EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS.
Mr Clayton, who resides at Donald-street, College Lawn, Prahran, states that he experienced a shock of earthquake at his house on Friday evening last, at about the same time at which similar phenomena were felt at Cunninghame, Maffra, Port Albert, and Sale, in Gippsland. He states that at about half-past 8 o’clock on the night in question his attention was attracted by the flickering of the gaslights in the hall, which was followed by a peculiar rumbling noise. He walked out into the open air, and on returning experienced a waving motion of the earth, and noticed the lustres of the chandeliers waving, the birds’ cages waving about, and the birds fluttering and frightened. Other people in the house experienced the same peculiarities, and it was agreed by those present that it was due to volcanic disturbances of a mild form.
South Bourke and Mornington Journal (Richmond, Vic. : 1877 – 1920; 1926 – 1927), Wednesday 1 October 1884, page 2
TARWIN RIVER.
At seven minutes to nine o’clock on Friday evening, 19th September, the vicinity of the Tarwin River was visited by an heavy shock of earthquake, which lasted some seconds. News was received during the day that the visitation was felt several miles from here. Our reporter was about retiring for the night, when the plates, glasses and other culinary utensils began to rattle about and the walls of the house vibrated. He with several others experienced a curious sensation as if a sudden illness had overtaken them, accompanied with a desire to vomit. One man’s bed was so disturbed that he fancied there was a dog under it. Candle sticks, glasses, and other articles of furniture tumbled about. One of the contractors for the Tarwin bridge, Mr. Justice, was reading at the time, and he felt it so severe that his chair began to tumble about, he feeling pains in the head and sickness, and the walls of the house vibrated very much. At Pound Creek and all along the mail track to Kilcunda, the shock was felt. Some few years since this part of the country was visited with a shock more severe than the last. It is to be hoped we shall be spared a little longer.
Colac Herald (Vic. : 1875 – 1918), Tuesday 23 September 1884, page 3
EARTHQUAKES. At twenty five minutes to nine on Friday night, a severe shock of earthquake was experienced at Port Albert. Mr. Beath, the manager of the Bank of Victoria, when sitting in his office, noticed the chairs moving violently, crockery, &c., tumbling about in an extraordinary fashion. This (says the Argus) is the second shock in a short space of time, but it was more perceptible than the last, on the 13th July. Persons walking heaved as if on shipboard. Two distinct shocks of earthquake occurred on Friday night about half-past eight o’clock, at Bairnsdale, following immediately upon one another. The ground appeared to tremble for fifteen seconds. There was a peculiar rumble, resembling distant thunder, which seemed to come from a southerly direction.—Herald.
A shock of earthquake was felt at Candelo at a quarter to nine o’clock on Friday. It appeared to proceed from the south-west to the north-east, and lasted thirty seconds. The night was exceptionally calm, and the sky cloudless.— World (Sydney) telegram.
Gippsland Mercury (Sale, Vic. : 1871 – 1894; 1914 – 1918), Tuesday 23 September 1884, page 3
YARRAM YARRAM. Sept. 22nd.
Another of those peculiar sensations, called by some “earth tremors,” and dignified by others with the still more forcible term “earthquake,” was experienced here on Friday evening last. The shock took place at about 25 minutes to nine. One gentleman was sitting beside his table reading his newspaper; his paper shook, and his hand trembled, and so frightened was he that he thought he was taking “ague or some of those other shaky things.” In another residence 3 girls were at the piano, one occupying the music stool. The oscillatory movement was so great as to throw the stool forward, and the occupant was only kept from fainting by the nerve of her companions. Another person says, “the doors shook, the windows rattled, and the ornaments on the mantelshelf rocked to and fro.” An amusing incident is told of a housekeeper, who hearing his knocker in motion, determined to find out those who were guilty of playing tricks. He paced the verandah in little else than his nightshirt, for he had got out of bed determined to have them this time, but imagine his chagrin when next morning the talk of the place was the earthquake. I could add many others. The motion appeared to be from north to south, and was greater than that experienced here some few Sundays ago, when a slight shock of earthquake was felt. The sensation was said to have been even more alarming at Port Albert, where some little consternation prevailed.
Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 – 1931), Monday 22 September 1884, page 4
Earthquakes.
Bega, Saturday.
A shock of earthquake was felt here at 9 o’clock last night, and was accompanied by a low, rumbling noise. A second shock followed about 15sec later, but it was lighter. Melbourne, Monday. A distinct earth tremour was experienced in Shoreham, near Flinders, shortly after 8 o’clock or Friday night. Shocks of earthquake were also felt in parts of Gippsland.
Figure 16 Felt reports following the large earthquake in the Tasman Sea east of Flinders Island on 19 September 1884. No damage was reported but there are no reports of the intensity at Flinders Island. (modified from Michael-Leiba, 1989).
Tasmanian (Launceston, Tas. : 1881 – 1895), Saturday 27 September 1884, page 18
SEVERE EARTH TREMOR
At 8.38p.m. on 19th instant, Launceston was visited by a severe earth tremor, perhaps the most severe that has yet occurred. The motion was, according to some accounts, from east to west, and according to others, from south-east to north-west; and lasted fully thirty seconds. The greatest consternation and alarm was felt throughout the town, people rushing into the streets under the apprehension that their houses were tottering. The earth tremor was accompanied by a loud rushing sound like a mighty wind, which gradually died away. For the last few days several slight tremors had been experienced, and according to our Carrick correspondent, and from information received from several parties in town, it would seem that from about 8 o’clock in the evening up to 8.35 slight tremors were felt. At the Wesleyan Church, Patterson-street, the choir were practising at the time, when the rattling of the chandeliers and the creaking of the rafters and ceiling caused numbers to hurriedly leave the building in terror. At the Fire-bell Tower Hall the members of the Debating Association were holding a meeting, and one member was speaking at the time, when his audience started for the door in alarm at the swaying of the whole fabric. At the Mission Church, service was being held, when the undulatory motion was felt so severely that several women fainted. At the Prince’s Square Band of Hope meeting, held in the Frederick-street schoolroom, the oscillation was so violent that iron rods running from wall to wall to support the building shook very perceptibly, and the audience was so disturbed that several persons ran into the street. At the meeting of the T.M.C.A. Improvement Class an item not on the programme, and which caused the utmost alarm, was the perceptible swaying of the building. The shock appears to have been felt with the most severe force, at the Launceston Hotel, where the inmates rushed into the street thoroughly alarmed at the violent motion of the walls. At the Brisbane Hotel the front rooms were violently shaken, the chandeliers swaying to and fro, but Mr. Simmons informs us that at the rear of the house no motion was perceptible. Mr. Simmons was sitting in his office when the exclamations of those in the front room drew his attention to the fact that an earth tremor was going on yet the chandelier in the room, one that vibrates with the slightest shake, never stirred. People too, in the coffee-room at the back never felt the shock. In Charles street the shake was distinctly perceptible, and Mrs. Lay, the chemist’s wife, fainted, and the utmost alarm was felt by the neighbours. People walking in the streets felt the shock, some so severely that they were forced to stand, and they felt as if they could not advance without falling, so wave-like was the motion under their feet. At the Police Station and the Gaol the tremor was severely felt, the constables in the guard-room seeking the outside in preference to remaining during the oscillation. A clock over the chimney-piece in the Sub-Inspector’s office was shifted from its position, the mark remaining on the wall where it used to hang, giving the direction from east to west. On the wharves the shock was felt tremendously, and also on board the numerous vessels lying alongside. On board the s.s. Flinders the vibration was described as being the same as when the engines are working, and the vessel was shaken from stem to stern. Mr. A. B. Biggs has kindly furnished us with the following report :— I was in my observatory at the time of the tremor last evening, endeavouring to set the highest power of my telescope upon a particular star. Unfortunately I had not succeeded, at the moment, and thus, just missed a rare chance for what would have told more than anything else could of the nature and extent of the earth’s motion. The sound suggested a passing cart conveying an iron tank, which I really at first supposed it to be. It was not until after the sound had ceased that I suspected the cause. This was at 8.37½ p.m. I did not feel the tremor, or at least with certainty. Immediately after the sound had ceased I got the star on the finder of the telescope, but it was quite steady. I found pendulous objects in Mr. Pullen’s residence swinging to N.W. and S.E. At home I found that the pillar indicator had fallen to the S.E. indicating that the wave came from the S.E. Both the electric alarm signals were rung. The seismometer vertical reading was .016 inch, or about one-third of that on the 13th July. Other forms of seismometer failed to record. I learned that the house bells and also the clock bell had been set ringing. The tremor lasted fully 30 seconds. The severe earth wave with which we were visited on Sept. 19 seems to have been generally felt throughout the island. So far as we have heard the most serious disturbance occurred at Gould’s Country, our correspondent alleging the duration to have been nearly two minutes. Additional particulars are to hand showing that in town the shock was felt severely by passengers in the streets. Mr. Acres, standing in front of his residence, was thrown to the ground, causing an abrasion. Mr. Waldron, solicitor, who was in the street, felt no motion, but he heard a noise like a number of cars or carriages coming in opposite directions, and saw the shutters of shops moving and heard windows rattling. Another resident was thrown out of his chair. At the Roman Catholic Church a large piece of plaster fell from the ceiling. In nearly all the poultry yards the fowls left their roosting places, while sparrows and swallows flew out of their nests. No doubt persons in different parts of the country have had some experience of the various tremors felt in the island lately, and it would be interesting if those resident, more especially on the coast, would record as briefly as possible and forward to the Press any unusual disturbance or wave at sea, as it would form a valuable link in the elucidation of the causes of the disturbing influences now at work. A police-constable informs us that on Friday night while the earth tremor was going on, he felt the West Tamar bridge, upon which he was standing at the time, oscillate violently, while looking below he noticed the river agitated, and the mud in a disturbed condition. Captain Hall, of the s.s. Warrentinna, reports that at 8.35 on Friday evening, when the steamer was lying off the George’s Bay Wharf, a very severe shock of earth tremor was experienced. Captain Hawkes, of the schooner Helena, has also reported that on August 29th, when 150 miles to the east of Cape Barren, a severe earth tremor shook the vessel. The Mercury, of Saturday, states that a somewhat severe tremor, accompanied with a slight rumbling noise, was noticed on Friday evening at about 8.40, the direction being N.W. to S.E., and there being three distinct shocks in close succession. Buildings were shaken, bells tinkled, and windows rattled, and a momentary scare was caused throughout the city, the tremor being equally severe both in high and low levels. In the Mercury office one of the dividing walls was thrown a little out of perpendicular, and a crack in another portion of the building perceptibly widened. Our correspondent states that at Austin’s Ferry the shock and rumbling sound was perceptibly felt, and at the railway station, New Norfolk-road, the doors, windows; and various moveables were noticed shaking very perceptibly. Dr. James Hector, F.R.S., of Wellington, New Zealand writes that earth tremors have been very rare in New Zealand for the last 18 months, in fact ever since they became so common in the ridge, or rib of the earth’s crust, of which Tasmania is the southern termination, and if the shocks occurring have come from the eastward, there must be some fracture, with crushing strains in the trough between New Zealand and Australia.” It seems that the violent shock of earthquake experienced in Tasmania Friday week was also felt, though not so severely, both in Victoria and New South Wales. A Victorian journal says :— “Last Friday evening, at 8.45 o’clock, earthquake shocks, were simultaneously felt at Bairnsdale in Gippsland, and at Candelo near Sydney, a distance of about 600 miles apart. At Bairnsdale two distinct shocks of an earth-quake occurred, following immediately upon one another. The ground appeared to tremble for 15 seconds. There was a peculiar rumble resembling distant thunder which seemed to come from a southerly direction. The weather was very warm and sultry at the time. There was one shock at Candelo, and it lasted 30 seconds. It was undoubtedly an extension of the same influence, exerted at Bairnsdale, as the direction of the current appeared to be from south-west to south-east. Our country correspondents’ forward the following particulars :— Hobart, Sept. 19. A strong earth tremor is said to have been felt here at 20 minutes to 9 to-night, lasting over one minute. Westbury, Sept. 19. A very smart shock of earth tremor was felt here by a number of residents at 8.40 this evening, the wave travelling east and west. It had an undulatory motion, and caused a good deal of alarm. Carrick, Sept. 19. From about 8 p.m. we could feel very slight earth tremors but at 8.33 we had a most severe one, lasting a considerable. time, accompanied by a sound like a strong rushing wind. Muddy Creek (West Tamar), Sept. 20. On Friday, at about 8.30 p.m., we had the most severe shock of earthquake that was ever felt down the West Tamar. It came on with a very loud rumbling noise, which could be heard coming quite a minute before the shock, and lasted about the same time. The house cracked all over, and was lifted up and down like a railway train going over heavy stones. Rain set in at 12 o’clock, and has continued with heavy wind, ever since. Oaks, Sept. 20. A very severe tremor, was felt here last night at 8.40. It shook the house and windows very severely, and was felt by all in the house, turning some quite ill for the time. The shock lasted fully a minute, and the wave seemed to travel north-east. We were holding a members class meeting at the time in our room. A gentleman who was in bed in the house was rocked to and fro as if in a ship at sea. Longford Sept. 20. A very severe earth tremor was experienced here last night at 8.37, causing the greatest alarm to numbers of the inhabitants, some of whom rushed out of their houses terrified upon realising what was really happening. The tremor was accompanied by a rumbling sound, and was considered by those who felt the full force of it far more severe than that of Sunday, July 13th. Several gentlemen who were quietly reading at the public library at the time at once ran out into the street in alarm. Christ Church bell was sounded twice, and one resident who retired to rest early was rolled out of his bed on to the floor. At the Temperance Hall entertainment the attention of the audience was taken up with refreshments, at the interval, the tremor consequently was not as noticeable in the bustle and excitement as it would otherwise have been; the swinging of the lamps however, for some time gave unmistakable signs of the occurrence. Up to the present I have not heard of any damage being done in this district. A gentleman informs me that a second, but very much less severe tremor was felt here at midnight. Westbury, Sept. 20. The earth tremor of which I have already advised you by wire seems to have been one of the strongest over felt here, and also to have been more generally felt, than any preceding tremor. Many people who up to the time were somewhat sceptical in the matter had all their doubts removed by the violent oscillation of articles of furniture and pictures and other wall hangings, the rattling of glassware, etc. So violent was the shock that children awoke out of sleep, and rushed from their room in alarm. The tremor is variously stated to have lasted from 30 to 60 seconds; the time of the shock given by the majority of the residents seems, however, to be 8.40. The direction of the wave is also a matter on which there is a great difference of opinion. Some persons contend that the course was from S.E. to N.W., while others feel equally sure that the vibrations passed from east to west. The bulk of opinion seems to favour the latter mentioned points. Whatever difference there may be on other points, all agree that the tremor of Friday night was the strongest yet felt here. The weather yesterday was very fine and warm, but to-day rain has fallen at intervals, and seems to have set in for the day. Fine warm weather is very much needed for both corn and grass. PATTERSONIA, Sept. 20. A severe earth tremor was felt here at 8.30 p.m. yesterday, accompanied by a rumbling sound, and causing houses to creak. Cressy, Sept. 19. Cressy was again visited with a very severe shock of earth tremor about 9 o’clock this evening, lasting fully half a minute, shaking the windows with a loud noise, swinging the lamp and rocking the seat I was on distinctly from east to west, with an apparent motion of two or three inches backward and forward. ALBERTON, Sept. 20. Last evening, about forty-five minutes past eight o’clock, we had an earth tremor which caused great excitement here. Many persons rushed outside their houses. Children also jumped out of their beds in terror. The vibration of the earth’s surface was felt fully a minute. A loud rumbling noise accompanied the tremor, and a perfect calm at the time. Another correspondent wires :— An extremely heavy shock of earthquake was experienced last night at a quarter 9. The shock came remarkably suddenly, and instead of being preceded by the usual rumbling, it was on the contrary followed by it for about 90 seconds. Leven, Sept. 21. A pretty severe earth tremor occurred here at about thirty-three minutes past eight on Friday night. The motion was a strong vibration without coming apparently from any direction. Since the disturbance the weather has been very unsettled, with much rain. FiNGAL, Sept. 20. At 23 minutes past eight last night we had the most violent earthquake that has been felt here yet. The trembling lasted fully 80 seconds, and the vibrations were longer than usual. The people were terrified. Avoca, Sept.20. A severe shock of earthquake occurred on Friday night at 8.44. The direction was from west to east. The shock was the most violent that has been felt here. Lower Junction (Goulds Country), Sept. 20. A very severe shock of earthquake occurred here at 8.35 p.m. yesterday, its course being from S.E. to N.W. with a duration of nearly two minutes. WARATAH, Sept. 20. An earth tremor occurred here last evening, about half-past eight o’clock. It appears to have been felt only in portions of the township, and on the east side of the Waratah River where however, it caused considerable sensation. The direction of the wave was evidently east and west, and duration about 20 seconds.
Tasmanian News (Hobart, Tas. : 1883 – 1911), Saturday 20 September 1884, page 3
LAUNCESTON, To-day.
At 8.30 last night a severe earthquake shock was felt. The motion was from north-east to south-west, preceded by a rumbling sound, in duration about thirty seconds. People rushed from their houses into the streets. It was the most severe shock felt since July 13.
Gould’s Country. To-day.
We had the heaviest shock of earth-tremor ever experienced up here, three distinct shocks following each other, at about nine o’clock last evening. Everything in the house was caused to rattle and fall off the shelves, actually. The people ran to the doors, expecting the houses were coming down, as the shock lasted fully a minute.
Australian Town and Country Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1870 – 1919), Saturday 27 September 1884, page 42
KIAMA. September 23.
SUBTERRANEAN DISTURBANCES have never been known to occur so frequently in the district as during the past few months. Between two and three months since a very severe shock of earthquake was felt, especially at Rose Valley, near Gerringong, where several stone and brick buildings were considerably damaged by the upheaval of the ground. Our last experience in this sort of phenomenon was on the evening of Friday last, when a distinct vibration of the earth was felt at Kiama and several places west and south-west of the town. The wave in this instance seemed to pass from north to south.
Launceston Examiner (Tas. : 1842 – 1899), Thursday 25 September 1884, page 4
LATROBE. An earthquake shock was felt very plainly here between half-past eight and nine o’clock on Friday evening last, but the motion was not as severe as a former shock. I believe the motion was in the same direction, however, north-east to south-west.
Tasmanian News (Hobart, Tas. : 1883 – 1911), Wednesday 24 September 1884, page 4
GEORGE’S BAY. September 21.
On Friday evening, about 25 minutes to 9, we experienced the most severe shock of earthquake that has over been felt in this district, in fact, so violent was it that it caused the people in the houses to look up to the ceiling, expecting the house was coming down. The fish in the bay were also alarmed, as they were jumping out of the water, and making a great splashing noise. I was almost forgetting to mention that the local fishermen who were out in a boat at the time of the shock I have already alluded to, report that the water was in such a state of commotion that they were afraid the boat would be capsized.
Launceston Examiner (Tas. : 1842 – 1899), Monday 22 September 1884, page 3
ALBERTON, Sept. 20. Last evening, about forty-five minutes past eight o’clock, we had an earth tremor which caused great excitement here. Many persons rushed outside their houses. Children also jumped out of their beds in terror. The vibration of the earth’s surface was felt fully a minute. A loud rumbling noise accompanied the tremor, and a perfect calm at the time. Another correspondent wires:—An extremely heavy shock of earthquake was experienced last night at a quarter to 9. The shock came remarkably suddenly, and instead of being preceded by the usual rumbling, it was on the contrary, followed by it for about 90 seconds. LEVEN, Sept. 21. A pretty severe earth tremor occurred here at about thirty-three minutes past eight on Friday night. The motion was a strong vibration, without coming apparently from any direction. Since the disturbance the weather has been very unsettled, with much rain. FINGAL, Sept. 20. At 23 minutes past eight last night we had the most violent earthquake that has been felt here yet. The trembling lasted fully 80 seconds, and the vibrations were longer than usual. The people were terrified. AVOCA, Sept. 20. A severe shock of earthquake occurred on Friday night at 8.44. The direction was from west to east. The shock was the most violent that has been felt here. LOWER JUNCTION (Gould’s Country), Sept. 20. A very severe shock of earthquake occurred here at 8.35 p.m. yesterday, its course being from S.E. to N.W., with a duration of nearly two minutes.
Daily Telegraph (Launceston, Tas. : 1883 – 1928), Monday 29 September 1884, page 3
ST. MARY’S.
The earthquake shock noticed in your paper was felt here, and was considered to be the severest one yet. The houses creaked, crockery rattled, and we began to think something serious was going to happen.
Daily Telegraph (Launceston, Tas. : 1883 – 1928), Tuesday 23 September 1884, page 3
BEACONSFIELD.
A smart shock of earthquake was felt about 8.35 on Friday evening. Many people are of opinion that it was quite as severe as the shock felt on 13th July last. The direction appeared to be from N.E. to S.W. Mr Biggs professes, to be anxious for all information bearing on the subjects, therefore it may be of interest for him to know that Friday’s shock was distinctly felt underground. The men in No. 2 tunnel of the Tasmania had just finished ‘ crib,’ and were about to resume work, when many of them noticed the shock. They would be then quite 100 feet below the surface. Several slight shocks are reported to have been felt on Sunday night.
Launceston Examiner (Tas. : 1842 – 1899), Monday 22 September 1884, page 3
THE LATE EARTH TREMOR. The severe earth wave with which we were visited on Friday last seems to have been generally felt throughout the island. So far as we have heard the most serious disturbance occurred at Gould’s Country, our correspondent alleging the duration to have been nearly two minutes. Additional particulars are to hand showing that in town the shock was felt severely by passengers in the streets. Mr. Acres, standing in front of his residence, was thrown to the ground, causing an abrasion. Mr. Waldron, solicitor, who was in the street, felt no motion, but he heard a noise like a number of cars or carriages coming in opposite directions, and saw the shutters of shops moving and heard, windows rattling. Another resident was thrown out of his chair. At the Roman Catholic Church a large piece of plaster fell from the ceiling. In nearly all the poultry yards, the fowls left their roosting places, while sparrows and swallows flew out of their nests. No doubt persons in different parts of the country have had some experience of the various tremors felt in the island lately, and it would be interesting if those resident, more especially on the coast, would record as briefly as possible and forward to the Press any unusual disturbance or wave, at sea, as it would form a valuable link in the elucidation of the causes of the disturbing influences now at work. A police constable informs us that on Friday night while the earth tremor was going on, he felt the West Tamar bridge, upon which he was standing at the time, oscillate violently, while looking below he noticed the river agitated, and the mud in a disturbed condition. Captain Hall, of the s.s. Warrentinna, reports that at 8.35 on Friday evening, when the steamer was lying off theGeorge’s Bay Wharf, a very severe shock of earth tremor was experienced. Captain Hawkes, of the schooner Helena, has also reported that on August 29th, when 150 miles to the east of Cape Barren, a severe, earth tremor shook the vessel. The Mercury, of Saturday, states that a some-what severe tremor, accompanied with a slight rumbling noise, was noticed on Friday evening at about 8.40, the direction being, N.W. to S.E., and there being three distinct shocks in close succession. Buildings were shaken, bells tinkled and windows rattled, and a momentary scare was caused throughout the city, the tremor tremor being equally severe both in high and low levels. In the Mercury office one of the dividing walls was thrown a little out of perpendicular, and a crack in another portion of the building perceptibly widened. Our correspondent states that at Austin’s Ferry the shock and rumbling sound was perceptibly felt, and at the railway station, New Norfolk-road, the doors, windows, and various moveables were noticed shaking very perceptibly.
Our country correspondents forward the following particulars :— MUDDY CREEK (West Tamar), Sept. 20. On Friday, at about 8.30 p.m., we had the most severe shock of earthquake that was ever felt down the West Tamar. It cam on with a very loud rumbling noise, which could be heard coming quite a minute before the shock, and lasted about the same time. The house cracked all over, and was lifted up and down like a railway train going over heavy stones. Rain set in at 12 o’clock, and has continued, with heavy rain, ever since. OAKS, Sept. 20. A very severe tremor was felt here last night at 8.40. It shook the house and windows very severely, and was felt by all in the house, turning some quite ill for the time. The shock lasted fully a minute, and the wave seemed to travel north-east. We were holding a members’ class meeting at the time in our room. A gentleman who was in bed in the house was rocked to and fro as if in a ship at sea. LONGFORD Sept. 20. A very severe earth tremor was experienced here last night at 8.37, causing the greatest alarm to numbers of the in-habitants, some of whom rushed out of their houses terrified upon realising what was really happening. The tremor was accompanied by a rumbling sound, and was considered by those who felt the full force of it far more severe than that of Sunday, July 13th. Several gentlemen who were quietly reading at the public library at the time at once ran out into the street in alarm. Christ Church, bell was sounded twice, and one resident who retired to rest early was rolled out of his bed on to the floor. At the Temperance Hall entertainment the attention of the audience was taken up with refreshments, at the interval, the tremor consequently was not as noticeable in the bustle and excitement as it would otherwise have been; the swinging of the lamps, however, for some time gave unmistakable signs of the occurrence. Up to the present I have not heard of any damage being done in this district. A gentleman informs me that a second, but very much less severe, tremor was felt here at midnight. WESTBURY, Sept. 20. The earth tremor of which I have already advised you by wire seems to have been one of the strongest ever felt here, and also to have been more generally felt than any preceding tremor. Many people who up to the time were somewhat sceptical in the matter had all their doubts removed by the violent oscillation of articles of furniture and pictures and other wall hangings, the rattling of glassware, etc. So violent was the shock that children awoke out of sleep, and rushed from their room in alarm. The tremor is variously stated to have lasted from 30 to 60 seconds; the time of the shock given by the majority of the residents seems, however, to be 8.40. The direction of the wave is also a matter on which there is a great difference of opinion. Some persons contend that the course was from S.E. to N.W., while others feel equally sure that the vibrations passed from east to west. The bulk of opinion seems to favour the latter mentioned points. Whatever difference there may be on other points, all agree that the tremor of Friday night was the strongest yet felt here. The weather yesterday was very fine and warm, but to-day rain has fallen at intervals, and seems to have set in for the day. Fine warm weather is very much needed for both corn and grass. PATTERSONIA, Sept. 20. A severe earth tremor was felt here at 8.30 p.m. yesterday, accompanied by a rumbling sound, and causing houses to creak. CRESSY, Sept. 19. Cressy was again visited with a very severe shock of earth tremor about 9 o’clock this evening, lasting fully half a minute, shaking the windows with a loud noise, swinging the lamp and rocking the seat I was on distinctly from east to west, with an apparent motion of two or three inches backward and forward.
Daily Telegraph (Launceston, Tas. : 1883 – 1928), Monday 22 September 1884, page 3
CAMPBELLTOWN.
The earth tremor at 8.38 last night was very severe here. It was felt all over the town ; ladies in different places were alarmed and ran outside, fearing that the houses would fall. At one place some sparrows were roosting in a bush growing beside a building, and were shaken or frightened out.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Saturday 4 October 1884, page 5
MR. ELLERY’S ADDRESS TO THE ROYAL SOCIETY.
EARTHQUAKES AND EARTH TREMORS IN TASMANIA
The remarkable prevalence of earthquakes and earth tremors in Tasmania, Bass’s Straits and the S.E. portion of Australia during the last 12 or 15 months afford a subject of considerable scientific interest. Fortunately none of the disturbances so far, have been of sufficient intensity to do much damage, although a few and notably one of July 13, were sufficiently severe to cause considerable alarm. The tremors and shakes have been experienced chiefly in the N.E. districts but to some extent generally over Tasmania since July 1883. It was not until February 1884 that they were noticed on this side of the Straits when a severe shake was felt by the lighthouse people on Gabo Island. Since this date, however no less than 12 shocks of small or moderate intensity have been reported from this and other places in Gipps Land, the last occurring on the evening ot the 19th of this month when the tremor was sufficiently intense to cause the lighthouse at Gabo to tremble and things on the tables to dance about. This shake was also felt at Port Albert, Wilsons Promontory (where it “shook windows and furniture violently”), Cape Schanck, Omeo and other localities in Gipps Land. The vibration lasted over a minute and a half and appeared to have a direction from S. to N. There are one or two remarkable facts noticed in Tasmania in connexion with these seismic disturbances. The first is the tremulous character of most of them producing a sensation of a distinct tremor of the earth’s surface, frequently continuous for a considerable period—in some cases for hours and very frequently for over an hour. Many observers state as their experience that the tremors appeared to be on the surface and not extending to deeper strata. This is somewhat supported by reports I have received from Mr. Grant, mining manager at Branxholme on the Ringarooma River, North-east Tasmania who has kindly furnished me with his observations of over 100 earthquakes and tremors which have been experienced in his locality since January of this year. This gentleman called my attention a year ago to the fact that most of the tremors and rumblings while startlingly manifest on the surface were not noticed 12ft. or more below it, except sometimes in the open timbered shaft of the mines. Even in deep cuttings they were often unnoticeable. Another remarkable point is that in some of the stronger tremors while ferns and low bushes were seen to tremble and wave about rapidly no movement whatever was noticed in taller trees. When it is low water in the Tamar at Launceston a long range of mud flats are seen from the town extending some distance down the river, and on one occasion during a strong tremor the surface of these flats was seen to be agitated as by a series of very short waves passing over it. I extract the following from notes furnished me by Mr. Grant : —July 25. — Bar., 30.05. Fine and clear. 4.40 a.m. a shock , and 10.34 a.m. a moderate shock This shock caused a peculiar vibration of small ferns and under-scrub. They commenced to tremble quickly at first but increasing in intensity till the maximum of the shock when the vibration died away as the wave passed over. It did not appear to affect the large trees or moderate-sized saplings, only the herbage close to the ground. This was the first time I observed the phenomena. Again on August 11 at 2.41 p.m. during a slight shock preceded by a loud rumbling, no vibration of the ground was felt but the smaller or ground herbage was seen to tremble the motion proceeding from N.E. to S.W. the loftier scrub and trees showed no motion. Another gentleman who is strongly of opinion these disturbances are superficial and not subterranean states that he has spent much of his time below ground during the last 12 months at Mount Victoria (North-east Tasmania) but during all the tremors and earthquakes he never felt the slightest indication of a tremor under the surface. He has heard the rumbling noise near the surface in the shaft, but felt no vibration. He says that his companions on the surface have frequently hailed him to tell him an earthquake was passing, but failed on every occasion to discover any vibration or tremor underground although sufficiently near the surface to hear the rumbling noises. Commander Shortt, of Hobart informs me that the ship Helena felt the shock of July 13, 150 miles to the eastward of Cape Barren Island, and that the water around her appeared convulsed. He collected observations of July 13, and of the severer shakes since, make it pretty certain the direction of the seismic waves have been always from N.N.E. to S.W. in Tasmania, and from S. to N. on the Australian coast. This seems as if the waves radiated from a centre either in or about Bank’s Straits or from some point at sea to the eastward of these places, and very probably about the locality the Helena felt the shock. I regret I have got no intelligence from the islands yet concerning the disturbances for any precise observation from there would greatly help in giving a locus for the seismic centre. The evidence available however strongly supports the foregoing assumption. While there is ample evidence of extensive old volcanic action in the Australian group, we have always regarded these regions (of course including Tasmania) as far removed from any centres or line of seismic activity and during my 33 or 34 years’ experience in this country, earthquake shocks have been of considerable rarity, and always of very small intensity. These repeated and continued tremblings, therefore, constitute a new order of things, and a problem for the geologist and physicist, but let us hope they will not become sufficiently severe to present a problem also to the architect, as they do in Japan.
Tasmanian (Launceston, Tas. : 1881 – 1895), Saturday 27 September 1884, page 23
Nook Notes.— Our Nook correspondent states the earth tremor of Friday evening last was distinctly felt at the Nook, and must have been rather a curiosity, as it is only the second or third experienced there.
Daily Telegraph (Launceston, Tas. : 1883 – 1928), Tuesday 28 October 1884, page 2
Earth Tremors in the Straits. — The earth tremors which of late have been very prevalent among the Straits Islands, have now somewhat subsided. The continual shocks are not so frequent, but when a shock comes it is more severe than formerly. Some of the inhabitants state that they frequently hear a rumbling noise coming from beneath the earth, like that which strong wind makes amongst the telegraph wires.
1885 01 09 at 17:15 UTC, Port Phillip Bay
Albury Banner and Wodonga Express (NSW : 1860 – 1938), Friday 16 January 1885, page 19
EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS IN VICTORIA.
A shock of earthquake, which appeared to be travelling in an easterly direction, was experienced by a number of persons in Melbourne at about a quarter-past 3 o’clock on Saturday morning. Residents of South Melbourne and Albert-park who felt it described it as being very slight, but the windows rattled considerably in their sashes. Mr. Ellery, the Government astronomer, who is confined through illness to his bed, was awake at the time mentioned, when he heard a noise and felt a vibration similar to that caused by a vehicle passing by his house. In East Melbourne, South Yarra, and Toorak people state that they experienced a similar sensation to that caused by vibration of a screw propeller on board ship, and their windows rattled very loudly.
At Dandenong the shock was felt about 3 a.m., travelling south-eastward, and accompanied by a loud rumbling noise like thunder. Nearly all the people were awakened from their sleep by the disturbance, and the crockery in many of the houses rattled, whilst in one or two instances pieces of plaster fell from the ceilings. It has also been stated that the shock was felt at Cape Schanck, but to what degree is not mentioned.
Armidale Express and New England General Advertiser (NSW : 1856 – 1861; 1863 – 1889; 1891 – 1954), Tuesday 13 January 1885, page 2
Melbourne, Monday.
Earthquake.—A severe shock of earthquake was felt on Saturday morning at Dandenong. People were awakened out of their sleep, crockery was made to rattle, and the bells at Toorak, South Yarra, were set ringing by the shock.
Figure 17 Dandenong earthquake, felt reports from Melbourne to Cape Schanck, 01 September 1885.
Tasmanian News Wednesday 13 May 1885, Page 3.
THE EARTHQUAKE IN THE NORTH.
St. MARY’S, To-day.
Several slight earth tremors were felt here this morning between 12 o’clock and daylight, which were a prelude to the most severe shock that has been known in the district.
The Argus Thursday 14 May 1885, Page 6 and Friday 15 May 1885, Page 6.
THE SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.
We have received the following additional information regarding the shock of earthquake which was experienced on Wednesday morning in the neighbourhood of Melbourne, throughout a number of the country districts of Victoria, and in Tasmania :—
The lighthousekeeper at Wilson’s Promontory reports as follows :—”A most violent shock of earthquake occurred here at 27 minutes past 9 a.m., on Wednesday, 13th May, lasting 45 seconds. The lighthouse men and I were engaged in cleaning the reflectors, and we thought that the lighthouse was coming down, for it swayed to and fro. All the quarters were shaken in like manner. The shock seemed to come from the south-east.”
A correspondent telegraphs from Beechworth, stating that he noticed the earthquake distinctly on Wednesday at half-past 9 a.m.
ALBURY, THURSDAY.
A shock of earthquake was felt here at five minutes to 10 o’clock yesterday morning. It was of a rocking character, and lasted for nearly half a minute.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE ARGUS.
Sir,—This morning at 20 minutes to 10 o’clock we felt a severe shock of earthquake, which lasted 40 seconds. It seemed to travel from W. to E., the air quite calm, sky grey and cloudy. The walls of our wooden house creaked and trembled, window frames shook violently. There were two distinct upheavals. Several of us rushed outside, fearing the worst consequences. Curtains swayed, iron bedsteads rocked, and there was a general feeling of alarm and insecurity. This is the third (and most severe) earth-tremor we have felt during a residence of eight years in this neighbourhood.—I am., &c, X,Y,Z.
Warragul, May 13.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE ARGUS.
Sir,—As I imagined that the columns of this morning’s paper would be teeming with the experiences of the various inhabitants of Melbourne and suburbs on the above subject, I did not deem it necessary to add my effusion to the rest, but as I found, much to my astonishment, on taking up the Argus of this morning that only one instance had been recorded of the shock having been felt here, and that only in a suburb, I felt it almost incumbent on me to relate what I experienced on Wednesday morning. I live at the Collingwood end of Victoria parade, and as far as I can conjecture at about half-past 9—for I had not a timepiece at hand—I was seated by a window of the upper story of our house, when the chair and myself suddenly began to sway gently from side to side. This lasted for about four or five seconds A table at my right hand also moved with sufficient force to agitate a mirror standing upon it. Had the weather been boisterous at the time or had there been a disturbance of any kind produced by the traffic in the street, I might have attributed this otherwise unaccountable commotion to natural causes but without, everything was calm, indeed unusually so. That, said I to a member of my family in the room at the time is an earthquake, for I had already had a similar unpleasant experience when visiting Tasmania about a year ago, and my first impression upon feeling this was that a terrible visitation had fallen on that tight little island, and this was but the reverberation of the terrific shock there. We both glanced at the chandelier. That also was swaying gently from side to side, proof positive in our minds of the genuineness of our unpleasant visitor.—
I am,
A RESIDENT OF VICTORIA PARADE.
May 14.
Gippsland Mercury (Sale, Vic. : 1871 – 1894; 1914 – 1918), Thursday 21 May 1885, page 3
YARRAM YARRAM.
May 18.
Though telegraphed briefly, I think the presence of an earthquake, or more properly speaking an earth tremor, of sufficient importance to justify a few remarks. The disturbance was felt at 9.30 a.m. on Wednesday morning last, and was of that undulatory character, which is seldom attended with serious results. This luckily formed no exception to the general rule. The duration from its first approach to the last perceptible motion was exactly one minute. Its effect has been differently described. In the shops where pendant goods are exhibited, these partook of a swinging continued necessarily after the last vibration had been felt. In the fields, I hear of workmen being precipitated forwards, and, in not a few instances, of an attendant nausea. In the forest, giant trees were seen to rock as though shivering from the root. In the home, china and furniture moved in many instances. At Devon, similar experiences were realised. On all hands, except at Port Albert, the duration of movement is universally agreed upon as one minute. An isoseismal map was drawn by Michael-Leiba (1989).
1885 07 02 at ~14:05 UTC, Bass Strait earthquake
This earthquake was the final spur for Ellery, Government Astronomer, who felt the earthquake, to push for the installation of a Milne seismograph at Melbourne Observatory.
The Australasian Saturday 4 July 1885, P 28.
THE EARTHQUAKE
The shock of earthquake which occurred in Melbourne yesterday morning, and to which reference was made in The Argus of yesterday, appears to have been more severely felt in the suburbs than it was in the city.
At 2 o’clock the wind fell to almost a calm, and at five minutes past that hour the tremor was felt. It seemed to travel in a northerly direction, and lasted for about eight or nine seconds. Its duration, however, was longer in some localities than in others. At Cape Schanck, for instance, the lighthouse-keepers declare that the shock lasted for about a minute and a half, while on the other hand, their compeers at Queenscliff assert that the time of its duration was about four seconds. In Melbourne a similar variation occurred according to the statements of various persons. The telegraph operators at work at the General Post-office felt the tremor for about five seconds, while a number of people in the different suburbs, and particularly those south of the Yarra, stated that its duration was from 30 to 45 seconds. The shock was different from that which occurred a few weeks ago, which was of a gentle swaying or rocking motion, while on this occasion it partook of a severe shaking to and fro form, and was, like its recent predecessor, accompanied by a rumbling noise not unlike distant thunder. It awoke many persons from their slumbers, and those who had not previously experienced a similar shock, wondered for some moments what was the matter, and even those who had felt earth tremors before were considerably startled. Windows, crockeryware, and chandeliers rattled, while pictures hanging on walls could be heard swaying to and fro. Unfortunately there is no instrument at the Observatory to record the violence of the shock, or its length, but Mr. Ellery intends taking steps to procure one without delay. A general opinion, however prevails, that the tremor was the severest that has been felt in the colony for many years.
Figure 18 Felt area of the 2 July 1885 earthquake with spot intensities. The centre of the ellipse is southwest of Wilson’s Promontory near (-39.5, 146.0) in Bass Strait.
The Age reports that the shock was felt in Melbourne suburbs Richmond, Somerville, Ascot Vale, Eltham and Mornington.
Seymour Express and Goulburn Valley, Avenel, Graytown, Nagambie, Tallarook and Yea Advertiser (Vic. : 1882 – 1891; 1914 – 1918), Friday 10 July 1885, page 2
A very severe shock of earthquake was felt in Seymour at a little after 2 o’clock on Friday morning. Several persons in the town were suddenly awakened by the oscillation of their beds, and the rattling of the windows, but fortunately no harm appears to have been done.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Saturday 4 July 1885, page 10
THE EARTHQUAKE.
The shock of earthquake which occurred in Melbourne yesterday morning, and to which reference was made in The Argus of yesterday, appears to have been more severely felt in the suburbs than it was in the city.
At 2 o’clock the wind fell almost to a calm, and at five minutes past that hour the tremor was distinctly felt in this office. It seemed to travel in a northerly direction, and lasted for about eight or nine seconds. Its duration, however, was longer in some localities than in others. At Cape Schanck, for instance, the lighthouse-keepers declare that the shock lasted for about a minute and a half, while, on the other hand, those at Queenscliff assert that the time of its duration was about four seconds. In Melbourne a similar variation occurred according to the statements of various per-sons. The telegraph operators at work at the General Post-office felt the tremor for about five seconds, while a number of people in the different suburbs, and particularly those south of the Yarra, state that its duration was from 30 to 45 seconds. The shock was different from that which occurred a few weeks ago, which was of a gentle swaying or rocking motion. On this occasion it was of the character of a severe shaking to and fro, and was, like its recent predecessor, accompanied by a rumbling noise not unlike distant thunder. It awoke many persons from their slumbers, and those who had not previously experienced a similar shock, wondered for some moments what was the matter, and even those who had felt earth tremors before were considerably startled. Houses were shaken, and windows, crockeryware, and chandeliers rattled, while pictures hanging on walls swayed from side to side. Unfortunately there is no instrument at the Observatory to record the violence of the shock, or its length, but Mr. Ellery intends taking steps to procure one without delay. A general opinion, however, prevails, that the tremor was the severest that has been felt in the colony for many years. The shock was followed by another one a few moments afterwards, but it was of such a faint character that it was scarcely felt. The earthquake appears to have been confined to the southern portion of the colony, and principally to those places bordering on Bass’s Straits and Port Phillip Bay.
Subjoined are the telegrams received from our correspondents :—
COWES, FRIDAY.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here at 10 minutes past 2 this morning.
FLINDERS, FRIDAY.
The most severe shock of earthquake ever experienced in this locality occurred soon after 2 o’clock this morning. The vibration lasted fully 30 seconds, and was accompanied by a loud rumbling noise. A number of the residents were awakened from their sleep, and were much alarmed by the rocking and swaying sensation. A second tremor followed about a quarter of an hour afterwards, but was much fainter. Similar reports have come in from Shoreham and Balnarring.
KANGAROO GROUNDS, FRIDAY.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here this morning shortly after 2 o’clock.
MORNINGTON, FRIDAY.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here about 2 o’clock this morning, passing from the south-west to the north-east, causing considerable alarm to those persons who were awakened by it. The dwelling of a resident, which was a weatherboard structure, was violently shaken, every joint in the building creaking and threatening a collapse, the motion lasting from 10 to 15 seconds’ being preceded by a rumbling noise somewhat resembling the discharge of a large piece of ordnance at a distance. Then a calm ensued for a few moments, which was followed by another shock very similar to the one felt here some months ago. A cold S. W. wind was blowing at the time.
QUEENSCLIFF, FRIDAY.
The assistant lighthouse-keepers report a slight shock of earthquake passing through Queenscliff about three minutes past 2 o’clock this morning, apparently travelling from east to west. The men state that they heard the noise and saw the glasswork and other move-able articles inside of the lanterns shaking, and felt the vibration of the towers for about four seconds.
Our Eltham correspondent writes :—” A slight but very imperceptible earth-tremor was experienced here at about five minutes past 2 a.m. this morning. The direction seemed to be north-westerly, and the duration about 15 seconds.”
A correspondent at Shoreham writes that ” a very distinct shock of earthquake was felt here at a few minutes past 2 o’clock this morning. It commenced by a very perceptible rocking motion, sufficient to give a feeling of uneasiness to those who felt it, and lasted about five seconds. This tremor was followed by a sharp vibration, resembling that caused by the passing of a heavy goods train, and continued for 30 seconds.”
The earthquake shock which occurred early on Friday morning was felt very distinctly at Lilydale. Our correspondent, who was awakened by the vibration, felt the bed rocking like a cradle, and heard everything in the house rattling. On striking a light the time was found to be five minutes past 2. The wave seemed to travel in a south-west to north-east direction.
The Minister of Trade and Customs received the following telegrams yesterday :—
“Shortland’s Bluff Lighthouse, Queenscliff, Friday.
” A shock of an earthquake was felt here at three minutes past 2 this morning, lasting about four seconds, and passing from east to west, causing both lighthouse towers to vibrate to some extent.
“W. CORDELL, Lighthouse-keeper.” ” Cape Schanck Lighthouse, Friday.”
” At 2.10 a.m. this morning, felt severe shock of an earthquake lasting about 1m. 30s. During the shocks, there was a report like that of a gun. Everything in the lighthouse and quarters shook considerably.
“WM. MARTIN, Lighthouse-keeper.”
TO THE EDITOR OF THE ARGUS.
Sir,—The shock of earthquake reported in The Argus of to-day—the first I have ever consciously felt—appeared to me to be of a rather well-marked character. Though usually a somewhat sound sleeper, I awoke hearing the windows rattling, and feeling a sensation that is, perhaps, best described as a quaking of the whole house. The vibration continued for what seemed about a minute, then ceased, not gradually as in the case of a passing vehicle, but rather suddenly. At the same time I heard a door open, and afterwards gently close, though no one was about. My attention seemed specially attracted towards the S.W., whether a window there was making more noise or not. After waiting for what appeared to be one or two minutes for further manifestations, I observed the time by the Post-office clock to be 8 minutes past 2 a.m. The atmosphere was perfectly still, and the sky lightly overcast.—Yours, &c., T.B.
July 3.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE ARGUS.
Sir,—A shock of earthquake, lasting several seconds, was felt in this neighbourhood (corner Victoria-parade and Smith-street) at about 2 o’clock this morning. The shock was sufficient to awake myself and other inmates in the house, and I felt the shaking or quivering sensation lasting some moments afterwards. There was also a peculiar noise accompanying it.—I am, &c.,
Derby-street, July 3. A RESIDENT.
Daily Telegraph (Launceston, Tas. : 1883 – 1928), Saturday 4 July 1885, page 2
We learn by telegrams from Melbourne that about 2.45 yesterday morning an earthquake shock was felt there, and also generally throughout the colony of Victoria. About the same time the shock was felt in Launceston, and it was rather prolonged, but not severe. At that hour in the morning it was not likely to be noticed by many persons, as the majority were probably asleep.
The general opinion that the earthquake shaking was the most severe for many years is borne out by the magnitude of 5.7, computed from the felt area.
1885 10 07 at 23:36 UTC, Bright
The Argus Friday 9 October 1885, Page 6.
EARTHQUAKE IN THE NORTH-EASTERN DISTRICT.
A shock of earthquake was very distinctly felt yesterday morning in many parts of the North-Eastern district of Victoria and one or two localities in New South Wales, bordering on the Murray. It is reported to have been experienced at the various places between half past 9 and 10, and in one or two localities the shock occasioned some damage. Several official reports with regard to it were forwarded to the Melbourne Observatory. A telegram from Bright stated that a sharp shock occurred there at 36 minutes put 9 travelling from south-west. The vibration, which caused several slates to fall from the roof of the state school, lasted about one minute. At Omeo the tremor was felt at a minute later than at Bright, and is stated to have lasted nearly a minute. In the Beechworth district a distinct shock was experienced at 20 minutes to 10, lasting about 20 seconds.
The following reports have been received from our correspondents:— ALBURY, Thursday.
A shock of earthquake was felt here at 10 o’clock this morning.
BEECHWORTH, Thursday.
A distinct shock of earthquake, accompanied by a loud rumbling noise like distant thunder, was felt here to day, and caused some excitement. The wave passed from east to west, and the duration of it was about 20sec.
BRIGHT, Thursday.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here at 20 minutes to 10 o’clock this morning. The vibration lasted for upwards of half a minute.
TALLANGATTA, Thursday.
A shock of earthquake was distinctly felt at 35 minutes past 9 this morning. The duration of the rumbling was 20 seconds, and the course from N.N.E. to S.S.E.
Figure 19 This earthquake caused minor damage at Bright on 7 October 1885 at 23:36. It was reported felt from Albury to Omeo and also at unnamed places in NSW on the Murray.
Ovens and Murray Advertiser (Beechworth, Vic. : 1855 – 1955), Saturday 10 October 1885, page 4
SEVERE SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.
This district was on Thursday morning visited by a very severe shock of earthquake, about twenty minutes to ten o’clock, preceded by one of lesser violence some three hours previous. In Beechworth the shocks were most distinctly felt, and the one at the later hour created some little alarm — houses being shaken to their foundations, causing the windows to rattle and articles of furniture to vibrate most perceptibly. No damage was, however done. The occurrence appears to have been confined to the North-Eastern District, and not to have extended to Melbourne or its vicinity. From reports to hand, we learn that at Bright a sharp shock occurred at 36 minutes past 9 o’clock, travelling from the south-west, and the vibration caused several slates to fall from the roof of the State-school ; at Wandiligong, at Waterloo, near Myrtleford, and at Everton and the Three Mile, the shock was distinctly felt, as also at Tallangatta and other places in that district. At Omeo the tremor was felt at a minute later than at Bright, and is stated to have lasted nearly a minute. Our Yackandandah correspondent writes:— On Thursday morning, at about half-past nine, a shock of an earthquake was felt in the township. I was sitting in the shire office when it happened, and the windows of the secretary’s office shook. In other houses in the town crockery rattled on the shelves. Mr Harry Anderson, of Stanley, writing to us on Thursday, states:— ” About 10 o’clock this morning a very distinct and severe shock of earthquake was felt at Mr Simpson’s saw mills, Back Creek, Stanley. The vibration lasted for about a minute, and completely alarmed the people around here. The blacksmith at the forge at the mills describes it as something more than he has ever felt from a mere shock before. On arriving at the township, I found that the same had been felt there, and at Mr George Egan’s store the window gave a distinct, loud rattle and the sewing-machine on the floor gave a sign of oscillation. It is a matter of great speculation as to whether it would be felt in the neighboring towns, as many of the incredulous ones who were not in a position to feel it themselves are doubtful as to the phenomenon. But it rests clear to the minds of many, with myself, that a severe shock was experienced by us, a repetition of which would be very unwelcome to our peaceful mountain homes.”
Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 – 1954), Saturday 10 October 1885, page 12
EARTHQUAKE IN WANDILIGONG.
WANDILIGONG, Thursday.
A most severe shock of earthquake was felt in Wandiligong and Bright to-day. The shock was accompanied by a loud rumbling noise. It occurred about 9.36 a.m., lasting for a considerable time. The earthquake was apparently travelling in a south-westerly direction, and one gentleman states that he distinctly felt the tremor of the earth. In the largest and strongest buildings the doors and windows were considerably shaken, although no damage is at present reported.
Sydney Mail and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1871 – 1912), Saturday 17 October 1885, page 826
Albury. October 11.
The district was visited by a severe shock of earthquake on Thursday at about 9.30 a.m., preceded by a shock of less severity between 6 and 7 a.m. The shock was distinctly felt in town, and reports to hand show that it was also felt in many other parts of the district, causing in some places very severe vibration indeed for the space of about 55 seconds. So far no actual damage is reported, but houses are said to have been shaken considerably.
Despite new information, the location and magnitude are unchanged.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Wednesday 14 October 1885, page 5
THE ANSER ROCK.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE ARGUS.
Sir,—In connexion with the loss of the Gulf of Carpentaria, and the opinion advanced that the Anser rock has been uplifted by earthquake disturbances, I have been requested by Mr Ross, who is at present residing at Grantville, to state that he is well acquainted with this rock, having often seen it while sealing in that locality nine or ten years ago. He says that, although the weather might be calm, the sea broke over it, revealing its position. Ross at that time was in company with a Mr M’Leod, since master of the Trusty, a small craft engaged some few years ago in the Westernport trade. M’Leod promised to send a report to Melbourne, but Mr Ross does not know whether he did so or not.— Yours, &c.,
MARINER.
Grantville, Oct 10.
Ed. – The iron screw steamer Gulf of Carpentaria sank after striking an uncharted rock off Wilsons Promontory. …. the Gulf of Carpentaria steamed east through the as yet, incompletely charted and rock strewn waters of Bass Strait. While sailing ships and steamers had travelled through the same narrow passage between Wilsons Promontory and Anser Island intensively for the last thirty years, somehow all of them had managed to avoid the pinnacle of rock that lay in the middle of the main west-bound shipping channel, until this day when the Gulf of Carpentaria was to become its unwitting discoverer.
