city, southern Victoria, Australia, on the southern shore of the shallow Lake Colac. The name is of uncertain Aboriginal origin, probably tracing to a term meaning “sand” or “freshwater lake,” but perhaps also related to “Coladjin,” the name of an Aboriginal group that once inhabited the area. Founded in 1837 and proclaimed a town in 1859, Colac became a borough and shire in 1864, and a city in 1960. The city, at the centre of Australia's premier dairy region, serves as the market for a closely settled area that produces onions, grains, flax, livestock, dairy products, and poultry. Its manufactures include farm tools, processed timber, and flax products. Timber comes from the Otway Ranges to the south. Connected to Melbourne, 85 miles (137 km) to the northeast, by rail and the Prince's Highway, the city draws visitors to experience its natural environment, drama productions, and music and arts festivals. Pop. (2001) urban centre, 9,793.