Wantirna Local History
Located in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, Wantirna is a quiet residential area with a rich local history. Originally inhabited by the Wurundjeri people, Wantirna was primarily used as a hunting and gathering ground. The Wurundjeri people named the area Wantirna, which means "a gurgling stream" in their language.
During the 1840s, Europeans began to settle in the area, and much of the land was used for farming. By the 1860s, the area had become a popular holiday destination, with people visiting from Melbourne and the surrounding areas to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The opening of the railway in the 1880s further increased the popularity of the area, making it easier for people to travel to and from Melbourne.
Throughout the early 1900s, Wantirna experienced significant growth and development, with more people moving to the area and new businesses opening up. In the 1950s, many new homes were built, and the area became increasingly suburban in nature. The 1960s saw the construction of the EastLink tollway, which runs through Wantirna and connects the eastern suburbs of Melbourne to the city and other major highways.
One of the most significant events in Wantirna's history occurred in 1970 when the Knox City Council was established. The new council brought together several suburbs in the area, including Wantirna, and was responsible for overseeing local government functions such as waste management, planning, and development.
Today, Wantirna is a thriving suburb with a diverse community. Many of the original homes from the early 1900s still stand, alongside newer developments, and the area is home to several schools and parks. Wantirna is also known for its shopping precinct, Knox City Shopping Centre, which features over 350 stores and is one of the largest shopping centres in Australia.
Throughout its history, Wantirna has undergone many changes and seen significant growth and development. Today, it is a peaceful and welcoming suburb with a rich local history, and it continues to be a popular place to live for families and individuals who want to enjoy the best of both city and suburban life in Melbourne.