1886 06 10 at 22:30 UTC, Glenluce
Globe Thursday 17 June 1886, Page 3.
EARTHQUAKES IN VICTORIA, MELBOURNE, This Day. A resident of Glenluce township, near Castlemaine, Victoria, states that he felt a distinct shock of earthquake last Friday morning about half-past 8, accompanied by a loud report, and followed by a subterranean rumbling which lasted 16 or 18 seconds. Similar phenomena was noticed at Green Gully, near Mount Franklyn which is supposed to be an extinct volcano.
1886 07 03 at 15:00 UTC, SE Ballan – Unlikely an earthquake
The Argus Tuesday 6 July 1886, Page 6.
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE AT BALLAN.
BALLAN, MONDAY.
An unmistakable shock of earthquake was felt at the Yaloakvale station, about eight miles south-east of Ballan, on Sunday morning, at 1 o’clock. The assistant overseer, Mr. Wilson, was awakened by the rattling of the doors and windows, and the falling of articles about the room. He lit a candle, and so ascertained the exact hour. The shock, he says, lasted fully three minutes, and was accompanied by a loud rumbling noise, which died away as the shaking ceased. Mr. Wilson has had some experience of earthquakes in Tasmania, and is quite confident as to the nature of the disturbance on Sunday morning. The other inmates of the home station were greatly alarmed.
Bacchus Marsh Express (Vic. : 1866 – 1943), Saturday 24 July 1886, page 3
I am afraid the boy and double barrelled gun version of the reported earthquake at Yaloak Vale is too clumsy, and it certainly does no credit to its author’s powers of invention. It is open, of course, to anyone to doubt whether an earthquake really occurred, and I believe many persons do doubt it, but the above way of accounting for it is too ” thin” altogether, even for the doubters, except the very credulous ones. The matter is now a question of veracity as between Mr. Wilson, of Yaloak Vale, and your informant (who might just as well have given his name, for it is pretty well known), and I don’t think the latter will find many persons prepared to believe in his silly yarn.
1887 08 16 at 01:05 UTC, Walhalla
The McIvor Times and Rodney Advertiser Friday 19 August 1887, Page 2.
EARTHQUAKE IN VICTORIA.—A telegram from Woods’ Point, under date Tuesday, in Wednesday’s Telegraph, states that the shock of an earthquake was felt there shortly after 11 that (Tuesday) morning. It seemed like two waves following in quick succession, and lasting for several seconds, travelling from east to west.
Gippsland Farmers’ Journal and Traralgon, Heyfield and Rosedale News (Vic. : 1887 – 1893), Friday 26 August 1887, page 3
COWWAR.
WE HAD two shocks of EARTHQUAKE here on Tuesday, 16th inst, and another on Friday evening last. “The sensations experienced in the district were varied ; in some places the windows rattled and shook, but the general experience was that of a loud rumbling sound, not unlike distant thunder.
1887 08 19 at 12:00 and 14:57 UTC, Walhalla
Geelong Advertiser (Vic. : 1859 – 1929), Wednesday 31 August 1887, page 4
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE AT WALHALLA.
A second shock of earthquake was (says the Walhalla Chronicle of August 26th) felt distinctly in Walhalla about 10 o’clock on Friday night last, and was accompanied by a much louder noise than the preceding one on Tuesday. A third shock of a less alarming character also occurred early on Saturday morning, and was felt by a number of persons residing in different portions of the township. Mr Holloway, of the Empire Hotel, states that the shock was a sudden one, not unlike an explosion, and caused the toiletware in his bedroom to rattle, continuing for about two seconds. He noticed the hour, which was three minutes to 1 o’clock. For some time past rumors hare been freely circulated that strange rumbling noises have been heard, as if coming direct from Mount Baw Baw, and several residents in the farming district of Upper Moondarra, whose veracity we have no reason to doubt, distinctly confirm these reports, which are also substantiated by the experience of Mr Wm. Cromb, who has been prospecting in the locality of the mount. The noises are very frequent, and are described as sharp reports, not unlike the roar of a cannon, followed by a deep rumbling, which is distinctly felt.
Gippsland Farmers’ Journal and Traralgon, Heyfield and Rosedale News (Vic. : 1887 – 1893), Friday 26 August 1887, page 3
GLENMAGGIE.
THE EARTHQUAKE …. being felt at Wood’s Point Tuesday was also felt here. On Friday night, at about 10 o’clock there was a more distinct shock passing from east to west— the opposite direction to the former one. The shock was strong enough to rattle windows, the ground quivered for several seconds. These are unpleasant phenomena, and cause apprehension to some.
1887 10 28 at 23:51 UTC, Sandhurst/Bendigo – mine related
Bendigo Advertiser.Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Saturday 29 October 1887, page 10
THE EARTHQUAKE SHOCK AT SANDHURST.
SANDHURST. Friday.
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt here this morning. The reports to hand show that the shock appeared to travel from south to north, from Diamond Hill and through Kangaroo Flat, Golden-square, then through the west portion of the city, Hong Gully, California Gully, and through the busiest mining portion of Eaglehawk right out into the Whipstick scrub. Travellers along the line of the earthquake were puzzled to account for the rocking motion of their vehicles, which swayed about considerably. But the shock appears to have been most violently felt underground in the mines at Eaglehawk. In several mines, including the St. Mungo, Sadows, Lady Burkly, Ellenborough and Balmont, the effect was startling. Great alarm was felt by the miners when a deep rumbling sound, like an immense fall of earth, was heard. The miners rushed from their own into the adjoining mines, fearing that a great accident had happened. No damage by the earth tremor is reported.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Saturday 29 October 1887, page 12
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK IN THE SANDHURST DISTRICT.
SANDHURST, Friday.
A shock of earthquake was felt throughout the Sandhurst district at 10 o’clock this morning. The course of the current seemed to be from the south to the north and from Diamond Hill to Sydney Flat, a distance of ten miles. The disturbance was felt in several mines, notably the St. Mungo and Sadows. The miners felt the shock and ran through the underground workings to the adjoining mines, thinking that there had been a heavy fall of earth. No damage is reported
INGLEWOOD, Friday
At about nine minutes to 10 this morning a distinct earthquake shock, though only momentary, was experienced here, and also at Salisbury West, 10 miles to the eastwards. By many persons it was thought that there was nothing more than a sudden and very heavy clap of thunder, while others thought that a fall of earth had occurred. Inquiries, however, proved that in many instances a distinct shock had been noticed. Houses shook and dishes rattled.
Leader (Melbourne, Vic. : 1862 – 1918, 1935), Saturday 5 November 1887, page 31
Several mining accidents have occurred at Sandhurst lately, of which only one was fatal. This accident was to a miner named John Ponglase, who was buried by a fall of earth in an open cutting at the Great Central Victoria mine. The unfortunate minor was quickly extricated, but died two hours after being taken to the Bendigo Hospital.
Ed. What, if any, is the connection between the mining accidents, the death of a miner, and the Sandhurst ‘earthquake’ within the previous few days.
Victoria’s first attempt at a locally built seismograph
Traralgon Record (Traralgon, Vic. : 1886 – 1932), Friday 3 February 1888, page 3
A very ingenious contrivance to announce the occurrence of an earthquake has been invented and constructed by M. Grasset, watchmaker, Warragul. It consists of an ordinary alarm bell, to which a very sensitive wire and weight are attached; the least vibration causing the bell to ring. It is M. Grasset’s intention to attach a clock which will stop when the alarm rings, and thus tell the exact hour at which the shock occurred.
1888 02 13 at 17:00 UTC, Pucka-widgee NSW
Riverine Herald (Echuca, Vic. : Moama, NSW : 1869 – 1954; 1998 – 2002), Friday 17 February 1888, page 4
Shock of Earthquake at Puckawidgee.—On Tuesday last, about 3 a.m., what appeared to be a slight shock of earthquake was felt at Puckawidgee home station. Some of the inmates, (says the Deniliquin Chronicle) who happened to be awake, heard a loud rumbling noise apparently proceeding from north to south, accompanied by a tremulous movement and vibration of all the windows and doors. This lasted from fifteen to twenty seconds, and the weather was quite calm at the time. What confirms the supposition is the fact that several panes of window glass were found after daylight to be newly broken. It will be of interest to hear if it has been felt elsewhere.
1888 09 11 at 16:00 UTC, Balmoral
Portland Guardian (Vic. : 1876 – 1953), Monday 17 September 1888, page 2
AN EARTHQUAKE SHOCK AT BALMORAL. —A smart shock of earthquake was experienced at Balmoral on Tuesday morning, about two o’clock, which lasted about a minute. It came with a lifting rumbling motion, and appeared to travel in a south-easterly direction. Most of the residents in the township were awakened by the unwonted sensation, many being rather scared.
1888 10 27 at 07:10 UTC, Balmoral
Hamilton Spectator (Vic. : 1870 – 1918), Thursday 1 November 1888, page 2
Earthquake at Balmoral. — Our Balmoral correspondent writes: — ” Last Sunday afternoon a smart shock of earthquake was experienced here. The shock occurred about ten minutes past five o’clock, and lasted for about half a minute. It caused the buildings to perceptibly sway and the windows and doors to rattle. It travelled in a north-westerly direction, and was accompanied by a low, rumbling sound. The shock was plainly felt at Bil-Bil-Wyt, about twelve miles (Ed. direction SSE) from here, and in view of that any doubt that may have existed in the minds of our residents that what had occurred was really an earthquake will be removed. I have not heard that any damage was done.” [Bil-Bil Wyt, 37.33, 141.88]
1889 01 10 at 05:45 UTC, Ballarat to Ballan and felt underground at Egerton
Kerang Times and Swan Hill Gazette (Vic. : 1877 – 1889), Tuesday 15 January 1889, page 4
Earthquake in Victoria. SHOCK FROM BALLAN TO BUNINYONG.
At a quarter to 4 p.m, on Thursday a smart earthquake shock was experienced at Ballan, says “The Telegraph,” the wave being from north-east to south-west. At Gordon the shock was distinctly felt, but most severely at Egerton, where the crockery was removed from shelves in dwelling-houses, and some consternation caused amongst the inhabitants. The men working at the 1,100 feet level of the Egerton Company were alarmed by a loud rumbling noise as if the rope on the shaft had been broken and the cage fallen down the shaft. The shock in the mine was also accompanied by the crackling of timber. At Yenon and Buninyong also the earthquake was sensibly experienced. A distinct shock of earthquake passed over Gordon, coming from the north-west and terminating in a north-easterly direction. No damage was done. Some nervous persons, however, got a fright. The shock lasted about two seconds. The Ballarat Star reports that a shock of earthquake was experienced on Thursday afternoon in the Gordon district. The vibration of earth was felt by a large number of persons, including Mr Yates, of Ballarat, and the Rev. Mr Barker, of Gordon. The Buninyong correspondent of The Courier writes:—” A shock of earthquake was felt at 4 this afternoon. A distinct shaking of buildings was felt by a great many people for several seconds, accompanied by a sound like thunder.”
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Saturday 12 January 1889, page 8
THE EARTH TREMOR AT BALLARAT.
BALLARAT Friday.
The shock of earthquake felt at Gordon and Warrenheip yesterday afternoon was experienced in Ballarat East and Ballarat North. In Ballarat East the town hall vibrated, and caused some alarm among the officers, who thought the sensation was occasioned by thunder.
1890 02 03 at 20:55 UTC, Stradbroke West
Gippsland Mercury (Sale, Vic. : 1871 – 1894; 1914 – 1918), Saturday 8 February 1890, page 3
Our Stradbroke West correspondent writes under date of Feb. 4th.—A rather severe shock of earthquake accompanied by loud rumbling and a noise resembling the rush of a mighty wind was felt here this morning shortly before 7 o’clock ; the sky at the time was perfectly clear not a vestige of cloud being visible.
1890 03 06 at 13:05 UTC, Bright
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Friday 7 March 1890, page 5
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK IN THE ALPINE DISTRICTS.
BRIGHT, Thursday.
A severe shock of earthquake was experienced at Bright, Buckland, Wandiligong and other neighboring townships last night shortly after 11 o’clock. Several people, who were asleep at the time, were awakened.
1890 09 13 at 09:00 UTC, Rutherglen
Corowa Free Press (NSW : 1875 – 1954), Friday 19 September 1890, page 3
Earthquake.— About seven o’clock on Saturday night two slight shocks of earthquake were experienced in Rutherglen. The vibration was such that the houses were felt to shake, and the furniture to rattle, for a couple of seconds, so some residents assert, whilst others say they did not observe anything unusual on the night in question.
1891 06 07 at 04:04 and 04:45 UTC, Port Phillip Bay Melbourne
Gregory (1903) and Underwood (1972) both mentioned this earthquake in their studies of Victorian seismicity. They in turn referred to the original records compiled by Melbourne Observatory, now held in Commonwealth Archives, and the Reports of the Australasian Association for the Advancement of Science (vol IV, 1893, pp. 208-212). I have also delved into contemporary newspapers (microfilm copies) from the Australian National Library including; The AGE, ARGUS and Melbourne Herald to draw up the isoseismal map.
Figure 21 The author’s isoseismal map of the earthquake in Port Phillip Bay on 7 June 1891 (redrawn at Geoscience Australia), the magnitude about 4.8.
In fact there were 2 earthquakes felt in Melbourne and suburbs, the first and strongest at 2.05 p.m. and the second at 2.45 p.m. The first lasted 4 or 5 seconds according to The AGE on 8 June 1891 and the second:
was of less duration than the previous one, while its results were also less marked. …… The tremors were so slight so as not to be observed by people out of doors, but those in their houses were aroused by the noise of the rattling windows and crockery.
The article in the AGE of Monday 8 June 1891 noted that:
On many occasions Melbourne has experienced the milder symptoms of earthquakes, in the form of earth tremors, and these have frequently extended over a very wide area.
The front page of the Melbourne Herald of Monday 8 June 1891 reported that at Geelong:
The shock was severely felt, and at the hospital many of the inmates were preparing to leave their beds, thinking that the building was about to fall. One gentleman who was lying on his couch, informs me this morning that the glassware on the sideboard was nearly thrown to the ground, and several ornaments on the mantlepiece were disturbed. The house shook violently, and some minutes elapsed before the inmates of the house recovered from this fright caused by the shock.
Ballarat Star (Vic. : 1865 – 1924), Tuesday 16 June 1891, page 2
BUNINYONG NOTES.
I neglected to mention that the now historic earthquake was felt in Buninyong. I believe it was felt because the feeler is a “ teetotaller.”
1891 07 02 at 11:30 and 17:00 UTC, Bright
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Friday 3 July 1891, page 1
FROM THE COUNTRY.
EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS. BRIGHT.
A very distinct shock of an earthquake occurred here last night about 9.30 p.m. The sensation was similar to very heavy thunder, and caused buildings and their contents to vibrate freely. It appeared to be travelling from north-west to south-east. A similar one also occurred about 3 o’clock this morning.
1891 07 08 at 05:30 and 08:40 UTC, Walhalla
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Thursday 9 July 1891, page 5
THE SHOCK AT WALHALLA.
WALHALLA, Wednesday.
Two shocks of earthquake were distinctly felt here this afternoon. The first one took place about 3.30 o’clock. It made the buildings tremble, and sounded, like distant thunder. The second occurred at about 6.40 o’clock, and was not as distinct as the first.
The Government astronomer, Mr. Ellery, states that the only intimation of the occurrence of the shock received at the Observatory up to last evening consisted in a short telegram, forwarded from Walhalla by the local shire secretary. The message stated that the earth tremors were felt throughout the neighborhood of Walhalla. Yesterday’s shock, and also that felt in the southern part of Victoria a few weeks ago may, Mr. Ellery says, be traceable to two causes. The renewed activity of any large volcano is frequently followed by earthquakes in various “lines” over the face of the globe, and thus it may be possible to demonstrate that the fresh eruptions of Vesuvius recently reported have been the cause of the earth tremors felt in Victoria. The fact that of late there have been evidences of considerable disturbance on the surface of the sun furnishes the other possible origin of the earthquake shocks referred to, but it is pointed out that the subject will require a good deal more investigation before any definite opinions respecting it can be formed.
Goulburn Evening Penny Post Thursday 9 July 1891, Page 2.
Shocks of Earthquake in Victoria. MELBOURNE, Wednesday.—A slight shock of earthquake was felt at a quarter-past 3 this afternoon, at Wood’s Point, passing from west to east, and lasting about a minute. This afternoon a shock was also felt at Walhalla, passing from N.W. to S.E. It was so severely felt that the monthly Police and Warden’s Court was precipitately deserted for several minutes.
Warragul Guardian and Buln Buln and Narracan Shire Advocate Friday 10 July 1891, Page 3.
The Walhalla correspondent of the “Argus” wires that a shock of earthquake was felt at that place on Wednesday afternoon. A similar report comes from Wood’s Point, and Mr. Copeland of Drumlarney, also notifies of experiencing the shock, which was also apparent at Drouin North at Mr. Little’s. This is the second shock within a short space of time which has been experienced at Mr. Copeland’s. On the first occasion the pictures on the wall swayed, but this time there was a great vibration under the house.
Figure 22Felt area of the 8 July 1891 Walhalla earthquake. The magnitude is about ML4.0 from the felt area.
The Argus Friday 10 July 1891, Page 6.
THE EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
WARRAGUL, Thursday.
The earthquake shock which was felt in various parts of Victoria on Wednesday afternoon was also felt in certain localities outside Warragul. The effect lasted for nearly a minute and the earth tremors were very pronounced. The shock was also felt at Drouin North about seven miles from here. Mr. Little, farmer, noticed it whilst at work on the farm and when he returned home his daughters reported that the effect in the house was very marked. The occurrence does not appear to have been noticed in the township of Warragul itself, although on the last occasion several people heard a strange rumbling sound like distant thunder.
1892 01 17 at 09:00 and 10:00 UTC, Walhalla
Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 – 1930), Tuesday 19 January 1892, page 5
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.
Melbourne, Monday.— A telegram from Walhalla states that two slight earth tremors were experienced last night, one at 7 o’clock and the other an hour later.
1892 01 26 at 16:30 UTC, Large north-eastern Tasmania earthquake felt in eastern Victoria
Bairnsdale Advertiser and Tambo and Omeo Chronicle Thursday 28 January 1892, Page 2.
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK. A very distinct shock of earthquake was felt in Bairnsdale yesterday morning, shortly after half-past two o’clock. It was preceded by a low, rumbling noise. The first tremor felt was slight and barely perceptible. This was followed a few seconds later by a shock that made window panes rattle and aroused people from their slumbers. It appeared to be travelling in a south-easterly direction, and lasted about forty seconds.
Leader (Melbourne, Vic. : 1862 – 1918, 1935), Saturday 30 January 1892, page 25
A SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.
An unusually severe earthquake shock was experienced on Wednesday morning over a large portion of Gippsland, extending along the Ninety Mile Beach, thence to Gabo Island on the east, Wilson’s Promontory on the south-west, and northerly to the township of Omeo, thence extending across Bass’s Straits, Flinders Island and Banks Straits to Tasmania. Reports received from our country correspondents show that the shook was severely felt at 2.50 a.m. at Wilson’s Promontory ; it lasted for 30 seconds, and caused the lighthouse and other buildings to tremble violently. The direction of the earth tremor was from south-west to north-east. As might naturally be inferred, the lighthouse keeper on duty at the time was considerably alarmed when he found the solid walls of the building reeling and swaying in a very uncomfortable fashion.
Fortunately the lantern and machinery were not in any way injured. At Strathbrooke, not far from Sale, the shock is stated to have been felt at 3.45 a.m., the tremor lasting about six seconds. The residents were awakened from their sleep and considerably alarmed. The Callignee Hills, in the Traralgon district, were also the centre of a severe earth tremor about 3 o’clock. It would appear that the residents of Foster experienced it at a much earlier hour than the places situated nearer the coast, as the first tremor was felt at 2.30 a.m. It was exceedingly severe, buildings being violently shaken, lamps, crockery and glassware broken in Ridgeway’s store, and, according to tho correspondent, it appeared for the time as though the town was about to be levelled to the ground. A second shock was felt shortly afterwards, but it was slight compared with the first. The Government astronomer, Mr. R. L. J. Ellery, has kindly furnished us with some particulars of the earthquake. It occurred, Mr. Ellery states, between 2.30 and 3 a.m., and was felt all over the south-east parts of Victoria, as well as over a large part of Tasmania. From reports already to hand it appears to have been most severe about Gabo Island, Wilson’s Promontory and Banks’s Straits, and is described as severe as far north as Omeo. At Gabo Island and Wilson’s Promontory two shocks were felt — one at 2 h. 40 min., and another about 2 h. 50min., Melbourne time (approximately). The tremor was reported from Gabo Island, Wilson’s Promontory, Omeo, Bairns-dale and Mount Martha; and although no certain accounts of its having been felt in Melbourne have been received, numbers of people heard rattling of windows at the time, 2 h. 45 mln. a.m., which was attributed to a gust of wind, but the Observatory anemometers gave no record of any gust during the night. Tasmania reports — ” Remarkable earth tremors felt over the greater part of island at 2.50 a.m. this (Wednesday) morning. The times given of the occurrence of the shocks at the several localities are generally only approximate. They are not, however, sufficiently near to assist in tracing its origin, and until more accurate dates of occurrence are obtained, it will be difficult to locate the epicentrum, or position on the earth’s surface over the origin of disturbance. The directions of movement reported are also some what vague, but the majority agree in giving it S.E. to N.W. or easterly to westerly. If this be true, and making allowance for variations in local times, it is not at all improbable the centre of disturbance was near if not identical with the epicentrum of the earthquakes and tremors so frequent in Tasmania and S.E. Victoria two or three years ago — namely, a point in mid-ocean about 250 miles nearly due east from Kent’s Group. Further and more accurate accounts of the occurrence will no doubt clear up the question of the position of the epicentrum.”
Figure 23 The isoseismal map for the large Tasman Sea earthquake of January 1892 original by Michael-Leiba (in McCue, 1996) with additional reports in green.
In addition to those places indicated as felt on the original map by Michael-Leiba; in Victoria it was strongly felt in Omeo and Lindenow, Mount Martha, Port Albert, Strathbrooke (near Sale), Tarraville, Chiltern and Warragul but Mr Ellery says: no certain accounts of its having been felt in Melbourne have been received. In NSW a heavy shock was felt at Jervis Bay and in Tasmania it was most severe on Flinders Island and Banks’ Strait. These may indicate a more easterly origin.
1892 04 01 at 23:00 UTC, Kinglake
Leader (Melbourne, Vic. : 1862 – 1918, 1935), Saturday 9 April 1892, page 40
A violent shock of earthquake was experienced at Yea at about 8.55 on Saturday morning. In the hotels and stores, glassware and crockery were violently shaken. Nothing like it had ever been experienced in the district. In the Yea and Goulburn Rivers there were tidal waves on a small scale. The earthquake reported from the north eastern part of the colony was felt on Saturday morning in Melbourne and suburbs. The tremor was not very severe, but was sufficiently pronounced to leave no doubt as to its nature. A gentleman residing in South Melbourne states that he felt a shock about 8.55 a.m. on Saturday, and it was succeeded by several lesser shocks, at intervals of five or ten seconds, for nearly two minutes. A resident of Heidelberg states that he felt the quaking at 9 o’clock on Saturday morning, and the movement was so severe that he was rocked violently in his bed, and a number of pictures and other articles were thrown down.
The Mercury Friday 8 April 1892, Page 3.
Yea, April 4.
A shock of earthquake was experienced here at 9 o’clock on Saturday morning. Houses swayed, the water rose in waves in the river, and there was a sound as if trees had been uprooted and came down with a crash simultaneously. In all parts of the district it was felt, and nothing at all approaching to it in violence has been experienced before. The direction appeared to be north and south, and the shock must have lasted several seconds. At Tullarook it was felt with equal violence, but visitors from Kilmore and Seymour state that those towns were quite free from it.
Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate Tuesday 5 April 1892, Page 6.
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE. A severe earth tremor was felt at Marysville at 9 o’clock on Saturday morning. It lasted about a minute, and appeared to be travelling from west to east. The buildings were shaken.
The earthquake reported from the north-eastern part of the colony was felt on Saturday morning in Melbourne and suburbs. The tremor was not very severe, but was sufficiently pronounced to leave no doubt as to its nature. A gentleman residing in South Melbourne states that he felt a shock about 8.55 a.m. on Saturday and it was succeeded by several lesser shocks, at intervals of five or ten seconds, for nearly two minutes A resident of Heidelberg states that he felt the quaking at 9 o’clock on Saturday morning, and the movement was so severe that he was rocked violently in his bed, and a number of pictures and other articles were thrown down.
Broadford Courier (Broadford, Vic. : 1891 – 1893), Friday 8 April 1892, page 4
Earthquake at Reedy Creek, Seymour and Yea.
RUMBLED LIKE A PASSING TRAIN. HOUSES SHAKEN. HORSES MADLY BOLT.
… a distinct shock of earthquake has been experienced at Reedy Creek, during the past week, and which is now the one theme of interested discussion there. It appears that last Saturday morning, at about 9 o’clock, while everything was proceeding with that almost automatic quietude and regularity peculiar to a small country township, a sudden noise was heard like the rumbling of distant thunder. It rapidly grew louder, and getting nearer swept past in a moment with, to use the words of a witness, a sound resembling that of a loaded train rushing over a high bridge. Then all was silent again. But the strange and inexplicable reverberation had alarmed everyone, and immediately women and children were seen running out of their houses everywhere and eagerly enquiring the cause.
The ominous sound however, was not all. Accompanying it was a distinct vibration of the earth. A well-known and respected resident of Reedy Creek Mr. —, says he heard the sound and noticed simultaneously a distinct vibration which shook his house. Not far away a young woman engaged in washing had, it is alleged, her pail knocked over by the force of the convulsion and others testify to the rocking of gates and other fixtures. ….. But this shock though evidently passing horizontally from a north easterly direction, and which should therefore have been felt at Broadford, the line of its route, was only perceptible a few miles from Reedy Creek. Mr. M. K. McKenzie’s residence would come within the scope of its influence if it extended so far, and it is interesting to note that Mr. McKenzie, was one of the few people outside the district more immediately affected who heard the sound. He, too, was startled and rushed outside his house to ascertain its meaning, which as the time corresponds with that when the noise and the shock were taking place at Reedy Creek, is now easily accountable. The most North-Westerly point to which the shock can be at present traced is Glenburnie, another place on the route, and at some Sawmills where the phenomena referred to was also experienced in a marked degree. Though so extraordinary an occurrence, there is everything to prove that Reedy Creek has been the scene of many volcanic convulsions in the remote past and there is much evidence furnished by the rocks themselves in that region, to favor the conjecture that this shock was but local in its extent.
…….. Later intelligence proves the shock to have been more extensive than was at first supposed and the following additional information is furnished by the last issue of the “Seymour Express” : —At five minutes to nine o’clock on Saturday morning a sharp shock of earthquake was experienced in Seymour. It appeared to travel a westerly direction, close to the river, and lasted about three seconds. At Mr. Guild’s store a noise resembling a passing tram was heard right under the building, and at Messrs. Hodges and Dicker’s the Prince of Wales hotel and the Post-office, the crockery and windows loudly rattled. A very peculiar sensation was experienced at Mr. Trevena’s residence lower down. The whole place appeared to heave and tremble, and the horses galloped madly about. A similar shock occurred here 9 years ago. More subsequently a correspondent writes to the ” Age'” from Yea that a violent shock of earthquake was experienced there at about 8.55 on Saturday morning. In the hotels and stores glassware and crockery were violently shaken. Nothing like it had ever been experienced in this district. In the Yea and Goulburn Rivers there were tidal waves on a small scale. Later still, we learn from our Spring Valley correspondent that two distinct shocks were experienced in that locality on the day in question at 8.45 a.m. ; and that from reliable indications it was evidently travelling in a north easterly direction. It is stated that the vibrations there were very slight, but that the rumbling noise was exceedingly loud. It appeared to be passing near the place.
Kilmore Free Press (Kilmore, Vic. : 1870 – 1954), Thursday 7 April 1892, page 2
The shock of earthquake, reported as being severely felt at Yea, Marysville, and other localities, about nine on Saturday morning, was just noticeable here—only in a very slight degree.
Interesting comment about ‘tidal’ waves on the Yea and Goulburn Rivers.
Figure 24 Minimal felt area of the earthquake of 1 April 1892 near Kinglake, shaking felt throughout Melbourne and suburbs. The estimated magnitude is 4.2. Orange numbers indicate MM intensity at places reporting the earthquake.
1892 04 27 at 18:55 UTC, Benalla – more likely thunder
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Saturday 30 April 1892, page 8
BENALLA, THURSDAY.
What is believed to have been a shock of earthquake occurred shortly before 5 o’clock this morning. A sudden report followed by a peculiar rumbling, noise was heard and in several households created considerable alarm. The houses vibrated, and their contents shook very perceptibly The motion of the disturbance was from west to east. It was immediately followed by a heavy shower of rain.
1892 07 18 at 07:55 UTC, Beechworth
The Argus Tuesday 19 July 1892, Page 6.
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK AT BEECHWORTH.
BEECHWORTH, MONDAY.
A shock of earthquake was distinctly felt here to-night at about five minutes to 6, apparently travelling from north to south, was also felt at Stanley, six miles distant. There was a noise like thunder, and a distinct earth tremor.
1893 05 20 at 16:00 UTC, Gippsland
Advocate (Melbourne, Vic. : 1868 – 1954), Saturday 27 May 1893, page 19
A RATHER severe shook of earthquake was experienced throughout the Yarram district of Gippsland on Sunday morning, shortly after 2 o’clock. The shock caused the windows in the houses to rattle and the doors to shake violently. It is supposed that the shock travelled from north to south, lasting about a minute. The weather is boisterous. The shock was also felt at Sale. The Rev. G. M. Connor and family, who live at the Presbyterian manse there, distinctly felt the shock about a quarter to two a.m., and other well-known residents in the vicinity of the town also noticed it.
Figure 25 The 20 May 1893 earthquake in South Gippsland was felt widely enough to rate a magnitude of 4.2.
A SHOCK of earthquake was distinctly felt at Welshpool about 2 a.m. on Sunday. Three distinct pulsations were felt. The direction was from south-east to west. This was the severest shock ever experienced in this part of Victoria. In some cases the oscillation caused considerable alarm to families by displacing crockery and chimney ornaments.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Monday 22 May 1893, page 6
EARTHQUAKE AT PORT ALBERT.
PORT ALBERT SUNDAY.
A slight shock of earthquake occurred at six minutes past 2 o’clock this morning, and lasted about 30 seconds. It was felt at Port Albert and the suburban town of Palmerston. It did not partake of the nature of a wave, and was more like a sudden convulsion than an undulating tremor. The weather is fine, the wind being from the north-west.
Traralgon Record (Traralgon, Vic. : 1886 – 1932), Tuesday 23 May 1893, page 2
EARTHQUAKE.—A slight shock of earthquake was (says the ‘” Times “) experienced in this district early on Sunday morning, and several residents of Sale were roused from their slumber. The shock, which occurred at about quarter to two o’clock, was distinctly felt by the occupants of the Presbyterian Manse, the vibration of the doors and windows being very marked. Mr. and Mrs. Paul, of Cunninghame street, had a similar experience, while a little further on, Mr. H. Richardson, of the Royal Oak Hotel, was aroused by the rattling of bottles and crockery. Reports from Bundalaguah, near Sale, also state that the shock was felt by some of the inhabitants of that locality.
1893 07 22 at 15:17, 15:27 and 16:15 and 17:00 UTC, Damage in Maldon and Castlemaine, 2 aftershocks
Bendigo Advertiser Friday 17 April 1914, Page 4.
Three shocks of earthquake were experienced in Bendigo and the surrounding districts at about 1 o’clock on the morning of the 23rd July, 1893. They were severe enough to wake people from their sleep and cause considerable consternation, and in some instances articles were thrown down from the shelves. The shocks were experienced as far north as Bridgewater, south as Taradale, east as Seymour, and west as Dunolly.
Bendigo was the supposed epicentre of an earthquake-like shock on Sunday morning according to the Victorian Barrier Miner. The story was headed The Victorian Earthquake, but subtitled The effect on the mines. A fall of earth. The newspaper reports that the area over which it was felt was nearly 2000 square miles (a circle of radius roughly 40 km corresponding to a magnitude of 3.9). The newspaper then highlights the damage underground in the Bendigo mines, particularly in the Confidence Mine.
First evidence compiled was strongly towards this being a mine-induced seismic event rather than a tectonic earthquake but later the Ellery report was found and he obviously didn’t think so.
Bendigo Advertiser (Vic. : 1855 – 1918), Monday 24 July 1893, page 3
SEVERE SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE. A MIDNIGHT SENSATION.
The deep slumbers of Bendigonians, early on Sunday morning, were most unexpectedly broken by a most pronounced earth wave. Not only the roused sleepers, but those people who were awake at the time were, as might easily be imagined, filled with consternation and fear. The feeling in many cases was that some great calamity had happened, or was about to occur. The visit, was unexpected in the extreme. The previous evening had been beautifully fine, but chilly. At 10 o’clock not a cloud was visible, the stars shone out, and the air was calm. It was noticed, however, that away in the southern horizon, the lightning’s flash played frequently, though not a cloud was to be seen. At one o’clock in the morning the sky overhead was clear with the exception of a few broken lazy looking clouds south-ward, and some clouds on the northern horizon.
Not a breath of air stirred. About ten minutes past one o’clock, whether it was owing to burglars being generally about, or from an instinctive feeling of approaching disturbers of the peace, but around View Hill and far away in the distance the dogs were on the alert, and kept up a bark at short intervals for about ten minutes. For a minute all was suddenly still, then, as a wakeful resident of View Hill states, there was a tremendous roar in a voice like thunder and a rushing wind combined, and the house seemed as if seized in an angry grip, and shaken for about five seconds, until it quivered; the doors shook and the crockery rattled. The children, old and young, jumped out of bed and took refuge in the parental room, pale and fear-stricken. A glance was taken at the clock, which was found to be at 20 minutes past 1, and a look was made outside to see if a storm had begun, or a whirlwind had swept by, and if any dwellings had been levelled to the ground, but there was not a breath of air, and not a leaf was shaking. Within about 10 minutes of the first shock, a second very slight one was felt, and at 2.15 a third shock occurred, a little stronger than the second, not enough to shake the house, but sufficient to make a tremulous motion felt; and at 3 o’clock there was another and final tremor.
Yesterday the earthquake was the theme of conversation throughout the district. One person said his house shook and the dishes jingled and the movement appeared to travel from north-west to south-east. Another whose house was similarly affected, believed the movement was just the other way about. At the Koch’s Pioneer Company’s battery the shock and noise were great. The watchman heard a sound as of rushing water, and fearing some of the pipes had been broken had an inspection, and found that at a water pipe the horizontal key which turned the water off in that position, and remained so while the batteries were going, was found to have fallen to a perpendicular position from the shock, thus turning the water on. At Barkly Place the houses appear to have been greatly shaken. The disturbance in Mr. Keating’s residence was so great that the walls seemed to be coming down, and Miss Keating, who had been roused out of her slumbers, was so overcome that she fainted. Mr. Keating thought the big shock lasted five seconds and travelled from a south-west direction. In the residence, Knight’s Castle, of Mr. Hall, the dentist, the globes on the chandelier were shaken off and broken, while a gentleman living in Forest street had a fit owing to his alarm at the severity of the shook. The engine driver at the Garden Gully United mine on the night shift, and who had relieved Mr. Henderson, stated that when he heard the noise he went out to see if the cage was all right. He shook the rope and found nothing wrong. Mr. Henderson, who lives in Don-street, Monument hill, says the shock at his house created a great disturbance, shaking the windows, blinds, doors and dishes, and one of his daughters was so frightened that she became hysterical. Several residents near the Sea Company’s mine ran out of their houses, thinking a boiler had exploded. At View point the iron on the verandah rattled at such a rate that a constable stationed there thought the buildings were coming down, and ran into the middle of the roadway to escape the danger. The station keeper of the Temperance Fire Brigade depot was awakened by the noise of the shaking house, the rocking of his bed and ringing of the electric bells. In the fire-tower, the watchman, who has been in many a storm, says he never experienced such a fearful sensation as when the shock struck the tower. He was sitting in his chair looking out of the window when all of a sud-den he heard the roaring noise and felt a heaving coming up the tower. The heavy trap door was lifted up six inches, and fell down again with a thud that caused him to jump from his chair and stand petrified in the middle of the door. The ashes were dashed from the grate, the electric bells rang, the tower trembled and swayed to such a degree that he expected every moment it would topple over. The earthquake appeared to him to travel from west to east and he only felt two shocks, one at 1.20 and the other at 2 o’clock by the postoffice clock. In Creek-street, Mr. Fell thought his house was going off its blocks. In the dwelling of Mr. George Hall, Don-street, the shutter of the telephone connected with the Temperance Fire Brigade was knocked down and the bell set ringing.
The earthquake was also felt at the Sheepwash and Axedale, and at the latter place windows were broken by the violence of the shaking.
It is quite likely that when further information is obtained, it will be found that more or less damage has been done to buildings and their contents. In the mines, too, it may be fully expected that falls of rock have taken place and stone loosened so, that the utmost caution must be exercised by the miners when going to work to see that all is sound. No such violent shook of earthquake has ever taken place on Bendigo since the first discovery of the gold-field, and it is certain that all who have felt the severity of the last will not wish for another. A gentleman who had been in Mexico for a number of years, and that is an earthquake ridden country, and he felt a good many of them there, states that he never felt one so violent in its action as that which has just happened.
In a house in Holdsworth-road the vibration caused a kerosene lamp to fall from the table, and in many instances household furniture was disturbed similarly. The alarm of the residents was shared by animals, who, whilst the shock continued, manifested symptoms of the keenest alarm. Horses became very restive, and out in the open paddocks at Epsom, Huntly and other places they ran about uttering cries of alarm. Many person at first imagined that a serious explosion had occurred in one of the mines. It is most singular that the strong vibration of the earth did not occasion any damage to the tall chimney stacks at the mines in the district. The shock was felt quite as severely at Long Gully as in the city, but there also it was unattended by any damage to buildings. At one of the hotels in the city several young men, boarders, tired after their long day’s work in the shops, were enjoying a glass or two of refreshment, when their pleasure was rudely interrupted by hearing the noise and feeling the building shaking. The glasses on the table were rolling about and the company, considerably scared, hastily broke up. Hardly had they got into bed when the second shock, as if to rebuke them for their late hours, broke upon their ears and added to the general alarm.
The shock was distinctly felt at Kangaroo Flat. Mounted-constable Lysaght, who had been indisposed during the last two or three days, was sitting up in a dozing state, when he was alarmed at hearing an unusual noise as if a runaway pair of horses and waggon had struck the fence outside the police station. He rushed out to see what was the matter, and, not finding anyone about, he came to the conclusion that an earthquake must have happened.
Senior-constable Roche reported that he was on duty in High-street, and two or three minutes after the town clock had struck a quarter past 1 o’clock, he heard a most extra-ordinary noise. He was under the impression that a serious accident had happened at one of the mines, and at once returned to the police station in the expectation of finding someone there to report the occurrence. After waiting in vain for over half an hour, he was just about to leave to look after some other business when the rumbling noise of the second shock was heard.
At Quarry Hill, the vibration appeared to be very severe. Senior-constable English and the members of his family were aroused by the building shaking terribly, while the crockery-ware, etc., clinked together in an alarming manner. Constable Walsh was on duty at the time. He states that he was quietly walking along one of the streets, when he heard an unusual sound as if a train was coming into the station at a high rate of speed, and the brakes had been suddenly applied. He thought it strange that a train should be arriving at that hour of the morning, but walked on thinking little more of the occurrence. But the noise which seemed to come from the south-west gradually came on behind him like a rushing wind. As it came up to him he felt the earth tremble perceptibly, and he was forced to hold on to a fence in order to keep his feet. The tremor then seemed to pass on ahead of him to the eastward. Up to about 1 o’clock a strong breeze was blowing, but for some time after everything was quiet, and this only added to the dreadful sensation of the shock. About 3 o’clock the moon went down, its appearance being as red as at midsummer when there are bush fires about.
Mr. T. Lowe, the well-known dairyman, of Sheepwash, states that the shock was distinctly felt out there, and the milk-pails and dishes were knocking together in a most mysterious fashion.
Mr. Geo, W Knight, the well-known surveyor, writes:—On the top of Quarry Hill, at 16 minutes past 1 o’clock yesterday (Sunday) morning, I happened to be lying awake with my face towards the window of my bedroom, which suddenly and repeatedly shook so violently, that I jumped out of bed and called to the other inmates of the house, did you hear the earth quake? From each bedroom came the same answer—Yes, our windows have shaken terribly, it woke us up. I went to the door, looked out at the weather, which was calm and overcast. There was no mistake about it, the windows of my house are large, 10 feet by 4 feet, set in stone walls, and it would take a very strong force to shake them; the stone walls must have vibrated very much. I returned to bed and seven minutes afterwards a short loud rumbling sound lasting about seven seconds, took place. The event was sufficient to keep me awake. About 40 minutes afterwards a further long, loud and powerful rumbling sound took place, lasting at least 30 seconds, caused me to call out loudly—” Whatever is up,” with a rejoinder from the other bedrooms—” Isn’t it strange?” At this hour on a Sunday morning there is no railway shunting, no batteries going, or other local causes of disturbance. No doubt many other persons will be able to speak in confirmation of this to us in Bendigo—rare event. In eons of time gone by the hundreds of active volcanoes in Victoria testify to earth tremors being of daily occurrence, we are evidently not yet removed wholly without their influence. The direction was decidedly west of north.
EAGLEHAWK.
Sunday, 23rd July.
This morning at 20 minutes past 1 o’clock a very violent shock of earthquake was experienced throughout the whole of this district. This was followed by a second of less severity at five minutes past two, whilst many allege that a third could be faintly heard. The first shock was the occasion of a great deal of alarm amongst residents, as the windows and foundations of houses were violently shaken for several seconds, the vibration of the earth being very great. At the Wesleyan Church a portion of the masonry on one of the spires was shaken off, whilst other reports of plaster falling off walls and other like disturbances are freely reported. The occurrence has to-day been freely discussed, and members of almost every household experienced the shock. At Sydney Flat the residents were greatly alarmed at the violence of the first shock, and at Myers’ Flat it was equally severe, the inmates of Mr. J. Daly’s house jumping out of bed under the impression that the house was falling on them.
HUNTLY.
At Huntly the residents underwent the same experience as about the same time as the citizens. There the vibrations and noise occasioned the same alarm amongst the people and many of the houses were so violently shaken that it appeared to the awe-stricken occupants that the buildings were to be razed to the ground. However, as in Bendigo, no damage was sustained beyond the fright occasioned the people.
EPSOM.
At Epsom Myer’s Flat
MYERS’ FLAT.
The same effects as elsewhere are reported from Myers’ Flat, the sound there being sufficiently loud to arouse all the residents. As in other places the houses and their contents vibrated greatly, and for a time the residents were considerably alarmed by the unusual experience they were passing through. No damage of any kind has, however, been heard of.
CASTLEMAINE.
Sunday, 23rd July.
Three shocks of earthquake were felt this morning. The first was at 1.17 o’clock, and severe, the second at 1.24 o’clock and slight, and the third at 2.7 o’clock, again severe. The residents were greatly alarmed, rushing out of their houses to the streets. The roof of the Gasworks and the Postoffice clock were damaged. Another slight shock was felt at 1 o’clock this afternoon.
BRIDGEWATER.
A shock of earthquake was felt here this (Sunday) morning at a quarter past one. It lasted five seconds as near as can be judged. It was travelling north and south. It was distinctly felt, and the houses shook and the windows and crockery rattled.
Bendigo Independent (Vic. : 1891 – 1918), Tuesday 25 July 1893, page 3
THE EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS.
LIMITED TO A COMPARATIVELY SMALL AREA. NO DAMAGE IN ANY OF THE MINES.
Sometimes earth tremors like those which passed over this district, as nearly as possible at 1.20 a.m. on Sunday morning travel for many hundred miles. A few months ago one was, for instance, reported from various points along, a straight line reaching from Launceston to some distance north of Sydney, about 800 miles. So far as the telegraph has as yet informed us, or as Mr. Ellery, the Government astronomer has information on the subject, the centre of disturbance on Sunday morning, roughly speaking, lay between the valleys of the Loddon and Goulburn Rivers, a distance of loss than 100 miles. Shocks are reported from Inglewood, on the west, to Seymour on the east. The width of the disturbed zone was, however, considerable; reaching from Inglewood to Maryborough southwards on from Bagshot to Castlemaine, a width of country of about 30 miles. In Bendigo and Eaglehawk yesterday earthquake shocks, tremors and scares were still the constant topic of conversation. Many were the incidents told, trivial and otherwise. So far as can be learned from the many mining and legal managers, interviewed no damage has been done in or upon the mines. The seismic disturbance, it has been noticed, strangely moved the pictures on the eastern walls of buildings. At the Bendigo Art Gallery; for example, when the shock passed the iron roof shook vigorously and the timbers quivered, but nothing then appeared to have been moved out of position. At the first shock the caretaker, Mr. Harris, rushed out of his room to see what was the matter. After the turmoil was over he looked to see if any damage had been done, bat could find none. In the morning, when the gallery was opened, he noticed that the south end of all the pictures on the eastern wall had been moved outwards three or four inches. This appears to indicate that the disturbance had travelled obliquely across the building. There were three men working in a skid fixing runners in the last sink in Collmann and Tacchi shaft. They did not notice the slightest tremor in the ground; for had there been any it would have shook the fine stuff down which was lying between the sets, as they are separated by blocks. Nothing whatever fell down the shaft. This, of course, appears rather strange, as before they felt any shock they heard a great rumbling noise, as if the mullock on the old backs was running; then the rope began to shake considerably in the shaft. The shaking of the rope was probably, caused by some swaying of the poppet-heads. Whilst there was no earth tremor felt by the minors down the shaft, yet those on the surface of the mine felt the shook distinctly. The enginedriver, was startled, and Mr. Veale, the mining manager, rushed out of his house, thinking something had gone wrong with the engine or boilers. It is therefore evident that it was a shallow crust disturbance, and that the noise heard by the men in the shaft was carried down the shaft from the higher ground.
Writing of the same incident, our Eaglehawk correspondent says:—The Collmann and Tacchi mine, which is situated on the boundary of the city and Eaglehawk, is known to contain one of the largest cross-courses in the colony. Such a point, being supposed to be on the line of least resistance, should have been a good place for studying the earthquake wave. Owing to some repairs being required to the skids in the shaft, three men were at work. The men were lowered down in the “gig,” and were screwing up a runner when a loud noise was heard, the rope slacking and the “gig” violently oscillating. The men could not make out the cause of the noise, as they were suspended between the 1200 ft level and the 1405ft level. The sound appeared awful. One said to tho other, “The backs and level at No. 13 (1200 ft) have come together.” The other two thought that the dam at No. 16 (1405 ft) had broken away. Owing to the noise it was at once decided to go to the No. 13 level, and the knocker was rung accordingly. Arriving at that level nothing was found to be wrong. A descent was then made to the dam at No. 14 and this also was found all right. The “gig” was next taken to the surface, and then the engine driver (Mr. Jamieson) told them that an earthquake had passed through the district. The sensation was unpleasant in the extreme—to be hung at 1300 ft from the surface, by a steel wire rope, which was shaking and the shaft timbers trembling all round them, a noise as if the workings in the next level had collapsed, or the water down below them broken away. When they reached the surface they were all pleased to at once see starlight again. They took their “crib” with a gratefulness that they had not been buried below. The mining manager, Mr. Veale, who resides in a substantial brick dwelling adjoining the mine, had not long retired to rest. He was awakened by the violent rocking of his bed and vibrating of the walls. He hastily jumped out of bed and rushed to the door thinking that the “gig” with the men had caught in the shaft, and that the engine had smashed up and run them to the bottom. He rushed out of his house undressed to the verandah, and mounting on a box, called out, “What is the matter?” and received the reply “Oh, it’s only an earthquake ! No damage done !” This was pleasing news to Mr. Veale, but he says the start that it gave him, as he was so sure that an accident had occurred at the mine was such that he trembled for a couple of hours afterwards. A close inspection was made of the mine during yesterday, but nothing was found amiss.
Geelong Advertiser (Vic. : 1859 – 1929), Wednesday 26 July 1893, page 4
THE EARTHQUAKE.
MR ELLERY’S INVESTIGATIONS.
The Government astronomer (Mr R. L. J. Ellery) has furnished the following report with respect to Sunday’s earthquake : — ” Reports of the occurrence of a rather sharp shock of an earthquake between Kyneton, Bendigo, and Goornong in one direction, and Seymour, Castlemaine, Dunolly, and Avoca in the other, at about a quarter-past 1 a.m. on Sunday, have been received from numerous observers in the districts included between the places named. All reports agree approximately as to the time and intensity of the first shock, but there is a wide difference as to the estimated direction of the wave. The shock seems to have been most intense over the districts lying between Malmsbury, Maldon, Bendigo, and Metcalfe, where it reached the force of iii or iv of the Rossi-Forel earthquake scale: that is, of sufficient force to distinctly shake solid masonry buildings, break or violently rattle crockery, break windows, and set bells ringing. Within this area, also, three or more shocks were distinctly felt, while beyond, in either direction, only one or two are reported. Some reports speak of explosive sounds as of bombshells in the vicinity of Castlemaine. Under these circumstances it is probable the centre of disturbances was not very far from Castlemaine or Maldon. If the time of occurrence had been given with more accuracy, or if the reports of the direction of motion had agreed better amongst themselves, the centre of disturbance could have been determined with greater certainty. The times given are correct, no doubt, within a minute or two, but are not sufficiently exact for this purpose: which is nearly always the case, the direction of motion is given by some as from the north, and by others from the south. It is, however, always difficult to judge the direction with certainty except after considerable experience. Further information may probably elucidate this question of centre of origin, but so far there seems little doubt that it was not far from Maldon, Castlemaine, and Harcourt.”
Figure 26 Felt area compiled from Trove newspaper reports. The faded orange points refer to reports where it was felt but no details. The black polygon is the area that Ellery indicated was where it was most strongly felt between Castlemaine Maldon or Harcourt with my epicentre (red dot) the centre of the inner isoseismal. Ellery did well. The felt area is quite large indicating a magnitude of about 4.5.
Mount Alexander Mail (Vic. : 1854 – 1917), Monday 24 July 1893, page 2
EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS.
Many of the residents in the town were startled out of their sleep yesterday morning at twenty minutes past one o’clock by a loud rumbling noise, like to thunder. It came rolling swiftly on, travelling from north to south and soon the rattling of windows, the shaking of doors, and the noise of crockery, denoted beyond doubt the real cause of the commotion was an earthquake. In about seven minutes afterwards came a slight pulsation of the earth and finally, about two o’clock, a third, of intense vibration, but not equal to the first, which was the most severe. Many frightened people left their houses, profoundly perturbed as to what might happen, but beyond their own fears they saw everything calm around them, a clear sky, the moon shining brightly, and the wind, which had been gusty at intervals during the night, perfectly calm. The fears of the timid were not easily allayed, however, for such earth pulsations have not hitherto been equalled in the town within the memory of residents. A few mild shocks occurred some years back, but they were not comparable in intensity to those of yesterday, which were felt far and wide. Occasional incidents are related of the various forms of terror by which several residents were affected. Amongst the Chinese great fear prevailed, which induced them to fly for safety into the streets. Some occupiers of two storey building considered their persons too valuable in be hazarded In their dwelling. Some young men who had prolonged a game of cards, dropped these quickly, being under the impressing they had played enough for that Sunday morning. One of the constables reeled at the first shock and looked about for company to join him wherever he might be transferred. Another who was at the verandah of the Mayor’s shop fancied there was an ex-plosion of powder and consider it would be prudent to keep a respectable distance. A frighted old man in the Benevolent Asylum got out of the building by going down the fire escape. One story relates that a sleeper was thrown out of bed, another that a lot of crockery was smashed, but there really is no ascertained damage authenticated, beyond a beam in the Gas Works being broken, a few slates fallen from the roof, and such occurrences as plaster falling from a ceiling. Many conjectures were at first hazarded as to the cause of the thundering noise and to the earth shocks, amongst which was that the powder magazine had exploded. Our Harcourt correspondent writes that the inhabitants of Harcourt and surrounding locality were greatly disturbed from their mid-night slumbers about 20 minutes past one on Sunday morning by an earthquake shock. There were four distinct shocks, the two first being the most severe. Houses rocked, crockery in some places were broken and windows cracked. There were two very loud reports as if a bomb-shell had burst. Nothing like this in severity of character has ever before happened here in the recollection of the oldest inhabitant’s.
The earthquake shock has been felt at Echuca, Rochester, Bendigo, Ravenswood, Maryborough, Dunnolly and Ballarat, but no reports have reached us of any serious damage having occurred.
