Ebden was an early Port Phillip pastoralist as well as being a businessman and parliamentarian representing the seat of Brighton in the Victorian Parliament.

Either side of Red Bluff are many popular beaches and seaside destinations, including Half Moon Bay, a setting for yachting since the 1890s.

A rock breakwater was constructed and in 1926 the hull of the colonial naval vessel HMVS Cerberus was added to further protect the boat haven.

[citation needed] In 1910 a State primary school was opened in Black Rock which continues to operate to this day.

[citation needed] The first Post Office in the area was Red Bluff to the north, which opened on 17 April 1901 and closed in 1969.

The first Black Rock Post Office opened on 23 April 1902, was renamed Half Moon Bay in 1922 and closed in 1968.