In the heart of Victoria’s Western Treatment Plant lies the remnants of a once-thriving township, Cocoroc. This name, derived from the Wathaurung language, meaning “frog,” pays homage to the region’s indigenous roots. Despite its abandonment decades ago, Cocoroc’s story remains etched into the fabric of the area, offering a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era.
The Rise and Fall of a Sewage Farm Settlement
Location – Map
Established in 1894 by the Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works (MMBW), Cocoroc was initially conceived as a housing solution for the workers of the Werribee Sewage Farm, now known as the Western Treatment Plant. The township’s blueprint envisioned an orderly layout with 72 allotments, a landscaped park, and six cottages, setting the stage for a self-sufficient community.
Over the following years, Cocoroc flourished, with the construction of a town hall in 1903, which became the heart of the community. By the 1940s, the township boasted a pool, sports pavilion, oval, tennis court, church, and post office, catering to the needs of its growing population. The 1950s marked Cocoroc’s peak, with nearly 100 houses and approximately 500 residents calling it home.
However, the township’s prosperity was short-lived. As the years progressed, maintaining Cocoroc became increasingly expensive for the MMBW. By the 1970s, the decision was made to abandon the settlement, and most buildings were either demolished or relocated to nearby Werribee. Today, only a few remnants remain, including two empty swimming pools, a sports pavilion, a town hall, and a heritage-listed water tank, serving as poignant reminders of Cocoroc’s vibrant past.
Life in the Sewage Farm Township
Despite the challenges associated with residing in a sewage farm settlement, Cocoroc offered its residents more than just a place to live – it was a source of identity, community, and pride.
The Demanding Nature of Farm Work
Earning a living at the Werribee Sewage Farm was no easy feat. Farm work was physically demanding, with teams of horses pulling ploughs and scoops to cultivate the land. However, the farm’s prized possession was its Caterpillar, a coveted piece of machinery that revolutionized the work. Even children contributed to the farm’s operations, collecting wood or milking cows before and after school, making for long and arduous days.
By the mid-1950s, the introduction of lagoon treatment and mechanization transformed the work, ushering in a new era and marking the end of the draft horses’ reign.
A Close-Knit Community with Self-Sufficiency at Its Core
Cocoroc was a self-sufficient town, with workers and their families well-provided for. Each household was allotted half an acre of land, allowing for vegetable gardens, chicken coops, and the keeping of pigs and two milking cows provided by the MMBW. Annual competitions celebrated the best gardens, and scholarships were awarded to children aspiring to attend Werribee High and technical schools.
The town’s first school opened its doors in 1895, employing numerous teachers throughout its 77-year history. The school hall hosted dances, and its committees organized end-of-year parties and annual picnics to raise funds for educational equipment, fostering a strong sense of community spirit.
A Source of Local Pride and Solidarity
Living and working on a sewage farm often carried a stigma, but the residents of Cocoroc transformed these negative sentiments into a source of solidarity and local pride. This was exemplified by their football team, the Herefords, named after the farm’s cattle breed.
Sports played a central role in the town’s life, with facilities including a swimming pool, sports pavilion, oval with goal posts for football and a cricket pitch, and a tennis court. These recreational outlets brought residents together and fostered a sense of belonging.
Generations on the Sewage Farm
For many families, Cocoroc represented secure employment during times of economic uncertainty. Multiple generations found themselves on the MMBW payroll, with men working as fencers, carpenters, stablemen, watermen, stockmen, tractor drivers, and nursery workers. Women, too, made valuable contributions as housewives, mothers, secretaries, and cleaners, ensuring the smooth operation of the farm’s daily activities. Today, some of these families remain locals of Werribee, carrying on the legacy of their ancestors.
Exploring the Remnants of Cocoroc
While much of Cocoroc has been lost to time, a few structures remain standing, offering a glimpse into the township’s rich history. Visitors can explore these sites through the Western Treatment Plant’s virtual tour or in person.
The Town Hall: A Centerpiece of Community Life
The Cocoroc Town Hall was undoubtedly the township’s most crucial gathering place. Originally built in 1903, it burned down in 1924 but was rebuilt and relocated to its current position in 1975. The hall served as a library and a hub for weekly entertainment, hosting Saturday night dances, Monday night euchre (a card game) sessions, annual school concerts, wedding receptions, and various other parties.
The Historic Water Tower: A Remnant of Melbourne’s Past
Erected in East Melbourne in 1854, the heritage-listed water tower was initially used to store water pumped from the Yarra River. In 1892, the tower was dismantled and moved to Cocoroc for £1,128, serving as a backup water supply. After the town was connected to the mains water system in 1925, the tower was decommissioned and finally drained in 1929.
For many years, soil from the farm’s tree nursery was stored beneath the tank. However, an extensive restoration project breathed new life into the structure, transforming it into an interpretive center housing displays that showcase the site’s rich history.
By delving into the captivating history of Cocoroc, we uncover a story of resilience, community, and the enduring spirit of those who called this sewage farm settlement home. While much has changed, the echoes of their lives remain, reminding us of the rich tapestry that weaves together the fabric of Victoria’s past.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the significance of the name “Cocoroc”?
The name “Cocoroc” is derived from the language of the Wathaurung people, the Traditional Owners of the land, and means “frog.”
2. Why was Cocoroc abandoned?
Despite housing around 500 people, Cocoroc was eventually abandoned by the MMBW as it became too expensive to subsidize and maintain the township.
3. What remains of Cocoroc today?
Some of the few remaining structures from Cocoroc include two empty swimming pools, a sports pavilion, the town hall, and a heritage-listed water tank.
4. How can I explore Cocoroc’s history?
You can explore the remnants of Cocoroc through the Western Treatment Plant’s virtual tour or by visiting the site in person. Additionally, the restored water tower now serves as an interpretive center showcasing the township’s rich history.