Tarrangower Times and Maldon, Newstead, Baringhup, Laancoorie and Muckleford Advertiser (Vic. : 1873 – 1894), Wednesday 26 July 1893, page 2
AN EARTHQUAKE
Considerable alarm was caused at 1.18 on Sunday morning by a severe shock of earthquake, which was felt all over the district. A sort of rushing sound was heard at first, as if coming from a distance, and those who were wakened up were startled. The tremor was a very sharp one, the earth shaking violently, and many people imagined that a heavy thunderstorm was occurring. The reverberations continued for several seconds, and the rocking of the houses and rattling of the windows caused considerable alarm. In about a quarter of an hour afterwards there was another tremor, and a very slight one shortly after 2 o’clock. The direction of the shocks was from north to south, but strangely they do not appear to have reached Melbourne. From data supplied, the Government astronomer considers that the centre of the earthquake was between Maldon, Harcourt and Castlemaine. Considerable damage was done to the post-office clock at Castlemaine, one of the dials being broken, and the roof of the gasworks was damaged. As far as we can ascertain, the only damage caused at Maldon was the cracking of plaster on the wall of several of the houses and the falling of a small chimney. At the Eaglehawk Consolidated Co. the vibration of the engine-house caused the sparrows which were roosting under the eaves, to fly into the house, and the engineer in charge states that the birds flew in like a snowstorm, being attracted by the light. The shock was felt at Avoca, Bendigo, Taradale, Seymour, Dandly, Castlemaine, Maryborough, Bridgewater, and other surrounding districts. Our Baringhup correspondent writes: —A very severe shock of earthquake was experienced at Baringhup West on Sunday morning at 1.20 a.m. It come on at first as a rumbling noise resembling a heavy wind before a storm, or a railway train, then a terrible shaking followed, which made the walls of our house tremble enough to shake them down, and our bed seemed as if it had a galvanic battery attached to it, and the chest of drawers shook and moved. It seemed to us to travel from south west to north east. Mr. Rumbald who was sitting up at the time avers that it was travelling in a south east to north west direction. It lasted nearly a minute. After this shock was over, there still seemed a disturbance which would not let us go to sleep again. We had not long to wait for another shock as at 1.45, just 25 minutes after, there was another shock, but not nearly so severe as the first, it did not last so long, but seemed to travel in much the same direction as the first one.
Mount Alexander Mail (Vic. : 1854 – 1917), Tuesday 25 July 1893, page 2
THE EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS.
There is nothing of importance to add to the information we conveyed yesterday respecting the earthquake shocks. At Walmer the loud, rumbling noise and the severity of the vibrations of the earth were of the same intensity as at Castlemaine. The mines in this district have not been injured, nor have those of Bendigo. Yesterday morning a ‘Herald’ representative waited upon Mr Ellery in order to obtain his views on the earthquake. “This shock,” said Mr Ellery, is certainly the biggest thing in the earthquake line we have had for some time. ………. Later reports with respect to the earthquake show very widespread effects. At Axedale some damage was done to farm houses by the breaking of windows ; and at Eaglehawk a portion of the masonry of the Wesleyan Church was thrown down. Numerous cases are reported of damage to buildings by plaster being detached. The watchman on the fire brigade tower at Bendigo had a rather sensational experience. From his elevated position he felt the shock severely ; the building, a substantial brick one, seemed about to topple over ; the coals from the watchman’s stove were scattered all round, and the alarm was increased by the violent ringing of the telephone bell connected with the tower. Several cases of illness caused by shock and fright are reported.
Bendigo Independent (Vic. : 1891 – 1918), Wednesday 26 July 1893, page 4
THE EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS.
Correspondents still continue to forward us communications relative to the earthquake shocks of Sunday morning. At Kamarooka a slight shock passed through the district and some of the residents were much alarmed. The tremor lasted several seconds. At Toolleen (near Rochester) the shock was felt severely. In many cases people thought the houses were coming down. At Mologa (near Pyramid Hill) it was also felt severely at 1.20. It was preceded by a rushing sound like a sudden gust of wind, or the discharge of a rocket and accompanied by a noise like distant thunder. It lasted about 10 seconds and the course seemed to be from west to east, it was also felt at Bald Rock in the same locality.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Tuesday 25 July 1893, page 6
THE EARTHQUAKE SHOCK
The series of severe shocks of earthquake which were experienced in the central districts of Victoria early on Sunday morning appear to have embraced a large area of country in their ramification, extending about 100 miles east and west and 50 miles to the north. Since the receipt of the intelligence respecting the occurrence Mr. R. L. J. Ellery, Government astronomer, has endeavoured to locate, if possible, the centre of the disturbance. This task has been rendered somewhat difficult in consequence of the discrepancies apparent in the times, varying from 1.10 to 1.20 a.m., at which the shocks are reported to have been felt. The trend of the earth tremors, too, seems to have puzzled many of the correspondents, and it is quite evident, as shown by the different directions furnished, that they have quite mistaken the course of the volcanic movement. There seems to be a consensus of opinion concerning three shocks felt at Castlemaine, but Mr. Ellery is inclined to pass the opinion over and accept as more reliable the statement that there were four shocks, which is vouched for by a gentleman who conducts the local meteorological observations. At Castlemaine noises resembled the bursting of shells were heard, and as these sounds are generally audible near the centre of an earthquake disturbance, Mr. Ellery concludes that the centre of this earthquake was very close to Castlemaine or somewhere between it and Maldon or Harcourt. The earthquake had an intensity, calculated on the Italian scale, of the third or the fourth degree, an intensity which generally displays itself in shaking crockery, breaking window glass and other small trifles that tend to alarm the inmates of a house. The tremors on the one side radiated in the direction of Malmsbury, Bendigo and Harcourt, and on the other from Avoca, Maryborough, Maldon to Seymour, but no shock was felt at Echuca. Altogether a sharp shock and two of lesser degree were felt at Castlemaine, Harcourt, Taradale, Maldon and Freyerstown, two at Bendigo, Dunolly, Maryborough and Seymour, and one at Avoca, Goornong and Kyneton. Mr. Ellery cannot explain the cause of the visitation, but he has noticed that a very low barometer has ruled during the last 10 days, and earthquakes in Victoria have generally happened when these atmospheric conditions were existing.
AVOCA, Monday. An earthquake shock was felt here yesterday morning. It was also experienced at Bung Bong. Immediately after the shock at Avoca a large ball of fire was seen travelling in a southerly direction, when it suddenly fell. It is supposed to have been a meteor.
BENDIGO, Monday. There is little fresh regarding the earthquake.
CLUNES, Monday. A slight, earthquake shock was felt here about 1.30 on Sunday morning, accompanied with a rumbling noise.
DAYLESFORD, Monday. In common with the rest of the colony an earthquake shock was felt here yesterday morning.
HEATHCOTE, Monday. Two distinct shocks of earthquake were experienced here yesterday. Many persons were awakened from their sleep by the tremor, but no damage was done.
INGLEWOOD, Monday. A severe shock of earthquake was very plainly felt here yesterday morning between 1 and 2 o’clock. People in some cases were awakened out of their sleep by the shaking and trembling of the houses ; substantial brick buildings were acted upon the same as wooden dwellings.
LANCEFIELD, Monday. On Sunday morning at about 1.30 o’clock a slight earthquake shock was felt here. The vibration lasted for some minutes.
LAURISTON, Monday. At 1.20 yesterday (Sunday) morning a severe shock of earthquake occurred here which created much alarm amongst the residents. The shock appeared to travel from north to south and lasted about 30 seconds. It was accompanied by a rumbling noise like distant thunder, and during its progress houses and content were shaken violently. Two additional shocks of a lighter character took place at 1.45 and 2.30 a.m. The sky was quite clear during the time stated.
MALMSBURY, Monday. Two rather severe shocks of earthquake, with prolonged earth tremor, were experienced here at an early hour on Sunday morning. Several persons were so frightened that they arose and dressed themselves in readiness for any emergency.
RUSHWORTH, Monday. Several townspeople were startled from their sleep about 1.15 on Sunday morning. Many houses and their contents were shaken, and many persons jumped out of bed with fright. When thoroughly awake they felt unmistakably severe shock of earthquake. About a quarter of an hour afterwards another occurred at Wanalta, 12 miles from here, equally severe.
Ballarat Star (Vic. : 1865 – 1924), Tuesday 25 July 1893, page 4
THE EARTHQUAKE. CRESWICK, Monday.
The shock of earthquake reported to have been felt early yesterday morning at Bendigo, Maryborough, and other places, was distinctly experienced in Creswick, one resident rising in surprise and going out of the house to ascertain the cause of the vibration of the building. In other cases where people chanced to be awake the shaking of the furniture caused some little alarm.
CLUNES, Monday. A slight earthquake shock was experienced here about 1.30 on Sunday morning, accompanied with a rumbling noise. The shook was sufficiently pronounced to cause windows and crockery to rattle, and lasted apparently nearly half a minute.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Tuesday 25 July 1893, page 5
THE EARTHQUAKE. MR. ELLERY’S INVESTIGATIONS.
The Government astronomer (Mr. R. L. J. Ellery) has furnished the following report with respect to Sunday’s earthquake :—” Reports of the occurrence of a rather sharp shock of an earthquake between Kyneton, Bendigo, and Geelong in one direction, and Seymour, Castlemaine, Dunolly, and Avoca in the other, at about a quarter past 1 a.m. on Sunday, have been received from numerous observers in the districts included between the places named. All reports agree approximately as to the time and intensity of first shock, but there is a wide difference as to the estimated direction of the wave. The shock seems to have been most intense over the districts lying between Malmsbury, Maldon, Bendigo, and Metcalfe, where it reached the force of iii. or iv. of the Rossi-Forel earthquake scale that is, of sufficient force to distinctly shake solid masonry buildings, break or violently rattle crockery, break windows, and set bells ringing. Within this area, also, three or more shocks were distinctly felt, while beyond, in either direction, only one or two are reported. Some reports speak of explosive sounds as of bombshells in the vicinity of Castlemaine. Under these circumstances it is probable the centre of disturbance was not very far from Castlemaine or Maldon. If the time of occurrence had been given with more accuracy, or if the reports of the direction of motion had agreed better among themselves, the centre of disturbance could have been determined with greater certainty. The times given are correct, no doubt, within a minute or two, but are not sufficiently exact for this purpose, while as is nearly always the case, the direction of motion is given by some as from the north, and by others from the south. It is, however, always difficult to judge the direction with certainty except after considerable experience. Further information may probably elucidate this question of centre of origin, but so far there seems little doubt that it was not far from Maldon, Castlemaine, and Harcourt.”
AVOCA, Monday.
Three distinct earthquake shocks were felt at Bung Bong between 1 and 2 o’clock on Sunday morning. Slight damage was done in Avoca.
BENDIGO, MONDAY.
The earthquakes yesterday appear to have chiefly spent their force in the central mining districts of Victoria – or the ”middle diggings,” as commercial travellers used to term this group of settlements and this fact has set people wondering whether or not all these towns are connected by one belt in the strata.
CRESWICK, MONDAY.
The shock of earthquake which was felt throughout several parts of Victoria at an early hour on Sunday morning was also felt by a number of residents of Creswick. No rumble was heard, but the buildings were shaken, and crockery, &c., rattled for several seconds.
CASTLEMAINE, MONDAY.
As no work was proceeding in the mines when the earthquake shocks occurred yesterday morning, fears were expressed that some damage might have been done to the under-ground workings No collapse has, however, taken place. In some of the outlying localities trees were uprooted. In the recollection of old residents such violent shocks have never been felt here before.
CLUNES, MONDAY.
Two distinct successive shocks of earthquake were felt yesterday morning between 2 and 3 o’clock The vibration was very pronounced, and caused considerable alarm while the shocks lasted. The movement took a course from north-east to south-west.
DAYLESFORD, MONDAY.
The earthquake shocks were felt here very distinctly yesterday morning.
INGLEWOOD, MONDAY.
Two distinct shocks of earthquake, one violent, were experienced here between 1 and 2 o’clock yesterday morning.
LANCEFIELD, MONDAY.
Some alarm was caused in this township last Sunday morning at about half-past 1 a.m. by a shock of earthquake. Many people were awakened from their sleep by the vibration and the rattling of their windows. The vibration lasted for some minutes, and the shock apparently travelled from north to south
ROMSEY, MONDAY.
The shock of earthquake referred to by correspondents in the columns of the Argus this morning was distinctly felt Romsey, and was mistaken by residents close to the railway line for the rumbling of a heavily freighted train. The tremors appeal to have travelled in a south easterly direction, as they were felt at Monument Creek, which is about five miles to the north-west of this place, at half-past 1, and in Romsey about three or four minutes later. The second shock, reported from Bendigo and other places, does not appear to have been experienced here.
RUSHWORTH, MONDAY.
Two distinct shocks of earthquake, one following the other after an interval of about ten minutes, were felt here at about 1 o’clock on Sunday morning.
ST. ARNAUD, MONDAY.
An earthquake shock was felt here yesterday morning, commencing at about a quarter past 1 with a rumbling noise resembling the approach of a railway train. This was followed by a strong vibratory motion from north to south, causing windows to rattle in their crimes, and crockery to shake, and awakening many people from sleep in great consternation. The weather was fair at the time.
TRENTHAM, MONDAY.
We had two distinct shocks of earthquake here on Sunday morning, the first at 20 minutes past 1, and the second at five minutes past 2. The first lasted over 20sec, and appeared to be travelling from north-east to south-west.
TALBOT, MONDAY.
Two smart shocks of earthquake were felt here yesterday morning. The first occurred at 20 minutes past 1, and the novel sensation occasioned considerable alarm. It was accompanied by a rumbling noise, something like that made by an approaching train.
WOODEND, MONDAY
Two severe shocks of earthquake felt here, the first at half past 1, and the second at a quarter to 2 a m. yesterday morning. Two distinct and smart shocks were also experienced at Cobaw, Rochford, and Lancefield on Sunday morning, at about 2 o’clock, Accompanied by a noise like distant thunder Fearfully heavy winds prevailed all last night.
WYCHITELLA, MONDAY.
A slight shock of earthquake was experienced at 20 minutes past 1 o’clock yesterday morning The shock was not sufficiently severe to awake an ordinary sleeper, but quite perceptible to those awake.
McIvor Times and Rodney Advertiser (Heathcote, Vic. : 1863 – 1918), Thursday 27 July 1893, page 3
THE EARTHQUAKE THREE DISTINCT SHOCKS. Between a quarter and twenty minutes past one o’clock on Sunday morning last several residents of the town and surrounding district were awoke from their sleep by a shock of an earthquake, which shook their beds and dwellings, causing crockery, glassware, &c., to rattle, and was accompanied by a noise like an explosion, followed by a rumbling sound or noise of an approaching hurricane. Within 40 or 45 minutes of this shock two other shocks were felt, but were of a lighter description. By the first shock in a few dwellings some articles were knocked off shelves, some plaster shaken down at Mr D. Wood’s store, and Mrs. Flee’s residence and at the Commercial Bank the plaster was cracked on the wall of one of the bed rooms. Mr. Gates, the manager of the bank, who was up at the time, and heard the plaster crack, describes the shock as like that of an explosion, which appeared to strike the building at the north front corner, with a noise resembling, that of a wave striking the side of the ship, the back part of the building being subjected to the same force immediately afterwards, and that the rumbling sound followed, the whole lasting about two or three seconds. Beyond the two mentioned we have heard of no other damage being done to property in the immediate neighborhood. Accounts of the shocks have reached us from the Toolleen, Knewsley, Majors Line, Mia Mia and other districts in the locality. In some instances the severest was the cause of alarm, and was at the time put down to various causes besides the correct one—an earthquake. In other parts the earthquake appeared to have been more severe, as will be seen from the following which we take from the Age of Monday :
BENDIGO, Sunday. Considerable alarm was caused early this morning by a series of earthquake shocks, which were felt all over the city, Eaglehawk, Kangaroo Flat, the Sheep-wash and other portions of the district. Tile first shock took place at 1.17, and covered a large area. The tremor was a very sharp one, the earth shaking violently and a loud rumbling noise being heard. Most people were in bed at the time, but the noise caused by falling ornaments, shaking furniture and smashing windows caused quite a panic for a time. In the large hotels and boarding establishments the noise was very great, and the inmates rose and dressed hurriedly. For a time all was confusion and the alarm was intensified at 2 o’clock by a deep rumbling sound, unaccompanied by such violent shaking. In many cases whole families refrained from further rest, and dressed ready to escape from their homes if necessary. The constables on night duty describe the sensation as like a heavy train rushing along the street with the brakes down. They state that so violent was the shaking that they had to catch hold of fences to enable them to keep their feet. It is regarded as peculiarly fortunate that the shocks should have occurred when no men were working it the mines, as it is probable that considerable damage has been done below, especially where the ground is heavy. Later reports with respect to the earthquake show very widespread effects. At Axedale some damage was done to farm houses by the breaking of windows and at Eaglehawk a portion of the masonry of the Wesleyan Church was thrown down. Numerous cases are reported of damage to buildings by plaster being detached. The The watchman on the fire brigade tower at Camp Hill had a rather sensational experience. From his elevated position he felt the shock severely ; the building, a substantial brick one. seemed about to topple over; the coals from the watch-man’s stove were scattered all round, and the alarm was increased by the violent ringing of the telephone bell connected with the tower. Several cases of illness caused by the shock and fright are reported. Special precautions are being taken to-night in examining the various mines before the men go to work, as it is feared that shaft timbers and workings may be damaged.
AVOCA, Sunday. This morning about half past I an earthquake shock passed through Avoca. It lasted fully 10 seconds, and was accompanied by a loud rumbling noise, which seemed to die away in a northerly direction 10 seconds after the shock. Persons who were sound asleep were aroused by the shock, and various articles were loudly moved.
BRIDGEWATER, Sunday. A shock of earthquake was felt here this morning at 1.15. It lasted about 5 seconds, and was travelling north and south. The houses shook and the windows and crockery rattled.
CASTLEMAINE, Sunday. At 1.17 this morning a severe shock of earthquake was felt in Castlemaine and the surrounding district, causing much alarm. Very little damage was done except to crockery and glassware in houses. Many people rushed out of their dwellings into the street. Seven minutes after a light shock came, and at 2 7 a m. a heavy shock was again experienced. The shocks travelled from south to north. The police officers on duty state that they heard it coming ” like the roar of a gale of wind,” and were nearly thrown down by the ground rocking. The roof of the gas works was slightly damaged by the shock, and one of the dials of the post office clock shattered.
DUNOLLY, Sunday. About 2 o’clock this morning the shock of an earthquake was felt in Dunolly, accompanied by a loud heavy rumbling noise, which lasted several seconds. The vibration was so pronounced that many residents were awakened from sleep by the rattling and shaking of windows, doors and beds. People were frightened and it was some time before they could settle down to rest again.
MARYBOROUGH, Sunday. A shock of earthquake was felt. throughout the town at 1.18 o’clock this morning, and occasioned considerable alarm in many households. The shock was accompanied by a loud rumbling noise, and windows and doors were shaken. T’he shock was repeated a few minutes after 2 o’clock, but was not so pronounced. The unusual sensation was also felt at Majorca and Rodborough. The shock is said to have travelled in a southerly direction. Five minutes afterwards a second shock was distinctly felt, although less severe than the first; and half an hour after a third shock was experienced, fully as severe as the first, and lasting about the same length of time. Several townspeople ran out of their houses. The oldest residents say that it was the severest shock ever felt in this district. Shortly after 1 o’clock this afternoon a rumbling sound was heard along the ranges, as of a distant earthquake shock, lasting for about a quarter of a minute.
Bendigo Independent (Vic. : 1891 – 1918), Wednesday 26 July 1893, page 4
THE EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS.
Correspondents still continue to forward us communications relative to the earthquake shocks of Sunday morning. At Kamarooka a slight shock passed through the district and some of the residents were much alarmed. The tremor lasted several seconds. At Toolleen (near Rochester) the shock was felt severely. In many cases people thought the houses were coming down. At Mologa (near Pyramid Hill) it was also felt severely at 1.20. It was preceded by a rushing sound like a sudden gust of wind, or the discharge of a rocket and accompanied by a noise like distant thunder. It lasted about 10 seconds and the course seemed to be from west to east, it was also felt at Bald Rock in the same locality.
McIvor Times and Rodney Advertiser (Heathcote, Vic. : 1863 – 1918), Thursday 27 July 1893, page 3
THE EARTHQUAKE THREE DISTINCT SHOCKS. Between a quarter and twenty minutes past one o’clock on Sunday morning last several residents of the town and surrounding district were awoke from their sleep by a shock of an earthquake, which shook their beds and dwellings, causing crockery, glassware, &c., to rattle, and was accompanied by a noise like an explosion, followed by a rumbling sound or noise of an approaching hurricane. Within 40 or 45 minutes of this shock two other shocks were felt, but were of a lighter description. By the first shock in a few dwellings some articles were knocked off shelves, some plaster shaken down at Mr D. Wood’s store, and Mrs. Flee’s residence and at the Commercial Bank the plaster was cracked on the wall of one of the bed rooms. Mr. Gates, the manager of the bank, who was up at the time, and heard the plaster crack, describes the shock as like that of an explosion, which appeared to strike the building at the north front corner, with a noise resembling, that of a wave striking the side of the ship, the back part of the building being subjected to the same force immediately afterwards, and that the rumbling sound followed, the whole lasting about two or three seconds. Beyond the two mentioned we have heard of no other damage being done to property in the immediate neighborhood. Accounts of the shocks have reached us from the Toollen, Knewsley, Majors Line, Mia Mia and other districts in the locality. In some instances the severest was the cause of alarm, and was at the time put down to various causes besides the correct one—an earthquake. In other parts the earthquake appeared to have been more severe, as will be seen from the following which we take from the Age of Monday.
Mount Alexander Mail (Vic. : 1854 – 1917), Saturday 29 July 1893, page 2
Our Yapeen correspondent writes that no two persons describe the late earthquake rumblings alike, but the faint shocks to the south of Mount Franklin, and to the west of a line drawn through Mount Tarrengower were similar to those quakes that disturbed the residents some seventeen years ago. In Mr J. T. Philpot’s residence at Yapeen severe shocks were experienced, the bricks seemed to move, flowers in a large glass case were tipped over. A large poplar tree was thrown down.
1893 12 23 at 14:00, 14:06, 14:09 and 14:45 UTC, Mt Martha and Flinders
The Argus Tuesday 26 December 1893 Page 6.
EARTHQUAKE ON THE COAST.
FLINDERS, MONDAY.
A very distinct shock of earthquake was felt here just before midnight on Saturday. Windows rattled and houses shook. The vibration was also noticed at Cape Schanck and Dromana.
MOUNT MARTHA, MONDAY.
Just after midnight on Saturday three distinct shocks of earthquake were felt here, one of them being sufficiently strong to shake the houses. The wave appeared to be travelling in a direction from south to north.
The Sydney Morning Herald Wednesday 27 December 1893, Page 3 lists the times of aftershocks.
A sharp shock of earthquake at midnight on Saturday was felt at Mount Martha and Flinders, and at 12.6 there was a second severe shock, accompanied by a sharp cracking noise, shaking buildings perceptibly. Slight tremors followed at 12.9 and 12.45.
We assume these events are part of a small swarm on Mornington Peninsula, rather than larger Bass Strait events.
1894 01 04 at 12:00 UTC, Albury NSW
Ovens and Murray Advertiser (Beechworth, Vic. : 1855 – 1955), Saturday 6 January 1894, page 11
ALBURY, Friday.
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt at Albury last night; about 10 o’clock. Many houses trembled with the shock.
Tasmanian (Launceston, Tas. : 1881 – 1895), Saturday 13 January 1894, page 23
A shock of earthquake of a very pronounced character was experienced at Albury on Thursday night between nine and 10 o’clock. Many houses were shaken violently for a few seconds, and the occupants were much alarmed and at a loss to comprehend what was the matter. Some old residents of New Zealand, however, say the shock was certainly that of an earthquake.
1894 01 26 at 09:00 UTC , Benalla
Yackandandah Times (Vic. : 1890 – 1931), Friday 2 February 1894, page 2
A shock of earthquake was felt at Benalla on Sunday evening last.
Euroa Advertiser (Vic. : 1884 – 1920), Friday 2 February 1894, page 2
EARTHQUAKE. On Sunday evening about 7 o’clock, residents in Benalla West were startled by an occurrence which seems explainable only on the supposition that it was a slight shock of earthquake. There was a noise resembling distant thunder, accompanied by a distinct vibration of the earth, and in one house the tremor caused the crockery on the shelves to rattle. The vibration passed from west to east.
1894 06 04 time?, Trentham
Ballarat Star (Vic. : 1865 – 1924), Friday 8 June 1894, page 1
An earth tremor resembling an earthquake was experienced at Trentham on Wednesday.
1894 11 13 at 14:00 UTC, Port Phillip Bay
The Australasian Saturday 17 November 1894.
The following memorandum has been supplied by the Government astronomer (Mr. R. L. J. Ellery):—” ….The earthquake shock experienced at Flinders, Cape Schanck, Little River, and other places about midnight on the 13th was coincident with the commencement of a magnetic storm, which continued through out the 14th…..”
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Thursday 15 November 1894, page 5
AN EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
FLINDERS, Wednesday.
A very distinct earthquake vibration was felt in this locality last night at about 12 o’clock. The tremor was preceded by sounds of subterranean explosions or concussions, the suddenness of the shock startling people who had retired to rest. The direction of the shock could not be determined.
LITTLE RIVER, Wednesday.
A peculiar, deep, rumbling sound, like the shock of an earthquake, was felt here last night at five minutes to 12 o’clock. The tremor seemed to be travelling northwards, and the sky was clear at the time.
A pity the ‘other places’ weren’t named. The centroid of felt reports is in Port Phillip Bay NE of Queenstown but there are no reports from Queenscliffe or Geelong that it was felt, none found yet. The location is similar to that of the previous earthquake and the magnitude at least 3.5.
1894 12 10 at 08:00 UTC and early next morning, Omeo
Ovens and Murray Advertiser (Beechworth, Vic. : 1855 – 1955), Saturday 15 December 1894, p5
An unusually sharp earthquake shock passed through the town at 6 p.m. on Monday, and was so pronounced that people ran out of their houses. In some houses closed doors were thrown open and articles moved. The earth tremor seemed to move from east to west.
Ovens and Murray Advertiser (Beechworth, Vic. : 1855 – 1955), Saturday 15 December 1894, p 5
The Omeo Earth Tremors. — The slight shocks of earthquake in the Omeo district have been repeated. Early on Tuesday morning, a very perceptible tremor was experienced, though it was hardly as pronounced as that of the previous evening.
Gippsland Farmers’ Journal (Traralgon, Vic. : 1893 – 1922, Friday 14 December 1894, page 4
No further information than has already been published has been received at the Observatory concerning the earthquake shock at Omeo. Mr Ellery, the government astronomer, says that earthquake shocks are by no means uncommon in the mountainous regions of Gippsland and in the Cape Otway district. They indicate that the earth has got “something the matter with its inside” in these parts. There is nothing serious in the phenomena.
1895 04 10 at 06:05 UTC, Harrietville
Ovens and Murray Advertiser (Beechworth, Vic. : 1855 – 1955), Saturday 13 April 1895, page 9
Earthquake Shock at Harrietville. — An earthquake shock was felt on Wednesday afternoon at 5 minutes past 4 o’clock. The tremor lasted several seconds, and caused quite a clatter among the crockery in the houses. — Argus
1896 02 09 at 16:02 UTC, Cranbourne
The Mercury 15 February 1896, Page 2S.
CRANBOURNE, February 10.
About half-past 2 this morning a heavy report was heard which shook the buildings, and was followed by rumblings and an earth vibration, continuing some 20 seconds. The shock was most pronounced, the first sensation being like the report of a big gun, followed by an earth tremor, dying away in a north-westerly direction.
1896 04 22, at ?, Yinnar
The Argus Friday 24 April 1896, Page 6.
MORWELL, Thursday. —Yesterday an earthquake shock was felt near Yinnar, which lasted for several seconds.
1896 05 08 at 22:30 UTC, Warragul
Gippsland Times Thursday 14 May 1896, page 3.
Figure 27 Minimal felt area, places where shaking was reported felt, of the 8 May 1896 earthquake near Warragul.
An earth tremor was felt on Saturday morning about half past eight o’clock in Warragul, Drouin, Longwarry, Neerim, and other places in a fairly wide district of which Warragul is the centre. At Drouin the clerk at the railway station said the shock felt as if a heavy waggon had run against the building. At Crossover Mr W. Little stated his house shook as if about to topple over.
1896 08 13 at 11:00 UTC, Wandiligong Gippsland
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Saturday 15 August 1896, page 8
EARTHQUAKE IN NORTH GIPPSLAND. DARGO, Friday.
At 9 o’clock last night an earthquake shock the houses in the township and travelled north-ward. The shaking was very severe.
Ovens and Murray Advertiser (Beechworth, Vic. : 1855 – 1955), Saturday 22 August 1896, page 2
Earthquake at Cheshunt.— At 9.30 p.m. on Thursday, the 13th instant, a slight shock of earthquake was felt distinctly at Cheshunt. The vibrations of iron roofs and windows of buildings were plainly heard, and a low rumbling vibration. It lasted about three minutes. A similar disturbance on the same date was noticed at Beechworth and Bright.
Upper Murray and Mitta Herald (Vic. : 1885 – 1955), Thursday 20 August 1896, page 2
A slight earthquake shock was experienced in different parts of this district on Thursday night, about 9 o’clock. Several Tallangatta people became conscious of a low rumbling sound, which lasted a few seconds, accompanied by a faintly perceptible vibration.
Figure 28 Gippsland earthquake of 5 August 1896, felt from Dargo to Beechworth.
One house-hold likened the circumstance to a train passing over the viaduct, and thoughts of a special train entered their minds. By people who had noticed nothing unusual the noise and vibration heard and felt by their neighbors were put down to thunder, as rain had threatened about the time in question. Next day, however, some country people arrived in town, and their stories fortified several townspeople in their belief that an earth tremor had been experienced. At Tallandoon, several householders were somewhat alarmed by the unmistakable shaking of houses, the motion in one instance causing the crockery to rattle loudly on the shelves, while in another case the striking-wires of a clock were violently agitated, the sounding of which continued for some moments after the shelf had settled to rest. A low rumbling as of distant thunder was also heard. We notice that a similar shock was experienced at Dargo in Gippsland.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Monday 24 August 1896, page 6
WHITFIELD.—A slight earthquake was felt here on Thursday, August 13, about 9 p.m.
1897 03 29 at 11:45 UTC, Kerang
Bendigo Advertiser Wednesday 31 March 1897, Page 3.
AN EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
Kerang, Tuesday.
At about 9.45 last night Kerang was visited by a distinct but not very severe shock of earthquake, which caused some consternation among the inhabitants, many of whom were in their beds at the time. The seismic disturbance seems to have travelled from west to east, and was distinctly felt in many of the outlying districts. The earth undulation was accompanied by a rumbling noise resembling the sound of distant thunder, which lasted about two seconds. No serious damage was done by the earthquake, but furniture was shaken perceptibly, and crockery and glassware in all the houses in the town set rattling. The shock seems to have been most severe on Mount Kerang, where several people were so much alarmed as to leave their beds and hurriedly quit the houses. In some of the stores this morning it was found that goods had been shaken from the shelves, and a few bottles of sauce and other goods smashed in consequence. Many different statements are made as to the direction of the seismic wave, but the fact that it was felt by residents round Lake Wandella before it reached Kerang points to the fact that it must have travelled from west to east as stated above. Kerang was in 1871 visited by an earthquake, which is said by people then resident here to have been considerably more severe than that of yesterday. [Ed. One of the Tumut NSW sequence].
PYRAMID HILL, Tuesday.
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt here last night. The direction seemed to be east to west, and the shock was accompanied by a rumbling noise. The weather during the last three days has been very peculiar, being exceptionally sultry and inclined to rain.
It was also felt at Koondrook according to The Horsham Times of Friday 2 April 1897, Page 4.
1897 05 10 at 05:25 UTC, damage Western Victoria from Kingston-Beachport SA earthquake
The epicentre was in South Australia but damage was experienced in western Victoria, according to the Geelong Advertiser of Wednesday 12 May 1897, Page 4. At Stawell, vats of cyanide spilled and walls were cracked. Miners underground felt severe shaking and fearing an accident, rushed to the surface.
THE EARTHQUAKE.
The most severe shock of earthquake since the colonisation of Victoria took place on Monday afternoon, when the whole of the Western district was thrown into a state of consternation, which for a few instants bordered on panic. Though at a few of the townships the local meteorological authority had commented on the extraordinary appearance of the clouds, there was nothing to indicate the tremor which was to sweep across that portion of the colony during the afternoon. The first sign was a low rumbling noise, which is variously described as resembling a clap of thunder, the roar of a waterfall, and the patter of a hailstorm on a galvanised iron roof; and just as the rural population was awakening to ascertain why its placid existence had been so rudely interrupted the whole face of the landscape began to oscillate in an extraordinary manner. Public buildings were seen rolling like ships at sea, ceilings cracked, tanks were upset, and in a few instances windows were broken and chimneys crashed to the ground. Though no person is reported to have suffered injury by the earthquake, and the most serious damages are the cracking of walls and the falling of chimneys, a considerable loss must have taken place in stores and hotels, as in nearly every township the shock was sufficient to throw all bottles from the shelves to the ground. Barrels were also knocked over, and clocks and ornaments broken in hundreds. In the workings of the mines the shook was felt most severely. Fearing that some fearful accident had happened, the miners rushed to the shafts panic-stricken, and were completely at a loss to account for the supposed explosion when they reached the surface. In the State schools the children were thrown into a great state of trepidation, and in nearly all the towns business was suspended for the rest of the day. The most westerly point from which the news of the earthquake has been received is Adelaide, where two distinct shocks were felt.
Only one shock was noticed throughout all Victoria, with the exception of the town of Horsham, where the tremor was repeated three times. As far as can be ascertained at present, the earthquake was more severe here than in any other Victorian town. Each shock grew longer, and was more intense than that preceding, and was heralded by a loud rumbling noise. The wave appeared to come from north to south, and the earth remained in motion each time about half a minute. All the stone and brick buildings in the town rocked to and fro, inches out of plumb, and the streets were filled with people, who fled from their houses in terror.
Figure 29 This, the largest known earthquake to date in South Australia, was felt over more than half of Victoria as far as Melbourne and in southwestern NSW (from McCue, 1975).
The town hall, owing to a subsidence in the foundations, has been in a very insecure condition for a long time past, and immediately the shock came it rocked to such an extent that the borough officials expected it every moment to fall about their heads. After the earthquake passed the cracks in the town hall were seen to have visibly widened. At Stawell the shock seemed to be one continuous tremor of a minute and a half’s duration, passing from north to south. Windows were broken, the ceiling of the Bank of Australasia fell in pieces, and bricks toppled from the chimney of the Union Bank. Several persons leaning against walls were thrown forward, and a large number were taken with fits of vomiting. The vats in the cyanide works overflowed, crockery was broken, and the cornice of the shire hall fell. At Nhill the shock was so intense that the patients in the local hospital were panic-stricken, and, despite all efforts to detain them, several left the building and refused to return.
1898 01 29 at 11:20 UTC, Yea
The Horsham Times Friday 4 February 1898, Page 2.
An earth tremor, preceded by a rumbling sound, was distinctly felt at Yea on Saturday night at 20 minutes past 9. It took the form of two successive shocks of rapid and short duration. The shock was felt in various outlying parts of the district, but no damage is reported.
1898 03 09 at 19:30 and 19:45 UTC, Harrow
Horsham Times (Vic. : 1882 – 1954), Tuesday 15 March 1898, page 2
Two very distinct shocks of earthquake were felt at Harrow at half-past five and a quarter to six o’clock on Thursday morning.
1898 04 09 at 00:30 UTC, Charlton
The Argus Tuesday 12 April 1898, Page 6.
CHARLTON— A slight earthquake shock was experienced in Charlton on Saturday at about half past 10 a.m. The tremors were more pronounced at Clifton Hill, (West Charlton), and appeared to be travelling south-east. Unlike the shock felt last year, this visitation was accompanied by a dull rumbling report, such as that heard in blasting operations. The duration of the shock was brief, lasting only a few seconds and no damage was done.
1898 04 10 at 21:30 UTC, Robe South Australia
The Horsham Times Friday 15 April 1898, Page 3.
HORSHAM, Thursday.
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK AT GOROKE. A slight shock of earthquake was experienced here early on the morning of Easter Monday; but as most of the inhabitants were wrapped in dreamless slumber, the unpleasant sensation was noted only by a few. At Minimay the shock was severe enough to cause the crockery to rattle. It was also felt at Edenhope, and appeared to be travelling in and from the same direction as the memorable “quake ” of last year. An earth tremor occurred at Nhill at half past seven on Monday morning, lasting two or three seconds. A slight rumbling was heard and windows of houses rattled. No damage was done.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Friday 15 April 1898, page 6
HORSHAM, Thursday.
The shock of earthquake already reported from Charlton (Ed. different earthquake) and Nhill as having been experienced on Monday morning was also felt at Goroke, and much more severely at Edenhope and Minimay.
Hamilton Spectator (Vic. : 1870 – 1918), Saturday 16 April 1898, page 2
CASTERTON.
Tuesday.
An earth tremor was distinctly felt here yesterday morning at about half-past 7. It lasted for five or six seconds, and seemed to travel from east to west. Occurring at an early hour only a few remarked it. In one house ornaments fell from the mantle-piece, but generally only a slight tremor was felt.
This earthquake was investigated by Dix (2013) but was felt more deeply into Victoria than shown on her isoseismal map.
1898 11 21 at 01:40 UTC, Mansfield
The Argus Tuesday 22 November 1898, Page 6.
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK. MANSFIELD, Monday.
An earth tremour was experienced here at 11.40 this morning, when crockery and other articles on shelves were observed to shake. The shock was travelling from west to east.
1898 12 18 at 17:40 UTC, Barnedown
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Wednesday 21 December 1898, page 6
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK. BARNEDOWN, Tuesday.
A distinct shock of earthquake was experienced here about 3.40 a.m. yesterday. There was a rumbling sound, and the houses began to rock, and the windows shook for about 9 or 10 seconds.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Tuesday 20 December 1898, page 6
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK AT GOORNONG.
GOORNONG, Monday.
A slight shock of earthquake was felt here at 3.35 this morning. It awakened residents and caused the buildings to vibrate considerably. The tremor was accompanied by a rumbling sound resembling distant thunder.
Elmore Standard (Vic. : 1882 – 1920, Friday 23 December 1898, page 3
GOORNONG
Monday, December 19.
Earthquake Shock.—The majority of the people in the township were aroused from their slumbers at 3.35 this morning by a shock of earthquake that caused the buildings to vibrate considerably. The tremor was accompanied by a low rumbling sound resembling distant thunder.
Bendigo Advertiser (Vic. : 1855 – 1918), Saturday 24 December 1898, page 3
CASTLEMAINE. Friday.
Earthquake.—The earthquake shock reported to have been felt at Goornong on Monday morning was distinctly felt here by Mr. E. Leviney and the members of his family at about the same time as it was experienced at Goornong.
1899 04 11 time?, Wartook
The Argus Friday 14 April 1899, Page 3.
A SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.
HORSHAM, Thursday.
EARTHQUAKE AT WARTOOK.
A shock of earthquake was felt throughout the district on Tuesday, accompanied by a rumbling sound, which could be distinctly heard for about six seconds. Several houses received a shaking. The tremor seemed to be travelling in a north-easterly direction. The shock was not felt in Horsham, but was in Stawell.
1899 06 03 at 21:30 UTC and 1899 06 04 at 05:35 UTC, Gordons
Geelong Advertiser Thursday 8 June 1899, Page 2.
Two distinct shocks of earthquake are stated by the ” Courier ” to have been experienced at Gordons on Tuesday. The first disturbance was felt at about half-past seven a.m., and the other at about 25 minutes to four p.m. Considerable alarm was occasioned by the first shock, as it was preceded by a loud noise like the roar of a heavily-laden train travelling at high speed. Houses were much shaken, crockery rattled, and pictures swung out from the walls. The people who were in bed at the time appear to have felt the tremors worse than those who were up. At Green Hill, about a mile away to the north, a lady who was taking a cup of tea in bed states that the cup was thrown from her hand, and that her children, who were dressing, were bumped against the wall, so violent was the tremor. The afternoon disturbance which was less severe, was heralded by a sharp sound like the discharge of light artillery. Both seismic waves appeared to travel from west to east. The residents of Lal Lal, and also the Gong Gong, were surprised between seven and eight a.m. on Tuesday by a heavy rolling rumbling sound like the report of a distant cannon, or blast in a mine accompanied by a slight vibration of the earth and the houses. When several came to compare notes they could come to no other conclusion than that there had been a slight shock of earthquake.
With an epicentre near Green Hill north of Gordon, the magnitude is about ML3.0. There are no reports it was felt at nearby Ballarat, or anywhere else but not all the newspapers have yet been digitised.
1899 06 21 at 18:55 UTC, Alexandra
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Saturday 24 June 1899, page 10
AN EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
ALEXANDRA, Friday.
A distinct shock of earth tremor was felt here at five minutes to 5 o’clock yesterday morning. The direction was north to south.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Friday 23 June 1899, page 6
EARTH TREMORS AT YEA.
YEA, Thursday.
The residents were considerably startled, about 4.50 a.m. to-day, by feeling the houses shaken by an earthquake shock, which was accompanied by a rumbling noise, somewhat similar to that caused by a train in motion.
1899 11 23 at 07:16 UTC, Portarlington
The Argus Friday 24 November 1899, Page 6.
AN EARTHQUAKE SHOCK. SEVERELY FELT AT PORTARLINGTON
INHABITANTS MUCH ALARMED.
A distinct shock of earthquake occurred about 20 minutes past 5 o’clock yesterday afternoon, and lasted for several seconds. The tremor appears to have come from the south-east, and to have diminished in intensity as it proceeded, for the reports from the eastern shores of the bay show that the earth convulsion was of sufficiently serious character to cause the residents grave alarm. The township of Portarlington appears to have been the centre of the disturbance. The shock was of only two seconds duration there, but while it lasted it threatened to wreck some of the larger buildings and drove the more nervous of their occupants helter-skelter into the street. The Grand Hotel – the most imposing edifice in the township was shaken from top to bottom. The bottles in the bar were thrown from their shelves, crockery was overturned and smashed and the walls oscillated perceptibly during the most severe part of the shock. The occupants of the rooms on the second and third stories were greatly alarmed for at one time it appeared as if the building were about to collapse. Other houses in the locality were treated similarly but owing to their lesser height, the effects of the tremor were less noticeable.
Apparently the shock travelled from Portarlington southwards through Lorne and Flinders, and north-easterly through Geelong to Melbourne. In the city more than one occupant of Collins street offices noticed the shock, and in the Malvern district it was remarkably distant. The tremor then travelled through Cheltenham, Oakleigh and Fern Tree Gully, and was last heard of at Berwick and Frankston. The seismograph at the Melbourne Observatory recorded a slight shock.
Geelong Advertiser Friday 24 November 1899, Page 3.
AN EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
EXPERIENCED IN GEELONG.
An earthquake shock was sensibly felt in various parts of the Geelong district shortly after five o’clock yesterday afternoon, and telegrams from Portarlington and Queenscliff show that it was experienced at those places also. The course of the seismic disturbance appears to have been from west to east, and its duration, according to those by whom it was experienced, was about two seconds. In several instances the utmost consternation was caused by the disturbance, though, generally speaking, the phenomenon was severe enough to be noticeable.
At Belmont the effects of the earth tremor appear to have been more perceptible than in Geelong. The Belmont Hotel vibrated to such an extent that Mrs M’Donald, the wife of the licensee, rushed downstairs in the expectation that the building would tumble. Mr M’Donald himself was sitting in a back parlor with a couple of friends at the time, and he ran outside to ascertain the cause of the alarm. The windows rattled, beds were bumped against the wall, several of the doors were violently slammed, and the bottles in the bar rattled together. The disturbance was also experienced at the Excelsior Woollen Mills, where some bales of blankets were toppled over. It was also felt to a very appreciable extent at Christ Church parsonage, the vibration of the walls and the rattle of crockery being the most distinguishing feature of the incident. The Rev. J. Nicholson, of the South Geelong Wesleyan parsonage, felt the tremor, and observed the lintel of one of the doors vibrate. In several of the business places of the town alarm was caused by the agitation of goods upon shelves, and the proprietor of a boot shop hurriedly retreated from his establishment in momentary panic. A number of people living chiefly below M’Killop-street have informed us that they were made aware of the disturbance by the displacement of articles of furniture, and the sensation is generally described as resembling the effect of a heavy train passing along close to a house. The exact time of the disturbance, according to general observation, was 5.15, and this tallies with that given by our Portarlington correspondent, who writes thus— “There was a distinct shock of earthquake at Portarlington at 5.10 this afternoon. The duration was about two seconds, and the buildings were greatly shaken.”
The Horsham Times Friday 1 December 1899, Page 2 lists many other towns where the shaking was felt.
The earthquake last Thursday afternoon appears to have been felt most severely at Portarlington, whence it moved southerly and north-easterly. Cape Otway reported a heavy shock, while at Cape Schanck it distinctly shook the lighthouse keeper’s quarters. The seismograph at the Melbourne Observatory showed the time of the shock to be at 5.16 p.m., but it was barely recorded there on the instrument, although the rattling of doors and trembling of tables was very perceptible. The following places reported having felt the tremor:—Abbotsford, Brunswick, Beaumaris, Cheltenham, Cowes, Dandenong, Fern Tree Gully, Gembroke, Lorne, Pakenham and Portarlington and Queenscliff. At Portarlington the Grand Hotel was shaken from top to bottom. The bottles in the bar were thrown from their shelves, crockery was overturned and smashed, and the walls oscillated perceptibly during the most severe part of the shock. The occupants of the rooms on the second and third stories were greatly alarmed, for at one time it appeared as if the building were about to collapse.
Figure 30 The Isoseismal map of the earthquake near Portarlington on 23 November 1899, its magnitude about ML 5.0.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Saturday 25 November 1899, page 14
THE EARTHQUAKE.
NEERIM SOUTH, Friday.
The shock of earthquake was felt here last evening, and created considerable alarm among the residents. It lasted about 30 seconds.
Ovens and Murray Advertiser (Beechworth, Vic. : 1855 – 1955), Saturday 2 December 1899, p10
The Late Earthquake. — A distinct earthquake shock was experienced at Korumburra on Thursday at 5.15 p.m. The whole of the earth strata of South Gippsland bears evidence of volcanic eruption at some remote period, and the possibility of a repetition of the disturbances is disquieting to nervous people. At San Remo a distinct shock of earthquake was felt about 5.15 on Thursday.
1899 11 25 at 15:00 UTC, Ararat
Ballarat Star (Vic. : 1865 – 1924), Thursday 30 November 1899, page 1
ARARAT.
Wednesday. EARTHQUAKE.
A sight shock of earthquake was felt here by a number of local residents on Sunday morning about 1 o’clock.
1899 11 30 at 12:30 UTC, Swan Hill, Hay and Balranald – location NSW
The Argus Tuesday 5 December 1899, Page 7.
SWAN HILL —A slight shock of earthquake was experienced here on Saturday.
Leader (Melbourne, Vic. : 1862 – 1918, 1935), Saturday 9 December 1899, page 19
A shock of earthquake, lasting several seconds, was experienced at Swan Hill at about 10:30 p.m on 30th November.
Note: This event occurred in NSW.
Bendigo Advertiser Saturday 2 December 1899, Page 4.
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK AT GOORNONG.
Goornong, 1st December.
A very distinct earth tremor was felt here at 10.30 o’clock last night, and consisted of about seven vibrations, lasting for fully 10 seconds. The wave of motion appeared to be moving in a north-easterly direction. The door and windows of brick buildings, and the verandahs oscillated in a most decided manner. A slight shower of rain fell immediately afterwards, but there was no wind blowing.
Coincidently, The Riverine Grazier of Friday 1 December 1899, Page 2 reports a ‘slight but distinct’ earthquake at Hay NSW (235 km away), at the same time.
1900 03 11 at 17:45 UTC, Warrnambool
The Argus Wednesday 14 March 1900, Page 8.
WARRNAMBOOL.
On Monday morning between half-past 3 and 4 o’clock, a slight earthquake was felt in Warrnambool.
Too early to be a foreshock but an interesting location given the damaging earthquakes just 3 years later at Warrnambool
1900 05 27 at 02:30 UTC, Neerim North
The Argus Monday 28 May 1900, Page 5.
WARRAGUL, Sunday.
One of the strongest earthquake shocks ever experienced in this district was felt at half past 12 p.m. today. The tremor appeared to travel from east to west and lasted for 35 seconds. A peculiar feature of the experience was the fact that the motion appeared to be perpendicular, producing sensation of being bumped up and down. This was especially noticed by persons lying or sitting down. Another peculiarity of the shock was that while it was severe in certain localities the intervening ground, was but little affected.
FELT IN MELBOURNE
The shock referred to in the above message from Warragul was experienced in Melbourne and suburbs. It was plainly felt in the residence of a gentleman in South Yarra, and the time was noted as 33 minutes past 12; while an inmate of an office in Collins-street and residents of East Melbourne also felt it distinctly. Mr. Baracchi, the Government astronomer, heard of a second shock which was experienced in South Yarra and St. Kilda, at about half past 5 in the afternoon. At the Observatory, however, there was no knowledge of either shock.
Figure 31 Felt area of the earthquake on 27 May 1900. It was clearly felt in the city and eastern suburbs of Melbourne. The orange numbers are intensities added to the original map by this author following more newspaper scanning by Trove.
The Argus Tuesday 29 May 1900, Page 7.
THE EARTHQUAKE SHOCK. STATEMENT BY MR. BARACCHI.
Mr. Baracchi states that a slight shock of earthquake has been reported to him from many quarters as having occurred at about half past 12 on Sunday morning and another shock at about 5 in the afternoon. He has not been able to consult the recording instrument at the Observatory yet, but the instrument will be available for inspection today when he presumes that the magnetic needles will be found to have registered the disturbance. He observes that the centre of the disturbance seems to have been near Warragul, and that it was probably due to an “earth fault” of local situation, rather than to an earthquake in the ordinary acceptance of the term.
The shock was also felt at Ferntree Gully, Grantville, Jeetho, Korumburra, Leongatha, Mansfield, Neerim South, Pakenham, Poowong and San Remo.
DROUIN, Monday
The earthquake shock reported in “The Argus” this morning was distinctly felt in Drouin and the district. Buildings shook and rattled audibly, and people sitting at dinner were rocked in their chairs. Windows and crockery rattled, and many people were greatly alarmed. At Poowong North, as the worshippers were leaving the church after the morning service, they felt the building shake, and the lamps swayed to and fro.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Tuesday 29 May 1900, page 6
FELT AT BRUNSWICK.
An earthquake shock, the second experienced within the past few months was noticed by several residents in the northern and outlying parts of the Brunswick district on Sunday, and was in all probability connected with the earth tremors yesterday reported to have been felt at Warragul. Mr. W. Norman, railway station master of Brunswick, was seated with members of his family in one of the rooms of his house in Caeserls-road, at midday, when he felt the place to be moving with a rocking motion, producing a feeling akin to seasickness. The movement appeared to last for several seconds and Mr. Norman, recognising that a subterranean disturbance had taken place, was careful to look at his watch, and found the time to be 12.30 p.m. A noise resembling the roaring of a sudden gale of wind accompanied the tremor.
BEACONSFIELD, Monday. A sharp shock of earthquake, lasting about a minute, occurred here at 12.35 p.m. yesterday.
DANDENONG, Monday. A distinct shock of earthquake was felt here about 12.30 yesterday. The tremor lasted about six seconds, and fairly rattled several residences. The shock was the most severe experienced in the district for many years.
DROUIN, Monday. Yesterday, about 12:30 p.m., a very severe shock of earthquake passed through the town. The wave appeared to travel from the north-west.
FERN TREE GULLY, Monday. A distinct shock of earthquake was experienced here yesterday at 12.30.
FOSTER, Monday. A shock of earthquake was felt here yesterday, at midday. There were two distinct tremors following one another in quick succession, lasting fully 15 seconds. Houses shook, crockery &c., rattled, and some of the residents were so scared in the houses that they hurriedIy left their houses.
JEETHO, Monday. A very severe shock of earthquake was experienced here yesterday shortly after noon, causing the empty trucks on the railway siding to rattle loudly and the houses to shake.
JUMBUNNA, Monday. A severe shock of earthquake passed through the town yesterday, about 12.25 p.m. It seemed to travel from west to east with great rapidity, striking the houses with two great thuds, and then making them almost rock. The roar was like that of a loud explosion going off 200 or 300 feet below the surface. The shock was so severe that people rushed out of their houses expecting to see them fall. Many complained of headaches and of feeling sick. A quantity of stone was displaced in the Jumbunna mine, but no serious damage is reported.
