The Phillip Island & District Historical Society and other local groups are planning a series of events to commemorate the 150th anniversary or sesquicentenary of European settlement on Phillip Island in 2018. Keep up to date with all the events here http://www.basscoast.vic.gov.au/Visiting/Celebrations_and_Festivities/Phillip_Island_150th_Celebration
Phillip Island had been leased by the McHaffie brothers – John David and William – since 1842, but 1868 was when the first land sales of farm and township blocks took place by ballot. You can read more of the history of the island on the website of the Phillip Island & District Historical Society http://pidhs.org.au/