Watsonia Local History
Watsonia is a suburb located in the state of Victoria in Australia. It is situated approximately 16 kilometers northeast of Melbourne's central business district, within the City of Banyule local government area. The area was originally inhabited by the Wurundjeri people, who lived off the land and the natural resources of the area.
Early History
The first recorded European settlement of the Watsonia area occurred in the 1840s, when European squatters began to settle in the area. In 1841, the local government established the parish of Keelbundoora, which included the land that is now Watsonia. By 1849, the parish had become the shire of Eltham, which covered a large area of what is now Melbourne's northeastern suburbs.
During the 1850s, the gold rush saw the population of Victoria skyrocket. The demand for timber and farmland also rose, leading to increased activity in the Watsonia area. The first school in the area, the Keelbundoora State School, was established in 1856.
Development of the Suburb
In the early 20th century, the Watsonia area remained predominantly rural, with large swathes of farmland and a few small settlements. However, as Melbourne's suburbs grew and expanded, demand for housing and infrastructure in the Watsonia area began to rise.
In the years leading up to World War II, the Watsonia area began to experience significant growth. New housing estates were built, particularly in the area surrounding the Watsonia railway station. The post-war period saw further growth as returning soldiers and their families were housed in new suburbs.
The 1960s saw a significant expansion of the Watsonia area, with the construction of several large housing estates. The Watsonia area was also served by several new schools and a new shopping center, which is now known as the Watsonia Shopping Centre. The development of the Greensborough Bypass in the 1980s further increased access to the area from Melbourne's CBD.
Recent Developments
In recent years, Watsonia has continued to grow and develop. In 2012, the Watsonia Community Association was formed to represent the interests of local residents and to promote the area. The Group also runs several community events, including a Christmas carols event and a street party.
The area is known for its relaxed pace of life, with plenty of parks and green spaces. The Watsonia area is also home to several notable landmarks, including the Watsonia RSL, the Watsonia Library, and the Banyule Theatre. The area is also close to several popular outdoor destinations, including the Plenty Gorge Parklands and the Yarra River.
History of in Watsonia
The suburb of Watsonia has a long and fascinating history. From its early days as a farming community to its current status as a thriving suburb of Melbourne, Watsonia has seen significant change over the years. Today, it is known for its community spirit, green spaces, and relaxed lifestyle, making it a popular destination for people looking to settle in Melbourne's northeastern suburbs.