KORUMBURRA, Monday. A severe earth tremor was felt here yesterday, at 12.25, apparently travelling from west to east. A rolling motion was accompanied by a rumble as of thunder, and in one or two instances residents rushed out of their houses in alarm.
MANSFIELD, Monday. At 10 o’clock on Saturday a distinct shock of earthquake was experienced, the direction being from north to south.
OUTTRIM, Monday. A decided shock of earthquake passed through this district yesterday, at 12.15 p.m., travelling apparently from north-east to south-west. The tremor shook houses and furniture in an alarming manner, and in places broke ornaments standing on mantelpieces. The shock was felt very severely in the mine, where it travelled along the different workings and tunnels, to the great alarm of those underground, but passed away without doing great damage. Its duration was from 8 to 10 seconds.
PAKENHAM, Monday. A very pronounced shock of earthquake was experienced here about 12.30 yesterday, lasting from 28 to 30 sec.
POOWONG, Mnday. A shock of earthquake occurred here yesterday about 12.30 p.m., making windows, doors and anything movable rattle for some seconds. The shock was distinctly felt all over the district.
SASSAFRAS, Monday. A sharp and clearly felt shock of earthquake occurred here on Sunday at 12.30. It lasted about 10 sec. The oscillation shook numbers of articles off shelves, and made the houses creak, but did no damage.
STONY CREEK, Monday. A shock of earthquake, more severe than any experienced for many years, occurred here yesterday at 11.45, lasting for nearly 10 seconds.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Monday 28 May 1900, page 6
AN EARTHQUAKE.
BERWICK, Sunday.
The most severe shock of earthquake experienced in this district for many years occurred here at 12.35 to-day. The vibration lasted about 8 seconds, and was pre-ceded by a loud rumbling noise. The wave appeared to travel in a north-westerly direction. WARRAGUL, Sunday. A distinct shock of earthquake was experienced here about 12.30 this morning. The shock was so severe that several of the residents became so alarmed as to leave their residences.
1900 07 12 afternoon, Melbourne
Ballarat Star (Vic. : 1865 – 1924), Friday 13 July 1900, page 5
AN EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
A mild shock of earthquake was experienced in the city this afternoon. The sensation produced upon some of those who noticed it was as if they had suddenly become dizzy.
Geelong Advertiser (Vic. : 1859 – 1929), Friday 13 July 1900, page 1 and 2
TOWN TALK.
Our Melbourne correspondent reports
“A mild shock of earthquake was experienced in the city this (Thursday) afternoon. The sensation produced upon some of those who noticed it was as if they had suddenly
become dizzy.”
No Melbourne newspaper stories have been found to corroborate this report, perhaps awaiting scanning.
1900 09 04 at 09:10 UTC, Jamieson
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Thursday 6 September 1900, page 6
AN EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
Jamieson, Tuesday.
A heavy shock of earthquake occurred here at 10 minutes past 7 this evening, lasting about 10 seconds. It travelled from north-west to south-east.
1900 09 16 at 15:00 UTC, Warrnambool
The Argus Friday 21 September 1900, Page 3.
WARRNAMBOOL.
A slight earth tremor was felt in Warrnambool on Monday morning at about 1 o’clock. This is the second disturbance within the space of a few months.
The previous one occurred on 11 March (see above).
1900 10 08 at 05:00 UTC, Beechworth
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Friday 12 October 1900, page 4
EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS.
The earthquake shocks felt at Beechworth and Myrtleford on Monday were reported at Yackandandah, where a shock lasting 10 seconds was distinctly felt at 3 p.m., and was succeeded by a rumbling noise.
Ovens and Murray Advertiser (Beechworth, Vic. : 1855 – 1955), Saturday 13 October 1900, page 6
YACKANDANDAH DISTRICT.
An Earthquake. — The slight earthquake shocks which were experienced at Beechworth and Myrtleford on Monday were also felt at Yackandandah, where several residents were startled in their offices at 3 p.m. by the shaking of the room, succeeded by a rumble as of a heavily laden waggon. Messrs. Moore and Jeffrey, who were at the Shire Hall at the time, experienced the shock and mentioned the matter in the evening, before news of the tremors at adjoining districts had time to reach the locality. Other residents also noticed the tremor and heard the jarring sound, though unable at the time to account for it.
1901 11 19 at 16:00 UTC, Walhalla
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Thursday 21 November 1901, page 5
EARTHQUAKE IN THE COUNTRY
SEVERE SHOCK AT MOONDARRA. WALHALLA, Wednesday.
A distinct shock of earthquake, travelling northwest, was experienced here at 1.40 this morning. At Moondarra the shock was very severe, and several barns and sheds were thrown to the ground. No notification of seismic disturbance within the State reached the Government Astronomer yesterday. Mr. Baracchi states that the recording instrument now in use at the Observatory is not sufficiently sensitive to register even violent tremors occurring as far distant as Moondarra. An instrument is, however, now being put up which will record shocks occurring within a radius of thousands of miles of the Observatory. Although tremors, as a rule, approach Victoria from a westerly direction, Mr. Baracchi thinks it not absolutely impossible that a shock such as is reported from Moondarra might have connection with the recent earthquakes in New Zealand.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Thursday 21 November 1901, page 6
AN EARTHQUAKE,
WALHALLA, Wednesday.
An earth tremor, lasting for about half a minute, was felt here at 2 o’clock this morning. Many townspeople were alarmed, and rushed from their beds. It was thought at first that a dynamite explosion had taken place. The buildings, particularly those at the foot of the hill vibrated considerably during the disturbance. The men working in the mines had an anxious time. At the South Long Tunnel the shock was so severely felt that the shift boss thought it desirable to send the miners to the surface.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Thursday 21 November 1901, page 3
AN EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
A telegram from Walhalla states that a distinct shock of earthquake was felt there at 1.40 this morning. At Moondarra the shock was very severe, and several barns and sheds were thrown to the ground.
1902 08 21 at time?, Granite Flat
Ovens and Murray Advertiser (Beechworth, Vic. : 1855 – 1955), Saturday 23 August 1902, page 3
Earthquake Shocks.— Two distinct shocks of earthquake were felt at Granite Flat, eighteen miles from Donald, on Thursday.
1902 10 22 at 21:00 UTC, Walhalla
The Argus Friday 24 October 1902, Page 6 and 25 October Page 16.
AN EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
WALHALLA, Thursday.
A severe earthquake shock was felt here at 7 o’clock this morning. The disturbance, which was travelling in a northerly direction, greatly alarmed householders, and caused much anxiety to the men working in the mines.
THE EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
MOE, Friday.
A shock of earthquake was experienced at Moondarra, on the road to Walhalla, 10 miles from Moe, yesterday morning, at about half past 7 o’clock, and lasted about three minutes. In the settlers’ houses the crockery shelves swayed, and at one homestead a bucket of milk standing on the stump of a tree, cut for such a purpose, was capsized.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Tuesday 28 October 1902, page 4
The earthquake shock which was experienced at Walhalla on Thursday last was evidently a local and very slight disturbance as no record of it was shown by the seismograph at the Observatory. Though several earth tremors during last week were found to have been recorded when the weekly inspection of the instrument was made yesterday, none corresponded with the shock reported from Walhalla.
Felt underground, this and the previous seismic event are probably mine-related.
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Thursday 30 October 1902, page 4
No information has reached the Observatory authorities with respect to the reported earthquake shock at Hurdle Creek, 16 miles from Wangaratta. The seismograph (the earthquake-recording Instrument) films will not be developed until either Saturday or Monday, and before that it cannot be said whether the instrument has recorded the shock.
1902 11 02 at 20:45 UTC, Yarrawonga
Cobram Courier (Vic. : 1888 – 1954), Thursday 6 November 1902, page 5
YARRAWONGA.
At about a quarter to seven o’clock on Monday morning the people of Yarrawonga and Mulwala were somewhat startled by what appeared, to those who happened to be in bed at the time, to be a remarkably sharp peal of thunder. Those who were outside, however, have a different opinion as to the nature of the report. As it was unaccompanied by any flash they are satisfied that it was not thunder, and their opinions are somewhat divided as to whether it was caused by an earthquake or a fall of a meteor. The report seems to have been heard over a large area of country. Mr. Lonsdale, of Mulwala, who was at Corowa when it occurred, describes it as resembling the crash of a falling tree, and we are told that several residents of Mount Gwynne distinctly heard it. Some sleeper cutters who were working early on the Mulwala flat describe the report as a violent explosion at the north – east of the town, followed by a rumbling noise which seemed to proceed towards Corowa.
Figure 32 Felt reports (orange) of the earthquake east of Mulwala on the NSW/Vic border on 02 November 1902.
The earthquake was felt along a 45km stretch of the NSW/Vic border so this earthquake must rate at least magnitude 3.3.
1902 12 22 at 12:50 UTC, Mornington
The Argus Friday 26 December 1902, Page 3.
EARTH TREMOR AT MORNINGTON.
MORNINGTON. Tuesday. —An earth quake occurred here last night at 10 minutes to 11. A loud rumbling noise accompanied it, and lasted about 7sec.
Figure 33 Felt area of the Mornington earthquake, 22 December 1902.
Underwood (1972) mentions that it was felt also at Flinders, Queenscliffe, Cape Schank, Hawthorn; and Sunbury and Ballarat! – must be two separate earthquakes the other near Sunbury and Ballarat or it would surely have shaken Melbourne quite strongly.
1903 04 06 at 23:52 UTC, Warrnambool and aftershock
Warrnambool suffered not one but two damaging earthquakes in 1903. There was panic but no loss of life and only minor injuries, significant damage localised to the city, liquefaction with sand boils and settlement and an expert investigation on-site of the earthquakes and their effects, perhaps the first such study in Australia. Each was followed by a single small aftershock. All of this can be gleaned from the subsequent contemporary newspaper reports.
The analyses by experts Professor John W. Gregory (Geology, Melbourne University) and Pietro Baracchi (Government Astronomer Victoria) are quite interesting with relevant lessons for today’s experts; should one wait to be asked to investigate? should one make forecasts on the risk of future earthquakes? Some of the newspaper reports follow.
Border Watch Sunday 11 April 1903, Page 4.
SEVERE EARTHQUAKE. WARRNAMBOOL VISITED.
A telegram from Warrnambool states that the most severe earthquake ever felt there was experienced on Tuesday morning. It occurred at 9.52, and created intense consternation among the residents. The disturbance seems to have travelled from the south-west to the north-east, and lasted about 10 seconds. It was accompanied by loud rumbling sounds, and was so pronounced in its effects that people rushed from shops and houses into the streets in alarm. A woman in Timor – street fainted, and even horses and dogs were possessed of a sense of abject fear. Houses were seen to perceptibly sway to and fro, and water tanks oscillated on their stands in an extraordinary fashion. At the state school a hollow brass rod extending across the room from wall to wall was bent in the form of an arc. While the shock lasted everything appeared to be in motion, and many people experienced a giddy sensation followed by acute headaches. At St. John’s Presbyterian church the massive cement cross which surmounted one of the turrents on the top was shaken from its base, and hurled through the roof. The ceilings of the post-office are cracked in various directions, while at the shire hall much plaster is down, and the building is otherwise damaged.
The chief damage, however, was to the town hall, and, judging by the results, the building would appear to have been in a direct line with the course of the disturbance. The mischief was worked in the upper apartments, used as cloak-rooms. The floors were bestrewn with plaster, and at the point where the walls connect with the ceiling it looks as though the roof had been lifted up and had then come down again. A plaster of paris ventilator was wrenched away from the wall and came down with a crash, and one of the globes on the chandelier was smashed. The gas pipe was broken asunder, and when the caretaker entered the building he found the stench over-powering, and immediately opened the windows and turned the gas off at the meter. One of the walls of the room affected is also cracked right through. At the police station ink was spilled from the bottles, and the building literally rocked to and fro. Several chimneys of private houses were thrown down, but fortunately the inmates escaped with nothing worse than a severe fright. Considerable destruction was wrought among crockery in stores and in private houses, and things fell to the ground in an alarming way.
The greatest panic occurred in the state school, where hundreds of children were seated in the various classrooms, when they were terrified by the shock and the noises, which were intensified by the rattling of slates on the roof. The senior scholars rose in a body, and some boys and girls jumped through the windows, while others made a rush for the doors. The smaller children were panic-stricken. The teachers strove to allay their alarm, and by their presence of mind prevented serious accidents. A terrible catastrophe was threatened in the upstairs part of the school, where there were about 70 scholars who made a wild rush for the door. A lady teacher, who saw the danger of so many scrambling on the staircase at one time, succeeded in shutting the door, and thus keeping the little ones together, but when the strain was over she broke down. All the children got safely out of the building, but on re-assembling shortly afterwards many were crying piteously, and as several teachers were also unnerved by their experiences the head teacher decided to dismiss the school for the day.
The shock appears to have been most severe in the low-lying part of the town, in an easterly direction, and also along the banks of the Hopkins River. The Brian Boroimhe (Ed. Boru) Hotel, on Raglan parade, was badly shaken, and its repairs will cost a considerable amount. The chimneys and walls of several houses in that locality were broken. The Anglers’ Hotel, and the Hopkins Hotel, on the banks of the river, suffered severely, the former having three chimneys destroyed, while in the bar of the Hopkins Hotel numerous bottles of liquor fell from the shelves.
Figure 34 Isoseismal Map of the first Warrnambool earthquake on 6 April 1903. It was not widely felt but was quite destructive.
Figure 35 Isoseismal Map of the second and larger Warrnambool earthquake on 14 July 1903. Not felt Melbourne.
At the Warrnambool Cemetery, in the same neighbourhood, several tombstones were moved out of their positions, and it is estimated that an outlay of at least £600 will be necessary to effect repairs. The ornaments from several monuments are to be seen on the ground, while many stones are partially overturned, and almost toppling over.
The steamer Flinders was alongside the breakwater pier at the time, and the officers state that they felt two distinct vibrations, and also observed the breakwater wall tumbling.
The shock was severely felt at Port Fairy…. Reports to hand from Framlingham, Grassmere, and other out lying places report that the earthquake was very alarming, and that in some instances kerosene lamps were thrown down and household crockery broken. Nothing approaching to such a severe shock has ever been known before, and the whole population is excitedly discussing the disconcerting experience.
The Horsham Times of 10 April 1903 reports that a stonemason was engraving an inscription on an imposing monument when the earthquake occurred. He was standing on a box, and, feeling it go from beneath his feet, he clung to the column he was operating on. The column rocked perceptibly in his arms, and the massive urn on the top fell on the opposite side. He suffered a great fright.
Leader (Melbourne, Vic. : 1862 – 1918, 1935), Saturday 18 April 1903, page 36
THE WARRNAMBOOL EARTHQUAKE.
The suggestion made by Mr. Baracchi that a scientific examination of the effects of the earthquake might lead to a reason-able theory of the probable origin of the seismic disturbance has been discussed at Warrnambool. The mayor intends to invite Mr. Baracchi and Professor Gregory, Professor of Geology at the Melbourne University, to make the suggested investigation. The effects in the cemetery are uniform. The massive marble columns and granite obelisks, of which there is a considerable number in the grounds, have all been shifted from their bases in the one direction. A square column, for instance, instead of standing straight up and down on its base, has been swung round several inches, and is consequently all awry instead of being flush with the foundation stone. The weaker ones have come down altogether, but the majority remain standing in the disarranged position described. The movement would appear, to have been from north to south. Some of the portions moved out of position weigh up to two tons.
There can be no doubting the high intensity in Warrnambool, at least MMVII but the shaking was reported felt over a very limited area, not even at Melbourne just 225km away. It was a very shallow, small, high frequency, short duration, strong acceleration earthquake. Liquefaction was clearly described. Certainly this earthquake was smaller than the follow-up earthquake in July, just as Barrachi said.
Photos Tombstone damage observed in the Warrnambool cemetery after the April earthquake. Some of the ornamental crosses and urns were hurled up to 6ft from their pedestals.
But there are some surprises; it was recorded on the seismograph, and was it felt in Melbourne?
Geelong Advertiser (Vic. : 1859 – 1929), Thursday 9 April 1903, p 1
THE EARTHQUAKE.
The Observatory instrument, which notes when earthquakes happen, gave a slight indication of one having occurred yesterday morning, and the time at which the record was made was 9h 53m 40sec.
Riverine Herald (Echuca, Vic. : Moama, NSW : 1869 – 1954; 1998 – 2002), Thursday 9 April 1903, page 2
THE EARTHQUAKE.
Mr. Barrachi states that a slight earthquake shock was felt in Melbourne, about 90 secs. after the Warrnambool one (felt or recorded?). Interesting too, an hour later, an earthquake was felt in the mid-north of South Australia. No connection surely.
1903 04 08 at 09:30 UTC, Warrnambool aftershock
Leader (Melbourne, Vic. : 1862 – 1918, 1935), Saturday 11 April 1903, page 23
ANOTHER EARTHQUAKE. NO DAMAGE DONE. WARRNAMBOOL, Wednesday.
Another earthquake shock was felt, here at 7.25 this evening. There was a pronounced rumbling noise, accompanied by slight tremors. It was perceptibly felt by people in their homes, but was not noticed by those in the streets. In many parts of the town windows rattled, and the occupants ran to the doors. There was, however, no repetition of a panic.
This small aftershock has gone unnoticed previously, the unusual pattern repeated in December 1989 in Newcastle.
1903 07 10 at 03:55 UTC, Maldon
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Saturday 11 July 1903, page 13
AN EARTHQUAKE. MALDON, Friday.
A shock of earthquake occurred at 2 p.m. to-day, the direction being northwest to south-east. It caused considerable alarm, but no damage was done.
ITS EFFECT AT BENDIGO.
BENDIGO, Friday.—A slight shock of earthquake was experienced in Bendigo this afternoon just before 2 o’clock. No tremor was felt in the centre of the city, and the report of the occurrence was generally discredited until inquiries showed that the shock had been felt at the Observatory on Camp Hill and on the high ground about the city. Windows were rattled and crockery disturbed, but no damage resulted. It is interesting to note that the disturbance was felt deep down in several of the mines on the New Chum line. In the New Chum Railway the tremor, accompanied by a rumbling noise, was felt at 3,500ft. Experienced miners were at a loss to account for the disturbance until they learned of the earthquake at the conclusion of their shift. A shock was also experienced at Eaglehawk and in the South New Moon mine.
CASTLEMAINE, Friday. — A slight shock of earthquake lasting for a few seconds was experienced here at five minutes to 2 o’clock on Friday afternoon. It appeared to come from the direction of Mount Alexander and travelled in a southerly course. The more timid residents were considerably alarmed, but the shock was of too mild a nature to cause any damage.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Monday 13 July 1903, page 6
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK. BENDIGO, Sunday.
A slight earth tremor occurred shortly before 2 p.m. on Friday. The shock was felt by the inmates at Sergeant Glenny’s residence, on Camp Hill, where the Government meteorological observatory is located, but the disturbance was attributed to blasting operations being carried on in the Park shaft of the Hustler’s Reserve No. 2 Company’s mine, which is adjoining. Residents of Quarry Hill, to the southward, and at Eaglehawk, in the opposite direction, while the electric alarm system in connection with the fire brigade system in the city was affected, and a clock which is fixed to the wall immediately above the telephone switch board in the brigade’s central depot in View-street stopped four minutes before 2 o’clock. Miners employed in the workings at 3500 feet in the New Chum Railway mine, and also in other mines towards Eaglehawk, report having heard a strange rumbling noise at about the hour mentioned. DUNOLLY, Sunday. A very distinct earth tremor was felt on Friday about 2 o’clock in Dunolly, apparently travelling from north to south, lasting some few seconds, causing crockery and windows to rattle. The shock was very distinctly felt at the local hospital, creating some little consternation amongst the nurses and servants. MARYBOROUGH, Sunday. Several persons state that shortly before 2 p.m. on Friday afternoon they experienced a shock of earthquake. One resident says he felt it while sitting in a chair, and another while he was walking along. Others heard a strange noise, and commented upon it.
Figure 36 Earthquake near Maldon on 10 July 1903, felt strongly 3500ft underground in a gold mine.
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Friday 10 July 1903, page 6
AN EARTHQUAKE SHOCK AT CASTLEMAINE. Friday
A shock of earthquake, not very severe but quite distinct, was experienced here this afternoon, at two o’clock. The seismic movement was apparently travelling south from Mount Alexander, and was noticed particularly in the vicinity of the Town Hall and Technical School, the walls of which buildings shook slightly. FELT AT MALDON. Mr Baracchi, when questioned on the subject through the telephone, informed us that he had received a message from Maldon, bearing out the above report of a seismic disturbance. He kindly gave us the text of his message, as follows:— “Maldon.— Rather severe earthquake felt here at 1.56 p.m.” The Astronomer added that he was not aware whether the shock had been felt elsewhere. The seismograph, the delicate instrument of the Observatory which records disturbances of the kind, will be opened tomorrow, and when the film is developed the public will learn through “The Herald” whether Melbourne has been enduring an earthquake.
1903 07 14 at 10:29 UTC, 2nd damaging Warrnambool earthquake, no deaths – by good luck
It would be difficult to find a better description of liquefaction than that in the following story.
Adelaide Observer Saturday 18 July 1903, Page 29.
EARTHQUAKE AT WARRNAMBOOL.
MELBOURNE. July 15.
The earthquake last night in the Warrnambool district was attended by more serious results than was at first thought. Reports now to hand show that the damage to property runs into several thousands of pounds, and that many women have been seriously injured in health by shock to the system. The stone buildings in the low lying parts of the town, and in the vicinity of the Hopkins River, sustained most damage, but for miles around chimneys were either thrown down or seriously cracked, and work has been provided for glaziers by the wholesale cracking of window glass. Had the shock occurred later, when the people had retired to bed, loss of life would probably have taken place, for in several cases heavy masses of plaster and brickwork fell on bedsteads.
A remarkable phenomena was observed at the mouth of the Hopkins River. Within 200 yards of the sea shore there were at least 12 peculiar looking holes, circular in form, each having a mound of about a foot to 18 in. high surrounding it, composed for the most part of slate coloured material, resembling mud such as would come from the bottom of the river. As the surface of that locality is composed solely of sand, this discoloured substance has a striking effect, especially as it is scattered for yards around the hole, appearing as though it had been forced out of the ground in the form of spray, and had come down in showers on the surface. The holes are a considerable depth, poles 7 ft. long having been put down without touching bottom.
Hundreds of cracks were made in the sand, and at one point there is a subsidence in the ground, varying from 1 ft. to 2 ft. deep, about four chains long by one chain wide. The result of this subsidence on the rising ground was the formation of a series of terraces, one rising above the other, along the side of the sand hummock. A quarter of a mile distant from the mouth of the river is the Anglers’ Hotel, and the metalled road leading to Warrnambool, with a bridge over the stream. The road and the country through which it runs is cracked in many places, and though the cracks are not wide, they appear to be a considerable depth.
The Anglers’ Hotel was badly shaken. A chimney crashed through the roof into a room where a young woman was seated. Every bottle in the hotel bar was thrown down, and a barrel of beer was jerked off a stand, and rolled along the floor. A house in the vicinity, occupied by Mr. W. Haberfield, was partially wrecked. The chimneys, which had just been repaired from the effects of previous earthquakes, were again shattered, and large apertures were made in the walls. Other houses fared similarly.
There were two landslips, one on each bank of the river. A huge block of stone and earth fell near Hyde’s boathouse, and caused slight damage.
The cemetery sustained greater damage than on the occasion of the previous shock, and now presents an irregular appearance. Almost every tombstone is out of position, and many have been wholly or partially destroyed. Monuments weighing from four to seven tons were moved in various directions. The damage in the cemetery is estimated at £800. The sexton’s residence had the walls cracked and plaster displaced.
Photos Damage at St. John’s Presbyterian church after the first (left) and second earthquakes at Warrnambool. The massive cement crosses which surmount the turrets were shaken from their bases, and hurled through the roof. Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Saturday 13 October 1923, page 29.
DAMAGED BY EARTHQUAKE AND WIND.
F. G. Howden. Warrnambool, photo
During the earth tremor of 1903 the spire of St. Joseph’s Church at Warrnambool was severely shaken. The cross at the top was loosened, and during the recent storms swayed dangerously in the wind. The cross, which is 9ft. high, is being replaced by one 3ft. high after some of the stone (which is Oamaru, N.Z., marble) has been cut away. Steeplejacks are seen at work.
Photos Replacement of the Cross atop the spire on St Joseph’s Church, Warrnambool damaged in the 1903 earthquakes.
At Russell’s Creek, one mile distant from the town, a resident, Mr. Samuel McDonald, an auctioneer, had his walls cracked, the pictures thrown down, and the tremor was so violent that it shook the milk out of a jug standing on a sideboard. The residence of Mr. H. R. Warrington, solicitor, was partially wrecked. A portion of one wall was knocked out, and the other walls so cracked that they may fall at any moment. Some of the inmates had a narrow escape from being struck by falling debris. The town hall escaped with comparatively little damage, though fears are entertained that the wall fronting Liebig street will have to be rebuilt. The cornices and much of the plaster in the upstairs rooms were broken, but the main hall was not interfered with to any extent.
Two churches were damaged to an extent which will necessitate extensive repairs. At St. John’s, the Presbyterian Church, no fewer than seven crosses, each weighing from 1 cwt. to 2 cwt., were displaced, while the walls appear to have been shaken. It is estimated that quite £250 will be required to effect repairs. The spire of St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, which towers to a considerable height, was twisted near the top, and is said to be fully 2 in. out of position.
One strange feature of the shock was the large number of tanks which burst. Reports from townships surrounding Warrnambool, including Allanford, Panmure, Garhoy, Woodford, Pernim, Farnham, and Cassidy’s Bridge, show that the earthquake was severely felt, though the damage was confined mainly to broken chimneys and crockery.
The earthquake in the western district last night does not appear to have been noticed by residents of Melbourne, but the seismograph at the observatory indicates that a short, sharp shock took place at 29½ minutes past 8 on Tuesday night.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Saturday 24 October 1903, page 12
GEELONG.
The remains of the ill-fated barque Inverlochy, which have clung to the Hereford reef, near Anglesea, for about twelve months, have at last disappeared, and now rest in deep water a short distance away. The change of the position of the wreck is attributed to the effect of the recent earthquake felt at Warrnambool.
Leader (Melbourne, Vic. : 1862 – 1918, 1935), Saturday 10 October 1903, page 26
Mr. Baracchi, Government Astronomer, paid a visit to Warrnambool on Saturday, and took soundings in the vicinity of the breakwater with the object of ascertaining if the recent earthquake had in any way affected the depth of the water. The disturbance travelled from a southwesterly direction and passed under the breakwater, which was severely shaken, and it was thought that possibly the land in the locality might have subsided. Mr. Baracchi, however, could discover no changes that could be attributed to the earthquake, the only variations noticeable being attributable to silting.
1904 04 09 at 22:00 UTC, Bright
The Argus Tuesday 12 April 1904, Page 6
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK. NORTH-EASTERN DISTRICT AFFECTED. BRIGHT, Monday. At 8 o’clock yesterday morning a distinct shock of earthquake was felt at Wandiligong, Porepunkah, Eurobin, Harrietville, and Bright. The duration of the shock was half a minute, and the vibration was felt most severely at German Creek and Bright, where crockery fell from the shelves. The direction of the wave was along the Ovens Valley from west to east. It was accompanied by a noise resembling a heavy load being drawn along a road. BEECHWORTH, Monday. Between 8 and 9 o’clock yesterday morning a dull, rumbling noise, with a strong vibration, as if caused by the passage of a heavily loaded vehicle, was distinctly noticed by the residents of Beechworth and Stanley. It caused a rattling of windows and crockery.
Figure 37 Felt area of a small earthquake near Bright on 9 April 1904, minor non-structural damage reported.
1904 07 09 at 09:26:15 UTC, W of Lilydale
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Monday 11 July 1904, page 5.
AN EARTH TREMOR. FELT IN THE CITY.
A slight shock of earthquake was widely felt over a large area of the State about 7.30 on Saturday evening. The disturbance was noted at the Melbourne Observatory, though there the tremor was very mild. Mr. Baracchi, Government Astronomer, received official reports from Malvern, Brighton, St. Kilda, Windsor and other southern suburbs, notifying the occurrence of the earthquake, but the information available was too meagre to enable him to form any idea of the locality of the centre of the disturbance, or to indicate the measure of its violence at the centre. Mr. Baracchi declares that the movement was north and south, a most unusual direction. The records of previous disturbances show that as a rule earthquakes in Victoria travel east and west. Mr. Baracchi was unable last night to suggest any theory as to the cause. In the city proper the tremor was distinctly felt in many buildings, crockery rattled, unfastened doors were swung gently to and fro, and in a few instances oscillation of houses was noticed. No serious damage, however, was occasioned. In the eastern suburbs the shock was distinctly felt. It was preceded by a slight rumbling noise, and lasted for over twenty seconds. Windows rattled and crockery clattered on the tables, but the tremor was not sufficiently serious to cause any damage. In the eastern part of Prahran and the heart of St. Kilda the tremors were felt, the waves running south to north. In Waterloo-street, on the brow of the highest point in St. Kilda, the force was very strong. The East Prahran fire station trembled under the influence of the shock. The tremors were also distinctly felt at Brunswick, Camberwell and Oakleigh.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Tuesday 12 July 1904, page 5.
THE EARTH TREMOR.
RECORD AT THE OBSERVATORY.
When seen yesterday in reference to the shock of earthquake felt over a large area of the State on Saturday evening, Mr. Baracchi, Government Astronomer, stated that the seismograph at the Observatory gave the time of the occurrence as 7 h. 26 m. 15 sec. The duration, as shown by the instrument, was 24 seconds. The time, however, as felt by people, would be less, because allowance would have to be made for the time taken to bring the instrument to rest after the shock. The matter has not yet been investigated by Mr. Baracchi, and nothing will be done until reports have been received from the country giving the fullest available data as to the shock.
Figure 38 The original and revised isoseismal maps of the earthquake west of Lilydale on 9 July 1904 .
One or two official notifications were received yesterday, but the information was mostly of a meagre nature. Our country correspondents continue to notify the extended area over which the earth tremor was felt. These localities include Blackwood, Heatherton, Mount Dandenong, Wandin Yallock, Gembrook and Fern Tree Gully.
Mornington Standard (Vic. : 1889 – 1908), Saturday 16 July 1904, page 2
LANGWARRIN NORTH. The distinct tremor of an earthquake was felt here early on Saturday night last.
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Tuesday 19 July 1904, page 3
WAS THESE AN EARTHQUAKE ? CORRESPONDENTS’ VIEWS.
Mr John J. Carter (St. Kilda) writes:—
I noticed in your issue of Thursday re “More Earthquakes” that Mr Baracchi is sceptical about the earthquake reported from Malvern. Permit me to say that I was awakened on the morning of the 13th Inst., not by an earth tremor, but by a dull, heavy thud, followed immediately by, it appeared to me, a spent report from large piece of ordnance. I arose at once to note the time, and found my watch recording 9 minutes to 5 o’clock a.m. The shock, or more properly speaking, the report (not a rumble) appeared to go in an almost straight course up Fitzroy street, St. Kilda, towards Windsor. “Earthquake” (South Yarra) writes:— I see by your paper on Thursday that Mr Baracchi says there was not a shock of earthquake on Wednesday morning, as his instrument does not record it. Let me inform Mr Baracchi that there a most distinct shock at about five o’clock every bit as bad as the one on Saturday night, which was felt by many people in South Yarra.
1904 09 22 at 11:58 UTC, Korumburra
Korumburra was thelikely epicentre of a small earthquake felt by town residents just before 10pm on Thursday night (The Argus, Saturday 24 September 1904, P16).
This earthquake heralded later shakes for the residents of Korumburra. On 20 June 1969 the whole of Gippsland was strongly shaken by a magnitude ML 5.3 earthquake. Again on several occasions in 2011, earthquakes shook Korumburra, one of them thrilling thousands of delegates attending the IUGG meeting in Melbourne in early July, some of them, seismologists included, had never felt an earthquake.
1904 11 24 at 12:30 UTC, Beechworth explosion
Albury Banner and Wodonga Express Friday 2 December 1904, Page 28.
A Scare in Beechworth.
The peaceable citizens of Beechworth, many of whom had retired to their well-earned rest, were startled between the hours of 10 and 11 o’clock on Thursday night week by a sudden and violent reverberation which astonished those awake, and roused the sleepers from their slumbers. Some thought it was an explosion of thunder, but the calm moonlight sky dispelled that idea; others who were awakened from their sleep declared that they felt a distinct tremor of the earth, and attributed it to the premonitory warning of an earthquake ; whilst others supposed it must be an explosion of some kind. Next morning there was a general curiosity as to the origin of the phenomenon, which was ultimately solved in a very simple manner. It appears that by some means, probably by human agency, a massive boulder had been dislodged from its site on the side of the gorge below the Newtown bridge, and had lodged in the cutting leading to the outlet of the Rocky Mountain Company’s tunnel underneath the town. This occurred a day or two ago, and as the mass of rock had destroyed part of the sluice-boxes, and was blocking the overflow of water, Mr. J. Chappell, mining manager to the company, reported the matter to the directors, and was authorised to remove the obstruction without delay. To do this it was found necessary to use a heavy charge of dynamite to break up the mass before it could be removed in fragments, and it was the explosion of this which caused the excitement. The incident was startling, but it is well that it was not of a serious nature.
1905 01 27 at 16:00 UTC, Moe
The Maffra Spectator Thursday 2 February 1905, Page 3.
A slight shock of earthquake was experienced in Moe about 2 a.m. on Saturday. It was also felt at Tanjil South, about five miles away. It travelled in a northerly direction. The same shock was noticed at Traralgon. At Mr C. Christensen’s residence at Tyers everything in the house shook. Mr and Mrs J. Galbraith, who live over a mile away from Mr Christensen’s, also felt the shock and heard a rumbling noise. An earth tremor was felt at Walhalla at 2.30 on Saturday morning. It was accompanied by a loud rushing noise like a large tree falling. The direction of the tremor was nearly north and south. It lasted for a few seconds.
1905 08 21 at 18:35 UTC, Riverton SA
Underwood (1972) queries whether this earthquake was in Western Victoria or South Australia. It actually occurred near Riverton SA and was felt at Hamilton SA, not Hamilton Vic. It was not felt in Victoria at all although perhaps there was another earthquake in Victoria at a similar time.
1905 09 20 at 18:25 UTC, San Remo
Australian Town and Country Journal Wednesday 27 September 1905, Page 9.
A severe shock of earthquake occurred at San Remo, 65 miles from Melbourne, shortly after 4 o’clock on Wednesday morning. Nearly all the residents were awakened, and many got up and dressed. The vibration and the noise were terrifying. No damage was done.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Thursday 21 September 1905, page 6
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
SAN REMO, Tuesday.—This morning a severe shock of earthquake was felt here between 20 minutes past 4 and half-past 4, which caused much alarm. Almost everyone in the locality was awakened, and many got up and dressed. No damage was done, but the vibration and noise were terrifying.
1906 07 17 at 15:30 UTC, Daylesford
Bendigo Advertiser Tuesday 24 July 1906, Page 5.
EARTHQUAKE AT DAYLESFORD.
RECORDED AT THE OBSERVATORY.
Melbourne, 23rd July.
The earthquake shock which was reported to have been felt at Porcupine Ridge, six miles north-east of Daylesford, last Wednesday, was recorded at the Melbourne Observatory. On the seismograph being opened by Mr. Baracchi yesterday, it showed a definite shock, but of short duration, as having been recorded at 1.30 a.m. on Wednesday.
1907 03 31 at 14:29 UTC, Western Port Bay
Portland Guardian Wednesday 3 April 1907, Page 2.
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.—Whilst most of Melbourne slept early on Monday morning a sufficiently marked earth tremor was felt to cause temporary alarm to those who were aware of it. It passed unnoticed at the observatory. Apparently it was of very short duration – one gentleman, residing in the city, asserts it was over in a “second.” Other accounts say that it lasted from 6 to 10 seconds. It occurred at about half-past 12 o’clock, the time varying somewhat with the localities whence it was reported. Some persons who felt the shock attributed it to shooting at the Heads. At Cape Schanck the lighthouse keeper is a meteorological observer, and he reported that a “rather sharp shock “ was felt at 12.33 a.m. A St. Kilda resident, who remarked that the beds were agitated and the crockery rattled, gave the time as 12.35 a.m., while in other reports received at the Observatory the time was stated to be 12.25 and 12.35 a.m.
Advocate (Melbourne, Vic. : 1868 – 1954), Saturday 6 April 1907, page 27
Earthquake Shock.
TREMORS IN MELBOURNE.
Whilst most of Melbourne slept early yesterday morning, says the “Argus” of Monday, a sufficiently marked earth tremor was felt to cause temporary alarm to those who were aware of it. It passed unnoticed at the Observatory. Apparently it was of very short duration—one gentleman, residing in the city, asserts that, it was over in a “second.” Other accounts say that it lasted from six to ten seconds. It occurred at about half-past 12 o’clock, the time varying somewhat with the localities whence it was reported. Some persons who felt the shock attributed it to shooting at the Heads.
At Cape Schanck the lighthousekeeper is a meteorological observer, and he reported that a “rather sharp shock” was felt at 12.33 a.m. A St. Kilda resident, who remarked that the beds were agitated and the crockery rattled, gave the time as 12.35 a.m., while in other reports received at the Observatory the time was stated to be 12.25 and 12.35 a.m. Most of those who communicated with the officials, however, did not pay particular attention to the exact time, being at the moment more concerned in a possibility of a recurrence. From two residents of Collins-street and others at East Malvern, Toorak, and Carlton reports were received of a slight shock that was noticeable where there were objects near at hand to be effected by a disturbance. ” I doubt very much if it would have been noticed by a man walking in the street,” said a gentleman in whose mind memories of recent disasters ran riot during the brief moment the pictures were trembling on the wall of his bedroom. One of those who reported the occurrence to the observatory officials said it awakened him from a sound sleep. Mr. Baracchi the Government astronomer, was not aware that there had been a shock until late in the morning. He did not consider it of sufficient importance to warrant reference being made to the seismograph at the Observatory, and the instrument will not be opened until the end of the week.
Figure 39 Felt area of the earthquake of 31 March 1907, the reports are quite sparse so the epicentre is not well defined. It was recorded at Melbourne Observatory at 12:29 local time. Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Tuesday 2 April 1907, page 4
EMERALD, Monday.
An earth tremor was felt here at about 12.45 this morning, and caused some of the residents great alarm. They were awakened from their slumbers by the shaking of their houses and contents, and crockery in some instances was misplaced.
TOORADIN, Monday. What is generally supposed to have been a shock of earthquake occurred here early this morning. At 25 minutes to 1 o’clock most of the’ residents were aroused from slumber by a loud rushing noise, followed by five distinct earth waves travelling from south to north. The shocks were felt many miles inland, and had the effect of rattling doors, windows, crockery and glass ware. Children and many adults were much alarmed at the occurrence.
SAN REMO, Monday. A distinct earthquake shook the houses terribly at half-past 12 last night. No damage has been reported.
Underwood (1972) notes that the earthquake was felt at Beenak, east of Melbourne and it was reportedly felt at San Remo, Pakenham and at Cowes (two shocks of earthquake were felt. The first took place at 12.30. It lasted about 10 seconds, and caused buildings to oscillate violently, though no damage was done. The shocks were accompanied by loud rumbling noises. This is one of few earthquakes where more data resulted in a decrease of the magnitude, from 4.3 to 4.1.
1907 04 03 at 22:25 UTC, Wartook
The Argus Monday 8 April 1907, Page 7.
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
COUNTRY EXPERIENCES.
HORSHAM. Saturday. — A local resident who returned from Wartook, to-day states that the residents of Wartook and Brimpaen distinctly felt two shocks of earthquake on Thursday morning. Mr. M’Donald of Wartook, was leaning against a verandah post at his residence when the structure was violently shaken. The tremor lasted a few seconds, and was followed by another shock of less duration. The residents of Brimpaen, eight miles from Wartook, also felt the earthquake.
SEYMOUR, Sunday. — A perceptible shock of earthquake was experienced here during the week. At Mr. F. Pearce’s slaughter yard a crack nearly an inch wide has been made in a cement floor. Some people living in the vicinity state they felt a tremor on Friday morning. The crack referred to runs north and south (Ed. different earthquake).
Horsham Times (Vic. : 1882 – 1954), Tuesday 9 April 1907, page 3
Though no one in Horsham reports having noticed any earth tremors or quakes, such disturbances are reported from adjacent localities extending from the Grampians to Stawell. The vibrations were distinctly felt at Brimpaen, Wartook, Stawell and other places widely separated. They were but momentary and did no damage.
Ararat Advertiser and Chronicle for the Stawell and Wimmera Districts (Vic. : 1899 – 1918), Friday 5 April 1907, page 2
AN EARTHQUAKE SHOCK AT STAWELL.
STAWELL, Thursday.
An earthquake shock was felt here this morning at 22½ minutes past eight. The disturbance was most clearly noticed by Mr Clark, engineer of the shire of Stawell, and Mr Bond, clerk of courts. Mr Clark states that he was standing in a room of his residence conversing with his wife when they felt the earth tremble, and heard a “continuous loud rumble like distant thunder,” lasting fully thirty seconds. The disturbance appears to have travelled from west to east. At Mr Clark’s residence the windows rattled violently, and the floor, the inmates state, could be felt vibrating. Mr Clark says that a son of his was dressing when the earthquake occurred, and that the shock caused him to fall backwards on a couch, calling out ” What’s that?” —Herald
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Friday 5 April 1907, page 6
EARTHQUAKE AT STAWELL.
STAWELL. Thursday.
At 22 minutes past 8 o’clock this morning a distinct shock of earth tremor was experienced at Stawell. The movement was apparently from west to east, and it made several buildings tremble and windows rattle. The tremor lasted about 30 seconds. It was felt also at Glenorchy.
Figure 40 Wartook in Gippsland was in the epicentral region of this small earthquake on 3 April 1907.
Portland Guardian (Vic. : 1876 – 1953), Friday 12 April 1907, page 2
Although the earthquake experienced at Stawell last week, was not recorded by the seismograph in the Melbourne Observatory, it was felt both at Horsham and Wartook. A well known Ararat gentleman, who was on a visit to Mr Dadswell, at Ledcourt, gives a graphic account of the shock there. He states that about eight o’clock the whole household experienced the shock. The china on the shelves, and the furniture rattled and the earth perceptibly trembled, and all were greatly alarmed.
1907 05 05 at 02:45 UTC, Ararat
The Argus Tuesday 7 May 1907, Page 6.
AN EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
ARARAT, Monday. An earthquake shock was felt here on Sunday at a quarter to 1. The shock was accompanied by a low rumbling sound, travelling from south to north. Some people on the Moyston-road ran out of their houses. The shock was felt at Mount William, Garnim (Gorrinn?), Jackson’s Creek and other places.
Geelong Advertiser Wednesday 8 May 1907, Page 1.
A shock of earthquake was experienced here yesterday. The shock occurred at about a quarter to one, when a low rumbling sound was heard travelling from south to north. On the Mapean road the windows of the houses were broken and some people ran out of doors. At Gorrinn and Jackson’s Creek, and also at Mount William the effects of the shock were also distinctly felt.
The newspapers details aren’t identical and they aren’t clear about the time, though Underwood (1972) has it in the early afternoon rather than early morning.
1907 05 16 at 10:00 UTC, Geelong – naval guns
The Mercury Monday 20 May 1907, Page 3.
EARTHQUAKE AT GEELONG.
GEELONG, May 17.
About 8 p.m. on Thursday there were a couple of shocks of earthquake in the northern part of the town. They were preceded by rumbling noises like distant cannon, but the centre of the disturbance seemed to be under Corio Bay. The shocks were distinctly felt in all houses along the western shore of the bay, known as North Geelong. Crockery and glassware rattled, and windows shook for some time. People on Moorabool-street pier heard noises so distinctly that they imagined they emanated from the steamer Barwon, berthed at the rail- way pier, but, as a matter of fact, all was quiet there. There was a slight rumbling noticed at North Geelong.
Geelong Advertiser Saturday 18 May 1907, Page 2.
THE ALLEGED EARTHQUAKE.
Inquiries regarding the alleged earthquake in Geelong on Thursday evening indicate that the …. rumbling noises, which were the origin of the scare …..were caused by nothing more alarming than the booming of the guns of the cruiser Psyche, which was manoeuvring in the bay. This vessel was seen by people on board the Courier, who heard the guns being fired from the warship….. It is fortunate the real cause of the “earth tremor” has been ascertained, otherwise the incident might have served as an argument against the sewerage proposals or the electric tram project.
1907 05 28 at 20:30 to 23:00 UTC, felt Western Victoria, Narracoorte South Australia
Border Watch Wednesday 5 June 1907, Page 2.
THURSDAY’S EARTHSHAKE.—The seismograph at the Melbourne Observatory was opened on Saturday, and the film on being developed showed that a succession of tremors had been experienced locally. On Thursday morning, between half-past 6 and 9 o’clock, these shocks, which were not severe, corresponded with the earth tremors felt at Narracoorte, Mount Gambier, Casterton, and elsewhere. People at Yahl and O.B. Flat assert that they felt a sharp shock about 1 o’clock on Friday morning.
Horsham Times (Vic. : 1882 – 1954), Tuesday 4 June 1907, page 3
District News GOROKE A distinct earthquake tremor was felt by quite a number here on Thursday morning last, at a little after 9 a.m., and a rumbling sound was heard a few seconds previously. Towards the border and at Narracorte it was more marked. It will be remembered that Narracorte and Kingston, on the coast, suffered most on the occasion of the earthquake 10 years ago, on the 10th of this month. (May).
1907 06 08 at 16:05 UTC, Cape Otway
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Monday 10 June 1907, page 8
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.
The lighthouse keeper at Cape Otway telegraphed yesterday that at 2.5 a.m. a slight, but distinct, shock of earthquake had been felt.
1907 08 06 at 00:54 UTC, Warragul
The Argus Wednesday 7 August 1907, Page 7.
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK. COURT BUSINESS SUSPENDED.
WARRAGUL, Tuesday. A sharp earthquake shock was experienced this morning just before 11 o’clock. The contents of the houses and stores were greatly shaken. The shock was most violent in the lower portion of the town, and the disturbance appeared to travel in a westerly direction. At the court-house business was temporarily suspended as the building, which is a two-storeyed brick structure, was violently agitated. Several people in the town experienced a sensation of sickness.
BAIRNSDALE, Tuesday. — Shortly before 1 o’clock this afternoon an earthquake shock was felt in Bairnsdale but it was so slight that few people noticed it.
WARBURTON, Tuesday. — A sharp shock of earthquake was experienced through the Warburton district at 5 minutes to 11 o’clock this morning. It was generally noticeable at Mrs. Ryan’s Hotel, West Warburton, where a rumbling noise was heard and the vibrations lasted for several seconds.
Other newspapers say it was felt at Gembrook and Neerim North. Underwood (1972) notes that it was also felt at Drouin, Yarragon and Bairnsdale but The Argus report indicates that rather than one large earthquake, there were two smaller earthquakes nearly 2 hours apart, the earlier one near Warragul, the second about 150 km to the east near Bairnsdale.
1907 08 10 at 06:55, Camperdown
Daily Telegraph Tuesday 13 August 1907, Page 5.
CAMPERDOWN, Monday.
An unmistakable shock of earthquake was experienced here on Saturday afternoon, a little before five o’clock. The shock was accompanied by all the usual signs of seismic disturbance, crockery rattling violently on the shelves, etc. In the shops in the main street, which were filled with customers, the hour being probably the busiest of the whole week, much alarm was caused by the sudden oscillation of all the hanging goods. The shock appears to have been quite an isolated one. It lasted for some seconds, and fears were expressed that it would recur, but there was no further disturbance.
1907 10 04 at 09:30 UTC, Tallarook
According to the Kilmore Free Press of Thursday 10 October 1907, page 3 an earthquake was widely felt about Broadford and Seymour.
Figure 41 Felt area of the 1907 earthquake near Tallarook, the magnitude estimated at 3.9.
Earthquake On Friday evening about 7:30 a shock of earthquake was felt at Tallarook, Seymour, Nagambie, Yea, Pyalong, Kilmore and Broadford. At Broadford the tremor was distinctly felt, and a number of people rushed out of their dwellings. In Kilmore, however, the shock was only slightly felt by a few people. Messers Lincoln, O’Connor and Rees were camping at the head of the Kilmore Water Works. They state they felt the shock distinctly, and heard the wombats and bears cry out as soon as the tremor occurred.
The Argus of Monday 7 October 1907, page 7 mentions that it was felt at Kilmore, Whittlesea, Longwood and Avenel. Note the April foreshock mentioned above in the discussion of the Wartook event.
1908 03 21 at 00:55 UTC, Dunolly
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Monday 23 March 1908, page 4
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE REPORTED.
DUNOLLY, Sunday.
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt yesterday morning a few minutes before 11 o’clock. The tremor, which lasted about ten seconds, and appeared to travel easterly, caused windows to vibrate.
Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 – 1954), Saturday 28 March 1908, page 24
A sharp earthquake shock was experienced at Bealiba on 21st March.
Another report says it was felt at Goldsborough, about 8km to the northwest.
1908 04 13 at 02:05 UTC, Hamilton
Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 – 1954), Saturday 18 April 1908, page 24
A slight earth tremor was felt at Hamilton soon after noon on 13th April. Doors and windows rattled.
1908 06 09 at 19:35 UTC, Gippsland
The Argus Friday 12 June 1908, Page 6.
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
KORUMBURRA, Thursday.—A distinct earth tremor was felt by some residents in this district at 25 minutes to 6 yesterday morning. The shock was not severe.
Figure 42 Felt area of the 09 June 1908 Gippsland earthquake.
Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 – 1954), Saturday 20 June 1908, page 24
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt in the Berwick, Gembrook, and Pakenham districts on the morning of 10th June.
1908 07 22 at 15: UTC, Berwick
Snowy River Mail and Tambo and Croajingolong Gazette (Orbost, Vic. : 1890 – 1911), Saturday 25 July 1908, page 2
AN EARTH TREMOR.
Melbourne, Friday,
An earth tremor was felt at Berwick about one o’clock on Thursday. The windows rattled and the crockery was disturbed.
1908 10 23 at 17:45 UTC, Wedderburn
Riverine Herald Tuesday 27 October 1908, Page 3.
Earthquake Shocks.
TWO FELT AT WEDDERBURN. EARLY ON SATURDAY MORNING.
Wedderburn, Saturday.
This morning between 3 and 4 o’clock the residents of this district were startled by an alarming thunderclap kind of noise, accompanied by a slight earth tremor, which proved to be an earthquake shock. This was followed an hour later by a milder shock. Many people got up and examined their premises, but apart from a rent in Mr George Norcroft’s underground tank no damage was done.
SIMILAR EXPERIENCE AT INGLEWOOD.
Inglewood, Saturday.
A distinct earth tremor passed over the town at about a quarter to 4 o’clock this morning. The shock was accompanied by a rumbling noise like distant thunder. During the passing of the tremor a loud noise as of an explosion occurred, causing houses in some places to vibrate. The course appeared to be from an easterly to a westerly direction.
1909 08 03 at 03:05 UTC, Packenham
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Wednesday 4 August 1909, page 7
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
PAKENHAM, Tuesday.— At five minutes past 1 o’clock to day what appeared to be a rather severe earth tremor occurred. The shock lasted some few seconds.
1909 12 03 at 13:00 UTC, Boolarra
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Monday 6 December 1909, page 8
EARTH TREMOR.
BOOLARRA, Saturday.—A distinct earth tremor was felt here by many residents at 11 o’clock on Friday night.
1909 11 14 at 03:55 UTC, Bairnsdale
Bendigo Advertiser Tuesday 16 November 1909, Page 3.
EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS. FELT IN GIPPSLAND.
Bairnsdale, 15th November.
Reports received to-day from Cunninghame, Bruthen and Metung indicate that the earth tremors experienced here early yesterday afternoon were generally felt in the Lakes district.
At the places mentioned the shocks were distinctly felt by the inhabitants. Windows rattled, and some crockery was shaken off shelves.
Bairnsdale Advertiser and Tambo and Omeo Chronicle Tuesday 16 November 1909, Page 2.
EARTH TREMOR. On Sunday afternoon, at five minutes to 2 o’clock, a distinct earth tremor was felt in a number of households in Bairnsdale. In the higher buildings, particularly those of brick, the effects of the shock were more noticeable than in one storey premises. The crockery in many households rattled, articles in an upright position on shelves and tables swayed perceptibly and creaking noises were heard is a few instances. No damage was done, fortunately. Although the shock only lasted a few seconds, it was strong enough to cause some consternation and scare some of the more timid householders. It is the fourth similar visitation the town has experienced during the past 31 years. The shock was felt also at Bruthen and Orbost. At the latter place it left its mark by making two small openings over the back entrance to the Club Hotel.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Tuesday 16 November 1909, page 5
EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS.
BRUTHEN, Monday.
A slight earth tremor was felt in the Bruthen and Buchan districts on Sunday afternoon, but no serious results are reported.
Bairnsdale Advertiser and Tambo and Omeo Chronicle (Vic. : 1882 – 1946), Tuesday 23 November 1909, page 2
DISTRICT NEWS. ENSAY. Thursday, November 18. A slight earth tremor was heard and felt throughout the district on Sunday afternoon.
The Ensay report affirms an onshore location for this earthquake.
1909 12 03 at 13:09 UTC, Budgeree
Morwell Advertiser (Morwell, Vic. : 1888 – 1954), Friday 10 December 1909, page 2
BUDGEREE. On the 3rd inst., at 11.9 p.m., a very distinct earth tremor was felt here. The weather was cold and tempestuous.
1909 12 09 at 16:30 to 17:30 UTC, Bendigo, surely mine related seismicity.
Bendigo Independent (Vic. : 1891 – 1918), Saturday 11 December 1909, page 3
THE SHOCKS IN BENDIGO.
FELT FOR ABOUT AN HOUR.
We have no seismographs in Bendigo for recording earthquake shocks. But yesterday morning from 2.30 till nearly 3.30 three distinct tremors and vibrations of the earth were experienced in this district. There were no shocks, but the earth, from time to time, during the hour above mentioned was quivering as if some powerful and mysterious influence were operating beneath its surface. The direction of the earth tremors appeared to be from north to south. The phenomena were not as strongly marked as during the earthquake tremors which were felt here about ten years ago, and which scared a number of people. Yesterday morning’s experiences were not so pronounced, but they were of much longer duration.
I wonder the mining companies weren’t interested enough to install their own seismographs.
1910 03 18 at 21:15 UTC, Warragul
Evening News Saturday 19 March 1910, Page 7.
MELBOURNE. Saturday.— Earthquake shocks have been reported from the Gippsland district—Morwell, Moe, Traralgon, and Warragul — apparently travelling eastward.
Portland Guardian Wednesday 23 March 1910, Page 2.
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.—A distinct shock of earthquake was felt at Bunyip on Saturday morning at a quarter past 7 o’clock. A rumbling noise was followed by the moving of houses. Residents north of Bunyip, four miles away, also felt the shock. At Drouin and Trafalgar it was also plainly felt. Warragul and Yarragon report a similar occurrence.
Figure 43 The earthquake of 18 March 1910 was either a small one centred near Trafalgar (as depicted here) or a larger one offshore south of Wilson’s Promontory.
1910 05 27 at 15:45 UTC, Myrtle Creek
Riverine Herald Tuesday 31 May 1910, Page 4.
Earthquake Shock.
FELT IN BENDIGO. SATURDAY MORNING SENSATION.
Bendigo, Monday.
A heavy rumbling noise accompanied by a sudden, though comparatively slight, earth tremor, rudely awakened a great number of the residents of the Bendigo district at 1.45 o’clock on Saturday morning, and convinced them that an earthquake shock had been experienced. The shock was distinctly felt by a large number of citizens residing considerable distances apart. It resembled the rumbling of distant thunder, and the houses and buildings vibrated considerably. Of course the majority of citizens were asleep and were unaware of any seismic disturbance, and even when told of it on Saturday ridiculed the statement. The shock was felt by the men working in the Victoria Proprietary mine. The tremor appears to have travelled from north to south, and those citizens residing on the higher levels of the city felt it more distinctly. Bendigo is not the only district in which the shock was felt, for many residents in the Castlemaine and Sedgwick districts also felt its effects.
Although of only a few seconds duration, the tremor was quite sufficient to cause considerable alarm and consternation, and the phenomenon formed the subject of much discussion in the city on Saturday and yesterday. The disturbance at Mandurang and Sedgwick especially, was sufficient to disturb even heavy slumberers.
In some cases locally much anxiety was felt. The rattling of ceilings, walls, windows and crockery, is reported having been heard distinctly by those residents on the higher portions of the city. Those with thoughts far away from earthquakes attributed the rumbling to thunder, heavy wind or strange noises in other portions of their homes, the cause of which investigations failed to reveal.
Mr. J. Beebe, who is in charge of the local observatory, and who resides with his family at East Bendigo, was not disturbed in his night’s rest by any unusual noise or vibration. In fact not one of the occupants of his home heard anything of a strange nature, and consequently Mr. Beebe was considerably surprised to learn that an earthquake shock had been experienced in the city. He stated that there is no seismograph at the local observatory, so that there was no means of recording an earth tremor. Mr. Beebe pointed out that while he did not doubt there had been a shock, on many occasions it had been found that a long roll of thunder was sufficient to shake loose doors and windows, and even a whole building. In connection with this, Mr. Beebe added that it was more often a peal of thunder which appeared to be a long way off that had this effect.
FELT AT CASTLEMAINE.
A shock of earthquake which travelled from north to south with a low rumbling sound for several seconds was experienced at Castlemaine on Saturday morning at 10 minutes to 2 o’clock. Houses were shaken, and a number of people became so alarmed that they ran out into the streets to ascertain what was the matter. The majority of people being fast asleep, did not hear the disturbance, and beyond the shock to a number of those who did feel the disturbance, no harm was done.
Hopefully enough reports like this will convince people that miners underground do feel the shaking.
1910 10 24 at 17:00 UTC, Bunyip
The Argus Thursday 27 October 1910, Page 4.
BUNYIP, Wednesday.—At about 3 o’clock on Tuesday morning, a distinct earth tremor was felt. Some people were awakened by the rattling of crockery, windows, and doors.
1911 01 06 at 17:55 UTC, SE Melbourne
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Saturday 7 January 1911, page 11
EARTHQUAKE IN MELBOURNE.
SHARP SHOCKS YESTERDAY MORNING.
At 3.55 a.m. yesterday many persons who were at rest in the southern suburbs of Melbourne were disturbed by a sharp earthquake shock. Residents of St. Kilda were first aroused by hearing a loud rumbling, which seemed to travel over the Bay from west to east. It gave those who were conscious of it a severe jolt in bed. The crockery rattled simultaneously, whilst carelessly placed articles fell to the floor. A similar experience was reported by people living in Balaclava, South Yarra and Prahran. Some testify to the occurrence of two shocks in succession, and to having felt a blow, as though their beds had been struck with considerable force. Articles of furniture were also moved by the earth tremor. In some cases persons were so alarmed that they rushed into the streets. SMH 7 January 2011, P14: Melbourne, Friday.
Figure 44 Felt area of the small earthquake near Melbourne on 7th January 1911 at 3:55a.m. EST. The magnitude converted from felt radius is about 3.0.
A slight earthquake shock was experienced in Melbourne at 5 minutes to 4 o’clock this morning and alarmed a great many people in the southern suburbs. In some cases nervous folk were awakened by the disturbance which lasted only a few seconds. They rushed out of doors in their night clothes but by a great majority the shock was not noticed. Along the bay front from Port Melbourne to Brighton the effect seems to have been most pronounced. The shocks were said to have been accompanied by a muffled rumbling noise resembling a distant explosion.
The Argus, Saturday 7 January 1911, p19 noted that there was a distinct vibration of buildings and rattling of windows in East Melbourne, South Yarra and Toorak, and noted that Mr Baracchi subsequently said that the seismograph showed no indication of any earth movement of a local character – the instrument, however does not record very superficial disturbances. A following article in the same paper noted that a distinct earthquake was felt at Dandenong at 5 minutes past 4 a.m., and it was felt at Balaclava.
This information is consistent with an earthquake of about magnitude 3.5 located some 10km southeast of the city of Melbourne.
1911 10 26 at 14:50 UTC, Bealiba
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Saturday 28 October 1911, page 24.
SHOCK AT BEALIBA.
Bealiba, Friday. — An earthquake shock was felt here today at ten minutes to 1 o’clock. It seemed to be travelling from south to north. Doors and windows rattled, and there were deep rumbling sounds.
1912 07 05 at 06:54 UTC, Little River
Geelong Advertiser Saturday 6 July 1912, Page 11.
EARTHQUAKE.
We have been informed that a shock of an earthquake was felt at the Little River yesterday afternoon at about six minutes to 5. It was preceded by a rumbling noise like distant thunder. The slates of the Catholic schoolhouse rattled as if the whole roof had been shaken. The oscillation was very perceptible, and appeared to come from the north-west. The shock was slightly felt in Geelong. The exact time is variously stated, but a quarter to 5 is about the mean.
1912 08 11 at 07:20 UTC, Bealiba
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK. FELT AT TARNAGULLA.
Tarnagulla, 12th August.
At 5.25 o’clock yesterday evening a distinct earthquake shock was felt, accompanied by a rumbling sound, which lasted … seconds, causing doors to shake and windows to rattle. The disturbance appeared to travel from a north-north west to south-south-east direction.
The Australasian Saturday 17 August 1912, Page 40.
A loud rumbling noise, lasting for a minute, and followed by a slight earth tremor occurred in the Bealiba district of Victoria, at a quarter past 5 o’clock on Sunday evening, and tremors were felt at Dunolly, St.Arnaud and Tarnagulla.
1913 01 11 at 00:30 UTC, Portland
Border WatchSaturday 18 January 1913, Page 1.
The wife of the Portland lighthouse keeper reported a slight shock of earthquake occurring about 10.30 on Saturday morning, it being stated that the floor of the kitchen, which is of asphalt, was distinctly felt to move.
1913 03 02 at 17:45 UTC, North of Benalla
Corowa Free Press (NSW : 1875 – 1954), Friday 7 March 1913, page 5.
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
At about 3.30 a.m. on Sunday an earthquake shock was distinctly felt in many parts of North-Eastern Victoria and Southern Riverina. Yarrawonga, Tungamah, Benalla, Beechworth, Everton, Wangaratta all experienced the uncanny visitation. Several Corowa residents also experienced the shock, one gentleman who went to a sideboard for the purpose of getting a drink declaring that just at the moment all the glasses and crockery rattled. Similar experiences were met in other towns, children and animals became alarmed, but no serious damage resulted. The visitation lasted for some seconds.
Chronicle Saturday 8 March 2013, Page 45.
EARTH TREMOR IN VICTORIA. Melbourne, March 3. At Shepparton to-day a distinct shock of earthquake was experienced. The inmates of the Mooroopna Hospital, over two miles away, were roused from their slumbers by an unusual noise. A nurse, who was in the kitchen, was alarmed by a violent rattling of crockery and ran quickly out of the room. Mr. Maher, a farmer from near Dookie, 50 miles from Shepparton, confirmed the report as to the shock, which, he says, was very distinct in his neighborhood. A distinct earth tremor was felt at Benalla at 3.45 a.m. to day in a number of houses. Walls trembled and windows rattled. This is the severest shock of the kind yet experienced in Benalla. One occurred three years ago but on that occasion only a few people felt it.
Figure 45 Felt area of the 2nd March 1913 Benalla earthquake with new data. The inferred epicentre is about 20km NNW of Benalla. The estimated magnitude is 4.2.
Benalla Standard Tuesday 4 March 1913, Page 3.
Earthquake Shock. — At a quarter to four yesterday morning a distinct shock of earthquake was felt by a very large number of people in Benalla. In a number of houses the walls shook and the windows rattled. The sound was like distant thunder, and was travelling from west to east. In some places the beds were felt to be moved, while glasses were knocked over. At Messrs. Hearn Bros., Mount Ada, some plaster was knocked off the walls. The shock was also felt at Warrenbayne, Nalinga, Devenish, and Goorambat. Some twelve years ago a shock was felt in the town, but was not nearly so distinct as that of yesterday. Our Baddaginnie correspondent reports that the shock was also distinctly felt there. It was accompanied by a load report and a slow undulation of the earth. Sleepers were awakened by the vibratory motion, and many were alarmed at the oscillation of the bedsteads. So far as can be ascertained no serious damage resulted. A sensational report gained currency in Benalla that the shock was felt in Melbourne, and that damage had been done to a number of buildings in Flinders-street, but this, like Mark Twain’s reported death on one occasion, was ” very much exaggerated.”
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Tuesday 4 March 1913, page 8.
EARTH TREMOR AT WANGARATTA.
WANGARATTA, Monday.
At 3.30 a.m. a distinct earth tremor was felt throughout the district. Residents were aroused from their slumber by a heavy rumbling noise which lasted about five seconds, and seemed to travel in a northerly direction. The shock was more distinct towards Everton, where crockery and glassware rattled on the shelves.
BENALLA, Monday. Shortly before 4 o’clock this morning a sharp earthquake shock was experienced here. Similar tremors are reported from Warrenbayne, fifteen miles to the south; and Goorambat, Devenish and Nalinga, from twelve to twenty miles to the north. A number of people felt their beds move and walls of the houses tremble. At Goorambat the iron roof of one residence sounded as if it were being screwed off.
DOOKIE, Monday. At an early hour this morning a distinct earth tremor was felt, causing windows and crockeryware to rattle alarmingly. The shock resembled that of a thunderbolt. Fortunately no damage was done.
KATAMATITE, Monday. A distinct earthquake shock was felt here at about 4 a.m. to-day. The noise was sufficiently loud to awaken a number of people.
SHEPPARTON, Monday. At about 3.30 this morning residents of this district were aroused by a loud rumbling noise, resembling distant thunder, and simultaneously an earth tremor was felt, the walls of buildings shaking and windows rattling. The shock passed before many people realised what had occurred.
NUMURKAH, Monday. Residents were awakened at 4 o’clock this morning by a severe shock of earthquake, heralded by a rumbling noise. In many cases persons jumped out of bed, expecting the houses to fall down. Buildings were shaken, and in some cases plaster on the walls was broken. At one house pot plants were displaced from their stands, and plates and dishes rattled. Cattle at the railway station were alarmed, and made frantic efforts to escape from the pens.
TUNGAMAH, Monday. A severe earth tremor was felt here at about 3.30 a.m. to day. Houses trembled and crockery rattled, and the screams of children caused much alarm. Fowls and domestic animals were also affected by the disturbance.
1913 10 15 at 19:00 UTC, Cunninghame (Lakes Entrance)
The Argus Friday 17 October 1913, Page 7.
CUNNINGHAME, Thursday. – A slight earth tremor was felt here at about 5 o’clock this morning.
1913 11 26 at 09:52 UTC, Dandenong
The Argus Friday 28 November 1913, Page 9.
EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS.
RUMBLINGS ALONG BAY FRONT. TREMORS IN DANDENONG RANGES
Distinct earthquake shocks were felt along the Bay front, from Port Melbourne to Cheltenham, at about 2 o’clock yesterday afternoon, and the tremors and rumbling were of sufficient severity to suggest that changes were taking place either in the bed of the bay or the ocean at no great distance from Melbourne. The disturbances evidently began on the previous evening as earth tremors were felt at Lilydale, Warburton, Gembrook, and other places between 7.50 p.m. and 7.55 p.m. on Wednesday. The postmasters at the three towns mentioned forwarded telegrams to the Observatory yesterday, reporting slight shocks, lasting about 10 seconds, in their districts. The tremors were accompanied by rumblings like the boom of artillery far away.
Similar shocks were felt at Port Melbourne, Mentone, Black Rock, and Cheltenham, between a quarter to 2 and 2 o’clock yesterday afternoon. Windows rattled and there were other signs that the earth’s’ crust within a limited area was trembling, but the shocks were not of sufficient severity to cause alarm. In the city nothing was felt, but in a telegram which he forwarded to the Observatory, the Rev. G. Kelly said that at Cheltenham the shock caused buildings to shake.
The extent of the shocks recorded on the seismograph at the Observatory will not be known until this afternoon, as the film in the instrument is only examined at half past 12 o’clock every Friday. Almost weekly slight tremors are recorded by the sensitive instrument, but no serious earthquake disturbance has occurred in Victoria for many years.
Picnickers Surprised.
LILYDALE, Thursday. —The Port Melbourne Citizens and State Schools Committee held their 23rd annual picnic at Lilydale yesterday, when about 1,000 persons attended. While the picnickers were assembled on the railway station waiting for the train a distinct shock of earthquake was felt. The tremor apparently passed from south-west to north-east, and caused some consternation among the intending passengers.
DURATION OF 8 SECONDS
WARBURTON, Thursday. —A distinct shock of earthquake was felt here at seven minutes to 8 p.m. yesterday lasting about eight seconds and causing windows and crockery to rattle.
TWO DISTINCT TREMORS
BEACONSFIELD UPPER, Thursday. — Two very distinct earthquake tremors were felt here on Tuesday night at 8 o’clock, the earlier shock being much stronger than the latter one. Many people heard the rumbling sound.
1913 11 27 04:00 UTC, Melbourne
Geelong Advertiser Saturday 29 November 1913, Page 4.
EARTHQUAKE IN MELBOURNE ?
On Thursday several residents of Port Melbourne experienced earth tremors.
In the Graham-street State School the doors moved perceptibly, and the walls seemed to shake. One resident declared that the shock lasted ten seconds, and that she rushed into the street for safety. The porters at the Port Melbourne railway station all felt the shock, which appeared to travel from towards the sea. Yet the seismograph at the Observatory, which is a very delicate instrument, shows no records of the shock. Mr. P. Baracchi, Government Astronomer, expressed the opinion yesterday that as the seismograph was not affected, the tremor must have been a purely local and superficial one. The movement must have been very close to the surface.
Examiner Friday 28 November 1913, page 5.
EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS. MELBOURNE, Thursday. Distinct earthquake shocks were felt along the bay front from Port Melbourne to Cheltenham at about 2 o’clock this afternoon. The disturbance evidently began on the previous evening, as earth tremors were felt at Lilydale, Warburton, and Gembrook between 7.50 p.m. and 7.55 p.m. yesterday. Similar shocks were felt at Port Melbourne, Mentone, Black Rock, and Cheltenham between a quarter to 2 and 2 o’clock this afternoon. Windows rattled, and there were other signs that the earth’s crust within a limited area was trembling, but the shocks were not of sufficient severity to cause alarm.
1914 04 05 at 05:30 UTC, Casterton and Mt Gambier SA
Portland Guardian (Vic. : 1876 – 1953), Monday 20 April 1914, page 2
AN EARTHQUAKE.—At 3.30 o’clock on Sunday afternoon, April 5, a loud report was heard by people at Mount Gambier, and by many it was thought to be a clap of thunder. In the Compton district, however, many of the residents declare that the report was followed by a rumbling noise and vibration and they believe that a slight earthquake visited the district. Many Casterton people also declared that they experienced a slight shock.
Evening Echo (Ballarat, Vic. : 1914 – 1918), Wednesday 8 April 1914, page 2
EARTH TREMOR AT CASTERTON.
At 3 p.m. on Sunday an earth tremor—the shock would excuse it being called an earthquake without much exaggeration—was (says the Casterton “News”) distinctly felt by many Casterton residents. At a house in Miller street, the inmates were disturbed by the shock which was accompanied with a report like a distant thunderpeal. In Macpherson street also, the shock and accompanying noise were felt and heard. At Bahgallah some sportsmen felt the tremor, and they report the noise as similar to that of the booming of a big gun. At Muntham, too, a gentleman informs us that the tremor was felt and also a noise like an explosion was heard. The shock appeared to be traveling from the West to the East. A gentleman at Sandford at about the same hour heard a very loud report. The noise seemed equal to what would be heard if a powder magazine were exploding. It caused all the household to rush out of doors to see what was the matter. No tremor was felt, nor did any earthquake suggestion occur to them. We learn that at Mount Gambier there were similar experiences.
Dix (2013) makes no mention of an earthquake in South Australia at this time.
1914 08 17 at 23:31 UTC, Drouin
The Ballarat Courier Wednesday 19 August 1914, page 8.
EARTH TREMOR AT DROUIN, Tuesday. At 9.31 to-day a distinct shock of earthquake was felt here. Buildings shook, and horses attached to vehicles were prevented with difficulty from bolting. No damage is reported.
Stratford Sentinel and Briagolong Express Friday 21 August 1914, Page 2.
BUILDINGS SHAKEN.
Warragul, Tuesday.
A severe shock of earthquake occurred here at 9.35 a.m. to-day, which appeared to travel from a westerly to an easterly direction. Buildings shook, windows rattled, and business people rushed out into the streets. Old residents considered the shock to be the most severe ever experienced in the district.
Bunyip, Tuesday.
Residents of Bunyip were startled this morning at about 9.30, when a severe earth tremor occurred. People rushed from their dwellings in alarm. Every house in Bunyip felt the shock distinctly.
Great Southern Star Friday 21 August 1914, Page 2.
An earthquake shock was felt at Korumburra on Tuesday, but was not noticeable in Leongatha. In the Nerrena hills at about 10.40 a.m. the earth tremor was very pronounced. At Mr Tom Carmody’s the crockery in the kitchen was seen to sway. A correspondent at Mount Eccles states — ” this district was subject to rather a severe earth tremor on Tuesday at 9.41 a.m. The movement was preceded by a loud rumbling noise lasting for at least two seconds, which was followed by three severe bumping noises. Everything in the State school shook; windows rattled, and the movement of the floor was quite noticeable. The whole movement lasted some four or five seconds, and was weird and uncanny in the extreme.”
1914 08 18 at 15:30 UTC, Gippsland
The Argus Thursday 20 August 1914, Page 10.
MlRBOO NORTH. Wednesday. — An earth tremor was distinctly felt yesterday morning. In many houses crockeryware rattled loudly.
TOOLANGI, Wednesday. —A slight shock of earthquake was experienced here at half past 1 o’clock yesterday morning. The tremor was of about five seconds duration and seemed to run from south to north.
Bruthen and Tambo Times Wednesday 19 August 1914, Page 3.
An earth tremor was felt in Bruthen about 2 a.m. this morning. It was more severely felt in some parts than in others. In one instance it was reported that it shook the pictures from the wall and the tumbler’s from a sideboard on to the floor.
There were two distinct earthquakes reported, one in East Gippsland, another near Bendigo.
1915 02 27 at 12:15 UTC, Gippsland
Gippsland Times (Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Monday 8 March 1915, page 3
WALHALLA, Friday. A distinct earth tremor was felt by a number of people in Walhalla last Saturday evening at a quarter past ten o’clock. The disturbance lasted for several seconds. Mr Jim Harry and Mr Con. Mehhan were sitting upstairs at the Star Hotel at the time, when the latter remarked that someone had fallen against the wall. “No fear,’ ‘said Mr Barry, “my father helped to build this place. It must have been an earthquake.”
Figure 46 The epicentre of this small ML3.4 earthquake on 27 February 1915 was near Traralgon.
Rosedale Courier (Vic. : 1914 – 1918), Thursday 4 March 1915, page 2
WHEN MOTHER EARTH MOVES
Last Saturday night, at about 10.15 o’clock, a severe earth tremor was felt at Rosedale. A number of the houses and shops were severely shaken and some of the occupants very much startled. Although the tremor lasted several seconds and was very pronounced, it would appear, judging by the absence of reports from other centres, that Rosedale and Carrajung were the only places in which the tremor was noticeable.
A peculiar fact was that quite a number of persons were unaware that anything unusual had occurred.
SHARP SHOCK AT CARRAJUNG
Our correspondent writes:—A sharp shock of earthquake was experienced here on Saturday night between 10 and 11 o’clock. The strike of the tremor seemed to be from east to west. Buildings seemed to sway under its influence and its subsequent rumblings were plainly audible (resembling distant thunder) for a fair length of time after the shock had occured. This belt of country embracing the southern hills is no doubt of semi volcanic origin and will in my opinion be a likely spot for visitations from earthly tremors ; as we are so far removed from living volcanoes I think it unlikely that anything serious may occur at least for many generations.
Rosedale Courier (Vic. : 1914 – 1918), Thursday 11 March 1915, page 2
The earthquake that disturbed the serenity of Rosedale on the 27th ult. was felt at Cowwar and also at Walhalla.
1915 05 24 at 08:00 UTC, Walhalla
An earth tremor was distinctly felt by a number of people in Walhalla on Monday evening close upon 6 o’clock. The shock was also felt at Rosedale. It is worthy of remark that a few months ago both towns had a similar experience (Ed. date 1915 02 27).
1916 01 26 at 23:00 UTC, Sidonia
Ararat Chronicle and Willaura and Lake Bolac Districts Recorder (Vic. : 1914 – 1918), Tuesday 1 February 1916, page 2.
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
At 9 a.m. on Thursday a violent earthquake shock, followed by several milder tremors, occurred at Sidonia, about 10 miles from Kyneton. At Mr. J. C. Ruddle’s residence bricks were thrown from the chimney tops. Kettles were knocked off the fire, and bottles fell from the pantry shelf. The shocks were also felt some miles away at Pastoria East.
Daylesford Advocate, Yandoit, Glenlyon and Eganstown Chronicle (Vic. : 1914 – 1918), Saturday 29 January 1916, page 3.
A severe earthquake shock was felt at Sidonia, near Kyneton, about nine o’clock on Thursday morning. The shock was accompanied by a loud noise like thunder. At the residence of Mrs Ruddle, mother of Dr Ruddle, of this town, the shock was so severe that bricks fell from the chimneys, pictures and ornaments from the walls, and several bottles of jam were thrown from the pantry sheIf and broken. About six years ago a number of earthquake shocks were felt at Sidonia during a period of about six months. Prior to this the oldest residents had not known of any for a period of over forty years.
Ararat Chronicle and Willaura and Lake Bolac Districts Recorder (Vic. : 1914 – 1918), Tuesday 1 February 1916, page 2
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
At 9 a.m. on Thursday a violent earthquake shock, followed by several milder tremors, occurred at Sidonia, about 10 miles from Kyneton. At Mr. J. C. Ruddle’s residence bricks were thrown from the chimney tops. Kettles were knocked off the fire, and bottles fell from the pantry shelf. The shocks were also felt some miles away at Pastoria East.
Kyneton Guardian (Vic. : 1870 – 1881; 1914 – 1918), Saturday 29 January 1916, page 2
Earthquake Shocks at Sidonia.—At about 9 o’clock on Thursday morning a violent shock of earthquake was experienced at Sidonia. It was followed at short intervals by several milder tremors. At Mr J. C. Ruddle’s residence the first shock caused bricks to fall from the chimney tops, kettles to be knocked off the fire, bottles off the shelves and jam pots off the pan-try shelf. The tremors were also felt at Pastoria and Piper’s Creek. About six years ago, similar shocks were felt in that district, but they were not so severe as on the present occasion.
1916 01 31 at 21:00 UTC, Cape Otway?
Colac Herald (Vic. : 1875 – 1918), Monday 7 February 1916, page 2
APOLLO BAY. On Tuesday morning last, about seven o’clock, successive rumbles were heard at Apollo Bay like distant thunder. The rumbling lasted fully five minutes and was caused by an earthquake shock at Cape Otway.
1916 06 29 at 22:00 and 1916 06 30 20:30 UTC, Bright
The Age Saturday 1 July 1916, Page 10.
EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS.
BRIGHT.— The residents of Bright and district experienced two distinct earthquake shocks on Friday. The first occurred at about 8 a.m., and was accompanied by a noise like a fast-travelling motor car. It rattled the windows and crockery on the shelves, and shook the beds. Some alarm, was felt at Harrietville, and Wandiligong. At Porepunkah tins were rattled from their benches to the floor. The second tremor occurred at about 8.45. It was not so severe as the first.
MYRTLEFORD.— A pronounced earthquake shock was experienced here at 8 a.m. on Friday.
Myrtleford Mail and Whorouly Witness (Vic. : 1914 – 1918), Thursday 6 July 1916, page 3
Porepunkah.
Tuesday. Earthquake Shocks.
Two distinct earthquake shocks were experienced locally during last week. One occurred on Friday morning at about 8, and it was sufficiently strong to cause rattling of windows and crockery ; whilst at about 6.30 on Saturday morning another shock of similar intensity was experienced. Some residents aver that there was also a shock about 2 a.m. on Saturday, but if so it was not sufficiently strong to have caused general notice.
Ovens and Murray Advertiser (Beechworth, Vic. : 1855 – 1955), Wednesday 5 July 1916, page 3
MILAWA. The noise of the earthquake shock at Bright was distinctly heard at Milawa at 8 am. on Friday, and sounded like distant thunder. The tremor lasted about six seconds.
The date of the second shock, Saturday, from the Porepunkah story.
1916 08 ?? ,Yarrawonga
Benalla Standard (Vic. : 1901 – 1940), Tuesday 5 September 1916, page 3
TUNGAMAH.
The shock of earthquake reported at Yarrawonga last week was also felt by at least one resident of Tungamah. He was awakened by a fall of plaster from the ceiling from his bedroom, but did not put it down to an earthquake until he read the report in the Yarrawonga papers on the following Tuesday.
More information needed on this one.
1917 04 02 at 19:55 UTC, Holbrook NSW
This earthquake was widely felt in Victoria and NSW.
Figure 47 Felt area of the earthquake near Holbrook on 2 April 1917. The derived magnitude of 4.7 is a minimum value given the early morning occurrence.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Wednesday 4 April 1917, page 7.
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
IN NORTH-EASTERN DISTRICT. REPORTS FROM MANY CENTRES.
ALBURY.—A shock of earthquake, lasting from 6 to 8 seconds, was felt here at 5.50 a.m. on Tuesday.
BEECHWORTH.— A very distinct earthquake tremor was felt here at 6 a.m. on Tuesday. There was a long, rumbling noise, and people were awakened by the severe shaking of their beds and the rattling of windows and crockery. Both the tremor and the rumbling lasted several seconds.
COROWA.— An earthquake shock was experienced at 6 a.m. on Tuesday. It lasted some seconds. Houses were shaken in different parts of the town, and the inmates were awakened.
CORRYONG.— An earth tremor of a severe nature was felt here about 6 a.m. on Tuesday, shaking the houses, crockery, &c. The tremor was also felt on the upper reaches of the Murray towards Khancoban.
RUTHERGLEN.—Two distinct earthquake shocks occurred on Tuesday just before 6 a.m. Many residents were disturbed in their slumbers. Buildings shook and crockery rattled. TALLANGATTA.—An earthquake shock was felt here at 6 a.m. on Tuesday. The tremor, which was of a pronounced character, was preceded by a loud rumbling noise, followed immediately by a violent concussion. Buildings trembled, and crockery and glassware rattled ominously. The shock was of short duration. It created some alarm. WANGARATTA.— An earth tremor was felt in Wangaratta, Everton, Oxley Flats, Byawatha, Springhurst and other parts of the district at 5.45 a.m. on Tuesday. It was preceded by a deep rumbling noise like the roll of thunder, then the slight vibration of houses and windows, and the doors rattled. The residence of Mr. J. W. Reitner, of Byawatha, fairly shook, and the crockery was displaced from the shelves of the dresser and broken. The tremor lasted from 5 to 8 seconds.
Corowa Free Press (NSW : 1875 – 1954), Friday 6 April 1917, page 2.
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
Shortly before 6 o’clock on Tuesday morning last an earthquake shock was experienced at Corowa. The visitation was heralded by a rumbling noise suggestive of a motor car in the distance. Then followed the shock, which lasted, apparently, from 8 to 10 seconds. Houses were shaken and their contents rattled. The shock was sufficiently severe to arouse people from their slumbers, but it was all over by the time they realised what was the matter. Similar shocks were felt at Albury, Beechworth, Rutherglen, Corryong, Tallangatta, and other towns in North-Eastern Victoria. At Wangaratta crockery was displaced off dressers and broken. A Tallangatta correspondent states that it created alarm there.
Benalla Standard (Vic. : 1901 – 1940), Friday 6 April 1917, page 3
Earthquake Shock. — On Tuesday morning, between five and six o’clock, a distinct shock of earthquake was experienced in Benalla and many towns in the North-Eastern district, also at Wagga and Albury, in New South Wales. A long, rumbling noise, and people being awakened in their beds, is recorded from Beechworth, Wangaratta, Rutherglen, Everton, Tallangatta, and Corryong. At Corowa houses were also shaken.
1917 06 07 at 11:05 UTC, Lismore
Daily Advertiser Monday 11 June 1917, Page 2.
Mr. Hunt, the Commonwealth meteorologist, was advised on Friday afternoon that at Lismore, in the Western District, two sharp earthquake shocks were recorded at five minutes past 9 on Thursday night. Furniture and pictures in dwellings were displaced.
Rutherglen Sun and Chiltern Valley Advertiser (Vic. : 1886 – 1957), Friday 15 June 1917, page 2
EARTHQUAKE SHAKE. — Mr Hunt, the Commonwealth meteorologist, was advised by telegram on Friday afternoon that at Lismore, in the Western District (Vic), two sharp earthquake shocks were recorded at five minutes past 9 on Thursday night. Furniture and pictures in dwellings were displaced.
1919 12 25 at 01:05 UTC, Hamilton meteor
Ballarat Star (Vic. : 1865 – 1924), Wednesday 31 December 1919, page 6
GLENORCHY.
VIOLENT EARTH TREMOR.
An extraordinary and awe-inspiring spectacle was witnessed by many residents of Glenorchy and district at about 11 o’clock on Christmas morning, when what appeared to be an immense ball of fire traversed the heavens from north to south, and when high in the descent it burst and left a long trail of dense white smoke. A loud noise accompanied the rush through the air of the blazing mass, and when it crashed to earth a noise like thunder and a violent tremor of the earth followed. A snapshot of the meteor has luckily been taken at Glenorchy, and it was then towards the south, while people at Hamilton report seeing it towards the sun, therefore it has to all appearances fallen near the Grampians, where several families thought the noise was caused by a huge land-slip.
Ballarat Star (Vic. : 1865 – 1924), Monday 29 December 1919, page 2
METEOR CAUSES EARTH TREMOR
DR BALDWIN’S VIEW. Melbourne, Saturday.
Dr Baldwin, Government Astronomer stated to-day that he had received reports of the meteor having been seen in several additional places, including Sandringham, Brighton and Fern Tree Gully. Dr Baldwin said that it must have been at a very high altitude to have been seen over such a wide area—as far east as Beaconsfield, and as far west as Portland, The concussion must have been exceptionally great to have been heard in so many places. At the same time the meteor must have been very brilliant, as it was seen by large numbers of people at 11 o’clock in the day. The earth tremor which was experienced in many districts was no doubt caused by the explosion of the gases in the meteor, which made some persons think that an earthquake had taken place.
1920 11 05 at 14:30 UTC, Erica
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Thursday 11 November 1920, page 8
ERICA —A slight earth tremor occurred here on Saturday at about half past 12 a.m. Residents were awakened by the vibration of houses.
1921 05 30 at 14:52 UTC, East of Wakool NSW
The epicentre of this magnitude 5.5 earthquake, felt strongly at Boort, was east of Swan Hill, in NSW (McCue, 2014; Drake, 1974) and was widely felt in Victoria. Underwood (1972) lists 4 small earthquakes felt at Boort between 9th and 18th October 1932.
EARTH TREMOR.
Boort to Balranald Affected.
BOORT Tuesday.—A sharp, earth tremour was felt at 1 o’clock this morning. It lasted about two minutes, and appeared to travel, from east to west. Beds were bumped against walls, crockery rattled, and furniture rocked. Many people were considerably alarmed by the swaying motion. When the tremor passed, heavy rain fell for nearly an hour. The tremor was felt in many parts of the district.
KYABRAM, Tuesday. — A slight earth tremor was felt this morning at 20 minutes to 1 o’clock.
MURCHISON, Tuesday.—An earth tremor was felt here early this morning. A number of people got out of bed lo find out what had happened, as their doors and windows were shaking.
SWAN HILL, Tuesday.—At seven minutes to 1 o’clock this morning, a violent earth tremor shook the houses. The roofs rattled, plaster walls cracked, and water tanks were thrown off their stands. A red glow was observed in the northern sky while the shock lasted.
YARRAWONGA, Tuesday.—A distinct earth tremor was felt in the town early this morning. It lasted only a few seconds, but houses shook. No damage was done.
1921 06 08 at 19:30 UTC, Foster
The Argus Friday 10 June 1921, Page 6.
FOSTER, Thursday.—A sharp earthquake shock was felt here at half-past 5 o’clock this morning. There was a loud rumbling noise, followed by a sharp bump. Persons in bed felt the shock, and doors were swung open.
1922 02 28 at 15:00 UTC, Ocean Grove
The year 1922 was quite an active one, felt earthquakes are headlined in newspaper articles right across southern Australia. One of these earthquakes early on 1st March (EST) shook the city of Melbourne frightening many of the residents. Interest in this event seems to have been eclipsed by a magnitude Ms 5.2 earthquake in Bass Strait (Everingham and others, 1987) five weeks later on 10th April which also shook the city, but more strongly. In neither case was damage substantiated.
Figure 49 Isoseismal Map of the Ocean Grove earthquake,
28 February 1922.
The Argus says it wasn’t ‘recorded’ at the Mt Pleasant Municipal Observatory at Ballarat, an astronomical, not a seismological, observatory and the logbook of the day makes no mention that it was felt there. The later earthquake on 10th April was however noted by the astronomer John Brittain in the logbook: 9pm Earth tremor.
The earthquake was recorded at Melbourne Observatory, the P wave at 15:00:42, the origin time about 15:00:20 UTC and the duration about one minute. The maximum amplitude was 0.3mm. The Observatory located the epicentre 50 miles south of Cape Schanck, close to 39°S, 145°E (The Herald, Thu 2 Mar, page 1).
1922 04 10 at 10:46 UTC, Ocean Grove
It was hard to ignore the 10th April earthquake, so many reports were extracted by TROVE in a search of 1922 newspapers and many of them were at odds with an epicentre in eastern Bass Strait (Everingham and others, 1987). Ground shaking was felt at Burnie on the northwest coast of Tasmania, felt strongly on King Island, and as far west as Warrnambool and north to Ivanhoe in Victoria.
The felt area, according to the following reports found later, is a bit larger than mapped here to compute the magnitude.
Examiner (Launceston, Tas. : 1900 – 1954), Thursday 13 April 1922, page 2
ULVERSTONE.
At about 8.30 p.m. on Monday a distinct earth tremor was felt in Ulverstone.
Advocate (Melbourne, Vic. : 1868 – 1954), Thursday 18 May 1922, page 44
Letters to Aunt Patsy
A LETTER FROM TASMANIA.
Ulverstone, Tasmania, 17/4/’22. Dear Aunt Patsy,—I have never written to you before, and I hope your Ferry Boat will still hold another one……. I was sitting near the fire the other night, and we felt such a funny rattling of the house. The next morning we read in the paper that there, had been an earthquake shock; I hope there isn’t another one in a hurry.
Examiner (Launceston, Tas. : 1900 – 1954), Wednesday 12 April 1922, page 4
EARTH TREMOR IN LAUNCESTON.
The earth tremor that was felt in Melbourne about 9 o’clock on Monday night, was distinctly felt in Launceston about the same time. Mr. C. W. Danvers Walker, of 2 Carnarvon-street, was writing at 8.50 on Monday night, when the house was shaken by an earth tremor. In all parts of the building crockery chattered and doors rattled. The knocker on the front door rapped clearly. The disturbance lasted about 20 seconds. Other people living in the vicinity also felt the shock.
Mercury (Hobart, Tas. : 1860 – 1954), Wednesday 12 April 1922, page 6
EARTH TREMOR AT KING ISLAND.
We received the following wireless message yesterday from our King Island correspondent:—An earth tremor occurred at 8.50 last night, and was considerably stronger than the tremor of a few weeks back, and those previously. Two rather severe vibrations occurred at Fraser. [This was about the same time as the earth tremors felt on the North-West Coast and also in Melbourne.]
Figure 50 Isoseismal Map Ocean Grove earthquake, 10 April 1922. The GA and Burke-Gaffney (B-G) epicentres are marked by the open red triangles.
There were more reports of damage than in the earlier earthquake, both of which were felt throughout Melbourne; a chimney reportedly collapsed in Glen Iris and several places reported that crockery had vibrated off shelves and broken: in Pakenham, Portarlington, Cranbourne and East Malvern. A Perth newspaper reported it felt as far as Portland.
The isoseismal map shown here supports an epicentre off Ocean Grove in Victoria, not far from the February earthquake discussed above.
Geelong Advertiser Wednesday 12 April 1922, Page 6.
SEISMOGRAPH RECORD (Ed. Milne Seismograph 1902-1927)
SHOWS ORIGIN IN BASS STRAIT MELBOURNE, April 11.
When the seismograph record of last night’s earth tremor was developed to-day at the Observatory, the officials were able to say that the centre of the disturbance was within 150 miles of Melbourne, and roughly, in a south-easterly direction — in Bass Strait, where a previous disturbance originated.
The record also indicated that the tremor was of a more violent nature than the one which occurred at the beginning of March. The first disturbance of the boom of the seismograph occurred at 8hr. 46min. 24sec. p.m., and was followed by the second, part of the disturbance at 8hr. 46min. 48sec. p.m. It was this second phase that was felt as the beginning of the tremor, the first being too small to be noticed except by the instrument. The maximum disturbance occurred at 8hr. 47min, 6sec., when the boom was vibrating over an amplitude of 1.7 millimetres. The total duration of the tremor was about one minute, but it was only sensible for 35sec. “A good sharp shock”— that is how Observatory officials described the disturbance. They deprecated the use of the word “earthquake.” “These disturbances are not earthquakes,” said Mr. C. J. Merfield, the Acting Government Astronomer, “they are merely tremors. An earthquake implies buildings toppling and the earth opening. Such a thing has never occurred in Australia, and I hope it never will. The centre of last night’s shock was local— that is, within a few hundred miles of Melbourne— hence its severity and short duration.” Asked to explain the cause of these disturbances, Mr. Merfield said that running through the continent, below the surface, was what geologists called a “fault” line— a huge crack. Another fault line passed through Bass Strait, and along these fault lines tremors were constantly occurring.
| Date | Time UTC | Lat °S | Long °E | Mag | Approx Location | Source |
| 28 02 1922 | 15:00 | 39 | 145 | 50 miles S Cape Schanck | Melbourne Observatory | |
| 15:00:30 | 38.4 | 144.75 | 4.9 | Off Lorne Vic | This paper | |
| 10 04 1922 | 10:45 | 39.3 | 144.3 | N King Is Tas | Melbourne Observatory | |
| 10:47:39 | 40 | 147.5 | 4.8 ML | Flinders Is Tas | B-G | |
| 40 | 147.5 | 5.2 Ms | Flinders Is Tas | EDG | ||
| 38.35 | 144.60 | 5.7 ML | Off Lorne Vic | This paper |
Table 2 Earthquake details reported by different sources
Many of them were so slight that they were not noticed. “When a disturbance such as occurred last night takes place,’ he went on, “it means that a strain is taking place, and the earth is adjusting itself into position.” Reports which are still coming in indicate that considerable anxiety was caused by the disturbance. In many cases people rushed out of their houses, feeling safer in the open. A Hampton housewife thought a gang of urchins was operating when her front door knocker hammered and she found no one there; but it was only the earth tremor. In the centre of the city the shock was particularly acute. Members of the United States Consulate staff, in the Equitable Building in Collins-street, who were working late, stated that the buildings seemed to sway noticeably. One with experience of earthquakes in Japan declared that it was “quite a respectable shock.” Although the reports indicate that the effects of the shock were widespread little damage was done.
The relative amplitudes of the February and April virtually co-located earthquakes off Ocean Grove on the MEL Milne seismograph of 1.7/0.3 indicates a magnitude difference of 0.75 which is very close to the difference computed from their felt areas.
The year was not finished with earthquakes, a slight but very distinct earthquake was experienced along the Tallangatta Valley on Friday 17th November at 8:30pm local time (The Argus, Monday 20 November 1922, P7). There was also a very local earthquake near Warrnambool on 9th December (below) mentioned in the introduction above.
1922 12 09 at 05:20 UTC, Woodford near Warrnambool
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Monday 11 December 1922, page 8.
EARTH TREMOR.
WARRNAMBOOL, Sunday. — A slight earth tremor was felt in Warnambool and surrounding districts about 20 minutes past 3 o’clock on Saturday afternoon. The movement lasted for about three seconds. Doors and windows in buildings rattled but no damage was done.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Wednesday 13 December 1922, page 14.
WARRNAMBOOL.
Damage amounting to probably several hundred pounds has been sustained by the Anglican church at Woodford as the result of the earth tremor on Saturday. The building is of bluestone, but for some time trouble has been experienced with the foundation, and the tremor accentuated all the serious weaknesses of the building. Gaping cracks have appeared in the walls, and in its present condition the building cannot be regarded as safe.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Wednesday 13 December 1922, page 22.
WARRNAMBOOL.
The earth tremor on Saturday afternoon damaged the Church of England at Woodford. Old cracks in the walls were opened and new cracks developed, the damage being estimated at about 200 pounds.
(Next column) An earth tremor was experienced at Koroit at ten minutes past 3 o’clock on Saturday afternoon. No damage was done.
Figure 51 The epicentre at Woodford near Warrnambool, intensity MMVI, reflects damage to the Anglican Church there in the small earthquake on 9 December 1922.
Australasian (Melbourne, Vic. : 1864 – 1946), Saturday 16 December 1922, page 49.
The seismograph at the Melbourne Observatory showed no record on December 11 of the earth tremor reported from Warrnambool on December 9. The reason possibly was that the centre of the shock was not deep-seated, probably not more than a few miles below the surface of the earth. The cause might have been a tremor in St. Vincent’s Gulf (S.A.) or Bass Strait.
Skipton Standard and Streatham Gazette (Vic. : 1914 – 1928), Saturday 16 December 1922, page 2
A slight earth tremor was experienced at Terang and Warrnambool this week.
1923 08 14 at 11:45 UTC, Eildon Weir
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Monday 20 August 1923, page 7
WAS IT AN EARTHQUAKE?
TO THE EDITOR OF THE ARGUS.
Sir,—I have waited to see if any report of an earth tremor appeared. On Tuesday night, at a quarter to 10 o’clock, a most severe tremor occurred here. There was a rumble like thunder at first, and then two distinct explosions within a minute and a half of the thundery rumble. Houses all about were rocked violently, and beds jumped from side to side of the room.
Yours, &c.,
E. R. MCDONNELL.
Eildon Weir, Aug. 16.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Tuesday 21 August 1923, page 10
Referring yesterday to a communication from Mr. E. R. McDonnell, of Eildon Weir, which stated that an earth tremor, which rocked houses and “caused beds to jump from side to side of the room,” had been experienced in that district on Tuesday night, Dr Baldwin, of the State Observatory, said that the disturbance had not been recorded by the seismograph. Evidently it had been purely local.
Figure 52 Small earthquake felt strongly at Eildon Weir on 14 August 1923 at 11:45 UTC.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Thursday 23 August 1923, page 14
MARYSVILLE. — The earth tremor mentioned by Mr. McDonnell, of Eildon Weir, on August 16, was clearly felt at Marysville. Residents heard a noise similar to thunder, lasting from 8sec. to 10sec. The houses rocked for about 1½sec. Several residents were in the street at the time, and they claim that they saw a reflection of light in the southern sky during the duration of the tremor. Others thought that an actylene gas tank at one of the boarding-houses had exploded, as it seemed quite local.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Friday 31 August 1923, page 3
JAMIESON.—The earth tremor which was felt at the weir was also felt in Jamieson between 9.40 and 9.45 on August 18 (sic). The shock was felt distinctly; it was felt at Marysville.
Richmond Guardian (Vic. : 1884 – 1885; 1894 – 1897; 1900 – 1930), Saturday 16 June 1923, p 6
HUNTING DOWN THE EARTHQUAKE.
Are We In the Danger Zone?
Those who read the interesting article on Earthquakes in Australian Areas, recently written for “Life” by Professor Griffith Taylor, would be further interested in a very fine article in the “Daily Mail,” describing the scientific mission of two American destroyers in searching the source of earthquakes. The Carnegie Institute “and the Hydrographic Office of the U.S. Navy have joined hands in an effort to discover the sources and causes of earthquakes by means of a sonic, depth finder. Two American destroyers—the Hull and the Corry—”have been equipped with this novel apparatus at San Francisco and have begun making soundings over a stretch of seven thousand miles off the Californian and Mexican coasts. It is believed by scientists in Washington that this new survey of the sea bottom, which may be extended to the South Pacific, will clear up some of the mystery of great seismic disturbances such as recently occurred along the Chilean coast.
1924 08 02 at 10:20 and 10:28 UTC, Felt Port Phillip Bay to Woodend – not an earthquake
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Monday 4 August 1924, page 1
AIR TREMOR
Mystery Shocks at Newport
Numerous reports were received at the Melbourne Observatory during the weekend that residents at Newport, Williamstown and Brighton had felt a slight earthquake shock about 8pm on Saturday. The seismograph, however, remained undisturbed by these reports and even refused to take any notice of the fact that something caused the Observatory windows to rattle. Dr. Baldwin, Government Astronomer, this morning stated that the rattling of windows was caused by an air tremor. There was nothing to indicate what caused this, as no explosions nor atmospheric disturbances of sufficient violence had been reported.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Friday 8 August 1924, page 6
EARTH TREMOR.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE ARGUS
Sir,— Like “Interested, I was surprised that no mention was made of the tremors which took place on Saturday night. Three of us, while sitting indoors, heard the loud rumblings, accompanied by the rattling of the windows. The shocks —three of them—all seemed to come from the south-south-west, and were approximately at the time mentioned. The sky was cloudless and the wind dropped as each tremor came.
—Yours &c., E.J.C.
Dandenong, Aug. 7.
Figure 53 This event was reported felt around the bay at Dandenong, Portarlington, St Kilda, and 100km away northwest of Melbourne, but not at Melbourne. It was not an earthquake.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Wednesday 6 August 1924, page 9
SUPPOSED EARTH TREMOR.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE ARGUS.
Sir, —I was surprised to find no earth tremor reported this morning. On Saturday evening I visited some friends at East St. Kilda, and was enjoying a smoke outside when a dull rumbling noise caused me to look skywards, but there was not a cloud to be seen, although there had been a sharp rain squall some little time previously. I went indoors and inquired of my friends, whether they had heard the thunder-like sound. My host immediately said, “No, but the window shook violently.” That was at 8.20. We were sitting round the fire discussing the incident when at 8.28 exactly we all heard a dull rumble quite distinctly, and the window again shook violently. Someone suggested the motor-‘buses as the cause, but that was out of the question, as the house is too far away from the ‘bus route. Does the seismograph show anything?— Yours, &c.,
August 4. INTERESTED.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Saturday 9 August 1924, page 9
EARTH TREMOR.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE ARGUS
Sir,—Referring to correspondence regarding the supposed earthquake on Saturday evening, may I be permitted to state my experience on that occasion? When walking to my home shortly after 8 o’clock I say a large yellowish ball, apparently about 2ft. diameter, which instantly changed to the most vivid white light, like a very powerful electric light. This was not in the sky, but appeared on the ground or sea between this place and Mount Martha on the opposite side of the bay. After about 1½ minutes came a dull, heavy report, as from a big gun from a distance.
I was told when I got home that the house shook, as did also our neighbour’s
—Yours, &c.,
C.E. Symonds.
Portarlington, Aug. 7.
Sir,— We heard two distinct rumbling sounds and the windows rattled. I walked outside only to find a clear sky. This noise was heard by three persons present at 8.20 and 8.28. No buses or tramcars pass here.
—Yours, &c.,
ALSO INTERESTED. Gisborne, Aug. 6.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE ARGUS
Sir,—We distinctly heard the effects of the tremor at precisely the same time, 8.28 p.m., as mentioned by previous correspondents, although more than 50 miles away, on Saturday night last.
—Yours, &c.,
Aug.7.
Woodend.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Wednesday 6 August 1924, page 11
BACCHUS MARSH.— Shortly after 8 p.m. on Saturday several residents felt two distinct earth tremors.
1924 08 18, Mine collapse (not listed in Appendix 1)
Telegraph (Brisbane, Qld. : 1872 – 1947), Tuesday 19 August 1924, page 2.
MINE DISASTER
EXPLOSIONS AT WONTHAGGI MELBOURNE, August 18.
Pumps are being placed in position preparatory to beginning the pumping out of the Wonthaggi mine. Since the sealing of the McBryde tunnel slight tremors have been felt, indicating explosions or falls of earth. The seal of one shaft was blown off. In many places fumes are coming through earth fissures.
1924 12 04 at ?, King Valley
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Wednesday 10 December 1924, page 17
MOYHU.—Residents of Whitfield experienced slight earth tremor on Wednesday the shock which lasted for a minute, varied in its severity, and travelled across the hills towards Myrrbee. Both the Whitfield post office and State school were severely shaken, but no damage was done.
Benalla Standard (Vic. : 1901 – 1940), Tuesday 9 December 1924, page 3
Shock of Earthquake— On Thursday morning residents of the King Valley and Fifteen Mile Creek districts were somewhat disturbed by a sharp earthquake shock. Accompanied by a loud rumbling noise like thunder, the shock lasted in all about ten seconds. Buildings were shaken, but no damage was done. Apparently the visitation was confined to the hill country, no shock at all being noticed at Moyhu and other centres between Wangaratta and Whitfield. A similar disturbance occurred about five years ago.
1925 07 11 at 10:20 UTC, Foster
Albury Banner and Wodonga Express (NSW : 1896 – 1938), Friday 17 July 1925, page 4.
A sharp, distinct earthquake was experienced at Foster on Saturday night at 20 minutes past 8 o’clock. There were two tremors separated by a few seconds, accompanied by a rumbling noise, while houses creaked and oscillation was felt.
Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 – 1954), Saturday 18 July 1925, page 7
EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS
Foster Shaken
Two distinct earth tremors, separated by a few seconds, were felt at Foster at 8.20 p.m. on Saturday. The shocks, sharp and distinct, were accompanied by rumbling noises, and caused houses to creak and objects to sway to-and-fro. No further reports have been received, and the earthquake seems to have been mild and localised. Commenting on the report, the Government Astronomer (Dr. G. Baldwin) said: — “It is apparently a purely local shock, and merely, a surface phenomenon. That is generally the case with tremors reported in Victoria. The shock goes so little below the surface that it is not transmitted through the ground, and consequently is not recorded on our seismograph.
1925 09 05 at 19:05 UTC, Castlemaine
The Argus Monday 7 September 1925, Page 17
VIOLENT EARTH TREMOR.
Castlemaine Residents Alarmed.
CASTLEMAINE, Sunday — Residents of Castlemaine and district were awakened this morning shortly after 5 o’clock by a violent earth tremor. A loud crash was followed by the swaying and creaking of houses and the rattling of windows and crockery. Many persons left their beds in fear but the shock was of short duration. In a number of houses crockery was shaken from kitchen dressers and broken. Otherwise no damage was done. Residents recall a similar shock about 10 years ago.
Shock Felt at Bendigo
BENDIGO Sunday. —Many persons were awakened at about 5 o’clock this morning by an earth tremor which caused buildings to vibrate for a few seconds. The tremor was felt throughout the district, but it did not cause any damage to property.
It was also reported felt on good authority in East Malvern:
The Corowa Chronicle Wednesday 9 September 1925, Page 2.
AN EARTH TREMOR.
A pronounced earth tremor, which lasted several seconds, was felt in various parts of Victoria shortly before daybreak on Sunday. As most people were asleep at the time, and as the shock was not sufficiently violent to wake heavy sleepers, the tremor passed unnoticed in many places. Some people, however, were awakened by the rattling of windows and creaking of the wood work of their homes. At East Malvern the tremor was felt distinctly by a number of residents a few minutes before 5 o’clock. At the Sacred Heart Convent, Burke-road, some of the nuns, who had already risen, said the whole building seemed to shake for about ten seconds.
With an epicentre southeast of Castlemaine, the minimum magnitude is about 4.7.
1926 05 13 at 02:34 UTC, Foster
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Friday 14 May 1926, page 18
EARTH TREMOR AT FOSTER.
FOSTER, Thursday. — A sharp earthquake shock was felt here at 26 minutes to 1 o’clock this afternoon, when houses shook and windows and crockery rattled. The shock, which was of momentary duration, was followed by a deep rumble.
1927 03 22 at 12:30 UTC, Benambra
The Yackandandah Times Friday 25 March 1927, Page 1.
Benambra Earth Tremor. On Tuesday, about 10.30 p.m., a most pronounced earth tremor was felt throughout the district. Buildings shook and crockery rattled. Persons sitting in chairs felt the shock distinctly, causing quite a scare to many.
The next earthquakes triggered a small swarm in the Euroa region of north central Victoria that seems to have ended with a bang; unusually the largest earthquake was the last perceptible event of the sequence. Undoubtedly there were hundreds more smaller unreported/unfelt ones.
1927 05 14 at 19:00 UTC, and 1927 05 15 at 14:00 UTC, Seven Creeks near Euroa
The North Eastern Ensign Friday 20 May 1927, Page 3.
‘Quake at Euroa. EARLY MORNING EXPLOSIONS EUROA RESIDENTS ALARMED
Loud explosions immediately followed by several severe earth tremors have alarmed the residents of Seven Creeks, Kelvia, Kithbrook and other small country places near Euroa on Sunday and Monday. Seven Creeks seems to have fared the worst. At 5 on Sunday morning and at 2 on Monday morning, members of Mr Ian Currie’s homestead were aroused by loud explosions similar to those caused by blasting. A rumbling sound followed, house furniture shook, the crockery rattled and the dogs howled as if in fear. On each occasion the earth tremors were of several minutes’ duration, and residents experienced a wierd feelings. At Kithbrook prolonged rumblings were experienced on Sunday morning, and were immediately followed by the shaking of houses. Similar occurrence took place at Kelvin, and Mr N. Mackrell’s house. Here again the dogs endeavored to seek shelter indoors.
1927 05 17 at 09:00 UTC, at least 7 shocks felt Euroa
Riverine Herald Thursday 19 May 1927, Page 2.
EARTH TREMORS AT EUROA RESIDENTS ALARMED
EUROA, Wednesday
There has been a recurrence of earth tremors in the Seven Creeks district, which have extended to Castle Creek, Kelvin View, and other places in the hilly districts around.
At 2 p.m. yesterday there was a tremor, and about 7 o’clock last night one of the most severe there has been took place. Five slighter ‘quakes were noted during the night.
The explosion, rumbling and vibration alarmed the residents, and gave them a most uncanny feeling. At Mr. F. Elgin’s, at Castle Creek, a Gloria light bulb was shattered. Domestic animals showed great uneasiness and alarm.
Last night’s tremor extended to Euroa township, the earth movements being felt, in the brick residences of Messrs. E. Stribling and Jas. Elgin. The crockery in the latter’s house rattled.
The area over which the disturbances are occurring is a volcanic belt of country extending from Bald Hill, near Mr Chomley’s Killeen Homestead, to Shean’s Creek. Great speculation is rife as to the cause of these alarming happenings. When they occur in the night the beds of the residents rock.
1927 07 10 at 08:30 UTC, Euroa
The Northern Ensign Friday 15 July 1927, Page 3
FURTHER SHOCKS AT EUROA. After an absence of tremors for some weeks a severe earthquake shock was experienced at Seven Creeks, Gooram, and Euroa at about 6.15 p.m. on Sunday. There was the usual explosion and continued rumbling, with the rattling of crockery and the howling of terrified dogs. The centre of the disturbance seemed to be in the granite country of Seven Creeks and Gooram. Previous disturbances were felt only in brick residences in Euroa, but this shock was much more pronounced. At one home the family were having tea at the time, and were considerably alarmed by the tremor. The occupants of wooden buildings all became alarmed by a noise as of a collision and the vibration of the building.
1929 09 10 at 13:58 and 14:16 UTC, Boronia
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Friday 13 September 1929, page 8.
SLIGHT EARTH TREMOR. CENTRE NEAR MELBOURNE.
Buildings Shaken.
An earth tremor which seems to have been most noticeable in the Heidelberg district roused sleepers just before midnight on Wednesday. A loud explosion was followed by a rumbling, a rattling of windows, and a shaking of buildings.
No great significance is attached to the disturbance at the Observatory. The official report from the Observatory at South Yarra states that the Observatory seismograph recorded a local earthquake tremor on Wednesday night. The disturbance began at two minutes to midnight, and lasted about 30 seconds. The displacements of the seismograph boom were very rapid, but so small that measurements were hardly practicable. It was clear, however, that the origin of the disturbance was not many miles from Melbourne [Ed. 25 km]. Such tremors were not uncommon, and were without significance. The tremor was felt by a member of the Observatory staff, and reports had been received from Camberwell, Heidelberg, Ferntree Gully, Lilydale, and Croydon.
District Reports.
EMERALD, Thursday. —Two severe earth tremors were felt here at 12 o’clock last night. Several houses were shaken severely, but no damage was done.
LILYDALE, Thursday. —At midnight many residents in Lilydale were awakened by a distinct rumbling which shook the houses, more particularly wooden structures, and rattled windows. The earth tremor lasted only a few moments but after a lapse of about half in hour a second tremor occurred, though this was less pronounced. No damage has been reported.
MONBULK, Thursday. — Late last night earth tremors occurred, one shaking windows and doors violently.
MOUNT EVELYN, Thursday. —Two distinct earth tremors were experienced throughout this district. The first, about midnight, was a very severe tremor, which shook all the houses. Immediately afterwards all the dogs in the district commenced barking furiously, and horses galloped about. The second tremor which occurred about an hour later, was considerably weaker, and seemed much farther away.
SASSAFRAS, Thursday. Residents were alarmed by an earthquake shock at midnight. A terrific explosion was followed by a tremor so severe that houses shook and articles rattled. The tremor appeared to run from north-east and south-west, and was followed by one less severe at 16 minutes past 12 o’clock, with the sound of distant rumbling. Many people rushed out of their houses and all the guests in one house fled from the building. At the bakehouse at Kallista the oscillation was so great that the electric wires were strained, plunging the place into darkness. No damage has been reported.
WARRANDYTE, Thursday. Late last night residents were awakened by a rumbling noise followed by a sharp tremor which shook houses and windows. It appeared to come from the north-east and was similar to the earth tremor experienced many years ago.
Kilmore Free Press Thu 19 Sep 1929
A report in Thursday’s issue of “The Age” of an earth tremor at Lilydale shortly before midnight on Wednesday was substantiated by the Melbourne observatory seismograph, which recorded a local earthquake tremor commencing at 1h 58m 33s p.m. and lasted about 30 seconds. The displacements of the seismograph boom were very rapid, but were so small that measurements were hardly practicable. It was clear, however, that the origin of the disturbance was not many miles from Melbourne. Such tremors are not uncommon and according to observatory officials are without significance. The tremor was felt by an observatory official and also in the Camberwell, Heidelberg and Fern Tree Gully districts, in addition to Lilydale.
Figure 54 Felt area of the Boronia earthquake of 10 September 1929. The westernmost plotted intensity is at the observatory. The intensity at Boronia, near the epicentre, is rated MM5.
The Age, Fri 13 Sep 1929
MIDNIGHT EARTH TREMORS.
SHOCKS FELT IN DANDENONGS.
KALORAMA, Thursday.— A severe earth tremor, which appeared to come from the north-west, was experienced at midnight on Wednesday. It was followed by what sounded like a heavy, dull explosion. This is the worst shock that has been known here, the last having been reported in “The Age” on 3rd April, 1922.
BELGRAVE, Thursday.— A slight earth tremor of a few seconds duration was experienced at Belgrave at midnight on Wednesday.
MENZIES CREEK, Thursday. — An earth tremor passed through the district at 11.53 p.m. on Wednesday. The disturbance came with a gradually-increasing force, apparently from the south, and assumed alarming proportions at its height, and than died away as it travelled north. About 15 minutes later there was a lessor shock.
UPWEY, Thursday. —Shortly after midnight an earth tremor was distinctly felt throughout the district.
This earthquake shook the southeast suburbs of Melbourne. The centre of the felt area is near Boronia where it was strongly felt, MM5, and the magnitude, from the radius of perceptibility of 20km, is about 3.2.
1930 06 17 at 21:05 and 06 18 at 01:30 UTC, Omeo
The Argus Thursday 19 June 1930, Page 14.
EARTH TREMOR AT OMEO.
OMEO, Wednesday. —A severe earth tremor was felt at Omeo this morning shortly after 7 o’clock. Buildings trembled and crockery rattled in many dwellings. Residents at Ensay and Swift’s Creek also report similar experiences. The shock was accompanied by a loud rumbling noise. Another tremor occurred at half-past 11 o’clock.
Gippsland Times Monday 23 June 1930, Page 4.
EAST GIPPSLAND SHAKEN BY EARTH TREMOR
Houses Tremble and Crockery Rattled
What in the opinion of old residents was one of the worst earth tremors felt for a great number of years shook East Gippsland early on Wednesday morning last. Shortly after seven o’clock many residents, who were still in bed were awakened by loud intermittent rumblings like distant thunder which caused dwellings to tremble and the crockery to rattle eerily on the shelves. Reports to hand seemed to indicate that the shock was the best pronounced in the mountain areas. At Omeo the low rumbling was distinctly audible and the echoes as they died away among the hills and the gorges produced a decidedly uncanny effect. In the township the rattling of household crockery and the trembling of buildings was most pronounced. Old residents at Bindi and Tongio at the foot of the Dividing Range stated it was one of the severest shocks ever experienced in those parts. At Ensay South, it was reported that the noise misled inmates of the hotel in the belief that some person was perpetrating a practical joke rolling barrels along the front verandah of the building. Getting up to investigate they were surprised to find nothing amiss. The shock was also felt on the foothills around Bruthen. The windows and crockery at Mr. R. Duke’s residence were rattled and similar experiences were reported from homes of Mr. J. Heard, Mrs. Forsyth and from the Bruthen Inn. A lad milking the cows in the hotel yard was reported to have noticed the cow bail shaking. Another shock was experienced at Omeo at about 11:30 a.m. on the same day.
1931 03 14 at 21:00 UTC, Bass Strait NW Tasmania
The Argus Monday 16 March 1931, Page 10 and Friday 20 March 1931, Page 11.
EARTH TREMOR AT GEELONG.
GEELONG, Sunday.—About 7 o’clock yesterday morning an earth tremor was felt in Newtown, Belmont and east Geelong. Houses rattled and furniture rocked.
No damage was reported.
KING ISLAND NEWS.
KING ISLAND, March 16. — Two earth tremors were experienced on Saturday. The first, at 2 o’clock in the morning, was very slight, but the second, just after 7 o’clock, was of several seconds’ duration.
The Mercury Monday16 March 1931, Page 5.
SEVERE EARTH TREMOR FELT AT BURNIE.
RESIDENTS ALARMED.
A severe earth tremor was experienced in the Emu Bay district early on Saturday, morning. In some cases people fearing a collapse of their dwellings ran outside, and children were frightened by the phenomenon. About 7.12 a.m. there was a violent trembling of the earth and beds shook, crockery rattled, and buildings vibrated. The shake lasted for some seconds, and was continuous.
The tremor was also felt in the Circular Head district and at Penguin.
The epicentre was obviously near the NW coast of Tasmania, either way it was felt over a large area and warrants a magnitude of 5.5 or so.
1931 03 at ?date, time UTC, Euroa area.
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Friday 20 March 1931, page 13
Earth Tremor at Euroa
EUROA, Friday. — Two earth tremors have occurred in the Castle Creek and Gooram districts this week shaking furnishings and crockery.
Mrs Neeland, senr., whose daughter was in the recent earthquake happenings at Hastings. (N.Z.), was setting the fire when the paper and chips started dancing. She fled, expecting the chimney to fall in. These shocks were in the same locality as previous tremors.
1931 04 14 at 14:00 UTC and 04 14 at 23:00 UTC, Euroa – 4 shocks in all
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Wednesday 15 April 1931, page 7
Earth Tremors at Euroa
EUROA, Tuesday. — What is believed to have been a severe earthquake shock was experienced in Euroa at midnight. Two smaller shocks were felt before morning, and about 9 a.m. another heavy shock was felt. There was a noise which resembled an explosion, and the earth shook.
1931 04 17 at 03:51 UTC, Benalla – damage and cracks in ground
Benalla Victoria seems to have been close to the epicentre of this earthquake that was reported felt from Rutherglen in the north to Mansfield in the south.
The Argus (18 April 1931) reports that a chimney collapsed in Mr McLean’s house in Benalla.
EARTH TREMOR AT BENALLA CONSTERNATION AMONG RESIDENTS. SHORTLY before 2 o’clock on Friday last Benalla suffered from a severe earth tremor which caused much consternation among the residents. The tremor was accompanied by a rumbling like thunder, and business people rushed from their shops while residents left their homes to ascertain the cause. The earth shook, and in many instances some weird experiences were felt.
The Governor, Lord Somers, was being entertained by local returned soldiers at the Benalla Hotel at the time and those in the dining room felt the tremor. Members of the staff of the State Electricity Commission who were busy at their work got a rude awakening when the desks began to move and Mr. Bob Rennle was hurled to the floor. They apparently thought that they would be safer downstairs, and lost no time in gaining the ground floor.
Several cracks were noticed in the building, particularly on the ground floor. A large crack was also noticed in the wall of one of the rooms at the High School, and several openings were also observed at the Convent. A rack of furs at the shop of T. J. Davis and Co. were hurled to the ground and goods in other shops in the town left the racks.
Mr T. Murrihy of the State Electricity Commission was effecting repairs at the top of an electric light pole when he felt the shocks and quickly returned to the ground. The feeling was uncanny, and his experience was an unenviable one. In the private houses crockery rattled on the shelves, furniture shook and generally everything moved. A stack of motor tyres at the store of the State Electricity Commission in Bridge Street was knocked down.
The shock was felt around Warrenbayne, Lima, Lurg, St. James, Devenish, Lake Rowan, Goorambat and other parts. It was severely felt at Tatong and Toombullup where the tremor was preceded by a heavy rumbling noise that resounded through the gullies. Residents were terrified at the experience which ‘they’ declare they do not hope to feel again. An old prospector who was sitting on a box on the bed of a creek was terrified when the box swayed backwards, and forwards and he narrowly missed being hurled into the creek. Mr Ern Dickson who is also prospecting in that locality had an unenviable experience. He was down a 17 foot shaft, when the earth began to sway and he declared he never got out of anything quicker in his life. A table at the home of Mr Sims moved about six inches and the crockery in the kitchen of all the houses clinked on the shelves.
Figure 55 Depicting the felt area of the 17 April 1931 Benalla earthquake, and published at the time.
North Eastern Ensign (Benalla, Vic. : 1872 – 1938), Friday 24 April 1931, page 3
EARTH TREMOR AT BENALLA CONSTERNATION AMONG RESIDENTS. SHORTLY before 2 o’clock on Friday last Benalla suffered from a severe earth tremor which caused much consternation among the residents. The tremor was accompanied by a rumbling like thunder, and business people rushed from their shops while residents left their homes to ascertain the cause. The earth shook, and in many instances some weird experiences were felt. The Governor, Lord Somers, was being entertained by local returned soldiers at the Benalla Hotel at the time and those in the dining room felt the tremor. Members of the staff of the State Electricity Commission who were busy at their work got a rude awakening when the desks began to move and Mr. Bob Rennle was hurled to the floor. They apparently thought that they would be safer downstairs, and lost no time in gaining the ground floor. Several cracks were noticed in the building, particularly on the ground floor. A large crack was also noticed in the wall of one of the rooms at the High School, and several openings were also observed at the Convent. A rack of furs at the shop of T. J. Davis and Co. were hurled to the ground and goods in other shops in the town left the racks. Mr T. Murrihy of the State Electricity Commission was effecting repairs at the top of an electric light pole when he felt the shocks and quickly returned to the ground. The feeling was uncanny, and his experience was an unenviable one. In the private houses crockery rattled on the shelves, furniture shook and generally everything moved. A stack of motor tyres at the store of the State Electricity Commission in Bridge Street was knocked down. The shock was felt around Warrenbayne, Lima, Lurg, St. James, Devenish, Lake Rowan, Goorambat and other parts. It was severely felt at Tatong and Toombullup where the tremor was preceded by a heavy rumbling noise that resounded through the gullies. Residents were terrified at the experience which they declare they do not hope to feel again. An old prospector who was sitting on a box on the bed of a creek was terrified when the box swayed backwards, and forwards and he narrowly missed being hurled into the creek. Mr Ern Dickson who is also prospecting in that locality had an unenviable experience. He was down a 17 foot shaft, when the earth began to sway and he declared he never got out of anything quicker in his life. A table at the home of Mr Sims moved about six inches and the crockery in the kitchen of all the houses clinked on the shelves. The Melbourne, Observatory seismograph recorded a small earthquake disturbance from a comparatively near source on Friday. The first signs, on the record occurred at 1h. 51m. 7s. p.m. This corresponds closely with the time of the tremor in the Benalla district.
Sun News-Pictorial (Melbourne, Vic. : 1922 – 1954; 1956), Friday 17 April 1931, page 3
MORE TREMORS FELT AT EUROA
No Damage But Fissures in Ground Have Appeared
EUROA, Thursday.—Euroa residents, who experienced seven earthquake shocks between midnight and daylight this morning, again felt a severe one at 4 p.m. today.
Only one tremor had been experienced previously in the town of Euroa. A number of severe quakes were felt 10 miles out in the volcanic country of Gooram about three years ago and slight ones occasionally since.
No damage has been done, but residents are very uncomfortable. A few slight fissures in the ground have appeared.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Saturday 18 April 1931, page 10
EARTH TREMORS.
Reports from North-Eastern District.
BEECHWORTH, Friday.— A pronounced earth tremor was felt throughout Beechworth at 1.52 p.m. to-day. Private houses and shops were shaken, windows rattled and the stock in shops moved. The tremor was reported to have been distinctly felt for quite a mile out of town.
BENALLA, Friday.— The residents of Benalla were alarmed about 1.50 p.m. to day when a tremor occurred. The disturbance lasted only a few seconds, but shook all the buildings, especially in the business area. After the tremor many people rushed on to the streets in alarm. Business was suspended for a short period. The post office, State electricity office and other main buildings felt the disturbance most. Goods were thrown about in several shops, and in Davis’s drapery department a rack of furs were thrown on to the ground. As far as can be ascertained no serious damage resulted. A chimney at Mr. McLean’s house collapsed. The local branch at the Returned Soldiers’ League was entertaining the Governor at a dinner at the Benalla Hotel when the disturbance occurred. All were seated and were amazed at the trembling noise throughout the room. However, no one became alarmed, for they continued with the repast after a few minutes. Many buildings have been affected as a result of the tremor. At the State Electricity Commission’s new building, where the shock was felt considerably, several cracks were found in the walls on the ground floor. Mr. R. Rennie, who was seated on a stool, was thrown heavily to the ground. At the North-Eastern Hotel a big crack occurred in one of the brick walls, while at the high school about a four-inch crack was discovered. The tremor was also felt on the western side of Benalla, and several severe cracks occurred at the convent. A similar tremor occurred here about six years ago.
BRIGHT, Friday.—A distinct earth tremor was experienced about 2 p.m. to-day. Iron fences shook and windows rattled. At Ovens the shock was more pronounced and lasted for some seconds. The tremor was so severe that the teacher of the State school ordered the children to hurriedly leave the building.
DOOKIE, Friday.— A distinct earth tremor was felt at the Dookie Agricultural College to-day at 1.53 p.m., and lasted several seconds. Several of the masters, while attending their various duties, reported the vibration, and rumblings as of thunder was very pronounced. EUROA, Friday. — Whilst the club shoot from the 500 yards mark was in progress,, a severe earth tremor was felt by the shooters down on the ground. The tremor was felt over the town. At Castle Creek, five miles from Euroa, the shock was much greater, and residents say it was the worst yet experienced in that locality. During the past few days about eight or nine tremors have been felt.
MANSFIELD, Friday. — A very distinct earth tremor, accompanied by a rumbling sound, was felt here about 1.50 p.m. to day.
CHILTERN, Friday.— A tremor that shook crockery on the shelves, and was also felt in the shops, occurred at 2 p.m. to-day. The residents ran from shops into the street, but no damage was reported.
RUSHWORTH, Friday.— Another earth tremor occurred here at 1.50 p.m. to-day, It was accompanied by a rumbling noise, and nearly every window in the town shook. The tremor lasted about five seconds.
Figure 56 Depicting the felt area of the 17 April 1931 Benalla Earthquake, now, looking back.
WANGARATTA, Friday.—An earth tremor occurred here at 1.40 p.m. to-day, and was felt in most of the surrounding districts. Though it lasted for a few seconds only, it was felt in most of the business places and houses in the town. The tremor was accompanied by a low rumble similar to that of an explosion some distance away. During the disturbance walls of buildings quivered and crockery in houses rattled distinctly. No Record at Observatory. The Government Astronomer (Dr. Baldwin) stated last night that unless the received information that loss of life had occurred, the record of the reported earth tremor in Victoria would not be developed for a few days. Even then there might be no record visible. The reported tremor at Euroa had not been recorded at the Observatory. The practice was to develop the photographic record every Friday, and unless anything exceptional occurred this practice was not departed from. A few days ago, he said, the instrument recorded a violent earthquake, but as no news had been received of it, it must have occurred in the sea. He did not think that the reports from country districts in Victoria were likely to contain any serious news. The tremors were usually very light.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Monday 20 April 1931, page 7
EARTH TREMORS.
Recorded at Observatory.
The Melbourne Observatory recorded a small earthquake disturbance from a comparatively near source, on Friday. The first signs on the record occurred at 1 hour 51 minutes 7 seconds p.m., and the largest amplitudes (which, however, were very small) were between 51 minutes 25 seconds and 51 minutes 30 seconds, These times correspond closely with those quoted in the press report of an earthquake in the Benalla district. Earth tremors are not uncommon in certain parts of Victoria, but they are usually shallow, and are not transmitted to any great distance through the earth. It seldom happens that these produce any indication on the Observatory seismograph though, the instrument is very sensitive and records deep-seated disturbances from very great distances. In the present instance there is evidence that the disturbance was transmitted more effectively through the air. Information was furnished by the Weather Bureau that what appears to be the same disturbance had been recorded on one of the barographs at the central office in Melbourne.
Telegraph (Brisbane, Qld. : 1872 – 1947), Friday 24 April 1931, page 6
VICTORIAN EARTH TREMOR
No Fear of Severe ‘Quakes
The mild earthquake which alarmed people and damaged homes in the north-eastern district recently is as severe as Victoria is ever likely to experience, according to Professor H. St. J. Summers, Associate Professor of Geology at Melbourne University (says the Melbourne “Herald”).
1931 06 30 at 10:55 UTC, Ensay Gippsland
Sunraysia Daily (Mildura, Vic. : 1920 – 1950), Thursday 2 July 1931, page 3
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK
Severe tremor Experienced at Ensay
ENSAY, Wednesday. At 8.55 last night a severe earth tremor, lasting 80 seconds, caused much consternation in the township of Ensay. Although walls shook perceptibly, no one was injured, and no damage was done. The tremor appeared to come from the east.
1932 09 02 at 18:22 UTC, Mornington
Holmes (1933) was acting government astronomer at the time of this earthquake and he must have been thrilled receiving hundreds of phone calls from excited residents of southern Victoria reporting an earthquake. A good physicist, he sent out a questionnaire via The Argus newspaper and more than 200 people sent responses from which he compiled an isoseismal map. Unfortunately Holmes did not plot his assigned intensities nor did he bother to include the MM3 isoseismal contour and the questionnaire responses have not been unearthed, so I decided to redo a map just from the 46 newspaper reports I found, partly to check our method.
The two maps are published below. The epicentres agree very well. The magnitude computed from the radius of perceptibility is ML 5.1 which is rather larger than the 4.6 quoted in Everingham and others, 1982. The larger magnitude may be warranted considering the earthquake was recorded on the Sydney Observatory seismograph and on the Riverview station. The value of ML 5.1 is commensurate with Ms 4.6 from Riverview (Everingham and others, 1982).
Many reports claim there was little or no damage but then, like the Frankston & Somerville Standard of Saturday 10 September 1932 they proceed to itemise the damage.
EARTHQUAKE. Mt. Eliza was severely shaken by the earthquake last Saturday. Little serious damage was done. At Mt. Eliza store several bottles, tins and other goods were thrown from the shelves. At the public hall a large crack has appeared in the north wall, but as this is only a temporary wall the damage will not cause the committee serious concern. At the Church of St. James the Less the tremor cracked one of the arches. The damage is so serious that repairs will have to be effected.
Figure 57 Comparison of isoseismal maps; (a) the Mornington earthquake of 2 September 1932 from newspaper reports alone, and (b) inset, the original by Holmes (1933) at a similar scale, from the newspaper reports and questionnaires. Holmes did not plot individual point assessments or an isoseismal delineating intensity 3, the felt area. The epicentres are virtually identical, as much as the intensities allow.
A public appeal was mounted for funds to carry out the repairs on the church, one of the oldest in the State and this work was completed in December the same year.
The same paper reported that the earthquake was felt elsewhere:
SOMERVILLE – THE EARTH TREMOR. Although no serious damage was done at Somerville by the earth tremor which disturbed a large number of people of southern Victoria on Saturday morning last, a number of minor damage was reported. Walls of several brick buildings were cracked, plaster fell from walls and ceilings, pictures and mirrors fell from the walls and bottles and other articles were thrown from shelves. In one case a washhouse chimney was shattered. It is interesting to note that in quite a number of cases the first impression was that a large motor car or truck had crashed into the house, and in several cases it was thought that horses were either in the house or rubbing against or kicking at the walls. One man on springing out of bed grabbed a gun and cartridges in preparation for a supposed burglar. In comparing impressions most people admitted being more or less alarmed and even terrified. Young children were the least affected, some of them sleeping soundly throughout the disturbance, at Tyabb:
Many residents felt the severe earth tremor at 4.20 a.m. last Saturday. Old-time residents state that 40 years ago a similar tremor occurred. (Ed. this might refer to the1892 earthquake off NE Tasmania).
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Thursday 29 September 1932, page 6
EARTH TREMOR.
EFFECT ON BAY.
Sounding’s Would Cost £1,000.
Possibilities of the earth tremor which shook southern Victoria on September 3 having caused an upheaval in Port Phillip Bay which may menace shipping were discussed yesterday by the chief engineer of ports and harbours (Mr G. Kermode). The Government astronomer (Dr J. M. Baldwin), as the result of more than 200 reports from persons in 110
localities who felt the tremor, has fixed the centre of its origin in the bay, somewhat south of west from Mornington about five miles from the shore.” While the south channel runs comparatively close to Dromana, it diverges away from Mornington, and probably passes some distance west of the estimated epicentre of the disturbance,” said Mr. Kermode, after consulting Admiralty charts. “In any case there is more than 60ft. of water in the channel there. It is extremely improbable that the channel has been affected at all.”Mr. Kermode said that to take soundings over the area mentioned by the Government astronomer would cost at least £1000, and the expense would not be justified.
Underwood (1972) lists 2 aftershocks the same day at 20:35 and 20:41, both recorded on the Milne Shaw seismograph at Melbourne Observatory (MEL).
1932 09 19 at 15:05 mainshock and 17:00 UTC aftershock, Benalla
During this search for earthquakes in Victoria in 1932 I came across many reports of a series of earthquake near Benalla in September. The Argus of Wednesday 21 September 1932 reports:
EARTH TREMORS AT BENALLA. SLIGHT DAMAGE TO BUILDINGS,
BENALLA Tuesday. Benalla residents were startled shortly after 1 o’clock this morning by an earth tremor which shook the town. Most residents had retired and when the shock was felt many left their homes. Those living in Bridge street rushed into the street in their nightclothes to ascertain the cause of the disturbance. In some of the buildings crockery was displaced and articles fell from mantelpieces. The shock ….. resembled a sharp gun report, and numbers of residents thought that a safe was being blown open. Two railway detectives were on duty, believing that a robbery was being perpetrated at the Broken River butter factory, hurried to the factory.
The principal buildings affected were the State Savings Bank and Noonan’s Commercial Hotel, where large pieces of plaster were broken from the walls. At the Bank of Australasia the blinds in the banking chamber fell.
A second tremor was felt at about 3 o’clock, but it was much milder. It was felt also at Tatong, Devenish and Thoona. This is the second tremor which has occurred in Benalla in the last 18 months (see April 1931 earthquake above).
There are puzzling details in the Riverine Herald (Echuca) Wednesday 21 September 1932, page 2, specifically a list of places where this earthquake wasn’t felt and the final observation that there were no cracks in the earth.
Figure 58 Limit of felt area of the early morning earthquake on 19 September 1932. The mauve dots indicate where it was reported not felt, the focus assumed to be under Benalla. This would indicate a maximum magnitude of 3.5.
EARTHQUAKE AT BENALLA
Houses Damaged MELBOURNE, Tuesday.
Earth tremors which shook plaster from ceilings, rattled windows, and cracked walls, awakened Benalla about 12.50 a.m. today.
Long-distance telephone inquiries showed that, the shock had not been noticed at Shepparton, Euroa, Beechworth, Wangaratta or Violet Town. This suggests that it was localised in the Benalla District.
Benalla people think the tremor might be allied with the earthquake in Gisborne, New Zealand, last Friday. About two days after the Napier (New Zealand) earthquake in February, Benalla experienced a tremor similar to that of today. “It is most unlikely that there is any connection between the New Zealand earthquake and this one” said the Government Astronomer (Dr Baldwin) today. “It is probably pure coincidence.”
The Observatory has received no report of the Benalla tremor. The seismograph record will not be developed until Friday, but Dr Baldwin thinks it improbable that this instrument will have recorded the shock.
The shock was preceded by a rumbling noise which sounded like a distant explosion. Then came a distinct trembling which passed across the town evidently travelling from north to south.
In brick houses it seemed as though somebody were bumping against the walls. Plaster crashed from the ceilings in about 12 homes, and several walls were cracked. In weatherboard houses it seemed as though the walls were being twisted and there was a creaking of roof beams.
Nearly everyone in the town was awakened. Those who were in bed felt a distinct, lurch, and people who were sitting up felt themselves thrown forward. This was followed by a slight rocking movement.
In one house a tall safe was thrown over, and a woman who was sitting at a table was jolted forward against her husband. Goods packed on the shelves of stores were moved out of position, but there were, no breakages.
The tremor lasted for about 10 or 12 seconds. Before it began, the atmosphere was heavy, and the conditions suggested the approach of a thunderstorm. After it had ceased, the air was tinged with a bluish haze. It was about 20 minutes before this dissolved.
No cracks were found in the earth.
1932 09 20 at 19:30 UTC, Two minor events at Benalla
Kilmore Free Press (Kilmore, Vic. : 1870 – 1954), Thursday 29 September 1932, page 2
Severe Earth Tremor. Benalla, September 21st.—The residents of Benalla received further shocks today with the visitation of three earth tremors. Following the very severe tremor which occurred at 1 a.m. on Tuesday, residents were awakened by two minor tremors between 5.10 a.m. and 6 a.m. today. They did not treat them with any concern until this afternoon, when the worst tremor ever experienced in the district occurred.
Riverine Herald (Echuca, Vic. : Moama, NSW : 1869 – 1954; 1998 – 2002), Thursday 22 September 1932, page 2
BENALLA AGAIN SHAKEN
Tremor at 5 30 a.m.
MELBOURNE, Wednesday.
Benalla shook again at 5.30 a.m to-day under the influence of a third earth tremor. Minor tremors alarmed the township at 1 a.m. and 3 a.m yesterday.
This morning’s was not felt beyond a radius of a mile from the Benalla post office, and was much less intense than either of the previous disturbances.
People living in the township reported having been awakened, just before 5.30 a.m., by a noise like the deep beating of a drum. It was followed within a few seconds by a tremor which lasted for between five and ten seconds.
There was a thunderstorm at Benalla last night, but it was fine and clear when the earth shook this morning. Thunderstorms preceded the earlier quakes also.
1932 09 21 at 05:30 UTC, Benalla, minor damage
The Argus of Thursday 22 September followed up with:
BENALLA SHAKEN AGAIN. RESIDENTS TERRIFIED. MUCH DAMAGE TO BUILDINGS.
BENALLA Wednesday – Residents of Benalla were terrified this afternoon by another earth tremor following a slight tremor which was felt this morning at half-past 3 o’clock. This was followed by a rumbling which lasted about five minutes.
At half past 3 o’clock this afternoon the second tremor came with terrific force, and it resulted in much damage to buildings while many persons were thrown with great force from their seats. Probably the worst damage was done at the offices of Mr. R. P. Lewers, solicitor. He was seated at his table and narrowly escaped being struck by falling plaster. Large bundles of files which were stacked away on racks were scattered about the room. A large crack occurred in the walls at the Bank of Australasia where some damage was done by the tremor on Monday morning. Pictures were scattered over the floor, and much plaster was broken from the walls. Large cracks were observed at the fire brigade station. Most damage occurred at the residential quarters where part of the wall shifted for at least two inches.
Plaster was broken in many places at the post-office and a large crack was noticed at the Lands office, which adjoins the offices of the Country Roads Board. A chimney fell at the residence of Mr. W Say, and a valuable chandelier was broken. Mr. J. Burns who was in a cafe at the time of the tremor fainted and was removed outside. Three of the main clocks in the town stopped at the moment of the tremor. They were the clocks outside the post-office, at the goods shed and at the railway station. The National Bank chambers were strewn with broken plaster. In private homes large cracks were noticed in the walls and a considerable amount of crockery was broken. At some homes many valuable ornaments fell and were broken to pieces.
The tremor came with more force than the one felt early on Monday morning. Occupants of shops in Bridge, Carrier and Nunn streets left the buildings hurriedly and rushed into the streets in an excited state.
These September 1932 events are probably part of a nested mainshock/aftershock sequence within the 1931 earthquake sequence and not an independent set of events. There were insufficient reports from other towns to compile an isoseismal map so the magnitude is estimated at ML 4.0 ± 0.3; it did damage so it was bigger than ML 3.5, on the other hand it was not widely felt like the April 1931 earthquake so was less than ML 4.5.
The 1930s was an active decade for Victoria, two further earthquakes have been ‘discovered’, one in 1937 and then another two years later which was widely felt.
1932 09 21 at 17:05 UTC, Benalla
Riverine Herald (Echuca, Vic. : Moama, NSW : 1869 – 1954; 1998 – 2002), Friday 23 September 1932, page 2
ANOTHER EARTH TREMOR
Fifth at Benalla
MELBOURNE, Thursday.
Another earth tremor was felt at Benalla shortly after 3 a.m today. It was lighter and less prolonged than any of the previous tremors, and no damage was caused.
The tremor lasted about two seconds. It was heavy enough to wake the town, but there was no shaking of houses or rattling of crockery, as in the previous shocks. This tremor, like the others, was proceeded by what sounded like a distant explosion, but there was no atmospheric hush before it occurred. Townspeople think it peculiar that Benalla suffered no earth tremors until after the Napier (New Zealand) earthquake in February, 1931. The present series of tremors follows another upheaval in New Zealand.
An odd feature of the shocks is that none of them has been felt beyond a distance of a few miles from the town. Winton, six miles east; Glenrowan, 14 miles north-east; and Violet Town, 16 miles south-west, reported over the telephone today that they had not felt any of the tremors.
This is the fifth shock that Benalla has received in three days, and the townspeople are alarmed. Tremors yesterday afternoon and early on Tuesday morning were so severe that walls were cracked and plaster fell from ceilings.
The Professor of Geology at the Melbourne University (Prof. Ernest W Skeats) explained today that the shocks probably originated in the movement of earth along “fault planes” somewhere in the district. “These geological faults are distributed in various places,” he said.
“There should be no reason for serious alarm, since Victoria is well removed from the earthquake belt. “There have been no serious earthquakes in Victoria in historical times. The reason is that this part of the earth probably had its earthquakes many centuries ago.”
1932 10 26 at 03:08 UTC, Bridgewater
Advocate Thursday 27 October 1932, Page 7.
Earth Tremor in Victoria.
MELBOURNE, Wednesday. — An earth tremor — the most severe experienced in the area — occurred at Boort at 1.10 p.m. to-day. Many residents hurriedly vacated their homes. Houses momentarily rocked, plaster fell from walls, windows rattled, and clocks stopped.
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 – 1954), Thursday 27 October 1932, page 4
EARTH TREMOR.
MELBOURNE, Wednesday.
A sharp earth tremor was experienced at Korong Vale this afternoon. Buildings were shaken, and crockery rattled on the shelves.
No damage was done.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957),Thursday 27 October 1932, page 7
EARTH TREMOR.
Felt in Northern Victoria.
KORONGVALE, Wednesday – A sharp earth tremor was expenenced here this afternoon shortly after 1 o’clock. Buildings were shaken and crockery rattled. The shock was very distinct. No damage was done.
PYRAMID HILL, Wednesday – An earth tremor was felt here at few minutes after 1 o’clock this afternoon. There was an accompanying rumbling noise. Windows in buildings rattled but no damage was reported. The tremor was also felt at Mincha and other outlying districts.
Figure 59 Felt reports after an earthquake near Bridgewater, northwest of Bendigo, on 26 October 1932. Minor damage reported.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Thursday 27 October 1932, page 8
EARTH TREMORS.
Felt at Bridgewater.
BENDIGO. Wednesday. — An earth tremor was felt at Bridgewater, 25 miles from Bendigo, but no damage was done.
Felt at Castlemaine.
CASTLEMAINE, Wednesday. — An earth tremor was felt at Castlemaine at six minute past 1 o’clock p.m. to-day. Window and doors of building rattled for several seconds, and crockery was shaken. No damage has been reported.
PYRAMID HILL, Wednesday. — An earth tremor was felt here at eight minutes past 1 o’clock p.m. to-day. There was an accompanying rumbling noise, and the vibration caused window to rattle. No damage was reported. The tremor was also felt at Mincha and other outlying districts.
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Thursday 27 October 1932, page 4
EARTH TREMORS IN NORTH
Most Too Slight For Seismograph
There is no need for Victorians to be alarmed at the reports of further earth tremors in the north of Victoria, according to the Government Astronomer (Dr. Baldwin). Most of the tremors were so slight that they were not recorded on the seismograph at South Yarra. “Taken all round,” he said, reassuringly today, “Victoria’s crust is very stable.” The latest reports come from Korongvale, on the Manangatang-Robinvale line, and from Pyramid Hill and Mincha, on the Kerang-Swan Hill line, which runs parallel to it. These centres are from 50 to 60 miles north-west of Bendigo, and about 150 miles from Melbourne. Dr. Baldwin said that he had also had reports from Boort, in the same district, where five tremors had occurred during the past fortnight. The reports from each place were identical as to the effects. Houses swayed, windows and crockery rattled and occasionally plaster fell and cracks occurred in brick walls. SLIPPING OF EARTH’S CRUST A report was also received today from Maldon, about 20 miles south-west of Bendigo. A tremor felt there shortly after 1 p.m. yesterday was reported to come from a north-westerly direction. The shock was also felt at Shelbourne, 10 miles to the north. Houses vibrated and floors began to lift. The explanation of these tremors, Dr. Baldwin said, was probably a slipping of the earth’s crust along old fault lines. Where slight movement occurred at small depths the effects were limited to a small area and any earthquake waves sent through the ground were damped down at a short distance from the centre of the disturbance.
MINOR READJUSTMENTS It had not been possible to account for these minor readjustments of stress in the earths crust, which caused small seismic disturbances of fairly frequent occurrence. These occurred in most parts of the world, even those which were free from major disturbances. It was unlikely that the tremors in this area were connected with those at Benalla, or other parts of the State, or with meteorological disturbances, unless perhaps with the saturation of the soil by heavy rain. As to volcanic action, this was not usually the direct cause of earthquakes, contrary to ordinary ideas, although both earthquakes and volcanoes were evidence of instability in the earth’s crust. Professor E. W. Skeats also thought the tremors were of no great significance geologically.
1932 12 20 at 03:05 UTC, Benalla aftershock
Benalla Standard (Vic. : 1901 – 1940), Friday 23 December 1932, page 5
ANOTHER EARTH TREMOR
Brief but Disturbing
BENALLA SLIGHTLY SHAKEN
Heavy clouds, suggesting a coming thunderstorm, hung over the western horizon on Tuesday afternoon, when an earth tremor similar to, though not so serious as that which shook Benalla last September, was experienced, by residents, particularly those at the Western end of the town. The tremor was of very brief duration, and did no perceptible damage, but it occasioned, some alarm. The experience of many people was that of a heavy thunder-storm, without rain, bursting upon them, and others felt an unpleasant rocking sensation. During the previous quakes the atmosphere was very muggy, and on Tuesday the same conditions were experienced. It was also noted that the cloud formations on each occasion were similar, as though they were in some way associated with earth tremors, and that the movements of the earth were from north-east to south-west. Tuesday’s tremor took place at 1.40 p.m. At Goorambat East a dull, rumbling, sensation was experienced, but it was very slight. In the Glenrowan district the disturbance was also felt slightly. Scientists are not able to give any special explanation of the tremors. The Government Astronomer (Dr. J . M. Baldwin) said that the cloud formations which were noticeable during each of the tremors were not associated with the disturbance in any way. Exceptionally wet weather might cause a tremor, due to heavy soakage and the consequent minute slipping of one layer of the earth’s crust over another: but actual atmospheric conditions of temperature would not necessarily be associated with it. Associate Professor Summers (the younger son of Mrs. Summers, of Market St., Benalla West), of the Department of Geology in Melbourne University, said that he knew the Benalla district well, but he knew of no special fault in the earth’s formation there, or of any other reason why tremors should occur persistently in the district. The surface formations around Benalla were of a late geological period, or what is known to geologists as tertiary. Nothing was known of the formation below the surface strata. Professor Summers said that the tremor would probably be caused by some small settlement in the lower layers. A movement of only a quarter of an inch there would cause considerable disturbance on the surface.
1932 12 23 at 14:05 UTC, Gippsland
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Saturday 24 December 1932, page 1
EARTH TREMOR IN GIPPSLAND
Houses Rock: People Awakened LOUD EXPLOSION
HERALDED by a loud explosion, an earth tremor at Nar-Nar-Goon shook houses, rattled windows and moved furniture at about 12.15 a.m. today. Slight tremors were also felt at Pakenham, Berwick, Tooradin, Nyora and other districts in that part of Gippsland. The stationmaster at Nar-Nar-Goon had just returned home at 12.15 a.m. when he heard a loud explosion, with rumbling noises. He then felt the house give a decided jump. At the post office three separate tremors were felt. They shook the building each time. Many people in the district were awakened by the tremor. It was also felt at Nyora, about 30 miles away. At Pakenham, the tremor was noticed by many people. At first it was thought to be a loud clap of thunder very close to the earth.
STATION BUILDING CREAKS Mr L. G. King, stationmaster at Pakenham, received several reports of the tremor. During the night the station staff had noticed the building creaking, and the windows shaking. The tremor lasted for four or five seconds. Mr King said his wife had noticed her wardrobe shaking. A man living on a hill about a mile and a half from Pakenham was awakened by the noise caused by the disturbance. A light tremor was also felt at Berwick yesterday morning at daybreak. The earth was not shaken severely, and few people noticed it.
1933 01 16 at 21:15 UTC, Benalla aftershock
Albury Banner and Wodonga Express Friday 20 January 1933, Page 8.
ANOTHER EARTH TREMOR AT BENALLA
Shortly after 7 a.m. on Tuesday, when many people were in bed, another earth tremor was felt in Benalla (Vic.) and district. Buildings shook, but as the tremor was not severe, and only lasted a few seconds, no damage was reported. This is the second tremor since Christmas, and the inhabitants are taking very little notice of them. Although six tremors have happened in the district during the last few years, the dairying district of Warrenbayne has only once been affected.
1933 05 19 at 20:00 UTC, Benalla aftershock
The Argus Monday 22 May 1933, Page 7.
EARTH TREMOR AT BENALLA.
BENALLA, Sunday. —An earth tremor was felt in the district about 6 o’clock yesterday morning. It lasted only a few seconds, and, as it was slight, it did not alarm residents. After a series of about four earth tremors last year, one being very severe, Professor Skeats, of the University of Melbourne, said that there was no cause for alarm, as he considered that they were due to a movement of earth along “fault planes” somewhere in the district.
1933 07 26 at 19:05 UTC, Bairnsdale
Gippsland Times Monday 31 July 1933, Page 5.
Shortly after 5 a.m. at Bairnsdale on Thursday an earth tremor occurred. The disturbance was felt in the centre portion of the town and it lasted for several seconds. It was accompanied by a rumbling resembling distant thunder. The tremor was also felt at Bruthen.
1933 08 26 at 19:20 UTC, Rushworth
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Tuesday 29 August 1933, page 10.
EARTH TREMORS.
Accompanied by DulI Rumbling.
STANHOPE, Monday.— A severe earth tremor was felt here at 5.20 a.m. on Sunday. The shock was accompanied by a dull rumbling. Lesser shocks were felt about 8 a.m. and 10.45 a.m.
Riverine Herald (Echuca, Vic. : Moama, NSW : 1869 – 1954), Tuesday 29 August 1933, page 3.
EARTH TREMOR AT KYABRAM
KYABRAM, Monday
Several people in Kyabram report having felt a slight earth tremor at 5.40 a.m. yesterday
One young man experienced a sensation “as if someone were shaking the door of his sleep-out.” Another described it as being like “the sound of about 50 dogs running-along the verandah.”
In a few cases crockery was shaken, but no damage was reported.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Monday 28 August 1933, page 7.
TREMOR SHAKES HOUSES
Rushworth Citizens Alarmed
RUSHWORTH, Sunday. —Residents were awakened at 25 minutes past 5 o’clock this morning by an earth tremor which shook the houses and caused articles to fall from tables. The tremor was accompanied by a rumbling sound, like thunder. Another tremor, much less severe occurred later in the morning.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Tuesday 29 August 1933, page 3.
REPORTS OF EARTH TREMORS
Mr. J. M. Molesworth, of Ballark, Morrisons, near Ballan, reported to the Meteorological Bureau yesterday that he felt a distinct earth tremor at 10 minutes past 6 o’clock in the morning. The morning was cloudy and oppressive.
KYABRAM, Monday—The earth tremors which were experienced at Rushworth early on Sunday morning were felt by a number of residents of the Kyabram district, though not as severely. Houses were shaken and crockery rattled at Kyabram, Cooma, Girgarre East, Merrigum, and Byrneside.
The Ballan report is unrelated to the reports further north.
Figure 60 Earthquake near Rushworth, Gippsland on 26 August 1933, woke many residents and things were thrown off tables.
1933 11 30 at 06:50 and 07:10 UTC, Benalla aftershock
The North Eastern Ensign Friday 1 December 1933, Page 2.
EARTH TREMORS FELT IN BENALLA YESTERDAY. LAST year Benalla was subject to severe earth tremors, which did much damage, and to the surprise of many, two tremors were felt in Benalla yesterday afternoon. The first occurred about 4.50 with a loud rumble which shook crockery, rattled windows and a general disturbance could be felt in the main buildings of the town. This was followed by a second one about twenty minutes later which was not so severe. The residents are beginning to treat the tremors lightly owing, to their frequency. In the past it has been noticed that where there have been tremors one day that it is generally followed by another one within a few days.
1934 07 26 at 19:05 UTC, Bairnsdale and Bruthen
Gippsland Times Monday 31 July 1933, Page 5.
Shortly after 5 a.m. at Bairnsdale on Thursday an earth tremor occurred. The disturbance was felt in the centre portion of the town and it lasted for several seconds. It was accompanied by a rumbling resembling distant thunder. The tremor was also felt at Bruthen.
1934 08 01 at 21:05 UTC, Benalla aftershock
The North Eastern Ensign Friday 3 August 1934, Page 2.
ANOTHER EARTH TREMOR. Benalla was visited by another earth tremor on Thursday morning last shortly after 7 o’clock. It lasted only a few seconds, no damage being done to buildings.
1935 06 18 at 17:50 UTC, Melbourne
The Argus Thursday 20 June 1935, Page 11.
EARTH TREMOR IN SUBURBS
NOISE LIKE EXPLOSION
REPORTS OVER WIDE AREA
Windows rattled, plaster was dislodged, and householders were awakened yesterday morning by an earth tremor which shook the northern and north-eastern suburbs at 3.50 a.m. Although the barograph, which is used at the Meteorological Bureau to record atmospheric pressure, was affected by the vibration, the seismograph at the Melbourne, Observatory allowed no appreciable record of the shock.
Accompanied by a noise which many people mistook for an explosion, the tremor was felt at Hawthorn, Camberwell, Box Hill, Northcote, Preston, Parkville, Brunswick, Ivanhoe, Heidelberg, and along the Plenty River valley and Doncaster. At Seven Creeks, near Euroa, a slight tremor was felt.
Figure 61 Felt area of the 18 June 1935 earthquake under Melbourne’s northeast suburbs. Only magnitude 2.7, the epicentre just east of Forest Hills has an implied mid-crustal focal depth. The same day’s Camperdown Chronicle on page 2 had a more extensive list of places where the earthquake was reported.
Earth Tremor Shakes Suburbs. An earth tremor was felt by many people in the eastern and north-eastern suburbs between 3.30 and 4 a.m. yesterday. Residents were awakened by the rattling of furniture, and plaster was dislodged in some houses. The noise accompanying the tremor was described by some people as being like an explosion. Others said it sounded like a roll of thunder. At Preston the police wireless patrol rushed to the railway station, fearing that an attempt had been made to blow the office safe. The suburbs in which the tremor was felt included Hawthorn, Camberwell, Box Hill, Northcote, Preston, Ivanhoe, Heidelberg, Blackburn, Forest Hills, Greensborough, Eltham, Kangaroo Ground, Montmorency, Doncaster and Diamond Creek.
1936 08 15 at 17:30 UTC, Gippsland
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Monday 17 August 1936, page 10.
EARTH TREMOR IN GIPPSLAND
Sleeping People Awakened
LEONGATHA Sunday.—At 3.30 a.m. yesterday an earth tremor was felt in the town and the neighbouring district. It seemed to be travelling from the south to the north. People were awakened by the swaying motion, the rattling of crockery and shaking of windows.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Monday 17 August 1936, page 8.
Earth Tremor at Foster.
FOSTER, Sunday. — Residents were awakened about 3.30 this morning by what they described as a loud rumbling, accompanied by a distinct earth tremor. No damage was reported.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Tuesday 18 August 1936, page 5.
KORUMBURRA
The reported earth tremor in South Gippsland was distinctly felt by some residents of Korumburra, who were awakened by vibrations.
1937 06 17 at 19:55 UTC, East of Melbourne – a supposed earthquake related injury
This and the following earthquake were missed in the first daft of this report because the newspapers had not then been scanned, though both are mentioned by Underwood (1972). Both were felt in Melbourne suburbs so it was considered important to get a location and approximate magnitude. Assigning either of them to a particular fault would be imaginative given the uncertainty in the locations, but the June 1937 event was attributed at the time to Selwyn’s Fault.
Figure 62 Isoseismal map of the 17 June 1937 earthquake, showing just the MM3 and MM5 isoseismals.
The June 1937 earthquake was widely reported in the media though tracing the stories was problematic, mention made in the smaller rural newspapers. Many people were awakened by the shaking at 5:55 am local time and goods were shaken off shelves at Sassafras and Olinda. Most of the reports were brief noting that the earthquake was felt with no other details.
The magnitude is about 3.6 based on the felt area shown in the figure.
The Argus of Monday 21 June 1937, Page 10 reported an injury thought to be related to this earthquake.
Believed to have been loosened by the earth tremor which occurred on Friday morning, a small rock fell from the face of the municipal quarry at Moorooduc yesterday, and, after descending about 150ft., struck Thomas Evans, of Pearcedale, aged about 45 years. Evans received a fractured arm, and was removed to the Alfred Hospital.
Note: The epicentre is about 60km from the quarry, too far for the shaking to have been felt.
1937 12 09 at 07:55 UTC, Benalla
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Friday 10 December 1937, page 11.
EARTH TREMOR AT BENALLA
BENALLA, Thursday.
A slight earth tremor was felt at Benalla shortly before 6 pm to-day. It lasted only a few seconds.
1938 03 24 at 20:03 UTC, Riverina area NSW.
Advocate Saturday 26 March 1938, Page 7.
Country Towns Rocked
MELBOURNE, Friday.
A severe earth tremor alarmed residents of northern districts of Victoria and southern portions of New South Wales soon after 6 a.m. to-day. Buildings in many towns rocked for almost a minute, throwing crockery from pantry shelves to the floor. Reports from country centres stated that the tremor was preceded by a loud rumbling, similar to thunder or a heavy truck passing over an asphalt yard.
Seismograph recordings at the Melbourne Observatory and the Sydney Observatory showed that the ‘quake was farther below the earth’s surface than usual and was not severe.
After the first shock had subsided two smaller tremors, lasting only a few seconds, were felt in a number of districts.
This earthquake was widely felt in north-central Victoria. Note the interesting comments about the fact it was recorded at Sydney and Melbourne Observatories and its supposed unusual focal depth.
1938 04 15 at 05:45 UTC, Foster
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Saturday 16 April 1938, page 12.
EARTH TREMORS
ALARM AT FOSTER
FOSTER, Friday.— A severe earthquake was experienced throughout the district at about 3.45 p.m. to-day. A low rumbling followed distinct tremors, which shook houses, rattled windows, crockery and other household goods. It was so severe that startled residents rushed from their dwellings in fear. The tremor was the worst ever experienced in the district, but no serious damage has been reported.
Consternation at Toora. TOORA, Friday. — An earthquake shock which caused some consternation amongst residents occurred at about 4 p.m. to-day. It was particularly noticeable indoors by the rattling of furniture and windows.
1938 06 04 morning local time, Walwa
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Tuesday 7 June 1938, page 12.
WALWA.—An earth tremor was felt in the district on Sunday morning. Houses shook and crockery rattled. No damage was reported.
1938 06 15 at 00:20 UTC, Bairnsdale
Gippsland Times Monday 20 June 1938, Page 2.
EARTH TREMOR In Bairnsdale District Shock Felt Most in Brick Buildings.
The most pronounced earth tremor felt at Bairnsdale for 50 years occurred on Wednesday morning about 10.20 a.m. It was felt throughout Bairnsdale, Wy Yung, Lucknow, and in Gippsland East. The counter at the Bairnsdale Post Office vibrated for several seconds, and at the Bairnsdale Court House the tremor was very pronounced. At the Prince Regent Theatre, Mr. Arnold Glover, stated the noise made by the tremor in the empty building, resembled that which would be made by a number of men walking on the roof. At other brick buildings, such as banks, the Bairnsdale District Hospital and various shops, the tremor was felt for several seconds. Out of the town, at Lucknow and in the Tambo Upper and Bruthen districts, residents stated that the tremor resembled that felt immediately after a loud explosion, such as when lightning strikes the earth. There was a mild tremor about two years ago, but the occurrence on Wednesday was the most pronounced since several severe tremors occurred about 50 years ago, which were accompanied by a rumbling noise. At Clydebank the tremor was felt by some farmers while having morning lunch.
The felt area accords with a magnitude of 3.7, the epicentre near Bairnsdale where the intensity was most severe.
1939 03 31 at 07:45 UTC Emerald
Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1931 – 1954), Saturday 1 April 1939, page 2
Earth Tremors Near Melbourne
MELBOURNE. Friday.— Earth tremors preceded by a loud rumbling, occurred between Ferntree Gully, and Warragul today. The tremors lasted 30 seconds to a minute. Windows and crockery were broken in some houses at Emerald and Belgrave, where the severest shaking appears to have occurred. The tremors began at 5.45 p.m. at Ferntree Gully, and reached Warragul at 5.56.
1939 04 05 at 13:00 UTC, East of Melbourne
Almost two years after the June 1937 earthquake east of Melbourne discussed above, a slightly larger earthquake in the same general area was felt throughout Melbourne, not just the eastern suburbs but as far afield as Ballarat, Lorne and Kilmore, according to Underwood (1972). These three places were not found listed in newspapers available at the time of this study.
The epicentres of the June 1937 and April 1939 events may well be the same, though not shown as such here.
The Argus, Thursday 6 April 1939, Page 1.
TREMOR IN EARTH AFFECTS WIDE AREA
Melbourne, its suburbs, the whole bayside and nearer country districts were shaken at 11 o’clock last night by the most severe earth tremor that has been recorded in Melbourne for about 20 years. The tremor, which lasted about 30 seconds, was felt over an area extending from Queenscliff to Ringwood and Bayswater. Brick houses shook, windows rattled, crockery was dislodged, and pictures were tilted or fell from walls.
Hundreds of persons were awakened by the shock, and the Melbourne Observatory and police stations were telephoned by many alarmed inquirers. Throughout the suburbs and hill country rumbling noises were heard at 11 p.m., and were followed by severe vibrations.
No Major Damage
No major damage was reported, although the shock was felt in the city, and at Surrey Hills, Ivanhoe, Camberwell, Hawthorn, Deepdene, East Malvern, Hampton, West Melbourne, Canterbury, Camberwell, Rosanna, Coburg, Blackburn, Mitcham, Bayswater, Ringwood, Kew, Murrumbeena, Bonbeach, Carrum, Seaford, Geelong, and Queenscliff.
At Carrum the Stationmaster (Mr. Gregson) hastily left the booking-office because it shook so severely that it seemed likely to collapse. In several suburbs the shock was felt as people were leaving the picture theatres, but in no instance was anything resembling panic reported. Several people who were awakened by the tremor described it as resembling a heavy motortruck being driven past their rooms. At Queenscliff the shaking was so severe and the rumbling so loud that some residents thought that the fort had unexpectedly gone into action. Early to-day the Railways Department had received no reports of stoppages, but at Seaford the shock rattled the levers in the signal-box.
A report from Hampton said that after the first shock, which lasted only a few seconds, there was a second and much slighter tremor, which was not felt, but which caused vibrations in water for six minutes.
Figure 63 The felt area near Melbourne of the 5 April 1939 earthquake outlined by the yellow ellipse, is commensurate with a magnitude of 4.1.
Expert’s Theory
The seismograph record at the Observatory will be developed this morning when the scientific staff will endeavour to trace the course and origin of the tremor.
The seismologist (Mr. W. Holmes) said last night that from the wide area affected it appeared that the most probable explanation of the disturbance was an earth movement along one of the fault lines in the basic rock structure of the earth’s surface. This would send out “waves” which would be felt generally.
Earth tremors of this kind were not unusual in Victoria, but that which occurred last night was of much greater intensity than the average.
The epicentre is not well fixed; at Carrum, the station-master made a hasty retreat from the ticket office; at Hampton, water was disturbed for several minutes; and at Queenscliff people thought the nearby fort had gone into action. Between 11 and 11.30 more than 2000 ‘phone calls were handled by Central Exchange. Radio stations and newspapers were besieged for information about the tremors by startled citizens. The Government Physicist (Mr. Holmes) was in a car at the time, and did not feel the shock (Ed. as usual for seismologists).
1939 05 30 at 15:40 UTC, Omeo
Bairnsdale Advertiser and Tambo and Omeo Chronicle (Vic. : 1882 – 1946), Tuesday 6 June 1939, page 2
Earth Tremor at Omeo.
One of the most severe earthquake shocks experienced in Omeo was felt at 1.40 a.m. on Thursday morning. Buildings shook violently to the accompaniment of the rattle of windows and crockery. Reports in Day Avenue, says the “Standard,” were verified by the postmaster, who stated the worst shock was felt at the west end of the town.
1939 10 29 at 13:23 UTC, Offshore Cowes
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Tuesday 31 October 1939, page 11.
Earth Tremor at Cowes
COWES, Monday. — A severe earth tremor was felt at 11.23 p.m. yesterday. Houses shook and windows rattled, but no damage has been reported. This is the fourth tremor felt within a few weeks.
DALYSTON, Monday. — Late last night an earth tremor was felt in Dalyston and surrounding district. Houses shook and windows rattled.
1939 11 28 at 03:15 UTC, Axedale
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Tuesday 28 November 1939, page 8
Earth Tremor in Country
AXEDALE, Monday.— About 1.15 p.m. to-day an earth tremor was felt here. Residents were started by the rattling of crockery and the movement of walls. One man had plaster showered on him from the ceiling of his house. The tremors lasted about 20 sec.
1939 11 30 at 15:00 UTC, Offshore Cowes
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Friday 1 December 1939, page 12
EARTH TREMOR
Homes Shaken at Cowes
COWES, Thursday. — A severe earth tremor shook the island at 1 a.m. to day. The disturbance lasted for over one minute, with beds shaking and crockery and windows rattling. This is the seventh tremor felt this year.
WONTHAGGI, Thursday.— For the third time in three months Wonthaggi was again shaken by earth tremors last night. When the first of the shakes was felt in September, soon after the outbreak of war, many people thought an explosion at sea had been responsible.
Dandenong Journal (Vic. : 1927 – 1954), Wednesday 6 December 1939, page 3
Rock Movements Blamed for Earth Tremors
EARTH tremors which were felt at Wonthaggi, Cowes and in parts of the Dandenong district about 1.30 a.m. last Thursday were probably caused by movement in rock formations, according to Professor E. W. Skeats, of Melbourne University. Victoria, he said, was not subject to heavy tremors.
1939 12 15 at 00:25 UTC, Gippsland
Telegraph (Brisbane, Qld. : 1872 – 1947), Friday 15 December 1939, page 7
Fourth Tremor at Wonthaggi
MELBOURNE, Dec. 15.
For the fourth time within three months, an earth tremor shook Wonthaggi, the mining centre, about 90 miles from Melbourne, at 10.25 a.m. to-day. The movement passed through the whole district, shaking houses, and rocking movable structures. It was the worst one felt, and lasted several seconds.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Saturday 16 December 1939, page 33
EARTH TREMORS IN GIPPSLAND
WARRAGUL, Friday. — A severe earth tremor was felt here about 10.30 a.m. to-day, making the fourth in three months. It lasted for about, a minute, and many residents were startled as their houses shook and crockery rattled. INVERLOCH, Friday.— An earth tremor, which was accompanied by a loud sound like an explosion, and which shook windows and light articles in houses and shops, occurred here at 10.20 a.m. to-day. These tremors, although slight, have been getting more frequent recently. One resident, a late riser, reported that he had been practically thrown out of his bed.
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Saturday 16 December 1939, page 12
More Tremors Expected
More earth tremors probably will be felt in southern Gippsland districts in the next few months, officials at the Observatory say. They said today that the shocks felt at Warragul and Inverloch yesterday morning were probably part of a general movement in that area. Several tremors had been recorded in the locality recently and probably would continue for some time. The Goulburn district in New South Wales had had a series of similar tremors some time ago. The shocks were always slight and, apart from rattling windows and upsetting household articles, were not likely to cause damage. The Professor of Geology at Melbourne University (Prof. E. W. Skeats) said that the tremors were caused by a slight shifting of the rock formations in the district. Yesterday’s tremor at Warragul was the fourth in the past three months, and Inverloch has also experienced several slight shocks, which have been growing more frequent recently. A few weeks ago shocks were felt at Wonthaggi and Cowes.
1940 01 31 at 18:54 UTC, Melbourne suburbs – activity cyclic
News Thursday 1 February 1940, Page 7.
Earth Tremor In Melbourne MELBOURNE, Thursday.—A slight earth tremor awoke some Melbourne people at 5 a.m. today. St, Kilda, South Yarra, and Armadale were among suburbs affected. The observatory had one report from St. Kilda, but will not develop its seismograph record until tomorrow. The tremor was accompanied by a short rumbling noise. An observatory official said that although several tremors had been reported in Victoria recently, no conclusions could be drawn or explanation offered by the observatory. It was possible that such things occurred in cycles.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Saturday 3 February 1940, page 29.
Earth Tremor Recorded
Shortly after 4.54 a.m. on Thursday a small, local earth tremor was recorded by the seismograph at the Melbourne Observatory. Several reports from residents of southern suburbs were received at the Observatory, stating that the tremor was felt by them.
1941 11 01 at 19:00 UTC, Orbost
Bairnsdale Advertiser and Tambo and Omeo Chronicle (Vic. : 1882 – 1946), Tuesday 4 November 1941, page 1
AN EARTH TREMOR
LAKES ENTRANCE. Monday.
What is believed to be an earth tremor occurred at Lakes Entrance at 7.15 yesterday morning and was felt by many people. Windows of houses shook, and a definite vibration of small hanging pictures was plainly seen. No damage, however, was done.
FELT AT ORBOST
A message from Orbost yesterday stated that residents of that town were alarmed when at 6.30 a.m. they heard what appeared to be an explosion at sea, which shook all the buildings throughout the town. It is presumed that, whatever the cause, was the same as that felt at Lakes Entrance.
1942 08 01 at 14:00 UTC, Thoona
Cobram Courier (Vic. : 1888 – 1954), Wednesday 5 August 1942, page 2
EARTHQUAKE
On Saturday night, at 12 o’clock an earth tremor was felt. Windows and crockery rattled for a brief period. It is stated that the centre of the ‘quake was New Zealand.
Benalla Ensign (Vic. : 1938 – 1954), Friday 7 August 1942, page 2
Devenish News The earth tremors were felt at Devenish on Saturday evening last. The first occurred at midnight, and the second at 2.30 a.m. Sunday morning lasting only a few seconds no damage was reported, but crockery, windows and tanks rattled also.
Numurkah Leader (Vic. : 1895 – 1948), Tuesday 4 August 1942, page 2
Earth Tremor
Residents in various parts of Numurkah became alarmed just about midnight on Saturday, when an earth tremor occurred. Houses shook and crockery rattled, but so far as can be learnt no damage was done. The tremor was apparently the “tail-end” of an occurrence in New Zealand. A few weeks ago similar occurrence caused some apprehension amongst residents in the Katunga East area.
Ovens and Murray Advertiser (Beechworth, Vic. : 1855 – 1955), Wednesday 5 August 1942, page 5
Many Beechworth people were disturbed by an earth tremor, accompanied by a rumbling noise, which occurred just before midnight last Saturday. The centre of the disturbance was in New Zealand, where severe damage was done.
Goulburn Valley Stock and Property Journal (Vic. : 1916 – 1942), Wednesday 19 August 1942, page 5
Telford shared in the experience of an earth tremor which occurred in the North East.
Figure 64 Earthquake north of Thoona at midnight on 01 August 1942, felt from Beechworth almost to Shepparton.
Goulburn Valley Stock and Property Journal (Vic. : 1916 – 1942), Wednesday 5 August 1942, p 5
ST. JAMES EARTH TREMORS Two very severe earth tremors were experienced here over the week end. One was at midnight on Saturday and the other at 2.30 a.m. on Sunday morning.
Rutherglen Sun and Chiltern Valley Advertiser (Vic. : 1886 – 1957), Tuesday 4 August 1942, page 4
TUESDAY, AUGUST 4, 1942.
Earth Tremor.
In the early hours of Sunday morning an earth tremor was felt in parts of the North East. Reports to hand indicate that it was noticed in Rutherglen, as well as out at Norong.
1942 10 13 at 09:20 UTC, Benalla
Benalla Ensign (Vic. : 1938 – 1954), Friday 16 October 1942, page 2
Another Earth Tremor at Benalla At 7.20 on Tuesday evening Benalla experienced another of those unwelcome tremors and although it only lasted a couple of seconds, it shook buildings in some parts of the town, while doors and windows rattled. It was all over in flash, but it was very unpleasant for some residents. The “Ensign” may as well remind its newcomers that Benalla has experienced quite a number of them, and as no other district in the State experienced it, it would appear that Benalla is becoming a favored spot for tremors.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Tuesday 4 August 1942, page 3
NO DAMAGE IN NORTH EAST
No damage was caused by earth tremors at Wangaratta and Benalla on Saturday night. It was officially stated yesterday that faults in strata structure were the cause of the tremors, and recent heavy rain in the north-east had nothing to do with shocks being felt in that part of the State. Mr A. J. Gaskin, acting Government seismologist, attached to the University School of Geology, said yesterday that North-East districts affected were on the easterly edge of heavy old river deposits that extended up to 20 miles to the east. At Benalla deposits were about 100 ft thick, which reflected any movement of underlying rock. Mr Gaskin explained that the deposits, known as alluvium, acted like a jelly at the top of a bottle which moved with shaking. To the west of affected North-East districts alluvium deposits were more solid, and acted as a buffer to movements of underlying rocks.
This earthquake was in the same general area as the previous one but not as large.
1943 03 28 at 18:00, 18:10 and 18:30 UTC, Newstead
Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 – 1954), Wednesday 31 March 1943, page 3
Mystery Blast At Maldon
For miles around the Maldon township people were startled from their sleep at 4 a.m. on Tuesday by a “violent explosion,” which rocked buildings, rattled the windows and shook crockery and ornaments from shelves and mantelpieces. A lesser shock was felt 10 minutes later and a heavy rumbling noise about 4.30 a.m. Local opinion was that it was an “earthquake” or a severe earth tremor, but seismograph records at Melbourne Observatory developed some hours later in the day disclosed nothing. Maldon police said that in the dead of night the noise sounded like a violent explosion. It was felt and heard through out the township and in localities several miles away. No structural damage was done to buildings, but the district had been alarmed. The police were unable to account for the detonation and the shocks that followed. Their opinion, too, was that it was an earth tremor. There have been no reports of the explosion and shocks from other centres, and as the Observatory has eliminated the earth tremor theory Maldon is left to ponder over its mystery.
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Wednesday 31 March 1943, page 5
MALDON RESENTS SLUR ON ‘QUAKE THEORY
Maldon said it had an earthquake at 4 a.m. on Monday and the township refuses to allow any negative scientific evidence of the Melbourne. Observatory to take its earthquake away from it. Maldon’s arguments summed up are: —Maldon, not Melbourne, people were on the spot. Maldon’s residents were awakened from their sleep. Maldon property and ornaments were shaken from the shelves and walls. If Melbourne’s crockery had been scattered about at night in this mysterious way they would think like Maldon. Maldon has a mining history from the early days, and its people are prepared to put their knowledge about the difference between explosive bursts and earth tremors against Melbourne any day — seismograph or no seismograph. The shake was worst in the gully end of the town, over the old Parkin’s Reef. First Constable Thomas McKeogh said today he had made extensive inquiries, but found nothing to explain the mystery. He heard the explosion, which sounded as loud as an ammunition dump blowing up. He definitely supported the earth tremor theory. There was still some blasting connected with small-scale mining at Maldon, he said, but never anything that sounded or felt like Monday’s explosion. Speculating in the district about the explosion has been wide-spread, because it was heard as far away as Daylesford — about 26 miles. One suggestion is that an explosion of trapped gases may have occurred in an old disused mine.
1944 11 02 at 14:05 UTC, Marysville
CSIR’s Gaskin (1947) published a paper about the earthquake, including an isoseismal map but without spot intensities. The felt area of the map indicates a larger magnitude, ML4.8, than the ML4.0 assigned by Everingham and others (1982). Gaskin had 150 felt reports from the city and country to draw up his isoseismal map – where are they now? The quality of newspapers had fallen dramatically since WWII with few independent rural newspapers and the main metro papers all sharing the same story from just a few interviews. I have added the few intensities I could glean from the newspaper stories below and added them to Gaskin’s map. Houses cracked at Thornbury and North Coburg hardly reconcile with MM3 on the map.
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Friday 3 November 1944, page 3
NO POWER DAMAGE The State Electricity Commisssion reported that there was no disturbance to its system, but the tremors were very pronounced at Rubicon in the north-east and apparently the shock passed through the Alps. No damage was caused to any railway equipment, but the Department received reports of severe tremors from Thornbury, Brunswick, Anstey, Eltham, Greensborough, Upper Ferntree Gully, Bayswater, Surrey Hills, Croydon, Lllydale, Ringwood and Northcote. At 12.10 a.m. some of the lights in the Melbourne goods yard went out for a short period, but the current was not from the S.E.C. service.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Friday 3 November 1944, page 1
SHAKEN BY TREMOR
A Midnight Disturbance
An earth tremor surprised the metropolis and parts of the country shortly after midnight this morning. Reports from some localities suggested three distinct tremors; others referred to movement as from the blast of a distant explosion, but the wide area from which reports reached Melbourne served to confirm the general impression that the disturbance was due to an earth tremor with which Victoria was associated. Different localities appeared to be affected in different ways. A resident at Eaglemont heard the windows of his house rattle and saw the walls shake, but did not feel any movement of the ground. Some from Rosanna and Kew indicated a rumbling noise. At Kew police station, a member of the force who has experienced earthquakes in the islands formed the opinion that the occurrence was definitely an earth tremor.
At Heidelberg police station, the shutters of windows rattled as if some human hand was shaking them. At Russell-street police station a distinct tremor was felt about 12.7 a.m., but at the Meteorological Bureau, not far away, it was stated that the only indication of the occurrence was the receipt of telephone calls from citizens reporting the matter or seeking some official explanation. No one is on duty at that hour at Melbourne Observatory, in the jurisdiction of which earthquakes come. By 12.30 a.m. railways control rooms and police D24 had received reports from many suburbs and various outlying districts, which indicated that the tremors were felt mostly in the eastern suburbs and country districts east of the metropolis. Lillydale, Fern Tree Gully and Healesville were among places mentioned in reports to the police and the railways. Railways also received a report from Longwarry. One report from Lillydale stated that iron roofs had rattled.
Figure 65 Isoseismal map of the 2 November 1944 earthquake published by Gaskin (1947) with my few intensities gleaned from the newspapers superposed in orange.
The Sydney Morning Herald Friday 3 November 1944, Page 1.
Earth Tremor Near Melbourne
MELBOURNE, Friday.—A widespread earth tremor which shook buildings was felt in Melbourne, some suburbs, and hill centres within 50 miles of the city, shortly after midnight.
The shock appears to have been most severe through a belt of country running from Bays- water and Croydon to Healesville. No serious damage has been reported so far, but walls of houses were cracked at Thornbury and North Coburg.
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Monday 6 November 1944, page 3.
Earth Shook Very Slightly
Recording plates developed at the Observatory today showed that the earth shook 1000th of an inch in the tremor felt in Melbourne and some country districts on Friday soon after midnight. The plates were examined by Professor Hills, of Melbourne University, and Mr A. J. Gaskin, of the C.S.I.R. It was found that the earth shook so quickly in a very short space of time that the instrument had not responded clearly. With one movement superseding another the impressions were blurred. It was shown however, that the rapid vibrations lasted about 10 seconds, while the full duration to the time of dying away was a little less than a minute. The tremor was similar to that felt in 1939, but its Intensity was eight times below that which shook the Mornington Peninsula in 1932. From the plates it was difficult to determine the locality of the origin of the disturbance, but Mr Gaskin said it could roughly be estimated at between 40 and 50 miles from Melbourne.
1945 12 30 at 15:30 UTC, Southeast SA, felt Western Victoria
Portland Guardian (Vic. : 1876 – 1953), Thursday 3 January 1946, page 2
EARTH TREMOR. Between 1 and 2 a.m. on Monday morning residents were momentarily alarmed by an earth tremor. Buildings shook and windows rattled, and cases of beds shifting several inches are recorded. Many did not notice the shock, but those who did have various and startling experiences to recite, and there were those who had “registered” the tremor but would have forgotten it if they had not been reminded the next day.
Portland Guardian (Vic. : 1876 – 1953), Monday 7 January 1946, page 2
EARTH TREMOR AT MOUNT GAMBIER. The “Border Watch” reports that at about 1 a.m. on Monday morning last Mt. Gambler and surrounding districts felt an earth tremor which lasted for two or three seconds. Windows rattled and some people were awakened when their beds began to sway. The tremor was felt at Hamilton, Portland, O.B. Flat and Port MacDonnell, as well as in the surrounding districts. This tremor was evidently purely local, as it did not register at either Adelaide or Melbourne.
1945 09 24 at early morning, Bacchus Marsh
Express, Bacchus Marsh (Vic. : 1943 – 1954), Saturday 29 September 1945, page 5
Earth Tremor.—Numerous residents report having been awakened in the early hours of last Tuesday morning by a loud rumble which shook buildings and rattled windows. A few reports indicated the passage of a meteorite across the sky at that hour.
1946 03 08 – 13, three earthquakes at Benalla
Benalla Ensign Friday 15 March 1946. Page 5.
More Earth Tremors
Following slight tremors which were felt in the town on Friday last (7th March), a very severe one was experienced about mid-day on Wednesday last (13 March), when buildings rocked for a few seconds. A few minutes later another slight tremor was felt. At the Benalla West School, the children in one classroom received such a shock, that within a second or two, all had disappeared outside.
1946 03 17 at 06:55 UTC, More than £2000 DamageinBenalla
Benalla Ensign Friday 22 March 1946, Page 1
OVER £2000 DAMAGE TO BUILDINGS – WORST IN BENALLA’S HISTORY – FURTHER SLIGHT TREMORS ON WEDNESDAY
Shortly before 5 p.m. on Sunday last, Benalla experienced the worst earth tremor in the town’s history. Lasting only a few seconds, the tremor caused damage estimated at over £2000 to dwellings in the residential areas, while portions of the business sections also suffered. Although the tremor was felt over a large area in the Benalla district, the greatest damage was confined to a narrow strip on the north side of the railway line. A brick home in Gillies Street, was so badly damaged that it has to be rebuilt, while practically all the chimney tops of houses in Magennis Street were displaced. While slight tremors occurred on Wednesday, Sunday’s unpleasant experience is still the topic of conversation.
DAMAGE IN MAIN SHOPPING AREA. It was strange that only portions of the north side of Bridge street suffered the most in the business section of the town. Mr Vin Hayes, who was the heaviest loser, had the unpleasant experience of finding broken bottles of wine, tomato sauce and honey stacked in shelves lying broken on the floor and the contents all mixed up together. It was a sight which Mr. Hayes and his staff will never forget. Three chemists Messrs. R. Deans, V. Say and G Say – also found many bottles removed from shelves, while damage was also reported by Mr R. Rumpff at Moran and Cato’s. Some of the shop windows which had been decorated for the week-end trade, were a real medley, with articles strewn in all directions, and they were the centre of attraction the same night. REBUILDING OF HOME NECESSARY. The worst of all damage was viewed at the home of Mr and Mrs Farr, Gillies Street, where all the walls were so badly knocked about and the damage so extensive, that the building will have to be rebuilt, and arrangements have been made with a local building contractor to commence the work of rebuilding today. At the present time, Mr and Mrs Farr and their son, Dick, consider the building so unsafe that being unable to secure a temporary dwelling, have made temporary quarters in the sleep-out. A few doors down, Mr. H. Hardy found a chimney so badly affected that it will have to be re-built. The only house on the north side of Gillies Street, owned by the Railway Department, and occupied by Mr. and Mrs. O’Connell, was condemned following Sunday’s damage. Further down the chimneys at Mr. Hossack’s were turned almost at 45 degrees and will have to be completely rebuilt.
DAMAGE TO CHIMNEY TOPS. The new homes in Magennis street presented an unpleasant site, where practically every building had one or two chimney tops dislodged. At the three homes of Mr. Griffiths and his sons, Jack and Eddie, it has been found it necessary to have six chimney tops replaced, while damage was done internally to Mr. T. Howell’s home. A crack in the bitumen on the roadway was also the result of the tremor. In other portion of the town, chimney tops were dislodged.
OTHER BUILDINGS SUFFER. While minor damage was done internally to many building by fallen plaster, broken mirrors, ornaments and bottles of jam, the tremor did considerable damage to others. At the Victoria Hotel large cracks were discovered in some of the rooms upstairs, the openings in some instances being very large. Cracks were also noticed in the High School, while the Arts and Crafts school showed signs of damage to the walls.
PATH OF TREMOR. The direction which the tremor travelled is still a debatable question among many of the residents. Although it is believed that it came in the direction of Coomalibee. It is remarkable that the portion of the town which suffered most was in the same path which the recent tornado travelled on reaching the town a few weeks ago. The cause of the tremor is unknown, but it is assumed that along that area is an underground river. In 1932, the town was subjected to a severe tremor, and while it did much damage on that occasion, it had not the damaging effect as on Sunday, which was felt over a wide area in the Benalla district. In Melbourne, a slight tremor was recorded officially.
TREMOR FELT AT BADDAGINNIE While two very slight tremors occurred to Benalla on Wednesday, one of them was felt most severely at Baddaginnie (Ed. 10km WSW Benalla).
The Riverine Herald of 19 March 1946 claims the earthquake was not felt in Violet Town, only 25km away, nor are there reports from other centres, so the earthquake can’t have been very large, but £2000 damage (~$400,000 in 2015 dollars).
1946 08 15 at 14:40 UTC, SE Melbourne
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Friday 16 August 1946, page 3
EARTH TREMOR NEAR BEACH Melbourne had a slight earth tremor at about 12.40 a.m. today, but only residents in the St. Kilda and Elwood districts seemed to notice it. No damage was caused. A householder in Beach Avenue, Elwood (off The Esplanade) said he was reading at 12.40 when he suddenly heard a rumbling noise —”like depth charges in the Bay” —and the house shook. It was all over in a few seconds, he said. The dogs of the neighborhood seemed most put out. The officer in charge of the Melbourne Observatory (Mr G. H. Woodhouse) said several reports had been received from those suburbs, but he doubted whether it was a real earth tremor. It must have been “very local.” Although most of the Observatory staff had recently been transferred to Canberra, a seismograph was still kept in operation for the University. He would develop the graph tomorrow morning.
1946 09 14 at 19:50 UTC, East of Flinders Island, Tasmania
Barrier Daily Truth Tuesday 17 September 1946, Page 1.
Severe Earth Tremor Felt In Gippsland
Melbourne, September 10. — Thousands of residents of Gippsland were awakened about 6 a.m. yesterday by a severe earth tremor. The tremor which was accompanied by a rumbling noise, shook houses for between 40 and 50 seconds before it ceased. It was felt from Orbost to Foster, on Islands in Bass Straight, and at Swansea, in Tasmania. First-Constable Fleischer, of Foster, said yesterday that the police station was rocking when he was awakened. A grandfather clock which was not going began to chime. He had made a tour of the area, but no serious damage had been reported. Most people had been awakened to find their homes rocking. Crockery had fallen off shelves in some houses. Some Foster residents said they had heard a deep, rumbling noise while the tremor lasted. A message from Orbost says the tremor was the severest felt there for many years. Houses shook, crockery rattled, and beds moved. The tremor approached from the sea, and appeared to pass inland. A few items of crockery and ornaments in houses in Orbost were damaged. The tremor was particularly severe on Wilson’s Promontory, where all buildings rocked. It was also felt on Deal, Swan and Flinders islands. The officer in charge of the Harbour Trust 60ft. observation tower, which controls river traffic at the entrance to Victoria Dock, reported that the building twice shook violently shortly before 6 a.m. It felt as if a large ship had bumped the wharf heavily. Reports of the tremors were received at the Weather Bureau in Melbourne.
The epicentre of this earthquake was in Tasmania (Michael-Leiba and Jensen, 1992) but it shook Victorian towns strongly and such events need to be considered in any risk assessment for both Victoria and Tasmania.
1947 04 13 at 16:55 UTC, Bendigo
Northern Star Tuesday 15 April 1947, Page 5.
EARTH TREMOR IN VICTORIA
MELBOURNE, Monday. —Many Bendigo residents were awakened from sleep shortly before 3 o’clock this morning by a loud rumbling believed to have been caused by an earth tremor. Several people said they heard a sustained thunderous roaring noise for a few seconds. The noise was of shook. In a few instances rumbling was so severe that ornaments and crockery wobbled and fell on their sides. Many people rushed from the beds.
1947 06 09 at 07:03 UTC, Colac
Border Watch Tuesday 10 June 1947, Page 1
Earth Tremor at Colac.—Buildings were shaken and employees ran from business premises when an earth tremor was felt in Colac and the surrounding districts at 5 p.m. yesterday. The tremor lasted only a few seconds.
Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 – 1954), Wednesday 11 June 1947, page 3.
Earth Tremor At Colac
COLAC. — An earth tremor, preceded by a blast, was felt all over Colac about 5 p.m. on Monday. People rushed into the streets, and those standing near walls said they reverberated as though something heavy had been thrown against them. No damage to buildings or injuries has yet been reported.
1948 05 26 (?) at 05:00 UTC, Doncaster
The Argus Thursday 27 May 1948, Page 3.
EARTH TREMOR
A slight earth tremor was felt in parts of Doncaster about 3pm. It lasted only a few seconds, and caused no damage.
1950 04 14 at 23:10 UTC, Eurobin near Bright
Myrtleford Times and Ovens Valley Advertiser (Vic. : 1930 – 1955), Wednesday 19 April 1950, p4
EARTH TREMOR
At approximately ten minutes past nine o’clock on Easter Saturday morning, a distinct earth tremor was experienced throughout this district. When the disturbance was felt, there were many interesting explanations as to what was thought occasioned the rumble, for it was not generally realised at the time that there had been an earth tremour. Windows and doors rattled in some homes, whilst in others, crockery was seen to move. Gapsted district experienced the shock as well as Myrtleford; and it is now known that it was experienced right through to Bright and Wandiligong. Fortunately, no damage was done; and it is believed the disturbance was recorded at the Sydney observatory.
1951 05 08 at 18:00 UTC, Wangaratta
The Argus Thursday 10 May 1951, Page 3.
TREMOR ROCKS HOUSES
Wangaratta, Wed.
Reports of an earth tremor came from outlying districts today. Residents of Edi, Meadow Creek, Carboor, and other King Valley townships, all reported having felt a slight shock between 3.30 and 4.15 a.m.
Some Wangaratta people also said they had felt it. Mrs. A. Brown, of Carboor, said that the house shook, crockery rattled, and furniture moved slightly. There was no wind or rain at the time, and no serious damage was done.
1951 04 17 at 22:50 UTC, Melbourne seiche – no known earthquake source
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Wednesday 18 April 1951, page 1
Mystery Sea Surge Rocks Liners in Bay
A mysterious undersea upheaval rocked ocean-going liners and snapped moorings at the Gellibrand Pier, Williamstown, today. It lasted five minutes. Ships’ officers, with more than 20 years at sea, said they had never known such an experience before. The Chief Government Geologist, Dr. Thomas, said the disturbance was not caused by a local tremor. He believed it might be due to the tailend of a tsunami, a giant wave produced by a submarine earthquake in some other part of the world. The wave could have been so spent that it would result only in a sudden raising of the water’s level. This could have produced the violent rocking. Melbourne’s only seismograph, a sensitive instrument that measures earth tremors, was out of order this morning. First Officer. Nicholson, of the coaster Dornoch, said he was having breakfast about 8.50 a.m. when suddenly the ship began to shake. He and the crew raced on to the tossing deck, to find other ships surging and pitching. “The Greek migrant ship Cyrenia was rocking madly and the Danish ship Morelia opposite was almost lifted on to the pier,” Mr Nicholson said. The Morelia’s chief officer said his crew rushed to put out extra moorings, because it was feared the ship would break loose. “The queer thing about the disturbance was that the water’s surface was not broken,” he said. “I think it could have been a cave-in of the sea floor.” Mr F. Loveday, assistant lighterman on a coal barge moored to the Dornoch, said one moment the sea was calm; the next the barge was plunging about and snapped its moorings.
1951 05 28 at 15:43 UTC, Gippsland
Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 – 1954), Wednesday 30 May 1951, page 47
Tremors Shake Houses
A 30-seconds earth tremor was reported at 1 45 a.m. on Tuesday by residents of East Kew, Toorak, Warragul and Yallourn. The first report was received from Mrs Galbraith, of Bennett Parade, East Kew, who said that she and her daughter were awakened by the movement of their house at 1.45 a.m. The concrete floor of a large SEC workshop at Yallourn shook violently and cracked in several places.
Barrier Miner Tuesday 29 May 1951, Page 1.
Earth Tremor
Melbourne.—What was described as “a brief but violent” earth tremor shook Melbourne and towns of Morwell and Yallourn in the Gippsland area at 1.45 a.m. today. Beds shook, windows and crockery rattled, and night workers at the factory said the concrete floor rose visibly.
Narracan Shire Advocate (Moe, Vic.: 1944 – 1955), Friday 1 June 1951, page 1
EARTH TREMOR STARTLES RESIDENTS, MOE
At about 1.45 a.m., on Tuesday last, an occurrence very rare in Gippsland startled many residents of the district from their sleep, with the swaying to and fro of their beds, the rattling of windows, furniture and crockery. Most of those who were awakened didn’t realise what woke them until next morning, when radio news sessions explained that an earth tremor had been felt throughout Gippsland. A lot of people thought there was an intruder in the room or that a passing train or heavy transport was the cause. But quite a number were unaware of the happening, and slept peacefully through it.
Figure 66 Isoseismal map of the Gippsland earthquake on 28 May 1951. Reports came from Melbourne to Lakes Entrance.
The Erica district seemed to have experienced it worse than Moe. In one house, a full paint tin holding a door open was cast aside and the door slammed shut. Only one said that he was not awakened by the “shake”.
Gippsland Times (Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Thursday 31 May 1951, page 1
EARTH TREMOR SHAKES GIPPSLAND Rock Displacement In Alps Suggested. About 1:45 a.m. on Tuesday an earth tremor woke people throughout Gippsland but was not of sufficient intensity to cause alarm. The tremor which rumbled like a waggon load of empty drums on a rough road was reported in centres from Melbourne to Stratford. Probably the worst of the shock was around Yallourn and through to Wonthaggi. It was reported that a concrete floor cracked at Yallourn and that horses in one of the shafts at Wonthaggi became terrified. At Sale, the tremor was only slight. The noise did not disturb many people but several who hear it were uncertain what it was that they were experiencing. One man said that he thought a heavy vehicle was travelling over a rough section of road. Another thought that there had been a collision close handy and that the vibration the result. Others considered that it might have been a tricky wind blowing gustily around their homes. Local people who have experienced similar tremors consider that there was a large rock displacement underground in the Alps, probably in the vicinity of Yallourn or Walhalla. The tremor was reported in Sydney at the Riverview College Observatory at 1.44 a.m. It was described there as “too small to indicate where it was located.” It was hardly noticeable on the seismograph record.
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Tuesday 29 May 1951, page 1
Severest Shake In Country
Gippsland seems to have been the centre of the earth tremor which shook the city just before 2.a.m. today. At Meeniyan, in south Gippsland people were awakened by a strange noise. They heard the tremor as it approached. Then they felt a jolt and their homes shook. Horses stabled at No. 20 shaft at Wonthaggi became terrified as the ground shook beneath them. Foster reported that the tremor was the longest many people could remember. The Weather Bureau received reports of the tremor from Sale, Leongatha and Warburton.
Healesville Guardian (Lilydale, Vic. : 1942 – 1954), Saturday 2 June 1951, page 3
Earth Tremor Felt in Upper Yarra. Houses shook and windows rattled in homes throughout the whole shire at about 1.40 a.m. last Monday night. when an earth tremor could be distinctly felt for just on two minutes. The tremor was severe enough to wake many from their sleep, but no damage was reported.
Bairnsdale Advertiser and East Gippsland Stock and Station Journal (Vic. : 1946 – 1954), Thursday 31 May 1951, page 7
Earth Tremor Felt
Several Lakes Entrance residents report having felt the earth tremor which is said to have occurred in the early hours of Tuesday morning in several Gippsland towns. Furniture and crockery rattled violently in some homes sufficiently to awaken the occupants.
Mountain District Free Press (Tecoma, Vic. : 1947 – 1954), Thursday 31 May 1951, page 1
Earth tremors felt in Dandenongs
Earth tremors in the early hours of Tuesday morning were reported from several parts of the Dandenongs. One Upwey resident said he heard a sound like a dog scratching at the door. Another got up and went to the door because he though somebody was knocking at it. In Belgrave the movement was quite distinct.
It was also felt in Stratford, slightly in Sale, the worst in Yallourn and Wonthaggi. According to a Bathurst newspaper, the shock was recorded at Riverview Observatory, justifying our minimum magnitude of 4.6.
1951 06 04 at 16:23 UTC, Gippsland, felt Melbourne
The Argus Wednesday 6 June 1951, Page 3. Second tremor in week.
Tremors which shook Melbourne and some country areas early yesterday were probably shifting rock formations under the earth’s crust in Gippsland, Mr. W. Baragwanath said last night. Mr. Baragwanath was, at the time, a geological consultant to the State Mines Department. The tremor yesterday was the second felt in Melbourne in a week. It occurred between 1.45 a.m. and 2.33 a.m., and was felt in the metropolitan area, as well as at Leongatha and Erica, in Gippsland.
Mr. E. Newman, of Carween av., Mitcham, said he was awakened at 2.23a.m. by a creaking noise. His weatherboard house shook for about 10 seconds. Leongatha householders were awakened by heavy rumblings and the rattling of crockery and windows. Erica residents said the tremor was more like a gust of wind, followed by a slight movement of the earth’s surface.
Could this event have been a meteorite like the following two events in November? If not the magnitude would have been about M 4.5 but there are few reports.
1951 11 04 at 15:27 UTC, Melbourne earthquake
Northern Star Tuesday 6 November 1951, Page 1
BLINDING FLASH, EXPLOSION IN VIC. TREMOR
MELBOURNE, Monday.—An earth tremor in the early hours of this morning rocked a 200-mile belt of Southern Victoria from Geelong through Melbourne to Gippsland. A blinding flash of blue-green light and a big explosion accompanied the earth tremors at 1.30 a.m.
The tremor was the heaviest in Victoria for many years, but no damage was reported. At Flinders Naval Base, a blinding light rose 1800 feet, flashed across Port Phillip Bay at terrific speed, then a loud explosion was heard. An able seaman said the floor of his room seemed to ripple.
Figure 67 An epicentre east of Melbourne fits the poorly reported felt reports of the dramatic earthquake on 04 November 1951.
One resident of a bayside suburb said the light was like an atomic explosion. A St. Kilda resident said his house shook like a leaf. Residents at Dandenong panicked and rushed into the streets as the tremor rocked their homes. A telephone exchange operator said the hills “seemed to wobble”.
Professor L. H. Martin, of Melbourne University, said the disturbance was probably subterranean, but scientists were unable to explain the light.
Melbourne Weather Bureau has no seismograph to record tremors. In Sydney today, Father O’Connell, of Riverview Observatory, said his seismograph had recorded no activity in Victoria during the night.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Tuesday 6 November 1951, page 1
Was it a billion to one…?
WAS Victoria’s mystery blast and tremors early yesterday a billion to one chance ….
… a falling meteorite (causing the blast) and an earth tremor at the same time?
Experts (professional and amateur) were as baffled as the ordinary citizen last night as they puzzled over reports of the strange phenomena.
The tremor — it seemed to be two, but was only one, the fore-shock and the after-shock — lasted for 17 seconds, and was recorded at 26.4 seconds after 1.27 a.m. on Melbourne’s only seismograph. The seismograph is in a concrete-lined cellar in the Domain gardens. It is controlled by the Commonwealth Supply Department Bureau of Mineral Resources.
Strongest support from the experts came for the meteorite and earth tremor theory.
Mr. R. F. Thyer, superintending geophysicist of the Bureau of Mineral Resources said last night that, although the odds of the two coinciding were ”fantastic,” they were “not as fantastic as all that.” He saw the strange phenomena from his Hampton home. He said, “I felt two distinct shakes, then saw a brilliant flash high up in the sky. “It was a meteorite, which probably did not hit the ground. “The meteor’s glow would reflect a thousand-fold in the clouds.”
Photo Mr. Case van de Waal scanning the seismogram from yesterday morning’s earthquake, just after 1.27 a.m. The seismograph is installed at Melbourne Observatory. (from the Age Tuesday 6 November 1951, page 3).
Professor L. H. Martin, Professor of Physics, Melbourne University, said last night that on the evidence of the seismograph, he agreed with Mr. Thyer. “He is a trained observer,” he said, “and his explanation appears to be the most likely one. “Odds against a meteorite falling immediately after an earth tremor are very high, but coincidences like that do occur sometimes.”
The “sky-flash” was not reported by ships off the coast. Service chiefs dismissed suggestions that the noise and flash were man-made. No munition dumps had exploded, they said, and there were no exercises near Melbourne.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Tuesday 6 November 1951, page 1
Disturbance Was Big Earth Tremor
The explosion-like disturbance which shook Melbourne and hundreds of square miles of surrounding country early yesterday was a minor earthquake. Earth tremors lasting 17 seconds were recorded on the Melbourne Observatory’s seismograph in the Domain at 1.27 a.m. The seismograph is built to record long-distance earth movements, so no estimate of the locality of the disturbance was shown. The superintending geophysicist at the Bureau of Mineral Resources (Mr. R. F. Thyer) said last night the blue flame seen after the tremors was probably caused by a meteor. Its arrival at such a time must have been pure coincidence.
The tremors were shown on Melbourne Observatory’s seismograph by a faint wavering line on the graph. Underground All that experts can tell is the duration of the tremor (17 seconds) and the fact, that it occurred deep underground — possibly almost 100 miles. Although not the first earthquake in Melbourne — small ones occur frequently — it was one of the most severe ever recorded. Mr. Thyer said the meteor probably never reached the earth. Most were melted by intense heat while passing through the earth’s atmosphere. The officer in charge of the seismograph (Mr. C. A. van der Waal), said his machine was more than 50 years old and relied on a normal electricity supply to function properly. Apparently the supply had wavered at the critical period yesterday morning— causing a blurred reading. It was hoped to instal a new seismograph with its own electricity supply in the near future. One was being tested now at Footscray.
Sun News-Pictorial (Melbourne, Vic. : 1922 – 1954; 1956), Tuesday 6 November 1951, page 3
SHOCK WAS QUAKE, BUT FLASH UNSOLVED
THE tremor that shook Melbourne and a great part of the State on Sunday night was a mild earthquake. But the flash at the same time is still a mystery.
Mr. C. A. Van der Waal, geophysicist of the Bureau of Mineral Resources, said last night that the ’quake was barely recorded on the Melbourne Observatory seismograph. The seismograph graph recorded the tremor as beginning at 1.27 a.m. and lasting 17 seconds. Mr. Van der Waal said that the earthquake was only a small one, with nothing to show where it really started. It might have begun before the official seismograph recording. The tremors took some time to travel through the ground. The seismograph was built to record shocks long distances away. If Melbourne had a severe earthquake, it probably would not be recorded on the seismograph. Scientists would have to get their information elsewhere. Riverview College seismograph (Sydney) did not record the Victorian tremor. Mt. Stromlo Observatory (Canberra) has no seismograph. The flash was not observed there.
Windows rattled and homes shook in the tremor, which was felt as far away as Wonwondah, 180 miles north-west of Melbourne, and Yallourn, 100 miles to the east.
Rumblings were heard 3 ½ hours before the tremor.
Scientists have no explanation of the strange flash of light, which lit up the sky after the quake and the rumbling. The official police record of the flash said it was a “brilliant, multi – colored light moving across the sky at about 1500 ft., travelling east – north – east across Port Phillip Bay.”
People who saw it have described it as a green fluorescent light, a red light, and a flash.
Melbourne University experts have no explanation to offer. A physics department scientist said last night that the University was not really interested. “We have our own experiments to keep us busy,” he said, “and, of course, we are busy with exams.”
Mountain District Free Press (Tecoma, Vic. : 1947 – 1954), Thursday 8 November 1951, page 5
Sunday night’s “blast-and-flash” caused consternation on local exchanges. The force of the shock brought down all the shutters on the Belgrave exchange switch board. As the fall of the shutter is an indication of a call, the operator on duty was given an anxious and busy time. Belgrave’s night watchman, Mr Sutherland, was in a Belgrave building at the moment of the shock and rushed out into the street for safety, fearful that the building would come down. Mr Sutherland said that the shake was quite different from an earthquake or earth tremor of which he had had some experience. There was none of the sensation of a landwave, but rather a sensation of rocks grinding together.
Riverine Herald (Echuca, Vic. : Moama, NSW : 1869 – 1954; 1998 – 2002), Tuesday 6 November 1951, page 1
The cause of the explosion which woke Melbourne and the Western District and Gippsland early yesterday morning, and of the strange flash of light after the 1.30 a.m. explosion, has not yet been established.
Scientists are puzzled because: An earth tremor would not cause flash of light; A meteorite could cause an explosion that could shake buildings, but the flash would come before the bang. And a meteorite big enough to make so loud a bang would make a big hole in the ground or cause a tidal wave. It wasn’t an earthquake. The seismograph at Riverview Observatory recorded nothing.
The official police report described the flash as a “brilliant, multicolored light, which appeared to move across the sky, at a height of about 1500 feet, travelling in an east-north-east direction over Port Phillip Bay.”
People in the city and crews of divisional police cars on patrol saw the flash. The light was reported as far away as Wonwondah, about 180 miles north-west of Melbourne, and Yallourn, 100 miles to the east.
Intervening places which sent reports to the police today included Dandenong Latona and Flinders Naval Depot.
At Chelsea Heights, Mrs. M. Lawless was awakened by such a terrific explosion that she thought an atomic bomb must have been dropped. The house seemed to move backwards. There was a couple of minutes of unearthly silence, and then the whole house was lit up by a brilliant light.
A Hartwell resident today found that his home had apparently been moved by the shuddering of the earth, so that the front door was about three quarter inch off-plumb.
A Caulfield man, Mr. Bruce Dinan, of Balaclava Road, heard a noise so loud that, he thought there had been a violent explosion. When he opened the door, his dog, which had been sleeping out in the porch, ran inside and cowered under a table.
A Glen Iris man who was lying awake felt the whole house move “as though a bulldozer were gently pushing it.” He scrambled to his window in time to see a greenish light moving slowly across the sky. He said it looked like a fluorescent light, squared off at both ends. It was so brilliant awake at the time reported that that the city was lit vividly.
Yet other people who were there heard nothing, and saw no light.
Several said that just before 10 p.m. there was a strange rumbling noise, and windows rattled. But it died away quickly. Scientists say they can class what happened this morning only as an “unexplained natural phenomenon.”
Goulburn Evening Post (NSW : 1940 – 1954), Monday 5 November 1951, page 4
EARTH TREMOR IN VICTORIA MELBOURNE: Bayside suburbs of Melbourne and southern towns of Victoria were rocked by an earth tremor this morning. It was the heaviest in Victoria for many years, and was accompanied by a brilliant “blue-green light”, which lit up the sky over Port Phillip Bay. Professor Martin, of the Melbourne University, said the disturbance probably was subterranean. The tremor shook houses in Geelong, the south-west side of Port Philip Bay and as far east as Rosedale, in the Gippsland area.
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Monday 5 November 1951, page 1
Night blast-flare puzzles scientists
REPORTED IN 300m. AREA
What caused the explosion which woke Melbourne — and the Western District and Gippsland – in the night? And what caused the strange flash of light AFTER the 1.30 a.m. explosion? Scientists are puzzled because—
An earth tremor would not cause a flash of light; A meteorite could cause an explosion that could shake buildings, but the flash would come before the bang. And a meteorite big enough to make so loud a bang would make a big hole in the ground or cause a tidal wave. It wasn’t an earthquake— at least not one big enough to be recorded at Riverview Observatory, Sydney. Melbourne has no seismograph.
The official police report described the flash as a “brilliant, multi-colored light, which appeared to move across the sky at a height of about 1500 ft., travelling in an east-north-east direction over Port Phillip Bay.” People In the city and crews of divisional police cars on patrol saw the flash. The light was reported as far away as Wonwondah, about 180 miles north-west of Melbourne, and Yallourn, 100 miles to the east. Intervening places which sent reports to the police today included Dandenong, Latona and Flinders Naval Depot.
Silence, then . . At Chelsea Heights, Mrs M. Lawless was awakened by such a terrific explosion that she thought an atomic bomb, must have been dropped. The house seemed to move backwards. There was a couple of minutes of unearthly silence and then the whole house was lit up by a brilliant light. A Caulfield man, Mr Bruce Dinan, of Balaclava Road, heard a noise so loud that he thought there had been a violent explosion. When he opened the door, his dog, which had been sleeping out in the porch, ran inside and cowered under a table. A Glen Iris man who was lying awake felt the whole house move, “as though a bulldozer were gently pushing it.” He scrambled to his window in time to see a greenish light, moving slowly across the sky.
Lit the city
He said it looked like a fluorescent light, squared off at both ends. It was so brilliant that the city was lit vividly. Yet other people who were awake at the time re-ported that they heard nothing, and saw no light. Three and a half hours before the big “bang-flash” other people, heard a rumbling. And Mr W. Luff, of Bruce Street, North Essendon, reports that at that time he saw a bright light move across the sky. It looked like a rocket, with flames belching out behind it, but it travelled slowly from east to west, on a perfectly horizontal line. There was no sound. As he watched it the light disintegrated in a brilliant burst of green and blue. Scientists say they can class what happened this morning only as an “unexplained natural phenomenon.”
Other felt reports were from St Kilda (shook like a leaf), Dandenong (people panicked and rushed into the street), Wattle Park (light like an atomic flash).
The separate observations by Bob Thyer and Ms Lawless of feeling the shaking then seeing the flash of the meteor is conclusive evidence that the shake was caused by an earthquake and the Mr Sutherland’s description of rocks grinding together would support a very local origin, the magnitude limited by its non-recording at Riverview.
1951 11 14 at 00:30 UTC, Glenormiston
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Thursday 15 November 1951, page 5
Glenormiston Earth Tremor
Residents in Glenormiston district yesterday felt a minor earth tremor. Mr. G. Kenna, a farmer, said the earth vibrated for several seconds, and deep rumblings from the ground sounded like guns going off in the distance. The vibration occurred between 10 and 11 yesterday morning, he said. Rumbles were heard also on Tuesday night, but were not accompanied by any vibration.
1951 11 14 at 15:25 UTC, Melbourne weather?
News Thursday 15 November 1951, Page 7.
New Tremor in Melbourne
Melbourne, Thurs.: Melbourne and suburbs were shaken early to-day by another earth tremor. It was felt at 1.25 a.m. Some people reported a flash accompanying the tremor similar to that seen last Monday week. The tremor then was reported at 1.27 a.m. The Melbourne Harbor Trust building in the city shook as a “long-drawn-out rumble, like thunder, was heard by workers there, Mr. Harry Virtue said. “Windows rattled eerily, but we saw no flash,” he said.
Mr. G. Carson, Hampton, said that his wife was awakened by what seemed to be a flash of light, followed by two tremors. Mystery rumblings in the Western District on Tuesday night and yesterday have puzzled officials. Although consistent, the noises—which sounded like heavy thunder—did not cause any damage. The disturbance was centred at Glen Ormiston, near Terang, but was felt to a lesser degree in surrounding townships.
The shaking in this case was most likely caused by thunder.
1952 03 26 at 11:00 UTC, Gabo Island
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Thursday 27 March 1952, page 3
Earth Tremor Shakes Gabo
Gabo Island lightkeepers reported an earth tremor with loud rumbling at 9 o’clock last night. Although buildings and installations have not yet been completely checked, no damage was apparent. At Mallacoota, 10 miles south of Gabo on the mainland, residents reported a brief earth shock at 9 p.m. Lights faltered for several seconds and radios reacted with violent static. The tremor was not felt at Eden, 15 miles north of Gabo.
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Friday 28 March 1952, page 4
Two Mallacoota fishermen …… were netting garfish in the Bay behind Gabo last night when the rumbling of an earth tremor spoiled fishing. Before the tremor they were catching garfish by the dozen. When it was over the garfish had gone.
The location is quite uncertain but an epicentre offshore Gabo Island in the Tasman Sea with a minimum magnitude of 3.5 satisfies the 3 reports.
1952 05 20 at 11:15 UTC, Mildura
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Tuesday 20 May 1952, page 3
TREMOR AT MILDURA
Mildura, Monday
People from an area within a 20-mile radius of Mildura reported an earth tremor at 9.15 tonight. The tremor was brief, but shook buildings. It was felt at Dareton, in New South Wales, 15 miles from Mildura.
1952 10 02 at 04:25 UTC, Jeeralang
Morwell Advertiser (Morwell, Vic. : 1888 – 1954), Thursday 9 October 1952, page 9
According to our Jeeralang correspondent, an earth tremor occurred at Jeeralang at 2.25 last Thursday. At about the same time some Morwell ?ives have reported that crockery shook when a slight tremor was noticed in the Morwell area.
1953 03 21 at 16:00 UTC, Tungamah meteorite
Wodonga and Towong Sentinel Friday 27 March 1953, page 3.
EARTH TREMOR AT TUNGAMAH As unusual phenomenon of an earth tremor combined with a vivid flash of light was seen and heard by people in the Tungamah district about 2 o’clock on Sunday morning. A car loaded with people was returning from Yarrawonga when suddenly the sky was lit up by a flash of light which then seemed to spread over the heavens in a couple of seconds. They heard no noise as the car was closed in. At the home of Mr. Andrew Mulquiney, “Glendalough,” five miles from Tungamah and about quarter of a mile from where the car was, all in the house were awakened by the dwelling trembling. Within seconds of the house trembling there was a terrific explosion followed by a flash of light. Frightened dogs in the backyard started barking. The first flash of light appeared to come from the north-east, but no reports of fire balls or meteors have been received so far.
1953 11 21 at 18:50 UTC, Benalla
The Benalla Ensign Thursday 26 November 1953, Page 1.
EARTH TREMORS ROCK BENALLA Residents Alarmed As Houses Swayed
Two earth tremors which rocked Benalla early last Sunday resulted in only minor damage, but caused residents over a wide area to rush from their beds in night attire. Many believed they were experiencing tremors which struck the town between 1938 and 1943, when considerable damage was done to many houses and buildings. The tremors were felt at 4.50 a.m. and at 5.45 a.m., the first being the most severe.
Few people were awake when the first struck, but those who were said the atmosphere was eerie before the rumblings commenced. Houses creaked, glassware and crockery rattled, and articles in many homes fell from shelves. Several reports of bricks being dislodged from chimneys and of walls cracking were notified over a wide area. The first lasted a couple of seconds, but the second was a sharp one, more like the resounding echo of a heavy gun being fired. As people rushed from their homes carrying children, some of whom were still asleep, they excitedly talked with neighbours, and recalled previous tremors. Many refused to go indoors again, fearing further shakings. One effect the tremors had was to alter alarm clocks.
Householders reported their clocks being an hour fast or slow after the tremors had passed. This caused some confusion as to the exact times of the tremors. The tremors, which were felt over a wide area, missed Winton Swamp. They were experienced at Chesney Vale and Swanpool. Police on duty reported the atmosphere being very still, and that a smell of sulphur was in the air. Although some elderly people suffered shock it was not sufficient to warrant medical attention. People in sleep-outs said it was frightening, as the walls appeared to swing in and buckle. The tremors were preceded by a hot, humid day on Saturday, followed by heavy thunder and rain in the evening.
The Argus Monday 23 November 1953, Page 2.
“Like a thunderclap”
SHARP EARTH TREMORS ROCK TOWN
A SHARP rumbling earth tremor woke and shook thousands of people in Benalla and district at 4.45 yesterday morning. Almost an hour later they were shaken by a second milder tremor.
The tremors rocked houses, dislodged bricks in chimneys, rattled windows, and brought down vases and pictures. In shops, articles were thrown from shelves. Both tremors lasted only a few seconds.
Mr. Stan Rogash, 36, of Byrne st., Benalla, said: “The house shook as though it had been hit by a truck, and there was a noise right overhead like a thunder-clap.”
Mr. Len McQualter, of King st., said: “There was a rumbling sound, and the house shook. My bed bounced and moved, and a photograph fell from the wall.” Mr. Les Frazer, of King st. said: “The rumbling noise took me back to the wartime battles.” Mr. G. R. Craze, of Goorambat, said: “I felt as though somebody had got hold of the bed and pulled it. The timbers in the house creaked.” Mr. F. Hernan, of Wenton said: “We had only one tremor, about 4.55 a.m. It was preceded by a loud clap like thunder, and a rumble.”
It is most unlikely that this small M3.5 earthquake at Benalla was felt in Orbost as described.
1954 No Victorian earthquakes were found. The 1954 Adelaide earthquake was felt in Victoria. From 1954, numbers of earthquakes are mainly from the GA database, from the time BMR and the ANU started monitoring in Victoria. It was a period of enhanced seismicity in the state. The TROVE extracts below are from the few newspaper proprietors who agreed that their newspapers could be scanned.
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Monday 1 March 1954, page 1
NIGHT ALARM AS QUAKE HITS ADELAIDE … and it shattered the GPO Clock
ADELAIDE, Today. — An earthquake shook Adelaide and a large area of South Australia for 20 seconds at 3.40 a.m. today.
The shock was also felt in many western Victorian towns as far east as Linton, near Ballarat. Tens of thousands of Adelaide people, frightened by the rumbling, ran into the streets in night clothes. Chimneys crashed, pieces of masonry fell from buildings, cracks appeared, windows shattered, a water main burst and articles tumbled from shop shelves. Blackouts followed in many parts of the metropolitan area and radios failed. Damage will run into tens of thousands of pounds. Government House and many other buildings being decorated for the Queen’s visit were cracked.
The post-media freedom-to-digitise period 1955-2023
Various sources including Trove were used to compile the following list of earthquakes felt in Melbourne after 1954 but also seismologists reports in records and reports from BMR and PIT, the ANU, GA and SRC. A listing from an earthquake catalogue is useful but tells you nothing about the impact of earthquakes on people and property which a simple isoseismal map can do. These intensity reports enable a different way of presenting and comparing earthquake hazard free of dubious source models or attenuation equations derived elsewhere on the planet, of magnitude conversions and other problems such as representative sample size.
1955 06 02 at about 01:19 UTC, Dandenongs
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Friday 3 June 1955, page 5
Belgrave shakes
A violent earth tremor rocked parts of the Dandenongs early yesterday. At dawn a low rumbling followed by a ground shudder shook buildings and rattled windows from Gembrook to Belgrave. Woodsmen in heavily timbered areas of the Dandenongs reported that scores of trees fell during the brief tremor. Belgrave Post-office trembled sharply, lights flickered, and dust billowed from the ceiling. Mr. R. S. Meyers, Belgrave postmaster, said: “It was like a mighty wind gust striking the building.
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Friday 10 June 1955, page 3
Windows shatter in tremor
Houses in several Melbourne suburbs were shaken by a minor earth tremor which occurred at 11.19 a.m. yesterday. Windows were shattered in a house in Hampton, and several homes in the Dandenongs were shaken at the foundations.
The tremor, which was momentary, seemed to proceed in a line from the Dandenongs to the bay, via Oakleigh. Mrs. K. Marshall, of Charles st., Hampton, said: “The blast shattered a small pane in my glass front door. “The house seemed to rumble twice at about 11.30, and again there seemed to be a more minor disturbance about noon. “It sounded like gunfire, and was not serious enough to do any real damage.”
The tremor was not recorded in Melbourne, as the city at present has no seismograph.
1956 01 06 at 10:35 UTC, Castlemaine
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Saturday 7 January 1956, page 1
NIGHT OF TERROR WHEN VICTORIAN TOWNS ROCK
ONE of Victoria’s worst earth tremors rocked 50 square miles around Castlemaine and Bendigo at 8.35 last night. Nobody was injured. The tremor, preceded by a “terrifying noise like a diving plane” lasted from five seconds in some towns to half a minute in others.
At Castlemaine people fled into the streets thinking their homes would collapse.
Figure 68 This earthquake near Castlemaine caused minor damage and great fright on 06 January 1956.
Dozens of people late last night would not re-enter their homes —they feared a new burst of tremors. Fearful residents jammed country exchanges wanting to know “What is happening? Is it the atomic bomb?” Police believed dozens of homes had been cracked, but darkness had made inspections impossible.
7 towns shook
Main towns affected were Castlemaine, Daylesford, Bendigo, Maryborough, Newstead, Welshman’s Reef, and Muckleford. Castlemaine resident Mr. G. Dobney, 60, and his wife, were momentarily paralysed in their chairs in a breakfast room.
Mr. Dobney said a queer shiver ran up and down his spine leaving him with a feeling of nausea. “It was several seconds before I was able to get out of the chair and run to the police station to see what was happening.” “Our house is about seven or eight brick rooms and it shook very noticeably for about five seconds,” he said. The 100-year-old bluestone Castlemaine police station shook to the foundations and plaster fell from the ceilings, First-constable M. Boal said. The police station telephone started ringing, the wireless went off, and the station’s fluorescent lights flickered.
At Newstead, 10 miles from Castlemaine, a local telephonist, Valda Birmingham, said her switchboard seemed to move when the rumble began, and doors mysteriously opened and closed. The home of Mrs. T. Lethebridge moved so badly that late last night she was unable to close some of her doors.
At Daylesford Postmaster Mr. J. Bull said buildings in the town rattled for about five to 10 seconds and he thought a huge machine was going up the main street.
Bendigo and Maryborough, both about 30 miles from Castlemaine, noticed the tremor only slightly, but enough to rattle windows and bring people into the streets.
Mr. A. P. Lee, Malmsbury post master said the post office was like “a kettle of boiling water with everything bubbling underneath.”
1956 01 18 at 11:15 UTC, Military training explosions
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Thursday 19 January 1956, page 1
EARTH TREMORS WERE ONLY GUN BLASTS
“Mystery” explosions rocked Seymour and Broadford last night, setting off rumors of earth tremors. But Puckapunyal camp solved the mystery. The Melbourne University Rifles and other C.M.F. heavy artillery units were firing field guns at Scrub Hill bivouac centre, seven miles from the camp and more than 20 from Broadford.
“Sound carries a long way on a still night like this,” said an N.C.O. at the camp.
Miss Margaret Cook, of Powlett st., Broadford, said five “tremors” shook her house, rattling windows, between 9.15 and 9.35 p.m.
1956 08 14 at time at 17:25 UTC, Geelong to Melbourne
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Thursday 16 August 1956, page 7
Earth’s crust slipped, so two cities shook
The severe earth tremor that shook hundreds of homes in Geelong and Melbourne early yesterday happened because: The earth’s crust moved about one-eighth of an inch. Mr. P. Mann, a geophysicist of the Bureau of Mineral Resources, said yesterday that the centre of the tremor was about 46 miles from Melbourne, perhaps under Port Phillip Bay. Geelong district had fractures in the earth’s crust, he said. A land slip of only one eighth inch along one of these fractures would have released the energy that shook both cities., Lesser tremors occurred in Melbourne every few weeks, but passed unnoticed among the vibrations of traffic and other noises.
Information on this important earthquake is scarce, the time obtained from a Queensland newspaper. The epicentre was determined using its estimated distance from Melbourne, 75km, and the similar intensities at Geelong and Melbourne.
1957 01 08 at time?, Glen Iris
Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 – 1957), Wednesday 9 January 1957, page 1
EARTH TREMOR IN SUBURBS.
A slight earth tremor shook houses and rattled windows at Sunshine and Glen Iris at ???? last night. Late last night no damage had been reported to police.
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Thursday 10 January 1957, page 1
Earth Tremor In Melbourne
MELBOURNE, Wednesday.— An earth tremor shook several Melbourne suburbs last night, rattling windows in homes as far apart as Sunshine and Glen Iris. Many people said a loud explosion preceded the tremors, which lasted for about two seconds. Police at Sunshine said they heard a loud noise like an explosion and the windows shook for two seconds.
The Melbourne Weather Bureau said the tremors were not sufficient to be recorded on a seismograph. A spokesman said that the tremor was felt in open country where even a slight subterranean earth movement could cause tremors.
1957 02 14 at ?time, Melbourne suburbs, MM3-4
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Friday 15 February 1957, page 1
Tremor Felt At Melbourne
MELBOURNE, Thursday. Three Melbourne suburbs were shaken by a slight earth tremor early this afternoon. The tremor was felt at Doncaster, Mentone and Clayton. A Clayton housewife, Mrs. Doreen O’Hare, of Deal’s Road, said her house shook violently, and windows rattled for about three seconds. Another housewife at Noble Park, near Clayton, reported “a queer rumble,” which caused crockery and furniture to tremble.
1966 05 03 at 19:07:53 UTC, Mount Hotham, Felt Melbourne MM2
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Thursday 5 May 1966, page 3
Tremors shake big area
An earthquake described by Australian National University seismologists as “major” rumbled through south-east Australia early yesterday morning causing widespread alarm but little damage.
Figure 69 The May 1966 Mt Hotham earthquake isoseismal map by Underwood,1967 with additions in green from a contemporary Canberra Times newspaper via Trove.
The tremor, estimated to have been centred in the uninhabited area south of Victoria’s Mount Hotham, registered about 5 on the revised Mercalli scale at its peak. This is almost halfway up the 12 point scale. Despite this, reports of damage have been light and scattered over a wide area. Reports of structural damage to buildings in Bright, Bairnsdale and Sale were still unconfirmed late last night.
The quake is reported to have been felt as far apart as Sydney, Dalton and Tathra in NSW, Bairnsdale, Omeo, Albury and the Melbourne suburbs of Box Hill and Caulfield in Victoria and in Canberra. It occurred at about 5am. The felt area is obviously somewhat larger than mapped.
1969 06 20 at 11:15:28 UTC, South Gippsland, Melbourne MM3
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Saturday 21 June 1969, page 1
Tremors shake Victoria
MELBOURNE, Friday.— A series of strong earth tremors shook most parts of Victoria and southern New South Wales at 9.16 tonight. The tremors were felt in almost every Melbourne suburb, and in places as far apart as Warrigal and Port Welshpool. A large number of people said the tremor was accompanied by a noise like a high wind. Initial reports suggested the damage was limited to cracked walls and paths and broken crockery and glassware.
The postmaster at Dalton, near Gunning, Mr Harvey Bone, said last night that the earthquake registered as a “very noticeable shock” on the seismograph he operates for the Australian National University’s department of geophysics.
“The main shock fluttered the needle for about three minutes with aftershocks showing up for five minutes after that. It was a decent – sized shake but quite a long way from here”, he said. A resident of the Currong Flats in Braddon telephoned The Canberra Times at 9.18 last night to say that the building had just been slightly shaken by an earthquake.
1971 06 02 at ?, UTC, Melbourne
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Thursday 3 June 1971, page 11
Earth tremor
MELBOURNE, Wednesday. — A severe earth tremor which lasted nearly a minute rocked hundreds of houses and buildings in bayside and outer Melbourne suburbs late today.
1971 07 06 at 21:55 UTC, Melbourne MM4
Western Port, Victoria – 7 July, 1971: magnitude ML and Ms 5.0. Being close to Melbourne, this quake was felt throughout the Melbourne metropolitan area. It caused minor, non-structural damage to some buildings on the Mornington Peninsula and on Phillip Island.
Figure 70 Felt reports from an earthquake in South Gippsland, 2 June 1971, felt throughout Melbourne.
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Thursday 8 July 1971, page 3.
MELBOURNE, Wednesday. — Geophysicists hope to get precise readings tomorrow of the earth tremor which shook Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula this morning. Preliminary readings indicate it was Australia’s most severe tremor since 1968.
1973 04 01 at ? UTC, Melbourne
Papua New Guinea Post-Courier (Port Moresby : 1969 – 1981), Monday 2 April 1973, page 7
MELBOURNE, Monday (AAP): An earth tremor rocked Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs early yesterday. No serious damage and no casualties were reported.
1975 09 23 at ?UTC, Melbourne and Geelong
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Saturday 24 September 1977, page 3
Earth tremor
MELBOURNE: A three-second earth tremor shook parts of Melbourne and Geelong yesterday. The tremor registered three on the Richter scale.
1976 07 09 at 08:27 UTC, Preston, Melbourne Imax MM3-4
The magnitude ML 1.3 earthquake under the Melbourne suburb of Preston was reported by a large number of residents. It is the smallest Australia earthquake for which an isoseismal map has been compiled (Gibson et al, 1981) with MM3-4 assessed in a small area about the epicentre.
Figure 71 The smallest Australian earthquake for which sufficient felt reports were collected in Preston, a suburb of Victoria, that an isoseismal map could be drawn. The earthquake occurred on 9 July 1976 (Gibson and others, 1981).
1977 09 22 at 20:55 UTC
This magnitude 3.1 earthquake under Port Phillip Bay shook the Melbourne area as reported in Friday afternoons final (extra) edition of The Herald newspaper of 23 September, page 5:
TREMOR HITS SUBURBS
An earth tremor cracked walls in Melbourne and Geelong today. It was felt along the Mornington Peninsula, parts of Geelong and suburbs around Caulfield, Carnegie and Toorak. Measuring three on the Richter scale, the tremor lasted three seconds from 6.55 am. Mrs Helen Lacey of Tudor Court, Frankston, said a soft rumbling noise preceded the tremor. ’It sounded like a far-away truck or train and then it struck,’ she said. ’It cracked the ceiling and paintwork in several rooms.’
Mrs Gwenda Syme, of Nepean Highway, Portsea, said her room shook for several seconds during the tremor. ’Nothing was broken or fell from the shelves but the whole house shook,’ she said.
Figure 72 The epicentre of this small earthquake was NE of Queenscliffe but it shook the metropolitan area (Gibson & Corke, Seismology Research Centre RMIT Bundoora, Victoria, and Kevin McCue.
1977 12 02 at 13:32 UTC, Balliang felt Melbourne MM4
An earthquake of magnitude ML 4.5 to 5 occurred at 13:32 UT on 2 December 1977 (00:32 local time on 3 December 1977) near Balliang, about 50km WNW of Melbourne, Victoria. Two hundred and sixty three questionnaires were distributed (50 by the Preston Institute of Technology); nearly 70% were returned. The earthquake was felt over a radius of 230 km as far as Kerang to the north, Hamilton to the west, and Warragul to the east. A maximum intensity of MM V was indicated. Isolated reports of minor damage were received MM V zone (e.g. from Werribee) and were attributed to a higher population density.
A number of aftershocks were recorded but no damage from these was reported.
Figure 73 The isoseismal map of the 1977 Balliang earthquake was drawn by BMR from the data collected by BMR and the Preston Institute of Technology (Gibson, and others, 1981).
The author visited PIT staff and at the end of the day rode his motorbike home to Adelaide where, on arrival, he heard about the earthquake on the ABC midnight news. Thoroughly soaked in a storm riding into Adelaide he resisted the impulse to get back on the bike to return to investigate the earthquake.
1981 06 16 at 21:33 UTC, Melbourne MM3-4
The Bass Strait earthquake of 17 June (local time), magnitude ML 5.1, was felt in Victoria at distances up to 250km from the epicentre. Intensity in the metropolitan area was MM3-4. A State Emergency Service spokesman said minor damage was reported in Dandenong, Geelong, Phillip Island, Inverloch, the Mornington Peninsula, St Kilda and Werribee.
Contrary to the the map published in the first Isoseismal Atlas, this earthquake was felt in northwestern Tasmania as reported by the Advocate of 18 June 1981.
Figure 74 The original BMR map of the felt effects of this June 1981 magnitude 5 earthquake in Bass Strait was amended by McCue using extensive data from Trove.
Miss Mandy Moore of Maud St., West Ulverstone said she woke at 7.30 am to find the bed was moving. She said: ’I didn’t know if I was dreaming or had gone off my head, I didn’t know what was happening.’ Mrs Doris Wing of Grove St central Ulverstone, said she felt the earthquake distinctly: ’I was sitting in bed listening to the radio news. There was one fairly big movement then a little tremor, then it finished.’ A Sheffield resident believes she felt the tremor while in bed also.
1982 11 21 at 11:34 UTC, Wonnangatta, Melbourne MM3-5
The Wonnangatta earthquake was widely felt throughout eastern Victoria and southeastern New South Wales. The most distant report (275 km) was from the fifth floor of a block of flats in Canberra, where a motion typical of MM I was experienced.
Production of this isoseismal map was hampered by the remoteness of the epicentral region: few people live within 35 km of the epicentre, and the nearest sizeable town is about 60 km away. Staff from the Phillip Institute of Technology (PIT) interviewed most people within the epicentral region and a random sample of people at locations out to 100 km. BMR distributed 300 questionnaires to post offices in southeastern Australia to determine the extent of the felt area. These data were combined to prepare the isoseismal map.
Intensities of MM V were experienced in the epicentral region, and intensities of MM IV were experienced in most of eastern Victoria. One surprising feature was the relatively low intensities experienced immediately east and north of the epicentre: despite wide questioning of the local population at Mount Hotham, Harrietville, Mount Beauty, Tawonga, and Bright (up to 60 km from the epicentre), only one report exceeding MM V was found in these areas. In contrast, intensities of MM V were experienced at distances over 100 km west and southwest of the epicentre.
The Melbourne metropolitan area, which is about 180 km from the epicentre, experienced intensities of MM III-IV. This contrasts with the 1966 Mount Hotham earthquake, which was of almost identical size but was felt at only a few places in Melbourne (Underwood, 1967; Everingham & others, 1982).
Figure 75 The Isoseismal map (Everingham and others, 1982) shows the earthquake was widely felt and clearly felt throughout the Melbourne metropolitan area (Denham, and others, 1985, and Underwood, R., 1967).
A number of questionnaire returns and newspaper reports suggested that the earthquake could have caused minor damage to some houses in the Eildon-Mansfield area, Moe, and Morwell. Although, an inspection by PIT staff in these areas discovered damage consistent with an intensity of MM VI (damage to buildings of weak construction), the possibility remains that most of this damage was caused by subsidence resulting from the 1982 drought and that the damage was discovered only when the shock prompted people to examine their buildings. Strong ground motion from the earthquake was recorded by accelerographs at three sites in Victoria at PIT, PAT, and JEN (+ on the map).The maximum recorded accelerations at these stations were 22, 160, and 75 mms-2 respectively.
1996 09 25 at 07:49 UTC, Thomson Dam, felt Melbourne MM4
This was the largest earthquake in Victoria since the 1982 Wonnangatta event (Denham and others, 1985) 100 km to the northeast and the second largest in Australia in 1996. Questionnaires were distributed statewide by AGSO and in the metropolitan and epicentral areas by SRC, and an isoseismal map was jointly compiled. Telephone queries were subsequently made to gain more information.
The intensity in the epicentral region was MM VI where it is reported to have sounded like a large explosion and buildings shook strongly though there was no structural damage to the dam or other structures. In Melbourne suburbs the intensity varied from MM V to not felt, some people felt shaking strongly enough to be frightened, others felt nothing. People reported feeling the earthquake at Shepparton and Wodonga, 200 km to the north and Orbost a similar distance to the east but it was not felt at Geelong to the west. To the south there were no reports further than 60 km from the epicentre.
Figure 76 Thomson Dam earthquake on 25 September 1996 and inset a map of intensities around the epicentre. Contributors: Adam Pascale, Gary Gibson and Kevin McCue.
The map is strikingly asymmetric, radiated energy strongly attenuated to the south and east which we attribute more to the mechanism of the earthquake than the geology based on the more symmetric shape of isoseisms of earlier earthquakes.
2000 03 16 at 13:26 UTC, Gaffneys Creek, felt Melbourne MM0-4
This small magnitude 3.8 earthquake in east central Victoria caused no damage but was widely felt, woke people in the sparsely populated epicentral area and was felt by a few insomniacs as far as the northern and eastern suburbs of Melbourne.
One resident of Jamieson reported that existing cracks in his concrete driveway; ‘now have chippings along edges and appear to have widened to nearly twice their original width’.
Figure 77: This small earthquake at Gaffneys Creek was felt throughout the NE Melbourne metropolitan area. Kim Bevan compiled the map, Lesley Hodgson distributed questionnaires (AGSO) and Tony Corke (SRC) provided supplementary information.
An Acheron farmer reported: ‘a sizeable tremor ……. At first I heard a noise I have never heard before, like perhaps a tornado for about 3 – 5 seconds, then it grew in vibration and lasted about another 5 seconds then suddenly dropping away to nothingness. Windows, walls and the two cats were shaking to the point I thought that I thought they were going to fall out of their old frames. (I can remember the tremor in the 70’s and that would have been as big as the one I felt this morning).
One observer wrote: ‘I was talking to my wife at approximately 12:10 am when I heard a distant rumble (like a large truck or train in the distance and getting closer). The noise intensified and as it got louder the house began to shake and rattle. The noise was quite loud, like a truck passing the house. Once the shock wave had passed the house the noise then decreased and the rattling and movement of the house ceased.’
2000 08 29 at 12:05 UTC Boolara South, felt Melbourne MM 3-4
This earthquake occurred just west of Boolarra in Gippsland, about 22 km Southwest of Morwell and 130 km Southeast of Melbourne. It was felt strongly in Gippsland, and there have been unconfirmed reports of minor damage. It was felt over all Melbourne suburbs, particularly in the east, but as far west as Sunshine. A foreshock of magnitude ML 2.6 was recorded at 09:20 pm AEDT, about two hours before the main shock, and there was an ML 1.5 foreshock at 10:40 am AEDT. There were no significant aftershocks in the three weeks after the main shock.
Figure 78 This map of the felt effects of the August 2000 Boolara South earthquake, felt throughout Melbourne, was compiled by Kevin McCue (AGSO) and Wayne Peck (SRC).
2021 09 21 at 23:15 UTC, Victoria’s largest earthquake since European settlement
A large shallow earthquake struck near Mansfield and Woods Point 130km ENE of Melbourne in the Victorian Alps on 22 September 2021 at 9:15 a.m. local time. The earthquake measured ML 6.0, Mw 5.9.
Figure 79 Isoseismal Map of the magnitude ML6 Woods Point, Victoria earthquake in September 2021 (produced by Geoscience Australia and SRC)
Minor structural damage ensued in parts of Melbourne and many residential buildings were evacuated due to the damage caused. On Chapel Street, the earthquake collapsed a brick parapet of the Betty’s Burgers building, a hamburger restaurant, and rained bricks onto the road. Along Brunswick Road in Fitzroy another brick building suffered partial collapse of its facade. Covid lockdown ensured there were no pedestrians in the street at this normally busy time.
At least 46 instances of building damage to chimneys and facades were reported in the city. Tall residential apartments of up to 50 storeys swayed for as long as 20 seconds, triggering panic among residents. In Mansfield near the epicentre, some buildings including a local ambulance station suffered minor damage. Power outages were reported across metropolitan Melbourne.
Figure 79 Isoseismal Map of the magnitude ML6 Woods Point, Victoria earthquake in September 2021 (produced by Geoscience Australia and SRC)
Figure 79 Isoseismal Map of the magnitude ML6 Woods Point, Victoria earthquake in September 2021 (produced by Geoscience Australia and SRC)
Photos Bricks littering the road in Chapel Street Melbourne and supermarket shelving failure, following the Mansfield earthquake on 22 September 2021 local time (collapsed parapet and more damage photos). Incredibly no one was killed and there was only one injury reported, a man in Mount Eliza, a coastal suburb more than 40km SSE of Melbourne. He sustained minor injuries when building material fell on him while he was working. A lot of damage in an area rated MM4.
The felt area map shows MM2-3 in Canberra but it was not felt by the author who was sitting quietly at home in Aranda at the time, and not felt by any any others he contacted at the time.
2023 05 28 at 13:41 UTC, Sunbury, felt throughout Melbourne MM3
Melbourne was shaken by a magnitude 3.8 earthquake that hit the city’s north-west late at night, rattling homes and waking up thousands. The author’s brother in the Melbourne suburb of McLeod rang immediately after feeling the earthquake to alert me that he had felt the event.
2023 06 29 at 15:32:43 UTC, NE Woods Point – felt Melbourne
Many residents of Melbourne and the region were shaken awake yet again, the culprit a magnitude 4.6 aftershock of the co-located September 2021 earthquake about 125km to the ENE of the city. Melbournites are wondering when these unwelcome visitations will cease.
Discussion
Underwood (1972) published a remarkable catalogue of Victorian earthquakes but, without Trove, had no way of searching country newspapers for pre-1955 earthquakes. He acknowledged that this would reveal additional details of many shocks. He listed just 6 earthquakes to 1883 (without magnitudes) whereas here we list 59 (with magnitudes). The Trove assisted study practically ends on December 31, 1954 after which copyright prevents the ANL scanning most current newspapers. That is a great pity because there is a gap of about a decade until sufficient short period seismographs were established in Victoria; by BMR at Toolangi (1962) and Bellfield (1972), and by the ANU at Bogong (1963), Buchan and Mt Tassie (1964). For the post-1959 period Underwood has an exhaustive list of earthquakes with magnitudes. BMR basically took over earthquake monitoring from the Astronomical Observatory in about 1957 with the installation of a Wood-Anderson seismograph in Melbourne. Fortunately some newspapers were scanned, having ceased publication or, like the Canberra Times, just thought it a socially responsible thing to do.
One of the drivers for this study was an attempt to recreate the Rev W.B. Clarke’s lost catalogue of early Australian earthquakes. Clarke used the newspapers, plus personal communications with colleagues in the states. The latter we cannot replicate but we can probably access more of the newspapers. A second driver was to establish a sufficiently long sample of earthquakes to compare the pre-instrumental period with the instrumental period and thirdly, in Gippsland, to enable a better comparison with other areas such as the long record of earthquakes in the Yass-Gunning-Goulburn area of NSW, rather than just the short post-1965 record.
This study has focused mainly on earthquakes discovered in a search of early scanned newspapers, supplemented by information in Underwood’s (1972) extensive list, and some additions by Gibson and others (1981). Future research will be rewarded when all of the relevant newspapers have been digitised. More earthquakes were being discovered even as we drew the line at the end of May 2024.
Comparison of Figures 1a and 1b is interesting for several reasons. Firstly, most of the epicentres in the two periods plot between 143° and 148° East. Secondly there is no obvious concentration of activity in Gippsland in the earlier period so the hazard, averaged over the whole period 1855 – 2014, is not any higher than the rest of the area of central Victoria including Melbourne. One of the surprising features of the historical seismicity map is the activity in the vicinity of Melbourne, resulting in a surprising number of earthquakes felt in the city, compared with Sydney for example.
The existence of the 1885 earthquake and relocation of the 1922 Bass Strait earthquakes should contribute to a re-assessment of earthquake risk in the Melbourne region, especially to the southwest of the city where there are special structures like the Animal Health Laboratory and a concentration of oil and gas storage facilities. Earthquakes in NSW, South Australia and Tasmania impact on earthquake hazard in Victoria and vice-versa.
As this study was nearing completion it was surprising to find the 1885 earthquake listed in the GA earthquake database with identical magnitude and similar location, the source claimed to be AUST but probably an extract from Gibson’s unpublished catalogue (pers. comm.).
Improvements in the epicentres of historical earthquakes will be made when further local newspapers are scanned by the Australian National Library, or other sources such as diaries are made available to improve the isoseismal maps. There is always scope for improvement as Underwood (1972) pointed out 40 years ago.
Small earthquakes near the cities are as important as larger rural earthquakes to improve risk assessments to those cities, especially if the events can be associated with mapped faults.
Ground shaking attenuation is very rapid in Victoria so that unless a small to moderate earthquake occurs virtually under an urban area we should not expect significant damage. The 1903 Warrnambool earthquakes are a good example. The hazard calculation then can focus on relatively frequent small to moderate very close earthquakes or infrequent large earthquakes out to perhaps 50 km (given the recent Christchurch NZ experience). More focus should now be put on an exhaustive search for Recent fault scarps to develop more confidence in the apparent frequency of large earthquakes determined from extrapolation of the frequency of small to moderate earthquakes, now better known because of studies like this one.
Figure 80 Numbers of earthquakes in 20 year intervals since 1855, magnitude ≥4 (blue), ≥5 (green) with means of 10 and 2 years respectively. Seismographs were deployed just in time to catch the very active period 1955 to 1974. Otherwise the historical period looks very like the post-instrumental period.
Human activities are increasingly leading to earthquakes, whether pumping fluids underground for waste disposal or geothermal reservoir production, filling large reservoirs or mining. Historically, mining has shown a capacity to induce earthquakes, the hard rock mines of Victoria are no exception as event near Walhalla and Bendigo show clearly. More recently fracking operations in coal rich areas will no doubt provide many more examples. Such operations should be monitored closely with dense networks of seismographs, provided by the miners (dam owners do it), and the data made publicly available.
One impact of the 1954 Adelaide earthquake on Melbourne
Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 – 1954), Thursday 23 December 1954, page 2
PERHAPS Melbourne is no longer the safe, quiet city its citizens like to imagine. A colleague reports that his insurance company has refused to continue taking the risk on a general pol-icy of an earthquake damaging his house. The Adelaide earthquake some time back cost insurance companies £3 million. Thunderbolts and some other calamities will still pass muster on a general policy, but Melbourne householders with a fear of earthquakes must now seek separate cover — at one penny for £1000.
Assessing the Relative Earthquake Hazard of Melbourne
The practical outcomes of a historical earthquake study such as this are: (i) it more than triples the database for a standard PSHA study, and (ii) it lends itself to direct relative assessment of earthquake hazard at Melbourne with Sydney, Adelaide, Newcastle ..… or at specific sites such as dams or sensitive sites like the Animal Health Laboratory near Geelong.
PSHA Proponents of PSHA studies may query the magnitudes obtained from felt reports or the completeness of the sample with time. The histogram of earthquakes across the seismic data/no seismic data period show that the pre- and post- numbers are very similar for earthquakes of magnitude 4 or more and magnitude 5 or more (Figure 69). The outstanding period coincides with the transition to modern short-period seismographs. The founder of the local magnitude scale ML, Charles Richter (1958), condoned the use of felt area as a proxy for magnitude and I have shown a useful correlation between the two in Australia (McCue, 1980). Richter claimed an accuracy of ± 0.5. One shouldn’t be too doctrinaire about magnitude, it is a crude scale at best to describe the size of an earthquake and even today the range of measured magnitudes for any earthquake often exceeds one magnitude unit.
The Gumbel Type-1 Extreme Value Distribution This distribution may be used to represent the distribution of the maximum size of an earthquake in a particular year if there is a list of maximum values for a number of past years, the more the better. It is useful in predicting the chance that an extreme earthquake or other natural disaster will occur. In this case we use MM Intensity as the measure of the earthquake ground shaking at a particular place, in this case the urban area of Melbourne.
I have tabulated the maximum intensity in every year since 1837, 59 non-zero values in the 187 years, an earthquake felt nearly every 3 years on average. These varied from a small magnitude 1.6 earthquake under the Melbourne suburb Preston in July 1976 (Gibson and others, 1981) to a large magnitude ~ 6.9 earthquake east of Flinders Island in September 1884.
The plotting value used in Figure 69 is j/(N+1) for the jth value in N years after the events were reordered in increasing intensity MMI. The line of best fit is given by the equation
MMI = 0.786 lnT +1.88,
or ln T = 1.27MMI – 2.39
Using this method, the relative earthquake hazard results for Adelaide, Sydney, Melbourne and Newcastle are compared in the following two tables which, naturally, reflect the earthquake record of the last 200 years. There is no reason to suspect that the following 200 years will be similar but that is what code committees and hazard analysts do. It may well work for cities on or near plate boundaries given a long enough history but that is not the case for intraplate regions such as Australia. At best the results suggest that earthquake design rules for domestic buildings up to 3 storeys should be incorporated into the building code of Australia in all cities; at worst one could make simple mandatory rules so that all parts of buildings are inter-connected – no free standing parapets, gable walls or chimneys, and in turn the building is properly connected to the foundations.
| Return Period (years) | MM Intensity | |||
| Melbourne | Sydney | Newcastle | Adelaide | |
| 1 | 2 | 2 | <2 | <2 |
| 10 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 3.5 |
| 100 | 5.5 | 5 | 7 | 7 |
| 500 | 7 | 6 | 9 | 9 |
Table 3 Summary of earthquake hazard at several cities in Australia, as rated by MM Intensity
Figure 81 The plot shows one approach to estimating comparative earthquake hazard where the maximum intensity on the Modified Mercalli scale in Melbourne over the last 187 years is binned, sorted and plotted against return period (years). The 100 yr intensity is 5.5, the 10 year intensity almost 4.
References
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Denham, D., Gibson, G., Smith, R. S., & Underwood, R., 1985 — Source mechanisms and strong ground motion from the 1982 Wonnangatta and the 1966 Mount Hotham earthquakes. Australian Journal of Earth Sciences, 32, 37-46.
Dix, K.L., 2013. South Australian Historical Earthquakes in the Pre-Instrumental period 1837-1963: A comprehensive Chronicle and Analysis of Available Intensity Data. A thesis submitted for the degree of Master of Philosophy, School of Physics, University of Adelaide.
Drake, L, 1974. The seismicity of New South Wales. Royal Society of New South Wales. Journal and Proceedings, v. 107(1-4). 35-40.
Everingham, I B, and Tilbury, L, 1972. Information on Western Australian earthquakes 1849-1960. Royal Society of Western Australia. Journal, v. 55(3), November, pp. 90-96.
Everingham, I.B., McEwin, A.J., and Denham, D., 1982. Atlas of isoseismal maps of Australian earthquakes. Bureau of Mineral Resources, Australia, Bulletin 214.
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Gibson, G., Wesson, V., and Cuthbertson, R., 1981. Seismicity of Victoria to 1980, J Geol. Soc. Aust., 28, pp. 341-356.
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Holmes, W.M. 1933. The Mornington earth tremor of 3rd September 1932. Transactions of the Royal Society of Victoria, 45 (2), pp. 150-151.
McCue, K.F. 1975 Seismicity and Seismic Risk in South Australia. University of Adelaide, Report ADP 137.
McCue, K.F., 1978. The value of historical records – the Warrnambool earthquake of July 1903. Journal Royal Society of Victoria, 90 (2), pp. 245-250.
McCue, K.F., 1980. Magnitudes of some early earthquakes in south-eastern Australia. Search, 11(3), pp. 78-80.
McCue, K.F., 1978. Seismic Risk in Eastern Australia. University of South Australia, Report ADP 153 (unpubl.)
McCue, K.F., 1996 (compiler). Atlas of Isoseismal Maps of Australian Earthquakes Part 3. AGSO Record 1996/19.
McCue, K.F. 2014 – Historical Earthquakes in New South Wales. https://aees.org.au/historical-earthquakes-in-nsw-updated/
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Appendix 1 List of earthquakes with a date, location and magnitude that affected Victoria and are discussed in this paper. The small earthquakes for which isoseismal maps were not produced have been assigned a magnitude of ML 2.5 to 3.5 being a reasonable balance between being felt only locally, but strongly enough to be noted in a newspaper, without causing damage.
Prior to the introduction of Eastern Standard Time in 1895, time was based on actual longitude. In Melbourne, at longitude 145°, local time would have been 9h 40m ahead of Greenwich (not 10 hours), at Horsham at 142°E, local time would have been 9h 28m ahead of GMT. Reports seem to have used Melbourne time.
| 1884 05 31 | 19:20 | 40 | 149 | 5.6 | NE Tasmania | |
| 1884 06 01 | 12:25 | 40 | 149 | 5.0 | NE Tasmania | |
| 1884 07 13 | 03:43 | 40.5 | 148.5 | 6.2 | Y | Tasman Sea |
| 1884 09 19 | 10:05 | 40.0 | 150.2 | 6.0 | Y | Tasman Sea |
| 1885 05 12 | 23:27 | 39.9 | 148.9 | 6.5 | Y | Tasman Sea |
| 1897 05 10 | 05:26 | 37.33 | 139.75 | 6.5 | Kingston SA | |
| 1892 01 26 | 16:48 | 40.4 | 159.5 | 6.9 | NE Tasmania | |
| 1946 09 09 | 19:50 | 40.0 | 149.35 | 5.7 | E Flinders Island Tas. |
Appendix 2 Earthquakes in Tasmania that have impacted Victoria
Acknowledgments The TROVE resource developed by the Australian National Library is a treasure indeed for researchers who used to make long trips to far away cities where they wated for long hours while staff dug out old newspapers, one at a time, but can now do it all from the comfort of their office. I am indebted to all the journalists who reported the earthquakes at the time. Rob Underwood manually searched Victorian newspapers and used the old Melbourne Observatory logbook to publish a comprehensive list of early earthquakes, the places where they were felt, and intensities, but not the magnitude. Care must be taken as some of the times are local times rather than GMT as labeled. Chris Fitzgerald coloured the maps and put together the draft Isoseismal Atlas. Cartographer Gayle Young converted some of my rough draft maps into works of art for which I am most grateful.
The manager of Bendigo Observatory, Judith Bailey, searched out the daily logbook of two of the Benalla earthquakes at my request. My late father Bill and brother David helped search out information on the 1903 Warrnambool earthquakes when I was a post-grad student at Imperial College (back then). There are too many others who provided information and help for this study to mention, except for the irrepressible Gary Gibson who was always ready to discuss and debate the physics of earthquakes in Victoria. Sonja Lenz reviewed parts of the earlier manuscript but is not responsible for the seismological conclusions.
Appendix 3 Earthquake Poetry
“BASS STRAIT QUAKE.”
by A. EVELYN LYNCH. Bonbeach. Published in the Frankston & Somerville Standard Saturday 24 September 1932, page 5 following the Mornington earthquake.
There’s a dawn I shall remember,
August had just said “How do to September”.
Suddenly a loud rumbling like heavy thunder,
Startled Peninsula folk from their slumber.
Houses were quaking on their foundations,
And quivering beds gave queasy sensations.
Astronomers are seeking the cause of commotion,
Deeming the tremor began in the ocean.
Maybe Earth developed a pain in her “tummy,”
Her quivering and groaning made us all feel rummy.
If attacked there again and not stand the strain,
She may pop with a terrific explosion.
Then we’ll be drying our tears in a new strathasphere,
Or fleeing from sharks in the ocean.
Appendix 4 THE CHRONICLES OF EARLY MELBOURNE – EARTHQUAKES. HISTORICAL, ANECDOTAL, AND PERSONAL.—(1835-1851.) By GARRYOWEN
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Friday 22 December 1882, page 3
CHAPTER VIII. Earthquakes.
The first subterranean convulsion noticed by European residents in Port Phillip has given rise to some discussion as to its date, and more than one writer has affirmed that it occurred during Sir Richard Bourke’s visit to Melbourne, in March, 1837, when it so alarmed His Excellency as to cause him to hesitate about proclaiming a township on the site of Melbourne. Sir Richard’s decision as to the town was formed on the 4th March, for on that day he rode over the place, and determined upon having a township established there. Captain King was with him, and in his diary of his trip from Sydney is silent on the subject ; and, singular to write, Mr Robert Hoddle, the then Principal Officer of Survey, before his death in 1881 sent me a verbal answer to a written query that he recollected nothing whatever about an earthquake at the time. Mr Hoddle also kept a very precise journal of the events of the period, and in the portions for March 1837, with a perusal of which I was favored, I found not a word referring to so important an event. Nevertheless there was an earthquake, and in March too, but towards the close of the month. Mr Thomas Halfpenny, still alive at Studley Park, was then a publican in a wee wattle and daub bunk of a tavern, perched on the ground now occupied by the Theatre Royal, and one sultry night towards the end of March, sleepless from the heat, he suddenly felt a movement as if some supernatural visitant had gently given him a lift in the blanket. He kept wondering until morning as to the cause of the commotion, for though he lived by the dispersion of spirituous influences, he had no belief in preternatural agencies On opening his bar to serve some early birds with a dram, to his astonishment he learned that a shock of earthquake had been felt by several of the few inhabitants during the night. On referring to Mr Robert Russell, a sort of living oracle in respect to everything that happened in an age apparently so remote, he assured me verbally that there was an earthquake, and that he believed it occurred on the 25th March ; but he promised to hunt it up from a cairn of old memoranda, which he religiously preserves as a memento of Auld Lang Syne. He kept his word, for the next day I had a communication from him in which he writes:— “You asked me to state what I remember of the earthquake. Simply this, that D’Arcy and I were sleeping on the same stretcher, and that I got up to look under it feeling as though some large animal had crept under and was lifting me up—bodily.” The D’Arcy referred to is the gentleman mentioned in another chapter as a member of the Survey staff sent from Sydney in charge of Mr Russell. Two or three days after I received another letter, in which Mr Russell supplies further particulars, including an extract from the oldest diary in the colony except Batman’s, which I give as a species of literary fossil, not often to be met with now-a-days. He writes:— “I find l was quite right in my surmises as to the precise date of the Earthquake. It took place on the night of 25th March, 1837. ……
Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 – 1954), Friday 29 December 1882, page 2
CHAPTER VIII. Earthquakes.— (Continued.)
” Now, I saw to-day a lady of my acquaintance who remembers as a child D’Arcy’s tent at the Barwon, opposite where she lived, and the talk of our being disturbed by the earthquake at the time, and I remember on that single occasion that being absent from my own tent D’Arcy and I had to share the same stretcher, which circumstance is connected in my mind with the earthquake, and, being startled there with D’Arcy and I were frequent visitors at the house. So much for earthquake.” Mr Russell also kindly undertook to communicate with Mr E. T. Newton, an old friend of his in the country, who was Batman’s business man at the time, and he has supplied me with the following extract from the reply of his correspondent:— ” I cannot fix the date of the first earthquake, although I felt it distinctly. It was as near midnight as possible. I was with a friend encamped on rising or rather high ground, near a creek known then as the Deep Creek, about 15 or 20 miles from Maribyrnong, on the Saltwater River. We had sheep there, and the men had been constructing brush yards, and had gone to bed in their tents tired and with such an over supply of strong rum that they would not believe my report of the earthquake when they had come to their right senses in the morning. The oscillations of the earth, though not violent were too palpable to be mistaken by anyone and I had never felt anything like it before nor have I since that date.” I think I have now fairly established the existence and period of Earthquake No. 1.
In 1841, Collingwood, then known as Newtown, was the refugium peccatorium of most of the rascaldom of the period. It was one of the queerest collections of back slums imaginable, and how the rogues and vagabonds could content themselves with the hovel accommodation afforded by the place is difficult to be understood. Early on the morning of the 21st April, the black sheep were rudely disturbed in their slumberings by the shock of an earthquake which shook them all in their lairs. They thought the end of the world was at hand, and all Newtown, good and bad, turned out in trepidation many of them half dressed, and flew in fear and trembling into Melbourne, where to their intense joy they learned there had been no premonitory warning of “the crack of doom,” so they returned, to find Newtown still in the land of the living, and were, no doubt, thankful for the long day vouchsafed to them.
But the most alarming shock of earthquake ever experienced in the colony happened in Melbourne at half-past four p.m. of the 28th April, 1847. It was sharply felt throughout the town, though almost instantaneous in its duration. A few houses in some of the streets were slightly shaken, and people rushed about in a state of considerable terror. In one or two of the churches and larger buildings there were the appearances of a strain, and certain slight settlement in the foundations were noticed. The Flagstaff Hill showed some effects of the subterranean emente, inasmuch as the staff employed in vessel signalling was shattered in more than one place. I happened to be in the Supreme Court at the time, where the shock frightened everyone. A smothered rumbling, as if the passage of heavy carriages in the earth, was heard, and the interior of the building seemed to rock. The persons in attendance were almost literally thunderstruck, and most of them rushed frightened out into the open air. There was a special jury case on at the time, and Judge a’Beckett, unceremoniously adjourning the court, hobbled with all his might off the bench, for he was mostly in a state of gout or rheumatism, and denied the free use of his locomotive limbs. No further damage was caused.
At a quarter to 12 a.m. on the 12th October, 1848, another shock of earthquake was felt in Melbourne, but it was the slightest of any that had up to that time occurred.